Advanced Solid Rocket Motor case design status

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmer, G. L.; Cash, S. F.; Beck, J. P.

1993-01-01

The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) case design aimed at achieving a safer and more reliable solid rocket motor for the Space Shuttle system is considered. The ASRM case has a 150.0 inch diameter, three equal length segment, and 9Ni-4CO-0.3C steel alloy. The major design features include bolted casebolted case joints which close during pressurization, plasma arc welded factory joints, integral stiffener for splash down and recovery, and integral External Tank attachment rings. Each mechanical joint has redundant and verifiable o-ring seals.

ASRM process development in aqueous cleaning

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swisher, Bill

1992-01-01

Viewgraphs are included on process development in aqueous cleaning which is taking place at the Aerojet Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) Division under a NASA Marshall Space and Flight Center contract for design, development, test, and evaluation of the ASRM including new production facilities. The ASRM will utilize aqueous cleaning in several manufacturing process steps to clean case segments, nozzle metal components, and igniter closures. ASRM manufacturing process development is underway, including agent selection, agent characterization, subscale process optimization, bonding verification, and scale-up validation. Process parameters are currently being tested for optimization utilizing a Taguci Matrix, including agent concentration, cleaning solution temperature, agitation and immersion time, rinse water amount and temperature, and use/non-use of drying air. Based on results of process development testing to date, several observations are offered: aqueous cleaning appears effective for steels and SermeTel-coated metals in ASRM processing; aqueous cleaning agents may stain and/or attack bare aluminum metals to various extents; aqueous cleaning appears unsuitable for thermal sprayed aluminum-coated steel; aqueous cleaning appears to adequately remove a wide range of contaminants from flat metal surfaces, but supplementary assistance may be needed to remove clumps of tenacious contaminants embedded in holes, etc.; and hot rinse water appears to be beneficial to aid in drying of bare steel and retarding oxidation rate.

Validation of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines/recommendations in white European men presenting for couple's infertility.

PubMed

Ventimiglia, Eugenio; Capogrosso, Paolo; Boeri, Luca; Ippolito, Silvia; Scano, Roberta; Moschini, Marco; Gandaglia, Giorgio; Papaleo, Enrico; Montorsi, Francesco; Salonia, Andrea

2016-10-01

To retrospectively validate the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) guidelines/recommendations concerning endocrine evaluation in a cohort of white European men presenting for couple's infertility. Retrospective study. Academic reproductive medicine outpatient clinic. Cohort of 1,056 consecutive infertile men (noninterracial infertile couples). Testicular volume was assessed with a Prader orchidometer. Serum hormones were measured (8-10 a.m.) in all cases. Hypogonadism was defined as total T < 3 ng/mL, according to the Endocrine Society definition. Semen analysis values were assessed based on the 2010 World Health Organisation reference criteria. ASRM indications for endocrine assessment in infertile men (sperm concentration <10 million/mL, impaired sexual function, and other clinical findings suggesting a specific endocrinopathy) were used to predict hypogonadism in our cohort. Moreover, a clinically user-friendly three-item nomogram was developed to predict hypogonadism and was compared to the ASRM guidelines assessment. Biochemical hypogonadism was diagnosed in 156 (14.8%) men. Overall, 669 (63.4%) patients would have necessitated total T assessment according to the ASRM criteria; of these, only 119 (17.8%) were actually hypogonadal according to the Endocrine Society classification criteria. Conversely, 37 (23.7%) out of 156 patients with biochemical hypogonadism would have been overlooked. The overall predictive accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the ASRM guidelines was 58%, 76%, and 39%, respectively. Our nomogram was not reliable enough to predict hypogonadism, despite demonstrating a significantly higher predictive accuracy (68%) than the ASRM guidelines. The current findings show that the ASRM guidelines/recommendations for male infertility workup may not be suitable for application in white European infertile men. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of the ESHRE–ESGE and ASRM classifications of Müllerian duct anomalies in everyday practice

PubMed Central

Ludwin, A.; Ludwin, I.

2015-01-01

STUDY QUESTION Does the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology–European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESHRE–ESGE) classification of female genital tract malformations significantly increase the frequency of septate uterus diagnosis relative to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) classification? SUMMARY ANSWER Use of the ESHRE–ESGE classification, compared with the ASRM classification, significantly increased the frequency of septate uterus recognition. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The ESHRE–ESGE criteria were supposed to eliminate the subjective diagnoses of septate uterus by the ASRM criteria and replace the complementary absolute morphometric criteria. However, the clinical value of the ESHRE–ESGE classification in daily practice is difficult to appreciate. The application of the ESHRE–ESGE criteria has resulted in a significantly increased recognition of residual septum after hysteroscopic metroplasty, with a possible risk of overdiagnosis of septate uterus and problems for its management. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, AND DURATION A prospective observational study was performed with 261 women consecutively enrolled between June and September 2013. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, AND METHODS Non-pregnant women of reproductive age presented for evaluation to a private medical center. A gynecological examination and 3D ultrasonography were performed to assess the anatomy of the uterus, cervix and vagina. Congenital anomalies were diagnosed using the ASRM classification with additional morphometric criteria as well as with the ESHRE–ESGE classification. We compared the frequency and concordance of diagnoses of septate uterus and all congenital malformations of the uterus according to both classifications. The morphological characteristics of septate uterus recognized by both criteria were compared. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 261 patients enrolled in this study, septate uterus was diagnosed in 44 (16.9%) and 16 (6.1%) patients using the ESGE–ESHRE and ASRM criteria, respectively [relative risk (RR)ESHRE–ESGE:ASRM 2.74; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.6–4.72; P < 0.01]. At least one congenital anomaly were diagnosed in 58 (22.2%) and 43 (16.5%) patients using the ESHRE–ESGE and ASRM classifications (RRESHRE–ESGE:ASRM, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.95–1.92, P = 0.1), respectively. The two criteria had moderate strength of agreement in the diagnosis of septate uterus (κ = 0.45, P < 0.01). There was good agreement in differentiation between anomaly and norm between the two assessment criteria (κ = 0.79, P < 0.01). The percentages of all congenital malformations and results of the differentiation between the anomaly and norm were obtained after excluding the confounding original ESHRE–ESGE criterion of dysmorphic uterus (internal indentation <50% uterine wall thickness). The morphology of septa identified by the ESHRE–ESGE [length of internal fundal indentation (mm): median 10.7; lower–upper quartile, 8.1–20] significantly differed (P < 0.01) from that identified by the ASRM criteria [length of internal fundal indentation (mm): median, 21.1; lower–upper quartile, 18.8–33.1]. Internal fundal indentation in 16 out of 44 (36.4%) cases was <1 cm in the septate uterus by ESHRE–ESGE and met the criteria for normal uterus by ASRM. LIMITATIONS AND REASONS FOR CAUTION The study participants were women who visited a diagnostic and treatment center specialized in uterine congenital malformations for a medical assessment, not from the general public. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Septate uterus diagnosis by ESHRE–ESGE was quantitatively dominated by morphological states corresponding to arcuate uterus or cases that were not diagnosed as congenital malformations by ASRM. Relative overdiagnosis of septate uterus by ESHRE–ESGE in these cases may lead to unnecessary overtreatment without the expected benefits. The ESHRE–ESGE classification criteria should be redefined due to confusions in the methodology. Until the criteria are revised, septate uterus should not be diagnosed using this classification system and it should not be used as an eligibility criterion for hysteroscopic metroplasty. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Jagiellonian University (grant no. K/ZDS/003821). The authors have no competing interests to declare. PMID:25534461

Endometriosis

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Healthy Sexuality

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Sexual Problems

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... Research SART's FAQs about In Vitro Fertilization REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH TOPICS Topics Index NEWS AND PUBLICATIONS Publications Overview ... Insurance Laws Protect Your Fertility Campaign Find a Health Professional ABOUT ASRM Vision of ASRM ASRM's Mission ...

Causes of Male Infertility

MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

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Understanding Infertility - The Basics

MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

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Characterization of welded HP 9-4-30 steel for the advanced solid rocket motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watt, George William

1990-01-01

Solid rocket motor case materials must be high-strength, high-toughness, weldable alloys. The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) cases currently being developed will be made from a 9Ni-4Co quench and temper steel called HP 9-4-30. These ultra high-strength steels must be carefully processed to give a very clean material and a fine grained microstructure, which insures excellent ductility and toughness. The HP 9-4-30 steels are vacuum arc remelted and carbon deoxidized to give the cleanliness required. The ASRM case material will be formed into rings and then welded together to form the case segments. Welding is the desired joining technique because it results in a lower weight than other joining techniques. The mechanical and corrosion properties of the weld region material were fully studied.

Multiple Pregnancy and Multiple Births: Understanding the Risks for Mothers and Babies

MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

... Research SART's FAQs about In Vitro Fertilization REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH TOPICS Topics Index NEWS AND PUBLICATIONS Publications Overview ... Insurance Laws Protect Your Fertility Campaign Find a Health Professional ABOUT ASRM Vision of ASRM ASRM's Mission ...

Impact of Sport Context and Support on the Use of a Self-Report Measure for Athlete Monitoring

PubMed Central

Saw, Anna E.; Main, Luana C.; Gastin, Paul B.

2015-01-01

Athlete self-report measures (ASRM) are a popular method of athlete monitoring in high-performance sports. With increasing recognition and accessibility, ASRM may potentially be utilized by athletes from diverse sport contexts. The purpose of the present study was to improve understanding of ASRM implementation across different sport contexts by observing uptake and compliance of a newly implemented ASRM over 16 weeks, and investigating the perceived roles and factors influencing implementation. Athletes (n=131) completed an electronic survey at baseline and week 16 on their perceptions and experiences with ASRM implementation respectively. Despite initial interest, only 70 athletes attempted to use the ASRM. Of these athletes, team sport athletes who were supported by their coach or sports program to use the ASRM were most compliant (p < 0.001) with a mean compliance of 84 ± 21 %. Compliance for self-directed individual and team sport athletes was 28 ± 40 % and 8 ± 18 % respectively. Self-directed athletes were motivated to monitor themselves, and rated desired content and minimal burden as key factors for initial and ongoing compliance. Supported athletes were primarily motivated to comply for the benefit of their coach or sports program rather than themselves, however rated data output as a key factor for their continued use. Factors of the measure outweighed those of the social environment regardless of sport context, however the influence of social environmental factors should not be discounted. The findings of the present study demonstrate the impact of sport context on the implementation of an ASRM and the need to tailor implementation strategies accordingly. Key points Athletes perceive ASRM and the factors influencing implementation differently. Therefore, to encourage compliance, it is important to tailor implementation strategies to the athlete and their sport context to increase appeal and minimize unappealing factors. Athletes using an ASRM on their own accord typically favor a measure which meets their needs and interests, with minimal burden. Athletes using an ASRM under the direction and support of their coach or sports program typically favor feedback and a positive social environment. PMID:26664269

Impact of Sport Context and Support on the Use of a Self-Report Measure for Athlete Monitoring.

PubMed

Saw, Anna E; Main, Luana C; Gastin, Paul B

2015-12-01

Athlete self-report measures (ASRM) are a popular method of athlete monitoring in high-performance sports. With increasing recognition and accessibility, ASRM may potentially be utilized by athletes from diverse sport contexts. The purpose of the present study was to improve understanding of ASRM implementation across different sport contexts by observing uptake and compliance of a newly implemented ASRM over 16 weeks, and investigating the perceived roles and factors influencing implementation. Athletes (n=131) completed an electronic survey at baseline and week 16 on their perceptions and experiences with ASRM implementation respectively. Despite initial interest, only 70 athletes attempted to use the ASRM. Of these athletes, team sport athletes who were supported by their coach or sports program to use the ASRM were most compliant (p < 0.001) with a mean compliance of 84 ± 21 %. Compliance for self-directed individual and team sport athletes was 28 ± 40 % and 8 ± 18 % respectively. Self-directed athletes were motivated to monitor themselves, and rated desired content and minimal burden as key factors for initial and ongoing compliance. Supported athletes were primarily motivated to comply for the benefit of their coach or sports program rather than themselves, however rated data output as a key factor for their continued use. Factors of the measure outweighed those of the social environment regardless of sport context, however the influence of social environmental factors should not be discounted. The findings of the present study demonstrate the impact of sport context on the implementation of an ASRM and the need to tailor implementation strategies accordingly. Key pointsAthletes perceive ASRM and the factors influencing implementation differently. Therefore, to encourage compliance, it is important to tailor implementation strategies to the athlete and their sport context to increase appeal and minimize unappealing factors.Athletes using an ASRM on their own accord typically favor a measure which meets their needs and interests, with minimal burden.Athletes using an ASRM under the direction and support of their coach or sports program typically favor feedback and a positive social environment.

Recurrent pregnancy loss evaluation combined with 24-chromosome microarray of miscarriage tissue provides a probable or definite cause of pregnancy loss in over 90% of patients.

PubMed

Popescu, F; Jaslow, C R; Kutteh, W H

2018-04-01

Will the addition of 24-chromosome microarray analysis on miscarriage tissue combined with the standard American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) evaluation for recurrent miscarriage explain most losses? Over 90% of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) will have a probable or definitive cause identified when combining genetic testing on miscarriage tissue with the standard ASRM evaluation for recurrent miscarriage. RPL is estimated to occur in 2-4% of reproductive age couples. A probable cause can be identified in approximately 50% of patients after an ASRM recommended workup including an evaluation for parental chromosomal abnormalities, congenital and acquired uterine anomalies, endocrine imbalances and autoimmune factors including antiphospholipid syndrome. Single-center, prospective cohort study that included 100 patients seen in a private RPL clinic from 2014 to 2017. All 100 women had two or more pregnancy losses, a complete evaluation for RPL as defined by the ASRM, and miscarriage tissue evaluated by 24-chromosome microarray analysis after their second or subsequent miscarriage. Frequencies of abnormal results for evidence-based diagnostic tests considered definite or probable causes of RPL (karyotyping for parental chromosomal abnormalities, and 24-chromosome microarray evaluation for products of conception (POC); pelvic sonohysterography, hysterosalpingogram, or hysteroscopy for uterine anomalies; immunological tests for lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies; and blood tests for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin and hemoglobin A1c) were evaluated. We excluded cases where there was maternal cell contamination of the miscarriage tissue or if the ASRM evaluation was incomplete. A cost analysis for the evaluation of RPL was conducted to determine whether a proposed procedure of 24-chromome microarray evaluation followed by an ASRM RPL workup (for those RPL patients who had a normal 24-chromosome microarray evaluation) was more cost-efficient than conducting ASRM RPL workups on RPL patients followed by 24-chromosome microarray analysis (for those RPL patients who had a normal RPL workup). A definite or probable cause of pregnancy loss was identified in the vast majority (95/100; 95%) of RPL patients when a 24-chromosome pair microarray evaluation of POC testing is combined with the standard ASRM RPL workup evaluation at the time of the second or subsequent loss. The ASRM RPL workup identified an abnormality and a probable explanation for pregnancy loss in only 45/100 or 45% of all patients. A definite abnormality was identified in 67/100 patients or 67% when initial testing was performed using 24-chromosome microarray analyses on the miscarriage tissue. Only 5/100 (5%) patients, who had a euploid loss and a normal ASRM RPL workup, had a pregnancy loss without a probable or definitive cause identified. All other losses were explained by an abnormal 24-chromosome microarray analysis of the miscarriage tissue, an abnormal finding of the RPL workup, or a combination of both. Results from the cost analysis indicated that an initial approach of using a 24-chromosome microarray analysis on miscarriage tissue resulted in a 50% savings in cost to the health care system and to the patient. This is a single-center study on a small group of well-characterized women with RPL. There was an incomplete follow-up on subsequent pregnancy outcomes after evaluation, however this should not affect our principal results. The maternal age of patients varied from 26 to 45 years old. More aneuploid pregnancy losses would be expected in older women, particularly over the age of 35 years old. Evaluation of POC using 24-chromosome microarray analysis adds significantly to the ASRM recommended evaluation of RPL. Genetic evaluation on miscarriage tissue obtained at the time of the second and subsequent pregnancy losses should be offered to all couples with two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. The combination of a genetic evaluation on miscarriage tissue with an evidence-based evaluation for RPL will identify a probable or definitive cause in over 90% of miscarriages. No funding was received for this study and there are no conflicts of interest to declare. Not applicable.

Recruiting egg donors online: an analysis of in vitro fertilization clinic and agency websites' adherence to American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines.

PubMed

Keehn, Jason; Holwell, Eve; Abdul-Karim, Ruqayyah; Chin, Lisa Judy; Leu, Cheng-Shiun; Sauer, Mark V; Klitzman, Robert

2012-10-01

To examine compliance with ethical guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) regarding trait-based payment variation, presentation of risks, and minimum recruitment age. In June 2010, we systematically examined 207 websites, of which 102 were egg donor agency or IVF clinic websites that both recruited online and displayed compensation amounts. The Internet. None. Not applicable. Mention of increased payment for particular donor traits, recruitment age less than 21 years, noting risks to donors. Of the 102 sites, considerable numbers were noncompliant with ASRM's guidelines that prohibit varying compensation based on a donor's traits (34%), and recommend an age of 21 years or older (41%), and presentation of risks alongside compensation (56%). Trait-based payment variation was associated with being an agency rather than a clinic, location in the West, not being endorsed by ASRM or Society of Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), and referring to ASRM's guidelines about compensation. Of sites mentioning traits, prior donation success was the most commonly paid for trait (64%). Our data, the first to systematically analyze agency and clinic websites reveal that many do not follow ASRM's guidelines. These data have critical implications for policy, practice, and research, suggesting needs for consideration of possible changes in guidelines, and/or improvements in compliance and monitoring by ASRM or others. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Data communication network at the ASRM facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhead, Robert J., III; Smith, Wayne D.; Nirgudkar, Ravi; Dement, James

1994-01-01

This three-year project (February 1991 to February 1994) has involved analyzing and helping to design the communication network for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility at Yellow Creek, near Iuka, MS. The principal concerns in the analysis were the bandwidth (both on average and in the worst case) and the expandability of the network. As the communication network was designed and modified, a careful evaluation of the bandwidth of the network, the capabilities of the protocol, and the requirements of the controllers and computers on the network was required. The overall network, which was heterogeneous in protocol and bandwidth, needed to be modeled, analyzed, and simulated to obtain some degree of confidence in its performance capabilities and in its performance under nominal and heavy loads. The results of our analysis did have an impact on the design and operation of the ASRM facility. During 1993 we analyzed many configurations of this basic network structure. The analyses are described in detail in Section 2 and 3 herein. Section 2 reports on an analysis of the whole network. The preliminary results of that research indicated that the most likely bottleneck as the network traffic increased would be the hubs. Thus a study of Cabletron hubs was initiated. The results of that study are in Section 3. Section 4 herein reports on the final network configuration analyzed. When the ASRM facility was mothballed in December of 1993, this was basically the planned and partially installed network. A briefing was held at NASA/MSFC on December 7, 1993, at which time our final analysis and conclusions were disseminated. This report contains a written record of most of the information disseminated at that briefing.

A case report of embryo donation: ethical and clinical implications for psychologists.

PubMed

Rizk, Marianne; Pawlak, Stacey

2016-10-01

Third-party reproduction is a growing field, and an increasing body of literature considers the ethics of embryo donation. Due to the psychosocial complexities that generally accompany the donation and/or use of donor embryos, psychologists can play a pivotal role in these specialised fertility cases. While laws in the USA are in place to regulate the medical procedures involved in embryo donation, only unenforceable guidelines exist for psychologists specialising in fertility cases. The presentation of this case study aims to: (1) clarify the ethical concerns that fertility psychologists should consider in similar situations by assessing whether American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines compete or complement one another within this case of embryo donation and (2) consider the interests, obligations and rights of all parties involved. Several principles, standards and guidelines that must be considered are described. Overall, the APA Ethics Code and the ASRM Guidelines appear to complement one another for most aspects of this case. Fertility psychologists should consider the clinical implications of the interests, rights and duties of all involved parties, including themselves. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Dermal Coverage of Traumatic War Wounds

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-01

Meeting in Washington, DC in December 2014 and at the ASRM (American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery ) Annual Meeting in the Bahamas in January...Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery ) Annual Meeting in the Bahamas in January 2015.  The first compassionate care case was presented by Dr. Fleming...for Reconstructive Microsurgery ) Annual Meeting in the Bahamas in January 2015. Moreover, the first compassionate care case was presented by Dr. Fleming

Kamakahi vs ASRM and the future of compensation for human eggs.

PubMed

Klitzman, Robert L; Sauer, Mark V

2015-08-01

A recent lawsuit that alleges that the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) engages in price-fixing by capping the amount of compensation paid for human oocytes has several critical ethical and policy implications that have received relatively little attention. ASRM has argued that ceilings on donor compensation prevent enticement, exploitation, and oocyte commodification. Critics counter that low donor compensation decreases supply, because fewer women are then interested in donating, which then increases prices for the service that physicians, not donors, accrue, and that ethical goals can be better achieved through enhanced informed consent, hiring egg donor advocates, and better counseling and screening. Yet, if compensation caps are removed, questions emerge concerning what the oocyte market would then look like. Informed consent is an imperfect process. Beyond the legal and economic questions of whether ASRM violates the Sherman Anti-trust Act also lie crucial questions of whether human eggs should be viewed as other products. We argue that human eggs differ from other factory-produced goods and should command moral respect. Although eggs (or embryos) are not equivalent to human beings, they deserve special consideration, because of their potential for human life, and thus have a different moral status. ASRM's current guidelines appear to address, even if imperfectly, ethical challenges that are related to egg procurement for infertility treatment. Given public concerns about oocyte commodification and ASRM's wariness of government regulations, existing guidelines may represent a compromise by aiding patients who seek eggs, while simultaneously trying to avoid undue influence, exploitation, and eugenics. Although the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit remains unclear, policy makers, providers, lawyers, judges, and others should attend seriously to these issues. Alternatives to current ASRM guidelines may be possible (eg, raising the current caps to, say, $12,000 or $15,000, potentially increasing donation, while still avoiding certain ethical difficulties) and warrant close consideration. These complex conflicting ethical issues deserve more attention than they have received because they affect key aspects of clinical practice and the lives of countless patients. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Space lab system analysis: Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) communications networks analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingels, Frank M.; Moorhead, Robert J., II; Moorhead, Jane N.; Shearin, C. Mark; Thompson, Dale R.

1990-01-01

A synopsis of research on computer viruses and computer security is presented. A review of seven technical meetings attended is compiled. A technical discussion on the communication plans for the ASRM facility is presented, with a brief tutorial on the potential local area network media and protocols.

Robotic NDE inspection of advanced solid rocket motor casings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcneelege, Glenn E.; Sarantos, Chris

1994-01-01

The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor program determined the need to inspect ASRM forgings and segments for potentially catastrophic defects. To minimize costs, an automated eddy current inspection system was designed and manufactured for inspection of ASRM forgings in the initial phases of production. This system utilizes custom manipulators and motion control algorithms and integrated six channel eddy current data acquisition and analysis hardware and software. Total system integration is through a personal computer based workcell controller. Segment inspection demands the use of a gantry robot for the EMAT/ET inspection system. The EMAT/ET system utilized similar mechanical compliancy and software logic to accommodate complex part geometries. EMAT provides volumetric inspection capability while eddy current is limited to surface and near surface inspection. Each aspect of the systems are applicable to other industries, such as, inspection of pressure vessels, weld inspection, and traditional ultrasonic inspection applications.

Reliability of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology/European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy and American Society for Reproductive Medicine classification systems for congenital uterine anomalies detected using three-dimensional ultrasonography.

PubMed

Ludwin, Artur; Ludwin, Inga; Kudla, Marek; Kottner, Jan

2015-09-01

To estimate the inter-rater/intrarater reliability of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology/European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESHRE-ESGE) classification of congenital uterine malformations and to compare the results obtained with the reliability of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) classification supplemented with additional morphometric criteria. Reliability/agreement study. Private clinic. Uterine malformations (n = 50 patients, consecutively included) and normal uterus (n = 62 women, randomly selected) constituted the study. These were classified based on real-time three-dimensional ultrasound single volume transvaginal (or transrectal in the case of virgins, 4 cases) ultrasonography findings, which were assessed by an expert rater based on the ESHRE-ESGE criteria. The samples were obtained from women of reproductive age. Unprocessed three-dimensional datasets were independently evaluated offline by two experienced, blinded raters using both classification systems. The κ-values and proportions of agreement. Standardized interpretation indicated that the ESHRE-ESGE system has substantial/good or almost perfect/very good reliability (κ >0.60 and >0.80), but the interpretation of the clinically relevant cutoffs of κ-values showed insufficient reliability for clinical use (κ < 0.90), especially in the diagnosis of septate uterus. The ASRM system had sufficient reliability (κ > 0.95). The low reliability of the ESHRE-ESGE system may lead to a lack of consensus about the management of common uterine malformations and biased research interpretations. The use of the ASRM classification, supplemented with simple morphometric criteria, may be preferred if their sufficient reliability can be confirmed real-time in a large sample size. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An evaluation of the total quality management implementation strategy for the advanced solid rocket motor project at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. M.S. Thesis - Tennessee Univ.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schramm, Harry F.; Sullivan, Kenneth W.

1991-01-01

An evaluation of the NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) strategy to implement Total Quality Management (TQM) in the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) Project is presented. The evaluation of the implementation strategy reflected the Civil Service personnel perspective at the project level. The external and internal environments at MSFC were analyzed for their effects on the ASRM TQM strategy. Organizational forms, cultures, management systems, problem solving techniques, and training were assessed for their influence on the implementation strategy. The influence of ASRM's effort was assessed relative to its impact on mature projects as well as future projects at MSFC.

Posttest report for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) igniter discharge port flow test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sringer, Anthony M.

1993-01-01

The primary purpose of this test was to determine discharge coefficients for both the center axial and radial 2:1 aspect ratio exhaust ports of the ASRM multi-port igniter. In addition, both ports were tested with chamfered leading edge to assess how much improvement in discharge coefficient could potentially be achieved.

Development of improved ablative materials for ASRM. [Advanced Solid Rocket Motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canfield, A.; Armour, W.; Clinton, R.

1991-01-01

A program to improve ablative materials for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) is briefly discussed. The main concerns with the baseline material are summarized along with the measures being undertaken to obtain improvements. The materials involved in the program, all of which have been manufactured and are now being evaluated, are mentioned.

Role of morphologic characteristics of the uterine septum in the prediction and prevention of abnormal healing outcomes after hysteroscopic metroplasty

PubMed Central

Ludwin, A.; Ludwin, I.; Pityński, K.; Banas, T.; Jach, R.

2014-01-01

STUDY QUESTION Can morphologic measurements (width, length and surface area) of the uterine septum predict healing-dependent abnormal anatomic results [ARs; residual septum (RS) and intrauterine adhesions in other locations (IUA-OLs)] after complete hysteroscopic metroplasty (HM)? SUMMARY ANSWER Significant predictors of ARs are the septal width and, to a lesser extent, septal surface area. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Anatomic results after hysteroscopic metroplasty have very large variation. A RS >1 cm and IUA-OLs can aggravate reproductive outcomes, resulting in the need for reoperation. New criteria for diagnosing a uterine septum according to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) have been suggested (ESHRE-ESGE criteria). Autocross-linked hyaluronic acid gel (autocross-linked polysaccharide) has an antiadhesive effect. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective, observational cohort study was performed with 96 women consecutively enrolled between 2007 and 2012. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women who had uterine septum and previous miscarriage or infertility presented for evaluation at a university hospital, private hospital or private medical center were included. Preoperative septal width, length and surface area were determined with three-dimensional sonohysterography. Women were treated by hysteroscopy in a standardized manner with three- or four-dimensional transrectal ultrasound guidance (complete resection). Patients received either no adhesion barrier (49 patients) or adhesion barrier with autocross-linked polysaccharide (47 patients). Anatomic results were assessed with three-dimensional sonohysterography and second-look hysteroscopy. Healing-dependent ARs were reported using both American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) criterion of RS length >1 cm (ASRM>1 cm criterion) and ESHRE-ESGE criteria. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify predictors of RS, IUA-OLs and ARs. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE In patients who had no adhesion barrier, ARs were diagnosed in 11 of 49 patients (23%) using the ASRM > 1 cm criterion and in 20 of 49 patients (41%) using the ESHRE-ESGE criteria for RS [odds ratio (OR)ESHRE-ESGE:ASRM, 2.4, P = 0.05]. In the patients who had autocross-linked polysaccharide, ARsASRM > 1 cm were diagnosed in 2 of 47 patients (4%) and ARsESHRE-ESGE in 4 of 47 patients (9%). RSESHRE-ESGE was diagnosed significantly more often than RSASRM > 1 cm 19 of 96 (20%) versus 5 of 96 (5%) in all patients (ORESHRE-ESGE:ASRM > 1 cm = 4.5, P < 0.01). In patients who had no adhesion barrier, logistic regression with ASRM > 1 cm and ESHRE-ESGE criteria showed that the width and surface area were predictors of ARs. Models adjusted by patient group confirmed the significance of width as a predictor of ARsASRM > 1 cm [OR for width, 3.5 (P < 0.01); OR for group, 0.22 (P < 0.01)], width as a predictor of ARsESHRE-ESGE [OR for width, 2.2 (P < 0.01); OR for group, 0.26 (P < 0.01)] and surface area as a predictor of ARsASRM > 1 cm [OR for surface area, 1.5 (P < 0.01)]; OR for group, 0.32 (P < 0.01). In patients who had autocross-linked polysaccharide, these predictors were not significant. Receiver-operating characteristic curves showed cutoff values for ARsASRM > 1 cm (septal width, 3.42 cm; septal surface area, 4.68cm2) and ARsESHRE-ESGE (septal width, 3.42 cm; septal surface area, 3.51cm2). LIMITATIONS AND REASONS FOR CAUTION Patients were enrolled in the adhesion barrier group in a time-dependent, consecutive and non-randomized manner. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A wide septum and large surface area may be indications for adhesion barrier. The use of autocross-linked polysaccharide reduces the risk of ARs. The ESHRE-ESGE criteria may cause greater frequency of recognition of RS than the ASRM > 1 cm criterion, which could result in more frequent reoperations with use of the ESHRE-ESGE criteria, possibly without any significant effect on reproductive performance. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Jagiellonian University (grant no. K/ZDS/003821). The authors have no competing interest to declare. PMID:24838703

Quality assessment of solar UV irradiance measured with array spectroradiometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Egli, Luca; Gröbner, Julian; Hülsen, Gregor; Bachmann, Luciano; Blumthaler, Mario; Dubard, Jimmy; Khazova, Marina; Kift, Richard; Hoogendijk, Kees; Serrano, Antonio; Smedley, Andrew; Vilaplana, José-Manuel

2016-04-01

The reliable quantification of ultraviolet (UV) radiation at the earth's surface requires accurate measurements of spectral global solar UV irradiance in order to determine the UV exposure to human skin and to understand long-term trends in this parameter. Array spectroradiometers (ASRMs) are small, light, robust and cost-effective instruments, and are increasingly used for spectral irradiance measurements. Within the European EMRP ENV03 project "Solar UV", new devices, guidelines and characterization methods have been developed to improve solar UV measurements with ASRMs, and support to the end user community has been provided. In order to assess the quality of 14 end user ASRMs, a solar UV intercomparison was held on the measurement platform of the World Radiation Center (PMOD/WRC) in Davos, Switzerland, from 10 to 17 July 2014. The results of the blind intercomparison revealed that ASRMs, currently used for solar UV measurements, show a large variation in the quality of their solar UV measurements. Most of the instruments overestimate the erythema-weighted UV index - in particular at large solar zenith angles - due to stray light contribution in the UV-B range. The spectral analysis of global solar UV irradiance further supported the finding that the uncertainties in the UV-B range are very large due to stray light contribution in this wavelength range. In summary, the UV index may be detected by some commercially available ASRMs within 5 % compared to the world reference spectroradiometer, if well characterized and calibrated, but only for a limited range of solar zenith angles. Generally, the tested instruments are not yet suitable for solar UV measurements for the entire range between 290 and 400 nm under all atmospheric conditions.

An investigation of networking techniques for the ASRM facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne D.; Thompson, Dale R.

1992-01-01

This report is based on the early design concepts for a communications network for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, MS. The investigators have participated in the early design concepts and in the evaluation of the initial concepts. The continuing system design effort and any modification of the plan will require a careful evaluation of the required bandwidth of the network, the capabilities of the protocol, and the requirements of the controllers and computers on the network. The overall network, which is heterogeneous in protocol and bandwidth, is being modeled, analyzed, simulated, and tested to obtain some degree of confidence in its performance capabilities and in its performance under nominal and heavy loads. The results of the proposed work should have an impact on the design and operation of the ASRM facility.

Embryo transfer practices in the United States: a survey of clinics registered with the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology.

PubMed

Jungheim, Emily S; Ryan, Ginny L; Levens, Eric D; Cunningham, Alexandra F; Macones, George A; Carson, Kenneth R; Beltsos, Angeline N; Odem, Randall R

2010-09-01

To gain a better understanding of factors influencing clinicians' embryo transfer practices. Cross-sectional survey. Web-based survey conducted in December 2008 of individuals practicing IVF in centers registered with the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART). None. None. Prevalence of clinicians reporting following embryo transfer guidelines recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), prevalence among these clinicians to deviate from ASRM guidelines in commonly encountered clinical scenarios, and practice patterns related to single embryo transfer. Six percent of respondents reported following their own, independent guidelines for the number of embryos to transfer after IVF. Of the 94% of respondents who reported routinely following ASRM embryo transfer guidelines, 52% would deviate from these guidelines for patient request, 51% for cycles involving the transfer of frozen embryos, and 70% for patients with previously failed IVF cycles. All respondents reported routinely discussing the risks of multiple gestations associated with standard embryo transfer practices, whereas only 34% reported routinely discussing single embryo transfer with all patients. Although the majority of clinicians responding to our survey reported following ASRM embryo transfer guidelines, at least half would deviate from these guidelines in a number of different situations. Copyright (c) 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. All rights reserved.

Hybrid Propulsion Technology Program, phase 1. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

The study program was contracted to evaluate concepts of hybrid propulsion, select the most optimum, and prepare a conceptual design package. Further, this study required preparation of a technology definition package to identify hybrid propulsion enabling technologies and planning to acquire that technology in Phase 2 and demonstrate that technology in Phase 3. Researchers evaluated two design philosophies for Hybrid Rocket Booster (HRB) selection. The first is an ASRM modified hybrid wherein as many components/designs as possible were used from the present Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) design. The second was an entirely new hybrid optimized booster using ASRM criteria as a point of departure, i.e., diameter, thrust time curve, launch facilities, and external tank attach points. Researchers selected the new design based on the logic of optimizing a hybrid booster to provide NASA with a next generation vehicle in lieu of an interim advancement over the ASRM. The enabling technologies for hybrid propulsion are applicable to either and vehicle design may be selected at a downstream point (Phase 3) at NASA's discretion. The completion of these studies resulted in ranking the various concepts of boosters from the RSRM to a turbopump fed (TF) hybrid. The scoring resulting from the Figure of Merit (FOM) scoring system clearly shows a natural growth path where the turbopump fed solid liquid staged combustion hybrid provides maximized payload and the highest safety, reliability, and low life cycle costing.

Draft environmental impact statement: Space Shuttle Advanced Solid Rocket Motor Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The proposed action is design, development, testing, and evaluation of Advanced Solid Rocket Motors (ASRM) to replace the motors currently used to launch the Space Shuttle. The proposed action includes design, construction, and operation of new government-owned, contractor-operated facilities for manufacturing and testing the ASRM's. The proposed action also includes transport of propellant-filled rocket motor segments from the manufacturing facility to the testing and launch sites and the return of used and/or refurbished segments to the manufacturing site.

Modeling and simulation of the data communication network at the ASRM Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nirgudkar, R. P.; Moorhead, R. J.; Smith, W. D.

1994-01-01

This paper describes the modeling and simulation of the communication network for the NASA Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility under construction at Yellow Creek near Luka, Mississippi. Manufacturing, testing, and operations at the ASRM site will be performed in different buildings scattered over an 1800 acre site. These buildings are interconnected through a local area network (LAN), which will contain one logical Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) ring acting as a backbone for the whole complex. The network contains approximately 700 multi-vendor workstations, 22 multi-vendor workcells, and 3 VAX clusters interconnected via Ethernet and FDDI. The different devices produce appreciably different traffic patterns, each pattern will be highly variable, and some patterns will be very bursty. Most traffic is between the VAX clusters and the other devices. Comdisco's Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS) has been used for network simulation. The two primary evaluation parameters used to judge the expected network performance are throughput and delay.

Kamakahi vs ASRM and the future of compensation for human eggs

PubMed Central

Klitzman, Robert L.; Sauer, Mark V.

2015-01-01

A recent lawsuit that alleges that the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) engages in price-fixing by capping the amount of compensation paid for human oocytes has several critical ethical and policy implications that have received relatively little attention. ASRM has argued that ceilings on donor compensation prevent enticement, exploitation, and oocyte commodification. Critics counter that low donor compensation decreases supply, because fewer women are then interested in donating, which then increases prices for the service that physicians, not donors, accrue, and that ethical goals can be better achieved through enhanced informed consent, hiring egg donor advocates, and better counseling and screening. Yet, if compensation caps are removed, questions emerge concerning what the oocyte market would then look like. Informed consent is an imperfect process. Beyond the legal and economic questions of whether ASRM violates the Sherman Anti-trust Act also lie crucial questions of whether human eggs should be viewed as other products. We argue that human eggs differ from other factory-produced goods and should command moral respect. Although eggs (or embryos) are not equivalent to human beings, they deserve special consideration, because of their potential for human life, and thus have a different moral status. ASRM’s current guidelines appear to address, even if imperfectly, ethical challenges that are related to egg procurement for infertility treatment. Given public concerns about oocyte commodification and ASRM’s wariness of government regulations, existing guidelines may represent a compromise by aiding patients who seek eggs, while simultaneously trying to avoid undue influence, exploitation, and eugenics. Although the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit remains unclear, policy makers, providers, lawyers, judges, and others should attend seriously to these issues. Alternatives to current ASRM guidelines may be possible (eg, raising the current caps to, say, $12,000 or $15,000, potentially increasing donation, while still avoiding certain ethical difficulties) and warrant close consideration. These complex conflicting ethical issues deserve more attention than they have received because they affect key aspects of clinical practice and the lives of countless patients. PMID:25816784

Hybrid propulsion technology program: Phase 1. Volume 3: Thiokol Corporation Space Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schuler, A. L.; Wiley, D. R.

1989-01-01

Three candidate hybrid propulsion (HP) concepts were identified, optimized, evaluated, and refined through an iterative process that continually forced improvement to the systems with respect to safety, reliability, cost, and performance criteria. A full scale booster meeting Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) thrust-time constraints and a booster application for 1/4 ASRM thrust were evaluated. Trade studies and analyses were performed for each of the motor elements related to SRM technology. Based on trade study results, the optimum HP concept for both full and quarter sized systems was defined. The three candidate hybrid concepts evaluated are illustrated.

Results of wind tunnel tests of an ASRM configured 0.03 scale Space Shuttle integrated vehicle model (47-OTS) in the AEDC 16-foot transonic wind tunnel, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marroquin, J.; Lemoine, P.

1992-01-01

An experimental Aerodynamic and Aero-Acoustic loads data base was obtained at transonic Mach numbers for the Space Shuttle Launch Vehicle configured with the ASRM Solid Rocket Boosters as an increment to the current flight configuration (RSRB). These data were obtained during transonic wind tunnel tests (IA 613A) conducted in the Arnold Engineering Development Center 16-Foot transonic propulsion wind tunnel from March 27, 1991 through April 12, 1991. This test is the first of a series of two tests covering the Mach range from 0.6 to 3.5. Steady state surface static and fluctuating pressure distributions over the Orbiter, External Tank and Solid Rocket Boosters of the Shuttle Integrated Vehicle were measured. Total Orbiter forces, Wing forces and Elevon hinge moments were directly measured as well from force balances. Two configurations of Solid Rocket Boosters were tested, the Redesigned Solid Rocket Booster (RSRB) and the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM). The effects of the position (i.e., top, bottom, top and bottom) of the Integrated Electronics Assembly (IEA) box, mounted on the SRB attach ring, were obtained on the ASRM configured model. These data were obtained with and without Solid Plume Simulators which, when used, matched as close as possible the flight derived pressures on the Orbiter and External Tank base. Data were obtained at Mach numbers ranging from 0.6 to 1.55 at a Unit Reynolds Number of 2.5 million per foot through model angles of attack from -8 to +4 degrees at sideslip angles of 0, +4 and -4 degrees.

Results of wind tunnel tests of an ASRM configured 0.03 scale Space Shuttle integrated vehicle model (47-OTS) in the AEDC 16-foot Transonic wind tunnel (IA613A), volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marroquin, J.; Lemoine, P.

1992-01-01

An experimental Aerodynamic and Aero-Acoustic loads data base was obtained at transonic Mach numbers for the Space Shuttle Launch Vehicle configured with the ASRM Solid Rocket Boosters as an increment to the current flight configuration (RSRB). These data were obtained during transonic wind tunnel tests (IA 613A) conducted in the Arnold Engineering Development Center 16-Foot transonic propulsion wind tunnel from March 27, 1991 through April 12, 1991. This test is the first of a series of two tests covering the Mach range from 0.6 to 3.5. Steady state surface static and fluctuating pressure distributions over the Orbiter, External Tank and Solid Rocket Boosters of the Shuttle Integrated Vehicle were measured. Total Orbiter forces, Wing forces and Elevon hinge moments were directly measured as well from force balances. Two configurations of Solid Rocket Boosters were tested, the Redesigned Solid Rocket Booster (RSRB) and the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM). The effects of the position (i.e. top, bottom, top and bottom) of the Integrated Electronics Assembly (IEA) box, mounted on the SRB attach ring, were obtained on the ASRM configured model. These data were obtained with and without Solid Plume Simulators which, when used, matched as close as possible the flight derived pressures on the Orbiter and External Tank base. Data were obtained at Mach numbers ranging from 0.6 to 1.55 at a Unit Reynolds Number of 2.5 million per foot through model angles of attack from -8 to +4 degrees at sideslip angles of 0, +4 and -4 degrees.

ASRM Multi-Port Igniter Flow Field Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kania, Lee; Dumas, Catherine; Doran, Denise

1993-01-01

The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) program was initiated by NASA in response to the need for a new generation rocket motor capable of providing increased thrust levels over the existing Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) and thus augment the lifting capacity of the space shuttle orbiter. To achieve these higher thrust levels and improve motor reliability, advanced motor design concepts were employed. In the head end of the motor, for instance, the propellent cast has been changed from the conventional annular configuration to a 'multi-slot' configuration in order to increase the burn surface area and guarantee rapid motor ignition. In addition, the igniter itself has been redesigned and currently features 12 exhaust ports in order to channel hot igniter combustion gases into the circumferential propellent slots. Due to the close proximity of the igniter ports to the propellent surfaces, new concerns over possible propellent deformation and erosive burning have arisen. The following documents the effort undertaken using computational fluid dynamics to perform a flow field analysis in the top end of the ASRM motor to determine flow field properties necessary to permit a subsequent propellent fin deformation analysis due to pressure loading and an assessment of the extent of erosive burning.

ASRM multi-port igniter flow field analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kania, Lee; Dumas, Catherine; Doran, Denise

1993-07-01

The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) program was initiated by NASA in response to the need for a new generation rocket motor capable of providing increased thrust levels over the existing Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) and thus augment the lifting capacity of the space shuttle orbiter. To achieve these higher thrust levels and improve motor reliability, advanced motor design concepts were employed. In the head end of the motor, for instance, the propellent cast has been changed from the conventional annular configuration to a 'multi-slot' configuration in order to increase the burn surface area and guarantee rapid motor ignition. In addition, the igniter itself has been redesigned and currently features 12 exhaust ports in order to channel hot igniter combustion gases into the circumferential propellent slots. Due to the close proximity of the igniter ports to the propellent surfaces, new concerns over possible propellent deformation and erosive burning have arisen. The following documents the effort undertaken using computational fluid dynamics to perform a flow field analysis in the top end of the ASRM motor to determine flow field properties necessary to permit a subsequent propellent fin deformation analysis due to pressure loading and an assessment of the extent of erosive burning.

What is the quality of information on social oocyte cryopreservation provided by websites of Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology member fertility clinics?

PubMed

Avraham, Sarit; Machtinger, Ronit; Cahan, Tal; Sokolov, Amit; Racowsky, Catherine; Seidman, Daniel S

2014-01-01

To evaluate adequacy and adherence to American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) guidelines of internet information provided by Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART)-affiliated clinics regarding social oocyte cryopreservation (SOC). Systematic evaluation of websites of all SART member fertility clinics. The internet. None. All websites offering SOC services were scored using a 0-13 scale, based on 10 questions designed to assess website quality and adherence to the ASRM/SART guidelines. The websites were analyzed independently by two authors. Whenever disagreement occurred, a third investigator determined the score. Scores defined website quality as excellent, ≥9; moderate, 5-8; or poor, ≤4 points. Of the 387 clinics registered as SART members, 200 offered oocyte cryopreservation services for either medical or social reasons; 147 of these advertised SOC. The average website scores of those clinics offering SOC was 3.4 ± 2.1 (range, 2-11) points. There was no significant difference in scores between private versus academic clinics or clinics performing more or less than 500 cycles per year. The majority of the websites do not follow the SART/ASRM guidelines for SOC, indicating that there is a need to improve the type and quality of information provided on SOC by SART member websites. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Supplemental final environmental impact statement for advanced solid rocket motor testing at Stennis Space Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

Since the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision on the FEIS describing the potential impacts to human health and the environment associated with the program, three factors have caused NASA to initiate additional studies regarding these issues. These factors are: (1) The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agreed to use the same comprehensive procedures to identify and delineate wetlands; (2) EPA has given NASA further guidance on how best to simulate the exhaust plume from the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) testing through computer modeling, enabling more realistic analysis of emission impacts; and (3) public concerns have been raised concerning short and long term impacts on human health and the environment from ASRM testing.

Lymphatic Education & Research Network

MedlinePlus

Lymphatic Education & Research Network Donate Now Become a Supporting Member X Living with LYMPHEDEMA AND Lymphatic Disease FAQs About ... December 8, 2017 11.08.2017 The Lymphatic Education & Research Network… Read More > ASRM LE&RN Combined ...

Facility design consideration for continuous mix production of class 1.3 propellant

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williamson, K. L.; Schirk, P. G.

1994-01-01

In November of 1989, NASA awarded the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) contract to Lockheed Missiles and Space Company (LMSC) for production of advanced solid rocket motors using the continuous mix process. Aerojet ASRM division (AAD) was selected as the facility operator and RUST International Corporation provided the engineering, procurement, and construction management services. The continuous mix process mandates that the mix and cast facilities be 'close-coupled' along with the premix facilities, creating unique and challenging requirements for the facility designer. The classical approach to handling energetic materials-division into manageable quantities, segregation, and isolation-was not available due to these process requirements and quantities involved. This paper provides a description of the physical facilities, the continuous mix process, and discusses the monitoring and detection techniques used to mitigate hazards and prevent an incident.

SRB Environment Evaluation and Analysis. Volume 2: RSRB Joint Filling Test/Analysis Improvements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knox, E. C.; Woods, G. Hamilton

1991-01-01

Following the Challenger accident a very comprehensive solid rocket booster (SRB) redesign program was initiated. One objective of the program was to develop expertise at NASA/MSFC in the techniques for analyzing the flow of hot gases in the SRB joints. Several test programs were undertaken to provide a data base of joint performance with manufactured defects in the joints to allow hot gases to fill the joints. This data base was used also to develop the analytical techniques. Some of the test programs were Joint Environment Simulator (JES), Nozzle Joint Environment Simulator (NJES), Transient Pressure Test Article (TPTA), and Seventy-Pound Charge (SPC). In 1988 the TPTA test hardware was moved from the Utah site to MSFC and several RSRM tests were scheduled, to be followed by tests for the ASRM program. REMTECH Inc. supported these activities with pretest estimates of the flow conditions in the test joints, and post-test analysis and evaluation of the measurements. During this support REMTECH identified deficiencies in the gas-measurement instrumentation that existed in the TPTA hardware, made recommendations for its replacement, and identified improvements to the analytical tools used in the test support. Only one test was completed under the TPTA RSRM test program, and those scheduled for the ASRM were rescheduled to a time after the expiration of this contract. The attention of this effort was directed toward improvements in the analytical techniques in preparation for when the ASRM program begins.

An evaluation of accessibility and content of microsurgery fellowship websites.

PubMed

Hu, Jiayi; Zhen, Meng; Olteanu, Cristina; Avram, Ronen

2016-01-01

Websites for residency and fellowship programs serve as effective educational and recruitment tools. To evaluate the accessibility and content of fellowship websites that are commonly used by microsurgery applicants for career development. A list of one-year microsurgery fellowship websites (MFWs) was compiled by visiting the centralized American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) website, followed by performing an extensive 'Google' search in October 2015. Accessibility of MFWs was assessed. Website content regarding key recruitment and education variables was also comprehensively reviewed. Website content was correlated with program characteristics using t tests and ANOVA (two-tailed; P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant). A list of 53 eligible programs was compiled. Only 15 of 51 (29%) ASRM program links were functional. On average, the combined content from ASRM website and individual MFWs had 2.91 of 6 recruitment variables and 1.32 of 6 education variables, respectively. The majority of programs listed 'eligibility criteria' (87%) and 'general information' (87%). 'Evaluation criteria' were most poorly reported (4%). Recruitment score was higher for United States programs compared with international counterparts (51% versus 33%, respectively; P=0.02). It was also higher in programs that focus on 'extremity' versus 'breast' (58% versus 37%; P=0.0028). Education scores did not differ according to location, program size, subspecialty of focus or participation in the Microsurgery Match process. Information regarding recruitment and education on most MFWs is scarce. Academic institutions should keep website content up to date and comprehensive to better assist candidates in the application process.

Methods of legitimation: how ethics committees decide which reasons count in public policy decision-making.

PubMed

Edwards, Kyle T

2014-07-01

In recent years, liberal democratic societies have struggled with the question of how best to balance expertise and democratic participation in the regulation of emerging technologies. This study aims to explain how national deliberative ethics committees handle the practical tension between scientific expertise, ethical expertise, expert patient input, and lay public input by explaining two institutions' processes for determining the legitimacy or illegitimacy of reasons in public policy decision-making: that of the United Kingdom's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and the United States' American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). The articulation of these 'methods of legitimation' draws on 13 in-depth interviews with HFEA and ASRM members and staff conducted in January and February 2012 in London and over Skype, as well as observation of an HFEA deliberation. This study finds that these two institutions employ different methods in rendering certain arguments legitimate and others illegitimate: while the HFEA attempts to 'balance' competing reasons but ultimately legitimizes arguments based on health and welfare concerns, the ASRM seeks to 'filter' out arguments that challenge reproductive autonomy. The notably different structures and missions of each institution may explain these divergent approaches, as may what Sheila Jasanoff (2005) terms the distinctive 'civic epistemologies' of the US and the UK. Significantly for policy makers designing such deliberative committees, each method differs substantially from that explicitly or implicitly endorsed by the institution. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Monthly progress report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne

1992-01-01

This report is the mid-year report intended for the design concepts for the communication network for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, MS. The overall network is to include heterogeneous computers, to use various protocols, and to have different bandwidths. Performance consideration must be given to the potential network applications in the network environment. The performance evaluation of X window applications was given the major emphasis in this report. A simulation study using Bones will be included later. This mid-year report has three parts: Part 1 is an investigation of X window traffic using TCP/IP over Ethernet networks; part 2 is a survey study of performance concepts of X window applications with Macintosh computers; and the last part is a tutorial on DECnet protocols. The results of this report should be useful in the design and operation of the ASRM communication network.

An evaluation of accessibility and content of microsurgery fellowship websites

PubMed Central

Hu, Jiayi; Zhen, Meng; Olteanu, Cristina; Avram, Ronen

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND Websites for residency and fellowship programs serve as effective educational and recruitment tools. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the accessibility and content of fellowship websites that are commonly used by microsurgery applicants for career development. METHODS A list of one-year microsurgery fellowship websites (MFWs) was compiled by visiting the centralized American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) website, followed by performing an extensive ‘Google’ search in October 2015. Accessibility of MFWs was assessed. Website content regarding key recruitment and education variables was also comprehensively reviewed. Website content was correlated with program characteristics using t tests and ANOVA (two-tailed; P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant). RESULTS A list of 53 eligible programs was compiled. Only 15 of 51 (29%) ASRM program links were functional. On average, the combined content from ASRM website and individual MFWs had 2.91 of 6 recruitment variables and 1.32 of 6 education variables, respectively. The majority of programs listed ‘eligibility criteria’ (87%) and ‘general information’ (87%). ‘Evaluation criteria’ were most poorly reported (4%). Recruitment score was higher for United States programs compared with international counterparts (51% versus 33%, respectively; P=0.02). It was also higher in programs that focus on ‘extremity’ versus ‘breast’ (58% versus 37%; P=0.0028). Education scores did not differ according to location, program size, subspecialty of focus or participation in the Microsurgery Match process. CONCLUSION Information regarding recruitment and education on most MFWs is scarce. Academic institutions should keep website content up to date and comprehensive to better assist candidates in the application process. PMID:28439508

A sticky situation: management of spray polyurethane foam insulation in body orifices.

PubMed

Sowerby, Robert J; Sowerby, Leigh J; Vinden, Chris

2011-11-01

Spray polyurethane foam insulation is commonly used in the construction industry to fill gaps, seal, and insulate. We present three cases of intentional spray foam insertion in body orifices and discuss the management of such situations in the emergency department. This series includes a case of oral foam insertion used in a suicide attempt by suffocation and two cases of rectal insertion. All of these cases had potential long-term consequences; one was life-threatening. To our knowledge, this is the first published report on the medical management and removal of foam insulation from body orifices. In all three cases, the foam insulation material was successfully removed after allowing the material to harden.

Correct coding for laboratory procedures during assisted reproductive technology cycles.

PubMed

2016-04-01

This document provides updated coding information for services related to assisted reproductive technology procedures. This document replaces the 2012 ASRM document of the same name. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Flight Set 360T004 (STS-30) Insulation Component, Interim Release, Volume 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Passman, James A.

1989-01-01

The insulation component of the Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) is discussed. The results of all visual evaluations and a thermal safety factor analysis are given. The data contained here supersedes the interim release and the insulation data presented in the Clearfield 10 day report. The objective is to document the postflight condition of the internal and external insulation of nozzle to case joints, the case field joints, the igniter to case joints, and the acreage insulation which made up RSRM-4A and RSRM-4B.

How compliant are in vitro fertilization member clinics in following embryo transfer guidelines? An analysis of 59,689 fresh first in vitro fertilization autologous cycles from 2011 to 2012.

PubMed

Keyhan, Sanaz; Acharya, Kelly S; Acharya, Chaitanya R; Yeh, Jason S; Provost, Meredith P; Goldfarb, James M; Muasher, Suheil J

2016-09-01

To determine whether IVF clinics are compliant with American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) (ASRM/SART) guidelines and assess the multiple pregnancy outcomes according to the number of embryos transferred. Retrospective cohort study. Not applicable. Data from 59,689 fresh first autologous IVF cycles from the 2011-2012 SART registry. None. Percentage of compliant cycles, multiple pregnancy rate (PR). Between 2011 and 2012, a total of 59,689 fresh first autologous cycles were analyzed. Among cleavage-stage ET cycles, the noncompliance rate ranged from 10%-27.4% depending on the age group. The multiple PR was significantly increased in noncompliant cycles involving patients <35 years (38.1% vs. 28.7%) and 35-37 years (35.4% vs. 24.5%) compared with compliant cycles. Among blastocyst-stage ET cycles, the highest rate of noncompliance was seen in patients <35 years old (71%), which resulted in a statistically higher multiple PR (48.3% vs. 2.8%) compared with compliant cycles. Far fewer cycles were noncompliant in patients 35-40 years of age. In a subanalysis of compliant cycles, transferring two blastocyst embryos in patients 35-37 years and 38-40 years resulted in a higher live birth rate compared with the transfer of one embryo (50.4% vs. 40.9% and 42.1% vs. 30.0%, respectively) but the multiple PR was also significantly higher (40.5% vs. 1.7% and 34.0% vs. 2.0%, respectively). Most first fresh autologous IVF cycles performed from 2011-2012 were compliant with ASRM/SART guidelines, except those that involved a blastocyst ET in patients <35 years. Despite compliance, cycles that involved the transfer of >1 embryo resulted in a high multiple PR, whereas noncompliant cycles resulted in an even more remarkable multiple PR for both cleavage and blastocyst-stage embryos. Clinics need to be more compliant with ET limits and ASRM/SART need to consider revising their guidelines to limit the number of blastocyst transfer to one in patients ≤40 years of age undergoing their first IVF cycle. Furthermore, decreasing the number of cleavage-stage embryos transferred in patients ≤40 years of age should also be considered. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Solid rocket motor internal insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Twichell, S. E. (Editor); Keller, R. B., Jr.

1976-01-01

Internal insulation in a solid rocket motor is defined as a layer of heat barrier material placed between the internal surface of the case propellant. The primary purpose is to prevent the case from reaching temperatures that endanger its structural integrity. Secondary functions of the insulation are listed and guidelines for avoiding critical problems in the development of internal insulation for rocket motors are presented.

Qualification of the RSRM case membrane case-to-insulation bondline inspection using the Thiokol Corporation ultrasonic RSRM bondline inspection system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cook, M.

1990-01-01

Qualification testing of Combustion Engineering's AMDATA Intraspect/98 Data Acquisition and Imaging System that applies to the redesigned solid rocket motor (RSRM) case membrane case-to-insulation bondline inspection was performed. Testing was performed at M-67, the Thiokol Corp. RSRM Assembly Facility. The purpose of the inspection was to verify the integrity of the case membrane case-to-insulation bondline. The case membrane scanner was calibrated on the redesigned solid rocket motor case segment calibration standard, which had an intentional 1.0 by 1.0 in. case-to-insulation unbond. The case membrane scanner was then used to scan a 20 by 20 in. membrane area of the case segment. Calibration of the scanner was then rechecked on the calibration standard to ensure that the calibration settings did not change during the case membrane scan. This procedure was successfully performed five times to qualify the unbond detection capability of the case membrane scanner.

Minimum weight passive insulation requirements for hypersonic cruise vehicles.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ardema, M. D.

1972-01-01

Analytical solutions are derived for two representative cases of the transient heat conduction equation to determine the minimum weight requirements for passive insulation systems of hypersonic cruise vehicles. The cases discussed are the wet wall case with the interior wall temperature held to that of the boiling point of the fuel throughout the flight, and the dry wall case where the heat transferred through the insulation is absorbed by the interior structure whose temperature is allowed to rise.

6. Credit WCT. Photographic copy of photograph, Advanced Solid Rocket ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. Credit WCT. Photographic copy of photograph, Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) test in progress at Test Stand 'E.' It was a JPL/Marshall Space Flight Center project. (JPL negative no. 344-4816 19 February 1982) - Jet Propulsion Laboratory Edwards Facility, Test Stand E, Edwards Air Force Base, Boron, Kern County, CA

Facilitated Integrated Mood Management for adults with bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Miklowitz, David J; Price, Jonathan; Holmes, Emily A; Rendell, Jennifer; Bell, Sarah; Budge, Katie; Christensen, Jean; Wallace, Joshua; Simon, Judit; Armstrong, Neil M; McPeake, Lily; Goodwin, Guy M; Geddes, John R

2012-03-01

We describe the development of a five-session psychoeducational treatment, Facilitated Integrated Mood Management (FIMM), which contains many of the core elements of longer evidence-based psychosocial treatments for bipolar disorder. FIMM incorporated a novel mood monitoring program based on mobile phone technology. Adult patients with bipolar I and II disorders (N = 19) received six sessions (Pilot I: n = 14) or five sessions (Pilot II: n = 5) of FIMM with pharmacotherapy. Treatment facilitators were novice counselors who were trained in a three-day workshop and supervised for six months. FIMM sessions focused on identifying early signs of recurrence, maintaining regular daily and nightly routines, rehearsing mood management strategies, maintaining adherence to medications, and education about substance abuse. Patients sent daily text messages or e-mails containing ratings of their mood and sleep, and weekly messages containing self-ratings on the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS) and the Altman Self Rating Mania Scale (ASRM). Patients also completed a weekly mood management strategies questionnaire. Of the 19 patients, 17 (89.5%) completed FIMM in an average of 9.2 ± 3.4 weeks (Pilot I) and 7.6 ± 0.9 weeks (Pilot II). Patients reported stable moods on the QIDS and ASRM over a 120-day period, and on average responded to 81% of the daily message prompts and 88% of the weekly QIDS and ASRM prompts. Facilitators maintained high levels of fidelity to the FIMM manual. Patients' knowledge of mood management strategies increased significantly between the first and last weeks of treatment. Patients with bipolar disorder can be engaged in a short program of facilitated mood management. The effects of FIMM on the course of bipolar disorder await evaluation in randomized trials. The program may be a useful adjunct to pharmacotherapy in community centers that cannot routinely administer full courses of psychosocial treatment. © 2012 John Wiley and Sons A/S.

Endometriosis, especially mild disease: a risk factor for miscarriages.

PubMed

Kohl Schwartz, Alexandra Sabrina; Wölfler, Monika Martina; Mitter, Vera; Rauchfuss, Martina; Haeberlin, Felix; Eberhard, Markus; von Orelli, Stephanie; Imthurn, Bruno; Imesch, Patrick; Fink, Daniel; Leeners, Brigitte

2017-11-01

To investigate the prevalence of miscarriage in women with endometriosis (WwE) compared with disease-free control women (CW). Cross-sectional analysis nested in a retrospective observational study (n = 940). Hospitals and associated private practices. Previously pregnant women (n = 268) within reproductive age in matched pairs. Retrospective analysis of surgical reports and self-administered questionnaires. Rate of miscarriage, subanalysis for fertility status (≤12 vs. >12 months' time to conception), endometriosis stages (revised American Society of Reproductive Medicine classification [rASRM] I/II vs. III/IV) and phenotypic localizations (superficial peritoneal, ovarian, and deep infiltrating endometriosis). The miscarriage rate was higher in WwE (35.8% [95% confidence interval 29.6%-42.0%]) compared with CW (22.0% [16.7%-27.0%]); adjusted incidence risk ratio of 1.97 (95% CI 1.41-2.75). This remained significant in subfertile WwE (50.0% [40.7%-59.4%]) vs. CW (25.8% [8.5%-41.2%]) but not in fertile WwE (24.5% [16.3%-31.6%]) vs. CW (21.5% [15.9%-26.8%]). The miscarriage rate was higher in women with milder forms (rASRM I/II 42.1% [32.6%-51.4%] vs. rASRM III/IV 30.8% [22.6%-38.7%], compared with 22.0% [16.7%-27.0%] in CW), and in women with superficial peritoneal endometriosis (42.0% [32.0%-53.9%]) compared with ovarian endometriosis (28.6% [17.7%-38.7%]) and deep infiltrating endometriosis (33.9% [21.2%-46.0%]) compared with CW (22.0% [16.7%-27.0%]). Mild endometriosis, as in superficial lesions, is related to a great extent of inflammatory disorder, possibly leading to defective folliculogenesis, fertilization, and/or implantation, presenting as increased risk of miscarriage. NCT02511626. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Field Testing an Unvented Roof with Fibrous Insulation and Tiles

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

None

This case study by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America research team Building Science Corporation is a test implementation of an unvented tile roof assembly in a hot-humid climate (Orlando, Florida; zone 2A), insulated with air-permeable insulation (netted and blown fiberglass).

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Exterior Insulation Pre- and Post-Retrofit, Syracuse, New York

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

None

In this study, IBACOS, in collaboration with GreenHomes America, Inc., was contracted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to research exterior wall insulation solutions for enclosure upgrades. This case study describes the deep energy retrofit of three test homes in the Syracuse, New York area and represent these enclosure strategies: rigid foam insulation; spray foam insulation, and a control house that follows Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES) guidelines.

Complex Burn Region Module (CBRM) update

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Carl L.; Jenkins, Billy

1991-01-01

Presented here is a Complex Burn Region Module (CBRM) update for the Solid Rocket Internal Ballistics Module (SRIBM) Program for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) design/performance assessments. The goal was to develop an improved version of the solid rocket internal ballistics module program that contains a diversified complex region model for motor grain design, performance prediction, and evaluation.

[Recurrent pregnancy loss: a literature review].

PubMed

Mateo-Sánez, H A; Mateo-Sánez, E; Hernández-Arroyo, L; Rivera-Ramírez, P; Mateo-Madrigal, M; Mateo-Madrigal, V; Mateo-Madrigal, D

2016-08-01

The definition of recurrent pregnancy loss varies according different authors and consensus: the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) defines RPL when two or more pregnancy losses occur, and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) defines it as three or more pregnancy losses, not necessarily intrauterine. To this day, there is no uniform approach that serves as a guide in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition; this is why, in up to 50% of the cases of RPL, it will not be possible to identify the specific etiology. To report on the recurrent pregnancy loss, in order to harmonize concepts and suggest a diagnosis and treatment for this condition approach. The search strategy included, but was not limited to keywords like: recurrent abortion, infertility, habitual abortion, primary antiphospholipid syndrome, lupus anticoagulant, anti-cardiolipin antibodies and anti B2 glycoprotein I.

Website malfunction: a case report highlighting the danger of using electrical insulating tape for buddy strapping

PubMed Central

Devitt, Brian Meldan; Baker, Joseph F; Fitzgerald, Eilis; McCarthy, Conor

2010-01-01

A case of injury to the third web space of the right hand of a rugby player, as a result of buddy strapping with electrical insulating tape of the little and ring finger, is presented. A deep laceration of the web space and distal palmar fascia resulted, necessitating wound exploration and repair. This case highlights the danger of using electrical insulating tape as a means to buddy strap fingers. PMID:22736733

Calcium silicate insulation structure

DOEpatents

Kollie, Thomas G.; Lauf, Robert J.

1995-01-01

An insulative structure including a powder-filled evacuated casing utilizes a quantity of finely divided synthetic calcium silicate having a relatively high surface area. The resultant structure-provides superior thermal insulating characteristics over a broad temperature range and is particularly well-suited as a panel for a refrigerator or freezer or the insulative barrier for a cooler or a insulated bottle.

ASRM standard embryo transfer protocol template: a committee opinion.

PubMed

Penzias, Alan; Bendikson, Kristin; Butts, Samantha; Coutifaris, Christos; Falcone, Tommaso; Fossum, Gregory; Gitlin, Susan; Gracia, Clarisa; Hansen, Karl; Mersereau, Jennifer; Odem, Randall; Rebar, Robert; Reindollar, Richard; Rosen, Mitchell; Sandlow, Jay; Vernon, Michael

2017-04-01

Standardization improves performance and safety. A template for standardizing the embryo transfer procedure is presented here with 12 basic steps supported by published scientific literature and a survey of common practice of SART programs; it can be used by ART practices to model their own standard protocol. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Risk disclosure and the recruitment of oocyte donors: are advertisers telling the full story?

PubMed

Alberta, Hillary B; Berry, Roberta M; Levine, Aaron D

2014-01-01

This study analyzes 435 oocyte donor recruitment advertisements to assess whether entities recruiting donors of oocytes to be used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures include a disclosure of risks associated with the donation process in their advertisements. Such disclosure is required by the self-regulatory guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and by law in California for advertisements placed in the state. We find very low rates of risk disclosure across entity types and regulatory regimes, although risk disclosure is more common in advertisements placed by entities subject to ASRM's self-regulatory guidelines. Advertisements placed in California are more likely to include risk disclosure, but disclosure rates are still quite low. California-based entities advertising outside the state are more likely to include risk disclosure than non-California entities, suggesting that California's law may have a modest "halo effect." Our results suggest that there is a significant ethical and policy problem with the status quo in light of the known and unknown risks of oocyte donation and the importance of risk disclosure to informed consent in the context of oocyte donation. © 2014 American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics, Inc.

Environmental impact statement Space Shuttle advanced solid rocket motor program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

The proposed action is design, development, testing, and evaluation of Advanced Solid Rocket Motors (ASRM) to replace the motors currently used to launch the Space Shuttle. The proposed action includes design, construction, and operation of new government-owned, contractor-operated facilities for manufacturing and testing the ASRM's. The proposed action also includes transport of propellant-filled rocket motor segments from the manufacturing facility to the testing and launch sites and the return of used and/or refurbished segments to the manufacturing site. Sites being considered for the new facilities include John C. Stennis Space Center, Hancock County, Mississippi; the Yellow Creek site in Tishomingo County, Mississippi, which is currently in the custody and control of the Tennessee Valley Authority; and John F. Kennedy Space Center, Brevard County, Florida. TVA proposes to transfer its site to the custody and control of NASA if it is the selected site. All facilities need not be located at the same site. Existing facilities which may provide support for the program include Michoud Assembly Facility, New Orleans Parish, Louisiana; and Slidell Computer Center, St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. NASA's preferred production location is the Yellow Creek site, and the preferred test location is the Stennis Space Center.

Keeping Clinicians in Clinical Research: The Clinical Research/Reproductive Scientist Training Program

PubMed Central

Armstrong, Alicia Y.; DeCherney, Alan; Leppert, Phyllis; Rebar, Robert; Maddox, Yvonne T.

2009-01-01

In recent years the need for translational and clinical research has increased while the number of physicians involved in clinical research has diminished. There is clearly a need for formalized academic training in the quantitative and methodological principles of clinical research in reproductive medicine. The Clinical Research/Reproductive Scientist Training Program (CREST), a program supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the Clinical Research Training Program (CRTP) at Duke University, and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine,(ASRM) meets this existing need. In addition, this program is specifically designed for physicians in private or academic clinical practice in reproductive medicine. Innovative programs such as CREST encourage the practicing physician to engage in clinical research while maintaining an active role in clinical practice. Participants in the program receive didactic on-line training from the CRTP, attend intensive weekend seminars at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and CREST seminars at the annual meeting of ASRM. Successful participants in the program receive a Certificate in Clinical Research from the CRTP. The program’s goal is to provide practicing physicians with the tools and research credentials that will facilitate collaborations with investigators involved in large clinical trials. PMID:19144332

75 FR 54131 - Updating State Residential Building Energy Efficiency Codes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-03

... and 95 degrees F for heating (for heat pumps), the 2000 IECC insulation requirement for supply ducts in unconditioned spaces is R-5 (minimum) for nearly all cases. Insulation required by the 2000 IECC... Duct Insulation Requirements Duct insulation requirements generally increased in the 2003 IECC. The...

49 CFR 173.189 - Batteries containing sodium or cells containing sodium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... the heat insulation fitted in battery casings must be provided with thermal insulation sufficient to... preventing external short circuits, such as by providing complete electrical insulation of battery terminals...

7 CFR 3300.7 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... phases: (a) Measurement of the insulating capacity, that is, the K-coefficient, of the insulated body. (b) Determination of the efficiency of the thermal appliance as installed in the insulated body. In the case of...

Best Practices Case Study: CDC Realty, Inc. - Centennial Terrace, Tucson, AZ

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

None

2009-10-01

Case study on CDC Realty who achieved HERS 70 by putting ducts in a conditioned attic insulated along the roofline with netted cellulose, R-5 rigid insulated sheathing over R-19 wall cavity insulation, and deep overhangs and low-e windows to minimize solar heat gain. The 17 homes are solar-ready for solar water heating and five have integral collector storage hot water systems on the roof.

New Techniques to Evaluate the Incendiary Behavior of Insulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buhler, Charles; Calle, Carlos; Clements, Sid; Trigwell, Steve; Ritz, Mindy

2008-01-01

New techniques for evaluating the incendiary behavior of insulators is presented. The onset of incendive brush discharges in air is evaluated using standard spark probe techniques for the case simulating approaches of an electrically grounded sphere to a charged insulator in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. However, this standard technique is unsuitable for the case of brush discharges that may occur during the charging-separation process for two insulator materials. We present experimental techniques to evaluate this hazard in the presence of a flammable atmosphere which is ideally suited to measure the incendiary nature of micro-discharges upon separation, a measurement never before performed. Other measurement techniques unique to this study include; surface potential measurements of insulators before, during and after contact and separation, as well as methods to verify fieldmeter calibrations using a charge insulator surface opposed to standard high voltage plates. Key words: Kapton polyimide film, incendiary discharges, brush discharges, contact and frictional electrification, ignition hazards, insulators, contact angle, surface potential measurements.

Space shuttle propulsion systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bardos, Russell

1991-01-01

This is a presentation of view graphs. The design parameters are given for the redesigned solid rocket motor (RSRM), the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM), Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) separation motor, Orbit Maneuvering System (OMS), and the Reaction Control System (RCS) primary and Vernier thrusters. Space shuttle propulsion issues are outlined along with ASA program definition, ASA program selection methodology, its priorities, candidates, and categories.

Prediction of pelvic pathology in subfertile women with combined Chlamydia antibody and CA-125 tests.

PubMed

Penninx, Josien; Brandes, Monique; de Bruin, Jan Peter; Schneeberger, Peter M; Hamilton, Carl J C M

2009-12-01

Chlamydia antibody test (CAT) has been proposed to predict tubal disease. A correlation between CA-125 and the extent of endometriosis has been found by others. In this study we explored whether a combination of the two tests adds to the predictive value of the individual tests for predicting tubal disease or endometriosis. We also used the combination of tests as a new index test to screen for severe pelvic pathology. This retrospective study compares the findings of 240 laparoscopies with the serological test results. Findings were classified according to the existing ASRM scoring systems for adnexal adhesions, distal tubal occlusion and endometriosis. Severe pelvic pathology was defined as the presence of ASRM classes III and IV tubal disease or ASRM classes III and IV endometriosis. The predictive value was calculated for both tests separately and for the combined test. The combined test was positive if at least one test result was abnormal (CAT positive and/or CA-125 > or =35 IU/ml). 67/240 women had tubal disease, 81/240 had some degree of endometriosis. The odds ratios (ORs) of the CAT and the combined test to diagnose severe tubal disease were 6.6 (2.6-17.0) and 7.3 (2.9-19.3), respectively. The ORs of the CA-125 and the combined test to diagnose severe endometriosis were 15.6 (6.2-40.2) and 3.0 (1.2-8.0), respectively. Severe pelvic pathology was present in 65/240 women (27%). The ORs for severe pelvic pathology of the CAT, CA-125 and the combined test were 2.5 (1.4-5.3), 4.9 (1.9-9.6) and 6.6 (3.3-13.4), respectively. If the combined test was normal 15 out 131 women (11%) were shown to have severe pelvic pathology. The combined test adds hardly anything to the predictive value of CAT alone to diagnose severe tubal disease. The combined test is better than the CAT to predict severe pelvic pathology, but is not significantly better than the CA-125. If both the CAT and CA-125 are normal one could consider not performing a laparoscopy.

29 CFR 1910.104 - Oxygen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., section VII—Unfired Pressure Vessels—1968. Insulation surrounding the liquid oxygen container shall be... in § 1910.6. (iv) Insulation. Insulation casings on liquid oxygen containers shall be equipped with... oxygen and heating medium sections with safety relief devices. (iii) Heating. Heat used in an oxygen...

29 CFR 1910.104 - Oxygen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., section VII—Unfired Pressure Vessels—1968. Insulation surrounding the liquid oxygen container shall be... in § 1910.6. (iv) Insulation. Insulation casings on liquid oxygen containers shall be equipped with... oxygen and heating medium sections with safety relief devices. (iii) Heating. Heat used in an oxygen...

29 CFR 1910.104 - Oxygen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., section VII—Unfired Pressure Vessels—1968. Insulation surrounding the liquid oxygen container shall be... in § 1910.6. (iv) Insulation. Insulation casings on liquid oxygen containers shall be equipped with... oxygen and heating medium sections with safety relief devices. (iii) Heating. Heat used in an oxygen...

29 CFR 1910.104 - Oxygen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., Section VII—Unfired Pressure Vessels—1968. Insulation surrounding the liquid oxygen container shall be... in § 1910.6. (iv) Insulation. Insulation casings on liquid oxygen containers shall be equipped with... oxygen and heating medium sections with safety relief devices. (iii) Heating. Heat used in an oxygen...

29 CFR 1910.104 - Oxygen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., section VII—Unfired Pressure Vessels—1968. Insulation surrounding the liquid oxygen container shall be... in § 1910.6. (iv) Insulation. Insulation casings on liquid oxygen containers shall be equipped with... oxygen and heating medium sections with safety relief devices. (iii) Heating. Heat used in an oxygen...

The Application of Surface Potential Test on Hand-making Insulation for Generator Stator End-winding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Zhu-mao; Liu, Qing; Wang, Tian-zheng; Bai, Lu; Li, Yan-peng

2017-05-01

This paper presents the advantage of surface potential test on hand-making insulation for generator stator end-winding insulation detection, compared with DC or AC withstand voltage test, also details the test principle, connection method and test notes. And through the case, surface potential test on hand-making insulation proved effective for insulation quality detection after generator stator end-winding maintenance, and the experimental data is useful and reliable for the electrical equipment operation and maintenance in the power plant.

Data communication network at the ASRM facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne D.; Nirgudkar, Ravi; Zhu, Zhifan; Robinson, Walter

1993-01-01

The main objective of the report is to present the overall communication network structure for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, Mississippi. This report is compiled using information received from NASA/MSFC, LMSC, AAD, and RUST Inc. As per the information gathered, the overall network structure will have one logical FDDI ring acting as a backbone for the whole complex. The buildings will be grouped into two categories viz. manufacturing critical and manufacturing non-critical. The manufacturing critical buildings will be connected via FDDI to the Operational Information System (OIS) in the main computing center in B 1000. The manufacturing non-critical buildings will be connected by 10BASE-FL to the Business Information System (BIS) in the main computing center. The workcells will be connected to the Area Supervisory Computers (ASCs) through the nearest manufacturing critical hub and one of the OIS hubs. The network structure described in this report will be the basis for simulations to be carried out next year. The Comdisco's Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS) will be used for the network simulation. The main aim of the simulations will be to evaluate the loading of the OIS, the BIS, the ASCs, and the network links by the traffic generated by the workstations and workcells throughout the site.

Evaluation of the content and accessibility of microsurgery fellowship program websites.

PubMed

Silvestre, Jason; Vargas, Christina R; Ho, Olivia; Lee, Bernard T

2015-10-01

Microsurgery fellowship applicants utilize Internet-based resources such as the San Francisco Match (SF Match) to manage their applications. In deciding where to apply, applicants rely on advice from mentors and online resources including microsurgery fellowship websites (MFWs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content and accessibility of MFWs. While microsurgery is practiced by many surgical specialties, this study focused on MFWs for programs available in the 2014 Microsurgery Fellowship Match. Program lists from the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) and the San Francisco Match (SF Match) were analyzed for the accessibility of MFW links. MFWs were evaluated for education and recruitment content, and MFW comprehensiveness was compared on the basis of program characteristics using chi square tests. Of the 25 fellowships available, only 18 had websites (72%). SF Match and ASRM listed similar programs (96% overlap) and provided website links (89%, 76%), but only a minority connected directly to the MFW (38%, 23%). A minority of programs were responsive via email inquiry (36%). MFWs maintained minimal education and recruitment content. MFW comprehensiveness was not associated with program characteristics. MFWs are often not readily accessible and contain limited information for fellowship applicants. Given the relative low-cost of website development, MFWs may be improved to facilitate fellow recruitment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Data communication network at the ASRM facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne D.; Nirgudkar, Ravi; Zhu, Zhifan; Robinson, Walter

1993-02-01

The main objective of the report is to present the overall communication network structure for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, Mississippi. This report is compiled using information received from NASA/MSFC, LMSC, AAD, and RUST Inc. As per the information gathered, the overall network structure will have one logical FDDI ring acting as a backbone for the whole complex. The buildings will be grouped into two categories viz. manufacturing critical and manufacturing non-critical. The manufacturing critical buildings will be connected via FDDI to the Operational Information System (OIS) in the main computing center in B 1000. The manufacturing non-critical buildings will be connected by 10BASE-FL to the Business Information System (BIS) in the main computing center. The workcells will be connected to the Area Supervisory Computers (ASCs) through the nearest manufacturing critical hub and one of the OIS hubs. The network structure described in this report will be the basis for simulations to be carried out next year. The Comdisco's Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS) will be used for the network simulation. The main aim of the simulations will be to evaluate the loading of the OIS, the BIS, the ASCs, and the network links by the traffic generated by the workstations and workcells throughout the site.

49 CFR 173.189 - Batteries containing sodium or cells containing sodium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... providing complete electrical insulation of battery terminals or other external electrical connectors. Battery terminals or other electrical connectors penetrating the heat insulation fitted in battery casings must be provided with thermal insulation sufficient to prevent the temperature of the exposed surfaces...

49 CFR 173.189 - Batteries containing sodium or cells containing sodium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., such as by providing complete electrical insulation of battery terminals or other external electrical connectors. Battery terminals or other electrical connectors penetrating the heat insulation fitted in battery casings must be provided with thermal insulation sufficient to prevent the temperature of the...

49 CFR 173.189 - Batteries containing sodium or cells containing sodium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., such as by providing complete electrical insulation of battery terminals or other external electrical connectors. Battery terminals or other electrical connectors penetrating the heat insulation fitted in battery casings must be provided with thermal insulation sufficient to prevent the temperature of the...

49 CFR 173.189 - Batteries containing sodium or cells containing sodium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... providing complete electrical insulation of battery terminals or other external electrical connectors. Battery terminals or other electrical connectors penetrating the heat insulation fitted in battery casings must be provided with thermal insulation sufficient to prevent the temperature of the exposed surfaces...

Technology Solutions Case Study: Guidance on Taped Insulating Sheathing Drainage Planes

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

None

The energy efficiency-based financial benefits of adding exterior insulation are well accepted by the building industry, and using exterior insulation as the drainage plane is the next logical step. This case study focuses on the field implementation of taped board insulation as the drainage plane in both new and retrofit residential applications, and provides information and recommendations for insulation contractors, general contractors, builders, remodelers, mechanical contractors, and homeowners. The order of work completed during home construction and retrofit improvements is important. Health and safety issues must be addressed first and are more important than durability issues, and durability issues aremore » more important than saving energy. Three significant items are required to make taped insulating sheathing a simple, long term, and durable drainage plane: first, horizontal joints should be limited or eliminated wherever possible; where a horizontal joint exists, use superior materials; and, frequent installation inspection and regular trade training are required to maintain proper installation.« less

Non-ferromagnetic overburden casing

DOEpatents

Vinegar, Harold J.; Harris, Christopher Kelvin; Mason, Stanley Leroy

2010-09-14

Systems, methods, and heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. At least one system for electrically insulating an overburden portion of a heater wellbore is described. The system may include a heater wellbore located in a subsurface formation and an electrically insulating casing located in the overburden portion of the heater wellbore. The casing may include at least one non-ferromagnetic material such that ferromagnetic effects are inhibited in the casing.

Technology Solutions for New and Existing Homes Case Study: Optimized Slab-on-Grade Foundation Insulation Retrofits

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

T. Schirber; Goldberg, L.; Mosiman, G.

A more accurate assessment of SOG foundation insulation energy savings than traditionally possible is now feasible. This has been enabled by advances in whole building energy simulation with 3-dimensional foundation modelling integration at each time step together with an experimental measurement of the site energy savings of SOG foundation insulation. Ten SOG insulation strategies were evaluated on a test building to identify an optimum retrofit insulation strategy in a zone 6 climate (Minneapolis, MN). The optimum insulation strategy in terms of energy savings and cost effectiveness consisted of two components: (a) R-20 XPS insulation above grade, and, (b) R-20 insulationmore » at grade (comprising an outer layer of R-10 insulation and an interior layer of R-12 poured polyurethane insulation) tapering to R-10 XPS insulation at half the below-grade wall height (the lower half of the stem wall was uninsulated).« less

[Interactions of 1A2 insulator with promoter of hsp 70 gene in Drosophila melanogaster].

PubMed

Chetverina, D A; Elizar'ev, P V; Georgiev, P G; Erokhin, M M

2013-04-01

Insulators are regulatory DNA elements that participate in the modulation of the interactions between enhancers and promoters. Depending on the situation, insulators can either stabilize or destroy the contacts between enhancers and promoters. A possible explanation for the activity of insulators is their ability to directly interact with gene promoters. In the present study, it was demonstrated that, in model systems, a 1A2 insulator could interact with the core sequence of an hsp70 promoter. In this case, the insulator protein CP190 is found on the hsp70 promoter, which depends on the presence of an insulator in the transgene. The data obtained are consistent with the model, which implies that direct contacts between insulators and promoters make a considerable contribution to the modulation of the interactions between insulators and promoters.

Electrical-splicing connector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stringer, E. J.

1977-01-01

Connection can be made without removing insulation, and connector case insulates splice. Device can be made in various sizes and saves time, especially when working on prototype boards with several interconnecting test leads.

Directional gamma detector

DOEpatents

LeVert, Francis E.; Cox, Samson A.

1981-01-01

An improved directional gamma radiation detector has a collector sandwiched etween two layers of insulation of varying thicknesses. The collector and insulation layers are contained within an evacuated casing, or emitter, which releases electrons upon exposure to gamma radiation. Delayed electrons and electrons entering the collector at oblique angles are attenuated as they pass through the insulation layers on route to the collector.

HP9-4-.30 weld properties and microstructure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watt, George W.

1991-01-01

HP9-4-.30, ultra high strength steel, the case material for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM), must exhibit acceptable strength, ductility, toughness, and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) resistance after welding and a local post weld heat treatment (PWHT). Testing, to date, shows that the base metal (BM) properties are more than adequate for the anticipated launch loads. Tensile tests of test specimens taken transverse to the weld show that the weld metal overmatches the BM even in the PWHT condition. However, that is still some question about the toughness and SCC resistance of the weld metal in the as welded and post weld heat treated condition. To help clarify the as welded and post weld heat treated mechanical behavior of the alloy, subsize tensile specimens from the BM, the fusion zone (FZ) with and without PWHT, and the heat affected zone (HAZ) with and without PWHT were tested to failure and the fracture surfaces subsequently examined with a scanning electron microscope. Results are given and briefly discussed.

The co-expression of GPER and Gankyrin in ovarian endometriosis and its correlation with the rASRM stages.

PubMed

Zhang, Chun; Yuan, Xiying; Zhang, Yi

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and Gankyrin in ovarian endometriosis, analyze their clinicopathological significance, and investigate their correlation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were performed to testify mRNA and protein expression of GPER and Gankyrin in ovarian endometriosis. Immunohistochemical staining (streptavidin-peroxidase method) was conducted to determine the expression and distribution of GPER and Gankyrin protein in matched ectopic and eutopic endometrium of endometriosis and normal endometrium. We also investigated their associations with rASRM stages and the correlation between the two proteins. GPER and Gankyrin were found overexpressed in ectopic endometrium of endometriosis compared with either its eutopic counterpart or endometrium from normal patients. The immunohistochemical analysis also revealed that higher expression was observed in eutopic endometrium with or without endometriosis during proliferative phase in comparison to secretory phase. These two proteins were positively correlated with the stages of endometriosis. Moreover, a significant positive correlation was found between GPER and Gankyrin both in ectopic and eutopic endometrium of the ovarian endometriosis. GPER and Gankyrin might be implicated in the hormonal regulation of endometriosis and be associated with the severity of endometriosis. In addition, GPER and Gankyrin were found to be positively correlated, which could possibly serve as novel therapeutic targets for this disease.

Data communication network at the ASRM facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne D.

1993-08-01

This report describes the simulation of the overall communication network structure for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, Mississippi as of today. The report is compiled using information received from NASA/MSFC, LMSC, AAD, and RUST Inc. As per the information gathered, the overall network structure will have one logical FDDI ring acting as a backbone for the whole complex. The buildings will be grouped into two categories viz. manufacturing intensive and manufacturing non-intensive. The manufacturing intensive buildings will be connected via FDDI to the Operational Information System (OIS) in the main computing center in B_1000. The manufacturing non-intensive buildings will be connected by 10BASE-FL to the OIS through the Business Information System (BIS) hub in the main computing center. All the devices inside B_1000 will communicate with the BIS. The workcells will be connected to the Area Supervisory Computers (ASCs) through the nearest manufacturing intensive hub and one of the OIS hubs. Comdisco's Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS) has been used to simulate the performance of the network. BONeS models a network topology, traffic, data structures, and protocol functions using a graphical interface. The main aim of the simulations was to evaluate the loading of the OIS, the BIS, and the ASCs, and the network links by the traffic generated by the workstations and workcells throughout the site.

Data communication network at the ASRM facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorhead, Robert J., II; Smith, Wayne D.

1993-01-01

This report describes the simulation of the overall communication network structure for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) facility being built at Yellow Creek near Iuka, Mississippi as of today. The report is compiled using information received from NASA/MSFC, LMSC, AAD, and RUST Inc. As per the information gathered, the overall network structure will have one logical FDDI ring acting as a backbone for the whole complex. The buildings will be grouped into two categories viz. manufacturing intensive and manufacturing non-intensive. The manufacturing intensive buildings will be connected via FDDI to the Operational Information System (OIS) in the main computing center in B_1000. The manufacturing non-intensive buildings will be connected by 10BASE-FL to the OIS through the Business Information System (BIS) hub in the main computing center. All the devices inside B_1000 will communicate with the BIS. The workcells will be connected to the Area Supervisory Computers (ASCs) through the nearest manufacturing intensive hub and one of the OIS hubs. Comdisco's Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS) has been used to simulate the performance of the network. BONeS models a network topology, traffic, data structures, and protocol functions using a graphical interface. The main aim of the simulations was to evaluate the loading of the OIS, the BIS, and the ASCs, and the network links by the traffic generated by the workstations and workcells throughout the site.

Skyrme insulators: insulators at the brink of superconductivity

DOE PAGES

Ertem, Onur; Chang, Po -Yao; Coleman, Piers; ...

2017-08-04

Current theories of superfluidity are based on the idea of a coherent quantum state with topologically protected, quantized circulation. When this topological protection is absent, as in the case of 3He-A, the coherent quantum state no longer supports persistent superflow. In this paper, we argue that the loss of topological protection in a superconductor gives rise to an insulating ground state. Specifically, we introduce the concept of a Skyrme insulator to describe the coherent dielectric state that results from the topological failure of superflow carried by a complex vector order parameter. Here, we apply this idea to the case ofmore » SmB6, arguing that the observation of a diamagnetic Fermi surface within an insulating bulk can be understood as a realization of this state. Our theory enables us to understand the linear specific heat of SmB6 in terms of a neutral Majorana Fermi sea and leads us to predict that in low fields of order a Gauss, SmB6 will develop a Meissner effect.« less

Skyrme Insulators: Insulators at the Brink of Superconductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erten, Onur; Chang, Po-Yao; Coleman, Piers; Tsvelik, Alexei M.

2017-08-01

Current theories of superfluidity are based on the idea of a coherent quantum state with topologically protected quantized circulation. When this topological protection is absent, as in the case of 3He -A , the coherent quantum state no longer supports persistent superflow. Here, we argue that the loss of topological protection in a superconductor gives rise to an insulating ground state. We specifically introduce the concept of a Skyrme insulator to describe the coherent dielectric state that results from the topological failure of superflow carried by a complex-vector order parameter. We apply this idea to the case of SmB6 , arguing that the observation of a diamagnetic Fermi surface within an insulating bulk can be understood as a realization of this state. Our theory enables us to understand the linear specific heat of SmB6 in terms of a neutral Majorana Fermi sea and leads us to predict that in low fields of order a Gauss, SmB6 will develop a Meissner effect.

Thermal analysis of insulated north-wall greenhouse with solar collector under passive mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chauhan, Prashant Singh; Kumar, Anil

2018-04-01

An insulated north wall greenhouse dryer has been fabricated and tested for no-load condition under passive mode. Testing has been conducted in two different cases. Case-I is considered for solar collector kept inside the dryer and Case-II is dryer without solar collector. Convective heat transfer coefficient and various heat transfer dimensionless numbers with have been calculated for thermal analysis. The maximum convective heat transfer coefficient is found 52.18 W/m2°C at 14 h during the first day for Case-I. The difference of the highest convective heat transfer coefficient of both cases was 8.34 W/m2°C. Net heat gain inside room curves are uniform and smooth for Case-I, which shows the steady heat generation process due to presence of solar collector inside the dryer. Above results depicts the effectiveness of solar collector and insulated north wall. The selection of suitable crop for drying can be done by analysing article's result.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Excavationless: Exterior-Side Foundation Insulation for Existing Homes

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

None

Building science research supports installing exterior (soil side) foundation insulation as the optimal method to enhance the hygrothermal performance of new homes. With exterior foundation insulation, water management strategies are maximized while insulating the basement space and ensuring a more even temperature at the foundation wall. This project describes an innovative, minimally invasive foundation insulation upgrade technique on an existing home that uses hydrovac excavation technology combined with a liquid insulating foam. Cost savings over the traditional excavation process ranged from 23% to 50%. The excavationless process could result in even greater savings since replacement of building structures, exterior features,more » utility meters, and landscaping would be minimal or non-existent in an excavationless process.« less

Qualification of the RSRM field joint CF case-to-insulation bondline inspection using the Thiokol Corporation ultrasonic RSRM bondline inspection system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cook, M.

1990-01-01

Qualification testing of Combustion Engineering's AMDATA Intraspect/98 Data Acquisition and Imaging System that applies to the redesigned solid rocket motor field joint capture feature case-to-insulation bondline inspection was performed. Testing was performed at M-111, the Thiokol Corp. Inert Parts Preparation Building. The purpose of the inspection was to verify the integrity of the capture feature area case-to-insulation bondline. The capture feature scanner was calibrated over an intentional 1.0 to 1.0 in. case-to-insulation unbond. The capture feature scanner was then used to scan 60 deg of a capture feature field joint. Calibration of the capture feature scanner was then rechecked over the intentional unbond to ensure that the calibration settings did not change during the case scan. This procedure was successfully performed five times to qualify the unbond detection capability of the capture feature scanner. The capture feature scanner qualified in this test contains many points of mechanical instability that can affect the overall ultrasonic signal response. A new generation scanner, designated the sigma scanner, should be implemented to replace the current configuration scanner. The sigma scanner eliminates the unstable connection points of the current scanner and has additional inspection capabilities.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Cladding Attachment Over Mineral Fiber Insulation Board

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

None

2015-03-01

Exterior insulating sheathing for high performance building enclosures is an important strategy for meeting energy efficiency requirements in many climates and can position an existing building to perform at the level of best-in-class new construction. Insulation board is also important in high performance building retrofit situations where minimal disruption at the interior is typically desired.

Advanced Plasma Propulsion

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-11-01

within these cusps where electrons collide with the ceramic insulator lining the channel. In the MIT design, the overall magnetic field strength...allow compression of the anode spring (Sp), which holds the anode insulator (AI) flush with the base core (1). The anode stem and anode (A) are...case Aluminum bulk material 3 Insulator Cone HP-BN St. Gobain/ Ferro- Ceramic Grinding Inc. M1-M3 Permanent

78 FR 36793 - Notice of Intent To Grant Exclusive License.

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-19

... entitled ``Thermal Insulation Systems,'' and U.S. Patent Application No. 61/776,639; NASA Case No. KSC-13777 entitled ``Layered Composite Thermal Insulation System for Non-Vacuum Applications,'' to XTherm LP...

Human somatic cell nuclear transfer and cloning.

PubMed

2012-10-01

This document presents arguments that conclude that it is unethical to use somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) for infertility treatment due to concerns about safety; the unknown impact of SCNT on children, families, and society; and the availability of other ethically acceptable means of assisted reproduction. This document replaces the ASRM Ethics Committee report titled, "Human somatic cell nuclear transfer (cloning)," last published in Fertil Steril 2000;74:873-6. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of PCMs in thermal insulation on thermal behaviour of building envelopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dydek, K.; Furmański, P.; Łapka, P.

2016-09-01

A model of heat transfer through a wall consisting of a layer of concrete and PCM enhanced thermal insulation is considered. The model accounts for heat conduction in both layers, thermal radiation and heat absorption/release due to phase change in the insulation as well as time variation in the ambient temperature and insolation. Local thermal equilibrium between encapsulated PCM and light-weight thermal insulation was assumed. Radiation emission, absorption and scattering were also accounted for in the model. Comparison of different cases of heat flow through the building envelope was carried out. These cases included presence or absence of PCM and thermal radiation in the insulation, effect of emissivity of the PCM microcapsules as well as an effect of solar radiation or its lack on the ambient side of the envelope. Two ways of the PCM distribution in thermal insulation were also considered. The results of simulations were presented for conditions corresponding to the mean summer and winter seasons in Warsaw. It was found that thermal radiation plays an important role in heat transfer through thermal insulation layer of the wall while the presence of the PCM in it significantly contributes to damping of temperature fluctuations and a decrease in heat fluxes flowing into or lost by the interior of the building. The similar effect was observed for a decrease in emissivity of the microcapsules containing PCM.

Asymmetries in surface waves and reflection/transmission characteristics associated with topological insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mackay, Tom G.; Chiadini, Francesco; Fiumara, Vincenzo; Scaglione, Antonio; Lakhtakia, Akhlesh

2017-08-01

Three numerical studies were undertaken involving the interactions of plane waves with topological insulators. In each study, the topologically insulating surface states of the topological insulator were represented through a surface admittance. Canonical boundary-value problems were solved for the following cases: (i) Dyakonov surface-wave propagation guided by the planar interface of a columnar thin film and an isotropic dielectric topological insulator; (ii) Dyakonov-Tamm surface-wave propagation guided by the planar interface of a structurally chiral material and an isotropic dielectric topological insulator; and (iii) reflection and transmission due to the planar interface of a topologically insulating columnar thin film and vacuum. The nonzero surface admittance resulted in asymmetries in the wave speeds and decay constants of the surface waves in studies (i) and (ii). The nonzero surface admittance resulted in asymmetries in the reflectances and transmittances in study (iii).

Thermal Insulation System for Non-Vacuum Applications Including a Multilayer Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fesmire, James E. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

The thermal insulation system of the present invention is for non-vacuum applications and is specifically tailored to the ambient pressure environment with any level of humidity or moisture. The thermal insulation system includes a multilayered composite including i) at least one thermal insulation layer and at least one compressible barrier layer provided as alternating, successive layers, and ii) at least one reflective film provided on at least one surface of the thermal insulation layer and/or said compressible barrier layer. The different layers and materials and their combinations are designed to provide low effective thermal conductivity for the system by managing all modes of heat transfer. The thermal insulation system includes an optional outer casing surrounding the multilayered composite. The thermal insulation system is particularly suited for use in any sub-ambient temperature environment where moisture or its adverse effects are a concern. The thermal insulation system provides physical resilience against damaging mechanical effects including compression, flexure, impact, vibration, and thermal expansion/contraction.

High voltage instrument transformers for outdoor service with an insulation of low pressure SF6 gas and plastic foils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brand, U.

1985-04-01

Gas-insulated failsafe high voltage instrument transformers with system voltages in the range of 123 to 420 kV for outdoor service were developed. The basic physics and high power tests performed on gas-filled instrument transformer housings are discussed. Construction and design of gas-insulated voltage transformers are explained. The insulation of the 123 kV model consists of low pressurized SF6 gas and plastic foils. The 245 kV unit has the same principal design; however, a higher SF6 pressure is used and the apparatus is fitted with a hollow composite insulator made of a fiber reinforced plastics tube and silicone casing. For the 420 kV model the same insulator type is used and a design for the voltage grading along the insulator is developed. The transformers show good performance in service; they are a safe and environment-protecting alternative to oil insulated equipment.

Advanced Booster Composite Case/Polybenzimidazole Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Insulation Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gentz, Steve; Taylor, Robert; Nettles, Mindy

2015-01-01

The NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) was requested to examine processing sensitivities (e.g., cure temperature control/variance, debonds, density variations) of polybenzimidazole nitrile butadiene rubber (PBI-NBR) insulation, case fiber, and resin systems and to evaluate nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and damage tolerance methods/models required to support human-rated composite motor cases. The proposed use of composite motor cases in Blocks IA and II was expected to increase performance capability through optimizing operating pressure and increasing propellant mass fraction. This assessment was to support the evaluation of risk reduction for large booster component development/fabrication, NDE of low mass-to-strength ratio material structures, and solid booster propellant formulation as requested in the Space Launch System NASA Research Announcement for Advanced Booster Engineering Demonstration and/or Risk Reduction. Composite case materials and high-energy propellants represent an enabling capability in the Agency's ability to provide affordable, high-performing advanced booster concepts. The NESC team was requested to provide an assessment of co- and multiple-cure processing of composite case and PBI-NBR insulation materials and evaluation of high-energy propellant formulations.

Thermophysical investigations of nanotechnological insulation materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lakatos, Ákos

2017-07-01

Nowadays, to sufficiently reduce the heat loss through the wall structures with the so-called traditional insulations (polystyrene and fibrous slabs), huge thicknesses (20 - 25 cm) must be applied. In some cases there is no place for their applications e.g.: historical or heritage builfings, since the use of nano-insulation materials (aerogel, vacuum ceramic paints) takes place. They are said to be much more efficient insulations than the above mentioned ones, since they should be used in thinner forms. In this article the thermal insulating capability of solid brick wall covered with a silica-aerogel slab with 1.3 cm, moreover with a vacuum ceramic hollow contained paint with 2 mm thick are investigated. As well as a literature review about the thermal conductivity of nano-technological insulation materials will be given. Comparison of the atomic and thermal diffusion will be also presented.

Development of a pin-post insulator with built-in metal oxide varistors for distribution lines

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

Fujiwara, N.; Yoneyama, T.; Hamada, Y.

1996-04-01

A 6.6 kV pin-post insulator, incorporating ZnO varistors, has been developed in order to reduce line faults caused by direct lighting strikes, thereby reducing and simplifying maintenance work on distribution systems. The developed insulators are interchangeable with conventional pin insulators and can withstand internal fault currents twice upon their failures. The simulated results regarding the response of the developed insulators to direct lightning strikes on an overhead ground wire agreed well with the experimental results. Simulation studies also revealed that installing the developed insulators on every two poles reduces the line-fault rate of present distribution lines in case of directmore » lightning strikes by 33%, while installing them on every pole reduces the rate by 97.5% or about 1/40 of the original value.« less

Ideology of a multiparametric system for estimating the insulation system of electric machines on the basis of absorption testing methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kislyakov, M. A.; Chernov, V. A.; Maksimkin, V. L.; Bozhin, Yu. M.

2017-12-01

The article deals with modern methods of monitoring the state and predicting the life of electric machines. In 50% of the cases of failure in the performance of electric machines is associated with insulation damage. As promising, nondestructive methods of control, methods based on the investigation of the processes of polarization occurring in insulating materials are proposed. To improve the accuracy of determining the state of insulation, a multiparametric approach is considered, which is a basis for the development of an expert system for estimating the state of health.

Compliance with donor age recommendations in oocyte donor recruitment advertisements in the USA.

PubMed

Alberta, Hillary B; Berry, Roberta M; Levine, Aaron D

2013-04-01

IVF using donated oocytes offers benefits to many infertile patients, yet the technique also raises a number of ethical concerns, including worries about potential physical and psychological risks to oocyte donors. In the USA, oversight of oocyte donation consists of a combination of federal and state regulations and self-regulatory guidelines promulgated by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. This study assesses compliance with one of these self-regulatory guidelines - specifically, ASRM's preferred minimum age for donors of 21. To assess compliance, 539 oocyte donor recruitment advertisements from two recruitment channels (Craigslist and college newspapers) were collected and evaluated. Of these, 61% in the Craigslist dataset and 43% in the college newspaper dataset listed minimum ages between 18 and 20, which is inconsistent with ASRM's preferred minimum age recommendation of 21. Advertisements placed by oocyte donor recruitment agencies were more likely than advertisements placed by clinics to specify minimum ages between 18 and 20. These results indicate that ASRM should evaluate and consider revising its donor age guidelines. IVF using donated human eggs can help many patients who have difficulty having children. However, the technique also raises ethical concerns, including concerns about potential physical and psychological harms to egg donors. In the USA, oversight of egg donation relies on a combination of federal and state regulation and professional self-regulation. Governmental regulations address only limited aspects of egg donation, such as the potential spread of infectious diseases and the reporting of success rates, leaving voluntary guidelines developed by an association of medical professionals to address most issues, including ethical concerns raised by the practice. One of these voluntary guidelines recommends that egg donors should be at least 21 years of age. In this article, we analysed 539 egg donor recruitment advertisements published on Craigslist and in college newspapers to see whether fertility clinics and egg donor recruitment agencies follow this recommendation. We found that 61% of advertisements in the Craigslist dataset and 43% of advertisements in the college newspaper dataset listed minimum ages between 18 and 20 and, thus, did not follow the recommendation that egg donors be at least 21 years of age. Advertisements placed by egg donor recruitment agencies were more likely than advertisements placed by fertility clinics to list minimum ages between 18 and 20. These results indicate that the American Society for Reproductive Medicine should evaluate and consider revising its donor age guidelines. Copyright © 2012 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with PCOS: comparison of different diagnostic definitions.

PubMed

Kollmann, M; Klaritsch, P; Martins, W P; Guenther, F; Schneider, V; Herzog, S A; Craciunas, L; Lang, U; Obermayer-Pietsch, B; Lerchbaum, E; Raine-Fenning, N

2015-10-01

Does the prevalence of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes vary in women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) according to different definitions? A comparison of different criteria revealed that there is a substantial risk for perinatal complications in PCOS women, regardless of the used definition. Pregnant women with PCOS are susceptible to perinatal complications. At present, there are three main definitions for PCOS. So far, we are aware of only one study, which found that the elevated risk for complications varied widely depending on the different phenotypes and features but only considered a relatively small sample size for some of the phenotypes. Retrospective matched cohort study. Data of primiparous women with PCOS according to ESHRE/ASRM 2003 criteria and healthy controls giving birth to neonates ≥500 g were included. A total of 885 women were analysed: out of 177 women with PCOS, 85 (48.0%) met the National Institutes of Health (NIH) 1990 criteria, another 14 (7.9%) featured the additional phenotypes defined by The Androgen Excess and PCOS Society (AE-PCOS) 2006 criteria, 78 (44.1%) were classified as PCOS exclusively by the ESHRE/ASRM 2003 definition, and 708 represented the control group. The prevalence of adverse maternal (49.4 versus 64.3 versus 60.3%, P = 0.313) and neonatal (27.1 versus 35.7 versus 23.1%, P = 0.615) outcomes did not differ within the three PCOS groups (ESHRE/ASRM, NIH, AE-PCOS, respectively). Compared with healthy controls, the risk for maternal complications was increased in PCOS patients [odds ratio (OR) 2.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.82-3.64; P < 0.001] while there was no difference in neonatal complications (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.56-1.21; P = 0.343). A limitation of our study is its retrospective design and the relatively small sample size, particularly in the AE-PCOS subgroup. Since women with PCOS have, regardless of the used definition, a high risk of maternal and neonatal complications they should be informed and advised to follow regular checks in units where problems can be detected early to allow specialized care. Marietta Blau Grant (Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research; OeAD-GmbH) and mobility scholarship (Medical University of Graz). © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Building America Case Study: Optimized Slab-on-Grade Foundation Insulation Retrofits, Madison, Wisconsin

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

A more accurate assessment of SOG foundation insulation energy savings than traditionally possible is now feasible. This has been enabled by advances in whole building energy simulation with 3-dimensional foundation modelling integration at each time step together with an experimental measurement of the site energy savings of SOG foundation insulation. Ten SOG insulation strategies were evaluated on a test building to identify an optimum retrofit insulation strategy in a zone 6 climate (Minneapolis, MN). The optimum insulation strategy in terms of energy savings and cost effectiveness consisted of two components: (a) R-20 XPS insulation above grade, and, (b) R-20 insulationmore » at grade (comprising an outer layer of R-10 insulation and an interior layer of R-12 poured polyurethane insulation) tapering to R-10 XPS insulation at half the below-grade wall height (the lower half of the stem wall was uninsulated). The optimum insulation strategy was applied to single and multi-family residential buildings in climate zone 4 - 7. The highest site energy savings of 5% was realized for a single family home in Duluth, MN, and the lowest savings of 1.4 percent for a 4-unit townhouse in Richmond, VA. SOG foundation insulation retrofit simple paybacks ranged from 18 to 47 years. There are other benefits of SOG foundation insulation resulting from the increase in the slab surface temperatures. These include increased occupant thermal comfort, and a decrease in slab surface condensation particularly around the slab perimeter.« less

Tubular House - Form Follows Technology, Concrete Shell Structure with Inner Thermal Insulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idem, Robert; Kleczek, Paweł; Pawłowski, Krzysztof; Chudoba, Piotr

2017-10-01

The aim of this paper is the theoretical analysis of the possibilities and limitations of using an unconventional technology and the original architectural form stemming from it - the building with external construction and internal insulation. In Central European climatic conditions, the traditional solution for the walls of heated buildings relies on using external thermal insulation. This stems from building physics: it prevents interstitial condensation of water vapour in the wall. Internal insulation is used exceptionally. This is done e.g. in historical buildings undergoing thermal modernization (due to the impossibility of interfering with facade). In such cases, a thermal insulation layer is used on the internal wall surface, along with an additional layer of vapour barrier. The concept of building concerns the intentional usage of an internal insulation. In this case, the construction is a tight external reinforced concrete shell. The architectural form of such building is strongly interrelated with the technology, which was used to build it. The paper presents the essence of this concept in descriptive and drawing form. The basic elements of such building are described (the external construction, the internal insulation and ventilation). As a case study, authors present a project of a residential building along with the description of the applied materials and installation solutions, and the results obtained from thermal, humidity and energetic calculations. The discussion presents the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed concept. The basic advantage of this solution is potentially low building cost. This stems from minimizing the ground works, the simplicity of the joints and the outer finish, as well as from the possibility of prefabrication of the elements. The continuity of the thermal insulation allows to reduce the amount of thermal bridges. The applied technology and form are applicable most of all for small buildings, due to limited possibilities of lighting the interior. The disadvantage of this technology is low heat accumulation of walls. A building in the proposed technology requires constant, forced ventilation. Further theoretical and practical research towards applying this concept would be necessary.

Superfluid-insulator transitions of two-species bosons in an optical lattice

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

Isacsson, A.; Department of Physics, Yale University, P.O. Box 208120, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8120; Cha, M.-C.

2005-11-01

We consider the two-species bosonic Hubbard model with variable interspecies interaction and hopping strength in the grand canonical ensemble with a common chemical potential. We analyze the superfluid-insulator (SI) transition for the relevant parameter regimes and compute the ground state phase diagram in the vicinity of odd filling Mott states. We find that the superfluid-insulator transition occurs with (a) simultaneous onset of superfluidity of both species or (b) coexistence of Mott insulating state of one species and superfluidity of the other or, in the case of unit filling (c) complete depopulation of one species. The superfluid-insulator transition can be firstmore » order in a large region of the phase diagram. We develop a variational mean-field method which takes into account the effect of second order quantum fluctuations on the superfluid-insulator transition and corroborate the mean-field phase diagram using a quantum Monte Carlo study.« less

Experimental and Numerical Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposites for Solid Rocket Motor Internal Insulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-30

Nanophase, Thermoplastic Elastomer, EPDM Rubber , Surface Modified MMT Clay, Carbon Nanofibers 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: a. REPORT u b. ABSTRACT U...diene rubber ( EPDM ) is the baseline insulation material for solid rocket motor cases. A novel class of insulation materials was developed by the Air...Figure 1. Upon analysis of the control sample, it was observed that the EPDM rubber was totally burned forming a small amount of char, which was easily

Human somatic cell nuclear transfer and reproductive cloning: an Ethics Committee opinion.

PubMed

2016-04-01

This document presents arguments that conclude that it is unethical to use somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) for infertility treatment due to concerns about safety; the unknown impact of SCNT on children, families, and society; and the availability of other ethically acceptable means of assisted reproduction. This document replaces the ASRM Ethics Committee report titled, "Human somatic cell nuclear transfer and cloning," last published in Fertil Steril 2012;98:804-7. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Retrofit Measures for Embedded Wood Members in Insulated Mass Masonry Walls

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

K. Ueno

2015-10-01

In this project, the Building Science Corporation team studied a historic brick building in Lawrence, Massachusetts, which is being renovated into 10 condominium units and adding insulation to the interior side of walls of such masonry buildings.

Magnon-induced superconductivity in a topological insulator coupled to ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hugdal, Henning G.; Rex, Stefan; Nogueira, Flavio S.; Sudbø, Asle

2018-05-01

We study the effective interactions between Dirac fermions on the surface of a three-dimensional topological insulator due to the proximity coupling to the magnetic fluctuations in a ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic insulator. Our results show that the magnetic fluctuations can mediate attractive interactions between Dirac fermions of both Amperean and BCS types. In the ferromagnetic case, we find pairing between fermions with parallel momenta, so-called Amperean pairing, whenever the effective Lagrangian for the magnetic fluctuations does not contain a quadratic term. The pairing interaction also increases with increasing Fermi momentum and is in agreement with previous studies in the limit of high chemical potential. If a quadratic term is present, the pairing is instead of BCS type above a certain chemical potential. In the antiferromagnetic case, BCS pairing occurs when the ferromagnetic coupling between magnons on the same sublattice exceeds the antiferromagnetic coupling between magnons on different sublattices. Outside this region in parameter space, we again find that Amperean pairing is realized.

Evaluating an Exterior Insulation and Finish System for Deep Energy Retrofits

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

Dentz, Jordan; Podorson, David

Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) are proprietary synthetic formulations that are applied to the exterior walls of buildings to serve as insulation and exterior cladding. The insulation thickness can vary from less than one inch to a foot or more. In this project the applicability of EIFS for residential deep energy retrofits was investigated through modeling and a case study home. The home was retrofitted using a site-applied four-inch-thick EIFS. Site-specific details were developed as required for the residential retrofit application. Site work and the costs of the EIFS system were documented. The demonstration home was modeled using Buildingmore » Energy Optimization energy and cost analysis software to explore cost effectiveness of various EIFS insulation thicknesses in two climate locations.« less

NDE of Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Motor field joint

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnston, Patrick H.

1987-01-01

One of the most critical areas for inspection in the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Motors is the bond between the steel case and rubber insulation in the region of the field joints. The tang-and-clevis geometry of the field joints is sufficiently complex to prohibit the use of resonance-based techniques. One approach we are investigating is to interrogate the steel-insulation bondline in the tang and clevis regions using surface-travelling waves. A low-frequency contact surface wave transmitting array transducer is under development at our laboratory for this purpose. The array is placed in acoustic contact with the steel and surface waves are launched on the inside surface or the clevis leg which propagate along the steel-insulation interface. As these surface waves propagate along the bonded surface, the magnitude of the ultrasonic energy leaking into the steel is monitored on the outer surface of the case. Our working hypothesis is that the magnitude of energy received at the outer surface of the case is dependent upon the integrity of the case-insulation bond, with less attenuation for propagation along a disbond due to imperfect acoustic coupling between the steel and rubber. Measurements on test specimens indicate a linear relationship between received signal amplitude and the length of good bend between the transmitter and receiver, suggesting the validity of this working hypothesis.

Field Measurements of Heat Losses from Three Types of Heat Distribution Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-11-01

with the supply pipe on top of the 2.5-in.-thick mineral wool in each case. return pipe. The conduit has an outer diameter of ap- proximately 20 in...is 5-in. NPS schedule 40 steel. Each pipe is insulated with Instrumentation layout 2.5 in. of mineral wool pipe insulation. The location of the...common Only two manufacturers of mineral wool insulation conduit, trench and individual conduit sites, respec- have a product approved for use on

In Situ Corrosion and Heat Loss Assessment of Two Nonstandard Underground Heat Distribution System Piping Designs

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

of this specific design consists of a carrier pipe, carrier pipe insulation ( mineral wool ), an annular air space, steel casing, a layer of exterior...excavation site agree with Perma-Pipe “Multi-Therm 500” nominal specs for 10” carrier with 2” mineral wool insulation. 3. Conduit Temperature: Supply...the ASHRAE calculation method or by manufacturer performance claims. MEC is reasonably certain that the mineral wool insulation used by the

Designing Predictive Diagnose Method for Insulation Resistance Degradation of the Electrical Power Cables from Neutral Insulated Power Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobra, R.; Pasculescu, D.; Risteiu, M.; Buica, G.; Jevremović, V.

2017-06-01

This paper describe some possibilities to minimize voltages switching-off risks from the mining power networks, in case of insulated resistance faults by using a predictive diagnose method. The cables from the neutral insulated power networks (underground mining) are designed to provide a flexible electrical connection between portable or mobile equipment and a point of supply, including main feeder cable for continuous miners, pump cable, and power supply cable. An electronic protection for insulated resistance of mining power cables can be made using this predictive strategy. The main role of electronic relays for insulation resistance degradation of the electrical power cables, from neutral insulated power networks, is to provide a permanent measurement of the insulated resistance between phases and ground, in order to switch-off voltage when the resistance value is below a standard value. The automat system of protection is able to signalize the failure and the human operator will be early informed about the switch-off power and will have time to take proper measures to fix the failure. This logic for fast and automat switch-off voltage without aprioristic announcement is suitable for the electrical installations, realizing so a protection against fires and explosion. It is presented an algorithm and an anticipative relay for insulated resistance control from three-phase low voltage installations with insulated neutral connection.

Disorder-Enhanced Dielectric Response of Nanoscale and Mesoscopic Insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onoda, Shigeki; Chern, Chyh-Hong; Murakami, Shuichi; Ogimoto, Yasushi; Nagaosa, Naoto

2006-12-01

Enhancement of the dielectric response of insulators by disorder is theoretically proposed, where the quantum interference of electronic waves through the nanoscale or mesoscopic system and its change due to external perturbations control the polarization. In the disordered case with all the states being localized, the resonant tunneling, which is topologically protected, plays a crucial role, and enhances the dielectric response by a factor 30 40 compared with the pure case. The realization of this idea with accessible materials or structures is also discussed.

Is acne a sign of androgen excess disorder or not?

PubMed

Uysal, Gulsum; Sahin, Yılmaz; Unluhizarci, Kursad; Ferahbas, Ayten; Uludag, Semih Zeki; Aygen, Ercan; Kelestimur, Fahrettin

2017-04-01

Acne is not solely a cosmetic problem. The clinical importance of acne in the estimation of androgen excess disorders is controversial. Recently, the Amsterdam ESHRE/ASRM-sponsored third PCOS Consensus Workshop Group suggested that acne is not commonly associated with hyperandrogenemia and therefore should not be regarded as evidence of hyperandrogenemia. Our aim was to investigate whether acne is a sign of androgen excess disorder or not. This is a cross sectional study that was performed in a university hospital involving 207 women, aged between 18 and 45 years, suffering mainly from acne. The women were assigned as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism (IH), idiopathic hyperandrogenemia (IHA). Women with acne associated with any of the androgen excess disorders mentioned above were named as hyperandrogenemia associated acne (HAA). Women with acne but without hirsutism and hyperandrogenemia and having ovulatory cycles were named as "isolated acne". Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione, total testosterone and lipid levels were measured. Acne score was similar between the women with isolated acne and HAA. The most common cause for acne was PCOS and only 28% of the women had isolated acne. 114 (55%) women had at least one raised serum androgen level. In this study, 72% of acneic women had clinical and/or biochemical hyperandrogenemia. In contrast to the suggestion of ESHRE/ASRM-sponsored third PCOS Consensus Workshop Group, our data indicate that the presence of androgen excess disorders should be evaluated in women presenting with acne. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The utility of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging versus surgery for the characterization of müllerian anomalies in the pediatric and adolescent population.

PubMed

Santos, X M; Krishnamurthy, R; Bercaw-Pratt, J L; Dietrich, J E

2012-06-01

To evaluate the utility of transabdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of American Society for Reproductive Medicine (†)(ASRM)-classified müllerian anomalies compared to surgical findings in the pediatric and adolescent population. Retrospective chart review. Tertiary academic center. Thirty-eight patients with müllerian anomalies seen in our pediatric and adolescent gynecology clinic were identified both on the basis of ICD-9 codes and having magnetic resonance imaging at Texas Children's Hospital between 2004 and 2009. None. Correlation among transabdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging findings with surgical findings. Mean age was 12.2 (± 4.1) years. Twenty-eight patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging and required surgical intervention, and 88.5% demonstrated correlative consistency with surgical findings. Twenty-two patients underwent ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and surgery, which revealed consistency among ultrasound and surgical findings (59.1%) and consistency among magnetic resonance imaging and surgical findings (90.9%). In ASRM diagnoses evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging, surgical findings correlated in 92% (Pearson 0.89). Overall, 55.2% of patients had a renal malformation. Magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard imaging modality for müllerian anomalies and is an effective technique for noninvasive evaluation and accurate classification of the type of anomaly in the pediatric and adolescent population. Magnetic resonance imaging should be considered as an adjunct to transabdominal ultrasound to evaluate müllerian anomalies. Copyright © 2012 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship between Leakage Current and Pollution Deposits on the Surface of Polymeric Insulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyake, Takuma; Seo, Yuya; Sakoda, Tatsuya; Otsubo, Masahisa

Application of polymeric materials used for housing insulators is considered. However, because polymeric insulator is organic matter, the aged deterioration is anxious. The lifetime of polymeric insulator is influenced by environmental conditions such as ultraviolet, acid rain, and polluted deposits. A change of the surface condition of polymeric material causes the dry band arc discharge and the discharge may lower the insulation strength. To investigate the relationship between insoluble pollution and occurrence of dry band arc discharge, we performed a salt-fog test with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) samples. The results showed that the heavy erosion caused by frequent dry band arc discharges occurred even in the case of a light polluted condition. Additionally, a very characteristic increase tendency in leakage current with a period of about 5 h was observed during the mist period.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Insulated Siding Retrofit in a Cold Climate

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

None

In this study, the U.S. Department of Energy’s team Building America Partner¬ship for Improved Residential Construction (BA-PIRC) worked with Kinsley Construction Company to evaluate the real-world performance of insulated sid¬ing when applied to an existing home. A 1960s home was selected for analysis. It is located in a cold climate (zone 6) where the addition of insulated siding and a carefully detailed water-resistive barrier have the potential to offer significant benefits. In particular, the team quantified building airtightness and heating energy use as a function of outdoor temperatures before and after the installa¬tion of the insulated siding.

Design of indoor furniture with acoustic insulation and noise reduction function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Ziqiang; Lyu, Jianhua; Chen, Ming

2018-05-01

In this article, the current status of noise pollution research is analyzed and indoor noise pollution hazard on human body is discussed taking noise pollution as entry point to better understand people's needs in this concern, and it comes to the conclusion that indoor furniture with noise insulation function is required; In addition, the design status and necessity of indoor furniture with noise insulation function are expounded and the material property, structure design essentials and form design are analyzed according to sound transmission principles. In the end, design case study is presented to provide an effective way for design of indoor furniture with acoustic insulation function that meets people's needs.

Theoretical analysis of three methods for calculating thermal insulation of clothing from thermal manikin.

PubMed

Huang, Jianhua

2012-07-01

There are three methods for calculating thermal insulation of clothing measured with a thermal manikin, i.e. the global method, the serial method, and the parallel method. Under the condition of homogeneous clothing insulation, these three methods yield the same insulation values. If the local heat flux is uniform over the manikin body, the global and serial methods provide the same insulation value. In most cases, the serial method gives a higher insulation value than the global method. There is a possibility that the insulation value from the serial method is lower than the value from the global method. The serial method always gives higher insulation value than the parallel method. The insulation value from the parallel method is higher or lower than the value from the global method, depending on the relationship between the heat loss distribution and the surface temperatures. Under the circumstance of uniform surface temperature distribution over the manikin body, the global and parallel methods give the same insulation value. If the constant surface temperature mode is used in the manikin test, the parallel method can be used to calculate the thermal insulation of clothing. If the constant heat flux mode is used in the manikin test, the serial method can be used to calculate the thermal insulation of clothing. The global method should be used for calculating thermal insulation of clothing for all manikin control modes, especially for thermal comfort regulation mode. The global method should be chosen by clothing manufacturers for labelling their products. The serial and parallel methods provide more information with respect to the different parts of clothing.

Pulmonary fibrosis in asbestos insulation workers with lung cancer: a radiological and histopathological evaluation.

PubMed Central

Kipen, H M; Lilis, R; Suzuki, Y; Valciukas, J A; Selikoff, I J

1987-01-01

This study was undertaken to determine the relation between radiographic and histological manifestations of pulmonary asbestosis (interstitial fibrosis) in insulation workers who had died of lung cancer. Of 450 confirmed deaths from lung cancer a chest radiograph suitable for determining evidence of pneumoconiosis was obtained in 219. Of these cases, 138 also had a tissue specimen submitted that was suitable for histological study to determine the extent of histological fibrosis. There was a significant albeit limited correlation between the radiographic and histological findings (r = 0.27, p less than 0.0013). All 138 cases had histological evidence of parenchymal fibrosis; in 25 (18%), however, there was no radiographic evidence of parenchymal fibrosis. In 10 cases (7%) both parenchymal and pleural disease were undetectable on the radiograph. Thus a negative chest radiograph does not exclude the presence of interstitial fibrosis (asbestosis) in a substantial proportion of insulation workers previously exposed to asbestos who develop lung cancer. PMID:3814551

Mode structure of a quantum cascade laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogdanov, A. A.; Suris, R. A.

2011-03-01

We analyze the mode structure of a quantum cascade laser (QCL) cavity considering the surface plasmon-polariton modes and familiar modes of hollow resonator jointly, within a single model. We present a comprehensive mode structure analysis of the laser cavity, varying its geometric parameters and free electron concentration inside cavity layers within a wide range. Our analysis covers, in particular, the cases of metal-insulator-metal and insulator-metal-insulator waveguides. We discuss the phenomenon of negative dispersion for eigenmodes in detail and explain the nature of this phenomenon. We specify a waveguide parameters domain in which negative dispersion exists. The mode structure of QCL cavity is considered in the case of the anisotropic electrical properties of the waveguide materials. We show that anisotropy of the waveguide core results in propagation of Langmuir modes that are degenerated in the case of the isotropic core. Comparative analysis of optical losses due to free carrier absorption is presented for different modes within the frequency range from terahertz to ultraviolet frequencies.

Building America Case Study: Retrofit Measure for Embedded Wood Members in Insulated Mass Masonry Walls, Lawrence, Massachusetts

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

?There are many existing buildings with load-bearing mass masonry walls, whose energy performance could be improved with the retrofit of insulation. However, adding insulation to the interior side of walls of such masonry buildings in cold (and wet) climates may cause performance and durability problems. Some concerns, such as condensation and freeze-thaw have known solutions. But wood members embedded in the masonry structure will be colder (and potentially wetter) after an interior insulation retrofit. Moisture content and relative humidity were monitored at joist ends in historic mass brick masonry walls retrofitted with interior insulation in a cold climate (Zone 5A);more » data were collected from 2012-2015. Eleven joist ends were monitored in all four orientations. One limitation of these results is that the renovation is still ongoing, with limited wintertime construction heating and no permanent occupancy to date. Measurements show that many joists ends remain at high moisture contents, especially at north- and east-facing orientations, with constant 100 percent RH conditions at the worst cases. These high moisture levels are not conducive for wood durability, but no evidence for actual structural damage has been observed. Insulated vs. non-insulated joist pockets do not show large differences. South facing joists have safe (10-15 percent) moisture contents. Given the uncertainty pointed out by research, definitive guidance on the vulnerability of embedded wood members is difficult to formulate. In high-risk situations, or when a very conservative approach is warranted, the embedded wood member condition can be eliminated entirely, supporting the joist ends outside of the masonry pocket.« less

Aerogel Insulation Applications for Liquid Hydrogen Launch Vehicle Tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fesmire, J. E.; Sass, J.

2007-01-01

Aerogel based insulation systems for ambient pressure environments were developed for liquid hydrogen (LH2) tank applications. Solutions to thermal insulation problems were demonstrated for the Space Shuttle External Tank (ET) through extensive testing at the Cryogenics Test Laboratory. Demonstration testing was performed using a 1/10th scale ET LH2 intertank unit and liquid helium as the coolant to provide the 20 K cold boundary temperature. Cryopumping tests in the range of 20K were performed using both constant mass and constant pressure methods. Long-duration tests (up to 10 hours) showed that the nitrogen mass taken up inside the intertank is reduced by a factor of nearly three for the aerogel insulated case as compared to the un-insulated (bare metal flight configuration) case. Test results including thermal stabilization, heat transfer effectiveness, and cryopumping confirm that the aerogel system eliminates free liquid nitrogen within the intertank. Physisorption (or adsorption) of liquid nitrogen within the fine pore structure of aerogel materials was also investigated. Results of a mass uptake method show that the sorption ratio (liquid nitrogen to aerogel beads) is about 62 percent by volume. A novel liquid nitrogen production method of testing the liquid nitrogen physical adsorption capacity of aerogel beads was also performed to more closely approximate the actual launch vehicle cooldown and thermal stabilization effects within the aerogel material. The extraordinary insulating effectiveness of the aerogel material shows that cryopumping is not an open-cell mass transport issue but is strictly driven by thermal communication between warm and cold surfaces. The new aerogel insulation technology is useful to solve heat transfer problem areas and to augment existing thermal protection systems on launch vehicles. Examples are given and potential benefits for producing launch systems that are more reliable, robust, reusable, and efficient are outlined.

A spectral method determination of the first critical Rayleigh number for a low-Prandtl number crystal melt in a cylindrical container

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dietz, C. M., Jr.; Diplas, P.

1993-01-01

The onset of laminar axisymmetric Rayleigh-Benard convection is investigated for a low-Prandtl number liquid metal in a cylindrical container. All surfaces are considered to be solid and no-slip. Two separate cases are examined for the thermal boundary conditions at the side wall, one with conducting and the other with insulated surface. The governing Boussinesq system is first perturbed and then simplified by introducing a Stokes stream function. Subsequently, a Chebyshev Galerkin spectral model is employed to reduce the simplified system to a system of first-order nonlinear ordinary differential equations. A local stability analysis determines the two values of the first critical Rayleigh number, Ra(sub cl), for the insulated and conducting side walls. As expected, the conducting Ra(sub cl) value of 2882.5 obtained from the present approach exceeded the corresponding insulated Ra(sub cl) value of 2331.6. For the insulated case, an earlier study using a different numerical approach suggests that Ra(sub cl) = 2261.9, while an experimental study measured Ra(sub cl) = 2700.

The dependency of adhesion and friction on electrostatic attraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Persson, B. N. J.

2018-04-01

I develop a general mean-field theory for the influence of electrostatic attraction between two solids on the contact mechanics. I assume elastic solids with random surface roughness. I consider two cases, namely, with and without an electrically insulating layer between the conducting solids. The former case is important for, e.g., the finger-touch screen interaction. I study how the electrostatic attraction influences the adhesion and friction. For the case of an insulating layer, I find that when the applied nominal contact pressure is relatively small, as the applied voltage increases, there is a sharp increase in the contact area, and hence in the friction, at a critical voltage.

Plasma/Wall interaction of an insulated material by laser-induced fluorescence diagnostic

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

Claire, N.; Doveil, F.

2015-07-01

We present Argon Ion Velocity Distribution Function (IVDF) in the vicinity of an insulated BNSiO{sub 2} ceramic and a glass plate in a non magnetized plasma by laser-induced fluorescence diagnostic. Results show the rather surprising self-consistent formation of a positive or inverse sheath in the two cases. The positive plasma potential repels ions from the insulated wall and is not explained by any sheath theory. Electron secondary emission of the ceramic can be a good candidate to explain these results. (authors)

Demonstration of Hybrid Multilayer Insulation for Fixed Thickness Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Wesley; Fesmire, James; Heckle, Wayne

2015-01-01

Once on orbit, high performing insulation systems for cryogenic systems need just as good radiation (optical) properties as conduction properties. This requires the use of radiation shields with low conductivity spacers in between. By varying the height and cross-sectional area of the spacers between the radiation shields, the relative radiation and conduction heat transfers can be manipulated. However, in most systems, there is a fixed thickness or volume allocated to the insulation. In order to understand how various combinations of different multilayer insulation (MLI) systems work together and further validate thermal models of such a hybrid MLI set up, test data is needed. The MLI systems include combinations of Load Bearing MLI (LB-MLI) and traditional MLI. To further simulate the space launch vehicle case wherein both ambient pressure and vacuum environments are addressed, different cold-side thermal insulation substrates were included for select tests.

Resistivity of the insulating phase approaching the 2D metal-insulator transition: the effect of spin polarization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shiqi; Sarachik, Myriam

We compare the resistivity of the dilute, strongly-interacting 2D electron system in the insulating phase of a silicon MOSFET for unpolarized electrons in the absence of magnetic field and in the presence of an in-plane magnetic field sufficient to fully polarize the electrons. In both cases the resistivity obeys Efros-Shklovskii variable range hopping ρ (T) =ρ0exp [(TES / T) 1 / 2 ] , with TES and 1 /ρ0 mapping onto each other provided one applies a shift reported earlier of the critical density nc with magnetic field: the transport properties of the insulator are the same for unpolarized and fully polarized electron spins. Interestingly, the parameters TES and 1 /ρ0 =σ0 are consistent with critical behavior approaching a metal-insulator transition. This work was supported by the National Science Foundation Grant DMR-1309008 and the Binational Science Foundation Grant 2012210.

Physicochemical assessment criteria for high-voltage pulse capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darian, L. A.; Lam, L. Kh.

2016-12-01

In the paper, the applicability of decomposition products of internal insulation of high-voltage pulse capacitors is considered (aging is the reason for decomposition products of internal insulation). Decomposition products of internal insulation of high-voltage pulse capacitors can be used to evaluate their quality when in operation and in service. There have been three generations of markers of aging of insulation as in the case with power transformers. The area of applicability of markers of aging of insulation for power transformers has been studied and the area can be extended to high-voltage pulse capacitors. The research reveals that there is a correlation between the components and quantities of markers of aging of the first generation (gaseous decomposition products of insulation) dissolved in insulating liquid and the remaining life of high-voltage pulse capacitors. The application of markers of aging to evaluate the remaining service life of high-voltage pulse capacitor is a promising direction of research, because the design of high-voltage pulse capacitors keeps stability of markers of aging of insulation in high-voltage pulse capacitors. It is necessary to continue gathering statistical data concerning development of markers of aging of the first generation. One should also carry out research aimed at estimation of the remaining life of capacitors using markers of the second and the third generation.

Financial "risk-sharing" or refund programs in assisted reproduction: an Ethics Committee opinion.

PubMed

2016-10-01

Financial "risk-sharing" fee structures in assisted reproduction programs charge patients a higher initial fee but provide reduced fees for subsequent cycles and often a partial or complete refund if treatment fails. This opinion of the ASRM Ethics Committee analyzes the ethical issues raised by these fee structures, including patient selection criteria, conflicts of interest, success rate transparency, and patient informed consent. This document replaces the document of the same name, last published in 2013 (Fertil Steril 2013;100:334-6). Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical Insight Into Latent Variables of Psychiatric Questionnaires for Mood Symptom Self-Assessment

PubMed Central

Saunders, Kate; Bilderbeck, Amy; Palmius, Niclas; Goodwin, Guy; De Vos, Maarten

2017-01-01

Background We recently described a new questionnaire to monitor mood called mood zoom (MZ). MZ comprises 6 items assessing mood symptoms on a 7-point Likert scale; we had previously used standard principal component analysis (PCA) to tentatively understand its properties, but the presence of multiple nonzero loadings obstructed the interpretation of its latent variables. Objective The aim of this study was to rigorously investigate the internal properties and latent variables of MZ using an algorithmic approach which may lead to more interpretable results than PCA. Additionally, we explored three other widely used psychiatric questionnaires to investigate latent variable structure similarities with MZ: (1) Altman self-rating mania scale (ASRM), assessing mania; (2) quick inventory of depressive symptomatology (QIDS) self-report, assessing depression; and (3) generalized anxiety disorder (7-item) (GAD-7), assessing anxiety. Methods We elicited responses from 131 participants: 48 bipolar disorder (BD), 32 borderline personality disorder (BPD), and 51 healthy controls (HC), collected longitudinally (median [interquartile range, IQR]: 363 [276] days). Participants were requested to complete ASRM, QIDS, and GAD-7 weekly (all 3 questionnaires were completed on the Web) and MZ daily (using a custom-based smartphone app). We applied sparse PCA (SPCA) to determine the latent variables for the four questionnaires, where a small subset of the original items contributes toward each latent variable. Results We found that MZ had great consistency across the three cohorts studied. Three main principal components were derived using SPCA, which can be tentatively interpreted as (1) anxiety and sadness, (2) positive affect, and (3) irritability. The MZ principal component comprising anxiety and sadness explains most of the variance in BD and BPD, whereas the positive affect of MZ explains most of the variance in HC. The latent variables in ASRM were identical for the patient groups but different for HC; nevertheless, the latent variables shared common items across both the patient group and HC. On the contrary, QIDS had overall very different principal components across groups; sleep was a key element in HC and BD but was absent in BPD. In GAD-7, nervousness was the principal component explaining most of the variance in BD and HC. Conclusions This study has important implications for understanding self-reported mood. MZ has a consistent, intuitively interpretable latent variable structure and hence may be a good instrument for generic mood assessment. Irritability appears to be the key distinguishing latent variable between BD and BPD and might be useful for differential diagnosis. Anxiety and sadness are closely interlinked, a finding that might inform treatment effects to jointly address these covarying symptoms. Anxiety and nervousness appear to be amongst the cardinal latent variable symptoms in BD and merit close attention in clinical practice. PMID:28546141

Reaction and Protection of Electrical Wire Insulators in Atomic-oxygen Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, Ching-Cheh; Cantrell, Gidget

1994-01-01

Atomic-oxygen erosion on spacecraft in low Earth orbit is an issue which is becoming increasingly important because of the growing number of spacecraft that will fly in the orbits which have high concentrations of atomic oxygen. In this investigation, the atomic-oxygen durability of three types of electrical wire insulation (carbon-based, fluoropolymer, and polysiloxane elastomer) were evaluated. These insulation materials were exposed to thermal-energy atomic oxygen, which was obtained by RF excitation of air at a pressure of 11-20 Pa. The effects of atomic-oxygen exposure on insulation materials indicate that all carbon-based materials erode at about the same rate as polyamide Kapton and, therefore, are not atomic-oxygen durable. However, the durability of fluoropolymers needs to be evaluated on a case by case basis because the erosion rates of fluoropolymers vary widely. For example, experimental data suggest the formation of atomic fluorine during atomic-oxygen amorphous-fluorocarbon reactions. Dimethyl polysiloxanes (silicone) do not lose mass during atomic-oxygen exposure, but develop silica surfaces which are under tension and frequently crack as a result of loss of methyl groups. However, if the silicone sample surfaces were properly pretreated to provide a certain roughness, atomic oxygen exposure resulted in a sturdy, non-cracked atomic-oxygen durable SiO2 layer. Since the surface does not crack during such silicone-atomic oxygen reaction, the crack-induced contamination by silicone can be reduced or completely stopped. Therefore, with proper pretreatment, silicone can be either a wire insulation material or a coating on wire insulation materials to provide atomic-oxygen durability.

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County, Venice, Florida

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

none,

2011-11-01

PNNL and Calcs Plus helped the South Sarasota County Florida Habitat for Humanity retrofit a 1978 single-story home by stripping old drywall, air sealing concrete block walls, and installing rigid insulation, furring strips, and new drywall. The attic was sealed and insulated with spray foam to house a new heat pump.

Evaluating uncertainty in environmental life-cycle assessment. A case study comparing two insulation options for a Dutch one-family dwelling.

PubMed

Huijbregts, Mark A J; Gilijamse, Wim; Ragas, Ad M J; Reijnders, Lucas

2003-06-01

The evaluation of uncertainty is relatively new in environmental life-cycle assessment (LCA). It provides useful information to assess the reliability of LCA-based decisions and to guide future research toward reducing uncertainty. Most uncertainty studies in LCA quantify only one type of uncertainty, i.e., uncertainty due to input data (parameter uncertainty). However, LCA outcomes can also be uncertain due to normative choices (scenario uncertainty) and the mathematical models involved (model uncertainty). The present paper outlines a new methodology that quantifies parameter, scenario, and model uncertainty simultaneously in environmental life-cycle assessment. The procedure is illustrated in a case study that compares two insulation options for a Dutch one-family dwelling. Parameter uncertainty was quantified by means of Monte Carlo simulation. Scenario and model uncertainty were quantified by resampling different decision scenarios and model formulations, respectively. Although scenario and model uncertainty were not quantified comprehensively, the results indicate that both types of uncertainty influence the case study outcomes. This stresses the importance of quantifying parameter, scenario, and model uncertainty simultaneously. The two insulation options studied were found to have significantly different impact scores for global warming, stratospheric ozone depletion, and eutrophication. The thickest insulation option has the lowest impact on global warming and eutrophication, and the highest impact on stratospheric ozone depletion.

Methodology for Evaluating Raw Material Changes to RSRM Elastomeric Insulation Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mildenhall, Scott D.; McCool, Alex (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) uses asbestos and silicon dioxide filled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (AS-NBR) as the primary internal insulation to protect the case from heat. During the course of the RSRM Program, several changes have been made to the raw materials and processing of the AS-NBR elastomeric insulation material. These changes have been primarily caused by raw materials becoming obsolete. In addition, some process changes have been implemented that were deemed necessary to improve the quality and consistency of the AS-NBR insulation material. Each change has been evaluated using unique test efforts customized to determine the potential impacts of the specific raw material or process change. Following the evaluations, the various raw material and process changes were successfully implemented with no detectable effect on the performance of the AS-NBR insulation. This paper will discuss some of the raw material and process changes evaluated, the methodology used in designing the unique test plans, and the general evaluation results. A summary of the change history of RSRM AS-NBR internal insulation is also presented.

The insulation of genes from external enhancers and silencing chromatin

PubMed Central

Burgess-Beusse, Bonnie; Farrell, Catherine; Gaszner, Miklos; Litt, Michael; Mutskov, Vesco; Recillas-Targa, Felix; Simpson, Melanie; West, Adam; Felsenfeld, Gary

2002-01-01

Insulators are DNA sequence elements that can serve in some cases as barriers to protect a gene against the encroachment of adjacent inactive condensed chromatin. Some insulators also can act as blocking elements to protect against the activating influence of distal enhancers associated with other genes. Although most of the insulators identified so far derive from Drosophila, they also are found in vertebrates. An insulator at the 5′ end of the chicken β-globin locus marks a boundary between an open chromatin domain and a region of constitutively condensed chromatin. Detailed analysis of this element shows that it possesses both enhancer blocking activity and the ability to screen reporter genes against position effects. Enhancer blocking is associated with binding of the protein CTCF; sites that bind CTCF are found at other critical points in the genome. Protection against position effects involves other properties that appear to be associated with control of histone acetylation and methylation. Insulators thus are complex elements that can help to preserve the independent function of genes embedded in a genome in which they are surrounded by regulatory signals they must ignore. PMID:12154228

Odd-frequency superconductivity induced in topological insulators with and without hexagonal warping.

PubMed

Vasenko, A S; Golubov, A A; Silkin, V M; Chulkov, E V

2017-07-26

We study the effect of the Fermi surface anisotropy on the odd-frequency spin-triplet pairing component of the induced pair potential. We consider a superconductor/ ferromagnetic insulator (S/FI) hybrid structure formed on the 3D topological insulator (TI) surface. In this case three ingredients ensure the possibility of the odd-frequency pairing: (1) the topological surface states, (2) the induced pair potential, and (3) the magnetic moment of a nearby ferromagnetic insulator. We take into account the strong anisotropy of the Dirac point in topological insulators when the chemical potential lies well above the Dirac cone and its constant energy contour has a snowflake shape. Within this model, we propose that the S/FI boundary should be properly aligned with respect to the snowflake constant energy contour to have an odd-frequency symmetry of the corresponding pairing component and to insure the Majorana bound state at the S/FI boundary. For arbitrary orientation of the boundary, the Majorana bound state is absent. This provides a selection rule to the realization of Majorana modes in S/FI hybrid structures, formed on the topological insulator surface.

Palliation of Postintubation Tracheal Stenosis Using Insulation-Tipped Diathermic Knife 2: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Yoon, Seon Bin; Park, Yong Won; Cheon, Mi Ju; Koh, Young Min; Park, Sanghoon; Kim, Se Joong; Lee, Seung Hyeun

2015-01-01

Objective To report the first case of using the insulation-tipped diathermic knife 2 (IT knife-2) for the treatment of postintubation tracheal stenosis. Clinical Presentation and Intervention A 71-year-old female patient with a history of endotracheal intubation 3 years earlier presented with throat discomfort, gross wheezing and dyspnea. Chest imaging and bronchoscopy demonstrated a strand-like tracheal stenosis in the upper trachea. The IT knife-2 was used to treat the patient and the lesion was palliated without complication. Conclusion This case was successfully treated with the IT knife-2 and thus implies a potential usefulness of the IT knife-2 as a new modality for bronchoscopic intervention. PMID:26390388

Application of tire chips to reduce the temperature of secondary geomembranes in municipal solid waste landfills.

PubMed

Hoor, Azadeh; Rowe, R Kerry

2012-05-01

Heat generated by the biodegradation of waste and other chemical processes in a landfill can potentially affect the long-term performance of landfill liner system, in particular that of a high-density polyethylene geomembrane. In a double liner system, the difference in leachate exposure and temperature might improve the long-term performance of the secondary geomembrane compared to that of the primary geomembrane. However, in some cases, the temperature is likely to be high enough to substantially reduce the service-life of the secondary geomembrane. This study explores the possible effectiveness of using tire chips as thermal insulation between primary and secondary liners to reduce the temperature of secondary geomembranes as compared to traditional soil materials. Heat and contaminant migration analyses are performed for cases with no insulation and for cases in which a layer of soil or tire chips has been used as thermal insulation between the primary and secondary liners. The effect of insulation on prolonging the service-life of a secondary geomembrane and, consequently, on contaminant transport through a liner system is examined for the case of a volatile organic compound (dichloromethane) found in landfill leachate. The study suggests that the use of tire chips warrants consideration, however there are other practical issues that require consideration in the detailed design and construction of landfill liners. Issues such as finite service-life, low working temperature, excessive settlement, ability to generate internal heat, leaching of tire chips and limitations in performing electrical resistivity leak detection tests are identified. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Insulation Material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

Manufactured by Hitco Materials Division of Armco, Inc. a ceramic fiber insulation material known as Refrasil has been used extensively as a heat-absorbing ablative reinforcement for such space systems as rocket motor nozzles, combustion chambers, and re-entry shields. Refrasil fibers are highly porous and do not melt or vaporize until fibers exceed 3,100 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to these and other properties, Refrasil has found utility in a number of industrial high temperature applications where glass, asbestos and other materials fail. Hitco used this insulation to assist Richardson Co., Inc. in the manufacturing of hard rubber and plastic molded battery cases.

Mania and depression in the perinatal period among women with a history of major depressive disorders.

PubMed

Inglis, Angela J; Hippman, Catriona L; Carrion, Prescilla B; Honer, William G; Austin, Jehannine C

2014-04-01

Women with a history of major depressive disorder (MDD) have increased risks for postpartum depression, but less is known about postpartum mania in this population. The objectives of this study were to prospectively determine the frequency with which mania occurs in the postpartum among women who have a history of MDD and to explore temporal relationships between onset of mania/hypomania and depression. We administered the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV disorders (SCID) to pregnant women with a self-reported history of MDD to confirm diagnosis and exclude women with any history of mania/hypomania. Participants completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Altman Self-Rating Mania Scale (ASRM) once during the pregnancy (∼26 weeks) and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postpartum. Among women (n = 107) with a SCID-confirmed diagnosis of MDD, 34.6 % (n = 37) experienced mania/hypomania (defined by an ASRM score of ≥6) at ≥1 time point during the postpartum, and for just over half (20/37, 54 %), onset was during the postpartum. The highest frequency of mania/hypomania (26.4 %, n = 26) was at 1 week postpartum. Women who experienced mania/hypomania at 1 week postpartum had significantly more symptoms of mania/hypomania later in the postpartum. A substantive proportion of women with a history of MDD may experience first onset of mania/hypomania symptoms in the early postpartum, others may experience first onset during pregnancy. Taken with other recent data, these findings suggest a possible rationale for screening women with a history of MDD for mania/hypomania during the early postpartum period, but issues with screening instruments are discussed.

Physicochemical assessment criteria for high-voltage pulse capacitors

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

Darian, L. A., E-mail: LDarian@rambler.ru; Lam, L. Kh.

In the paper, the applicability of decomposition products of internal insulation of high-voltage pulse capacitors is considered (aging is the reason for decomposition products of internal insulation). Decomposition products of internal insulation of high-voltage pulse capacitors can be used to evaluate their quality when in operation and in service. There have been three generations of markers of aging of insulation as in the case with power transformers. The area of applicability of markers of aging of insulation for power transformers has been studied and the area can be extended to high-voltage pulse capacitors. The research reveals that there is amore » correlation between the components and quantities of markers of aging of the first generation (gaseous decomposition products of insulation) dissolved in insulating liquid and the remaining life of high-voltage pulse capacitors. The application of markers of aging to evaluate the remaining service life of high-voltage pulse capacitor is a promising direction of research, because the design of high-voltage pulse capacitors keeps stability of markers of aging of insulation in high-voltage pulse capacitors. It is necessary to continue gathering statistical data concerning development of markers of aging of the first generation. One should also carry out research aimed at estimation of the remaining life of capacitors using markers of the second and the third generation.« less

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

none,

This case study describes a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home in Greenbank, Washington that scored HERS 37 without PV and a -5 with PV. This 1,955 ft2 custom home has 6.5-inch structural insulated panel (SIPs) walls, a 10.25-inch SIPS roof, an R-20 insulated slab, a 2-ton ground source heat pump, radiant floor heat, 7.1 kWh PV, and triple-pane windows.

Best Practices Case Study: David Weekley Homes - Eagle Springs and Waterhaven, Houston, TX

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

none,

2011-04-01

Case study describing David Weekley Homes, Houston Division, has qualified more than 1,240 homes for the DOE Builders Challenge. Advanced framed 2x6 walls with open headers and two-stud corners allow more room for R-20 damp sprayed cellulose wall cavity insulation that is covered with R-5 rigid XPS foam. A radiant barrier cuts heat gain in the R-38 insulated vented attics. Draft stopping at fireplace and duct chases and behind tubs, gluing sheetrock to framing, and extensive caulking make for air-tight homes at 3.0 ACH50.

New insight into enhanced superconductivity in metals near the metal-insulator transition.

PubMed

Osofsky, M S; Soulen, R J; Claassen, J H; Trotter, G; Kim, H; Horwitz, J S

2001-11-05

We have studied the transport properties of disordered WSi films near the metal/insulator transition (MIT) and we have also reviewed the data for several other disordered materials near their MIT. In all cases, we found the presence of enhanced superconductivity. We constructed a superconductivity "phase diagram" (i.e., T(c) versus sigma) for each system, which reveals a striking correlation: In all cases, T(c) values are significantly enhanced only for samples whose conductivities lie within a narrow range on the metallic side of, and moderately near, the MIT. We present a heuristic model to explain this phenomenon.

Role of Shape and Numbers of Ridges and Valleys in the Insulating Effects of Topography on the Rayleigh Wave Characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narayan, J. P.; Kumar, Neeraj; Chauhan, Ranu

2018-03-01

This research work is inspired by the recently accepted concept that high frequency Rayleigh waves are generated in the epicentral zone of shallow earthquakes. Such high frequency Rayleigh waves with large amplitude may develop much of spatial variability in ground motion which in turn may cause unexpected damage to long-span structures like bridges, underground pipelines, dams, etc., in the hilly regions. Further, it has been reported that topography acts as an insulator for the Rayleigh waves (Ma et al. BSSA 97:2066-2079, 2007). The above mentioned scientific developments stimulated to quantify the role of shape and number of ridges and valleys falling in the path of Rayleigh wave in the insulating effect of topography on the Rayleigh waves. The simulated results reveals very large amplification of the horizontal component of Rayleigh wave near the top of a triangular ridge which may cause intensive landslides under favorable condition. The computed snapshots of the wave-field of Rayleigh wave reveals that the interaction of Rayleigh wave with the topography causes reflection, splitting, and diffraction of Rayleigh wave in the form of body waves which in turn provides the insulating capacity to the topography. Insulating effects of single valley is more than that of single ridge. Further this effect was more in case of elliptical ridge/valley than triangular ridge/valley. The insulating effect of topography was proportional to the frequency of Rayleigh wave and the number of ridges and valleys in the string. The obtained level of insulation effects of topography on the Rayleigh wave (energy of Rayleigh wave reduced to less than 4% after crossing a topography of span 4.5 km) calls for the consideration of role of hills and valleys in seismic hazard prediction, particularly in case of shallow earthquakes.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Initial and Long-Term MOvement of Cladding Installed Over Exterior Rigid Insulation

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

None

Changes in the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) from 2009 to 2012 have resulted in the use of exterior rigid insulation becoming part of the prescriptive code requirements. With more jurisdictions adopting the 2012 IECC, builders will be required to incorporate exterior insulation in the construction of their exterior wall assemblies. For thick layers of exterior insulation (levels greater than 1.5 inches), the use of wood of furring strips attached through the insulation back to the structure has been used by many contractors and designers as a means to provide a convenient cladding attachment location. However, there has been resistancemore » to its widespread implementation due to a lack of research and understanding of the mechanisms involved and potential creep effects of the assembly under the sustained dead load of a cladding. This research conducted by Building Science Corporation evaluated the system mechanics and long-term performance of this technique.« less

Sound source measurement by using a passive sound insulation and a statistical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dragonetti, Raffaele; Di Filippo, Sabato; Mercogliano, Francesco; Romano, Rosario A.

2015-10-01

This paper describes a measurement technique developed by the authors that allows carrying out acoustic measurements inside noisy environments reducing background noise effects. The proposed method is based on the integration of a traditional passive noise insulation system with a statistical approach. The latter is applied to signals picked up by usual sensors (microphones and accelerometers) equipping the passive sound insulation system. The statistical approach allows improving of the sound insulation given only by the passive sound insulation system at low frequency. The developed measurement technique has been validated by means of numerical simulations and measurements carried out inside a real noisy environment. For the case-studies here reported, an average improvement of about 10 dB has been obtained in a frequency range up to about 250 Hz. Considerations on the lower sound pressure level that can be measured by applying the proposed method and the measurement error related to its application are reported as well.

Identifying Two-Dimensional Z 2 Antiferromagnetic Topological Insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bègue, F.; Pujol, P.; Ramazashvili, R.

2018-01-01

We revisit the question of whether a two-dimensional topological insulator may arise in a commensurate Néel antiferromagnet, where staggered magnetization breaks the symmetry with respect to both elementary translation and time reversal, but retains their product as a symmetry. In contrast to the so-called Z 2 topological insulators, an exhaustive characterization of antiferromagnetic topological phases with the help of topological invariants has been missing. We analyze a simple model of an antiferromagnetic topological insulator and chart its phase diagram, using a recently proposed criterion for centrosymmetric systems [13]. We then adapt two methods, originally designed for paramagnetic systems, and make antiferromagnetic topological phases manifest. The proposed methods apply far beyond the particular examples treated in this work, and admit straightforward generalization. We illustrate this by two examples of non-centrosymmetric systems, where no simple criteria have been known to identify topological phases. We also present, for some cases, an explicit construction of edge states in an antiferromagnetic topological insulator.

Hallmarks of Hunds coupling in the Mott insulator Ca2RuO4

PubMed Central

Sutter, D.; Fatuzzo, C. G.; Moser, S.; Kim, M.; Fittipaldi, R.; Vecchione, A.; Granata, V.; Sassa, Y.; Cossalter, F.; Gatti, G.; Grioni, M.; Rønnow, H. M.; Plumb, N. C.; Matt, C. E.; Shi, M.; Hoesch, M.; Kim, T. K.; Chang, T-R; Jeng, H-T; Jozwiak, C.; Bostwick, A.; Rotenberg, E.; Georges, A.; Neupert, T.; Chang, J.

2017-01-01

A paradigmatic case of multi-band Mott physics including spin-orbit and Hund's coupling is realized in Ca2RuO4. Progress in understanding the nature of this Mott insulating phase has been impeded by the lack of knowledge about the low-energy electronic structure. Here we provide—using angle-resolved photoemission electron spectroscopy—the band structure of the paramagnetic insulating phase of Ca2RuO4 and show how it features several distinct energy scales. Comparison to a simple analysis of atomic multiplets provides a quantitative estimate of the Hund's coupling J=0.4 eV. Furthermore, the experimental spectra are in good agreement with electronic structure calculations performed with Dynamical Mean-Field Theory. The crystal field stabilization of the dxy orbital due to c-axis contraction is shown to be essential to explain the insulating phase. These results underscore the importance of multi-band physics, Coulomb interaction and Hund's coupling that together generate the Mott insulating state of Ca2RuO4. PMID:28474681

77 FR 65719 - Government-Owned Inventions, Available for Licensing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-30

... Suppression Agent, System and Users; NASA Case No.: KSC-12848-DIV: Foam/Aerogel Composite Materials for Thermal and Acoustic Insulation and Cryogen Storage; NASA Case No.: KSC-13167: Hydrophilic-Core...

The Effects of Different Electrode Types for Obtaining Surface Machining Shape on Shape Memory Alloy Using Electrochemical Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, S. G.; Kim, S. H.; Choi, W. K.; Moon, G. C.; Lee, E. S.

2017-06-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is important material used for the medicine and aerospace industry due to its characteristics called the shape memory effect, which involves the recovery of deformed alloy to its original state through the application of temperature or stress. Consumers in modern society demand stability in parts. Electrochemical machining is one of the methods for obtained these stabilities in parts requirements. These parts of shape memory alloy require fine patterns in some applications. In order to machine a fine pattern, the electrochemical machining method is suitable. For precision electrochemical machining using different shape electrodes, the current density should be controlled precisely. And electrode shape is required for precise electrochemical machining. It is possible to obtain precise square holes on the SMA if the insulation layer controlled the unnecessary current between electrode and workpiece. If it is adjusting the unnecessary current to obtain the desired shape, it will be a great contribution to the medical industry and the aerospace industry. It is possible to process a desired shape to the shape memory alloy by micro controlling the unnecessary current. In case of the square electrode without insulation layer, it derives inexact square holes due to the unnecessary current. The results using the insulated electrode in only side show precise square holes. The removal rate improved in case of insulated electrode than others because insulation layer concentrate the applied current to the machining zone.

American, European, and Chinese practice guidelines or consensuses of polycystic ovary syndrome: a comparative analysis.

PubMed

Wang, Fang-Fang; Pan, Jie-Xue; Wu, Yan; Zhu, Yu-Hang; Hardiman, Paul J; Qu, Fan

2018-05-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common metabolic and endocrine disorder in women. However, there is no agreement concerning how to diagnose and treat PCOS worldwide. Three practice guidelines or consensuses, including consensus from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)/the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) in Rotterdam, diagnosis criteria and consensus in China, and clinical practice guideline from the Endocrine Society (ES) in the United States are widely recognized. The present paper may provide some guidance for clinical practice based on a comparative analysis of the above three practice guidelines or consensuses.

Correlation-driven charge order at the interface between a Mott and a band insulator.

PubMed

Pentcheva, Rossitza; Pickett, Warren E

2007-07-06

To study digital Mott insulator LaTiO3 and band insulator SrTiO3 interfaces, we apply correlated band theory within the local density approximation including a Hubbard U to (n, m) multilayers, 1

Flight set 360L007 (STS-33) insulation component. Volume 3: Final release

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hicken, Steve

1990-01-01

Volume 3 of this postfire report deals with the insulation component of the RSRM. The report is released twice for each flight set. The interim release contract date is on or before 60 days after the last field joint or nozzle to case joint is disassembled at KSC and contain the results of the KSC visual evaluation. The data contained in Volume 3 interim release supersedes the insulation data presented in the KSC 10 day report. The final release contract data is on or before 60 days after the last factory joint is disassembled at the Clearfield H-7 facility and contains the results of all visual evaluations and a thermal safety factor analysis. The data contained in the Volume 3 final release supersedes the interim release and the insulation data presented in the Clearfield 10 day report.

Packing C60 in Boron Nitride Nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mickelson, W.; Aloni, S.; Han, Wei-Qiang; Cumings, John; Zettl, A.

2003-04-01

We have created insulated C60 nanowire by packing C60 molecules into the interior of insulating boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). For small-diameter BNNTs, the wire consists of a linear chain of C60 molecules. With increasing BNNT inner diameter, unusual C60 stacking configurations are obtained (including helical, hollow core, and incommensurate) that are unknown for bulk or thin-film forms of C60. C60 in BNNTs thus presents a model system for studying the properties of dimensionally constrained ``silo'' crystal structures. For the linear-chain case, we have fused the C60 molecules to form a single-walled carbon nanotube inside the insulating BNNT.

Critical exponents of the disorder-driven superfluid-insulator transition in one-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensates

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

Cestari, J. C. C.; Foerster, A.; Gusmao, M. A.

2011-11-15

We investigate the nature of the superfluid-insulator quantum phase transition driven by disorder for noninteracting ultracold atoms on one-dimensional lattices. We consider two different cases: Anderson-type disorder, with local energies randomly distributed, and pseudodisorder due to a potential incommensurate with the lattice, which is usually called the Aubry-Andre model. A scaling analysis of numerical data for the superfluid fraction for different lattice sizes allows us to determine quantum critical exponents characterizing the disorder-driven superfluid-insulator transition. We also briefly discuss the effect of interactions close to the noninteracting quantum critical point of the Aubry-Andre model.

A Study on Variation of Thermal Characteristics of Insulation Materials for Buildings According to Actual Long-Term Annual Aging Variation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Hyun-Jung; Kang, Jae-Sik; Huh, Jung-Ho

2018-01-01

Insulation materials used for buildings are broadly classified as organic insulation materials or inorganic insulation materials. Foam gas is used for producing organic insulation materials. The thermal conductivity of foam gas is generally lower than that of air. As a result, foam gas is discharged over time and replaced by outside air that has relatively less thermal resistance. The gas composition ratio in air bubbles inside the insulation materials changes rapidly, causing the performance degradation of insulation materials. Such performance degradation can be classified into different stages. Stage 1 appears to have a duration of 5 years, and Stage 2 takes a period of over 10 years. In this study, two insulation materials that are most frequently used in South Korea were analyzed, focusing on the changes thermal resistance for the period of over 5000 days. The measurement result indicated that the thermal resistance of expanded polystyrene fell below the KS performance standards after about 80-150 days from its production date. After about 5000 days, its thermal resistance decreased by 25.7 % to 42.7 % in comparison with the initial thermal resistance. In the case of rigid polyurethane, a pattern of rapid performance degradation appeared about 100 days post-production, and the thermal resistance fell below the KS performance standards after about 1000 days. The thermal resistance decreased by 22.5 % to 27.4 % in comparison with the initial thermal resistance after about 5000 days.

Non-malignant chest x ray changes in patients with mesothelioma in a large cohort of asbestos insulation workers.

PubMed Central

Lilis, R; Ribak, J; Suzuki, Y; Penner, L; Bernstein, N; Selikoff, I J

1987-01-01

To assess the prevalence of non-malignant chest x ray abnormalities in cases of mesothelioma 184 cases of mesothelioma (72 pleural and 112 peritoneal) which had occurred in a cohort of asbestos insulation workers followed up since 1967 were studied. Chest x ray films of satisfactory quality, on which the presence or absence of non-malignant radiological changes indicating interstitial pulmonary fibrosis or pleural fibrosis or both, could be assessed with a high degree of certainty were available. In some cases (20% for pleural mesothelioma, 11.6% for peritoneal mesothelioma) non-malignant radiological changes were not radiologically detectable. Parenchymal interstitial fibrosis (small irregular opacities) only was found in a proportion of cases (25.4% of pleural mesotheliomas, 12.5% of peritoneal mesotheliomas). Pleural fibrosis only was detected in 17% of cases of pleural mesothelioma and 27% of cases of peritoneal mesothelioma. Most patients had both parenchymal and pleural fibrosis. Although these results tend to indicate that in peritoneal mesothelioma the proportion of pleural fibrosis is significantly higher, these findings might have been due to the fact that in most cases of pleural mesothelioma non-malignant changes were interpreted in one hemithorax only. In 46 cases (21 pleural, 25 peritoneal) in which sufficient lung tissue was available histopathology of lung parenchyma indicated the presence of interstitial fibrosis; in 20 (43.5%) of these the chest x ray film had been read as negative. Thus the absence of radiologically detectable small opacities on the chest x ray film does not exclude the existence of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis in cases of mesothelioma among insulation workers. With lower levels of exposure (such as in family contacts of asbestos workers) it is conceivable that mesothelioma might occur in the absence of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. PMID:3606969

Numerical Computation of Electric Field and Potential Along Silicone Rubber Insulators Under Contaminated and Dry Band Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arshad; Nekahi, A.; McMeekin, S. G.; Farzaneh, M.

2016-09-01

Electrical field distribution along the insulator surface is considered one of the important parameters for the performance evaluation of outdoor insulators. In this paper numerical simulations were carried out to investigate the electric field and potential distribution along silicone rubber insulators under various polluted and dry band conditions. Simulations were performed using commercially available simulation package Comsol Multiphysics based on the finite element method. Various pollution severity levels were simulated by changing the conductivity of pollution layer. Dry bands of 2 cm width were inserted at the high voltage end, ground end, middle part, shed, sheath, and at the junction of shed and sheath to investigate the effect of dry band location and width on electric field and potential distribution. Partial pollution conditions were simulated by applying pollution layer on the top and bottom surface respectively. It was observed from the simulation results that electric field intensity was higher at the metal electrode ends and at the junction of dry bands. Simulation results showed that potential distribution is nonlinear in the case of clean and partially polluted insulator and linear for uniform pollution layer. Dry band formation effect both potential and electric field distribution. Power dissipated along the insulator surface and the resultant heat generation was also studied. The results of this study could be useful in the selection of polymeric insulators for contaminated environments.

Quench of paramagnetic orbital selective Mott phase and appearance of antiferromagnetic orbital selective slater phase in multiorbital correlated systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quan, Ya-Min; Liu, Da-Yong; Lin, Hai-Qing; Zou, Liang-Jian

2018-06-01

We present the modulation of magnetic order on the orbital selective Mott phases (OSMP) and the metal-insulator transitions (MIT) of multi-orbital Hubbard models by employing the rotationally invariant slave-boson methods. We show that at half filling, the well-known paramagnetic (PM) OSMP is completely covered by an antiferromagnetic (AFM) Slater insulator, and the PM Mott phase by an AFM Mott insulator when electron correlation strength varies from intermediate to strong both in two- and three-orbitals Hubbard systems. Away from half-filling, we find that a partial-polarized AFM orbital-selective Slater phase appears in the intermediate correlation regime, and an almost full-polarized AFM OSMP fully covers the paramagnetic OSMP. In addition, the ferromagnetic phase in the three-orbital case is more robust than that in the two-orbital case. These results demonstrate that the modulation of magnetic correlation to the quasiparticle spectra leads to much rich and more interesting MIT scenario in multiorbital correlated systems.

Magnetic and metal-insulator transitions in coupled spin-fermion systems

DOE PAGES

Mondaini, R.; Paiva, T.; Scalettar, R. T.

2014-10-14

We use quantum Monte Carlo to determine the magnetic and transport properties of coupled square lattice spin and fermionic planes as a model for a metal-insulator interface. Specifically, layers of Ising spins with an intra-layer exchange constant J interact with the electronic spins of several adjoining metallic sheets via a coupling JH. When the chemical potential cuts across the band center, that is, at half-filling, the Neel temperature of antiferromagnetic (J > 0) Ising spins is enhanced by the coupling to the metal, while in the ferromagnetic case (J < 0) the metallic degrees of freedom reduce the ordering temperature.more » In the former case, a gap opens in the fermionic spectrum, driving insulating behavior, and the electron spins also order. This induced antiferromagnetism penetrates more weakly as the distance from the interface increases, and also exhibits a non-monotonic dependence on JH. For doped lattices an interesting charge disproportionation occurs where electrons move to the interface layer to maintain half-filling there.« less

Experimental and Numerical Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposites for Solid Rocket Motor Internal Insulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-30

combustion chamber. Kevlar®-filled ethylene-propylene-diene rubber ( EPDM ) is the baseline insulation material for solid rocket motor cases. A novel...filled EPDM is the industry standard for this application. Since the elastic modulus of rubbers is low, they also act as absorbers during...Santoprene® thermoplastic rubber is already demonstrating their performance capability to replace EPDM in automotive weather seal applications [18]. An

Manufacturing Methods & Technology Project Execution Report. First CY 83.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

UCCURRENCE. H 83 5180 MMT FOR METAL DEWAR AND UNBONDED LEADS THE GOLD WIRE BONDED CONNECTIOkS ARE MADE BY HAND WHICH IS A TEDIOUS AND EXPENSIVE PROCESS. THE...ATTACHMENTS CURRENT FILAMENT WOUND COMPOSIIE ROCKET MOTOR CASES REQUIRE FORGED METAL POLE PIECESt NOZZLE CLOSURE ATTACHMENT RINGS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENT RINGS... ELASTOMER INSULATOR PROCESS LARGE TACTICAL ROCKET MOTOR INSULATORS ARE COSTLY, LACK DESIGN CHANGE FLEXIBILITY AND SUFFER LONG LEAD TIMES. CURRENT

Detectability of Delaminations in Solid Rocket Motors with Embedded Stress Sensors

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-14

composite grain of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene/ammonium perchlorate (HTPB/AP). The insulation layer is ethylene propylene diene monomer ( EPDM ...The temperature-dependent mechanical properties of HTPB/AP and EPDM were obtained from in-house testing at AFRL/RZSM (Edwards AFB). The motor case is...temperature (DBST) sensors and Greg Yandek of AFRL/RZSM for the data collection of EPDM insulation material. Distribution A: Approved for public

Building America Case Study: Performance of a Hot-Dry Climate Whole House Retrofit, Stockton, California (Fact Sheet)

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

ARBI

2014-09-01

The Stockton house retrofit is a two-story tudor style single family deep retrofit in the hot-dry climate of Stockton, CA. The home is representative of a deep retrofit option of the scaled home energy upgrade packages offered to targeted neighborhoods under the pilot Large-Scale Retrofit Program (LSRP) administered by the Alliance for Residential Building Innovation (ARBI). Deep retrofit packages expand on the standard package by adding HVAC, water heater and window upgrades to the ducting, attic and floor insulation, domestic hot water insulation, envelope sealing, lighting and ventilation upgrades. Site energy savings with the deep retrofit were 23% compared tomore » the pre-retrofit case, and 15% higher than the savings estimated for the standard retrofit package. Energy savings were largely a result of the water heater upgrade, and a combination of the envelope sealing, insulation and HVAC upgrade. The HVAC system was of higher efficiency than the building code standard. Overall the financed retrofit would have been more cost effective had a less expensive HVAC system been selected and barriers to wall insulation remedied. The homeowner experienced improved comfort throughout the monitored period and was satisfied with the resulting utility bill savings.« less

Mechanism and influencing factors on critical pulse width of oil-immersed polymer insulators under short pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Liang; Su, Jian Cang; Li, Rui; Zeng, Bo; Cheng, Jie; Zheng, Lei; Yu, Bin Xiong; Wu, Xiao Long; Zhang, Xi Bo; Pan, Ya Feng

2015-04-01

The critical pulse width (τc) is a pulse width at which the surface flashover threshold (Ef) is equal to the bulk breakdown threshold (EBD) for liquid-polymer composite insulation systems, which is discovered by Zhao et al. [Annual Report Conference on Electrical Insulation and Dielectric Phenomena (IEEE Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation Society, Shenzhen, China, 2013), Vol. 2, pp. 854-857]. In this paper, the mechanism of τc is interpreted in perspective of the threshold and the time delay (td) of surface flashover and bulk breakdown, respectively. It is found that two changes appear as the pulse width decreases which are responsible for the existence of τc: (1) EBD is lower than Ef; (2) td of bulk breakdown is shorter than td of surface flashover. In addition, factors which have influences on τc are investigated, such as the dielectric type, the insulation length, the dielectric thickness, the dielectrics configuration, the pulse number, and the liquid purity. These influences of factors are generalized as three types if τc is expected to increase: (1) factors causing EBD to decrease, such as increasing the pulse number or employing a dielectric of lower EBD; (2) factors causing Ef to increase, such as complicating the insulator's configuration or increasing the liquid purity; (3) factors causing EBD and Ef to increase together, but Ef increases faster than EBD, such as decreasing the dielectric thickness or the insulation length. With the data in references, all the three cases are verified experimentally. In the end, a general method based on τc for solid insulation design is presented and the significance of τc on solid insulation design and on solid demolition are discussed.

Insulator charging limits direct current across tunneling metal-insulator-semiconductor junctions

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

Vilan, Ayelet

Molecular electronics studies how the molecular nature affects the probability of charge carriers to tunnel through the molecules. Nevertheless, transport is also critically affected by the contacts to the molecules, an aspect that is often overlooked. Specifically, the limited ability of non-metallic contacts to maintain the required charge balance across the fairly insulating molecule often have dramatic effects. This paper shows that in the case of lead/organic monolayer-silicon junctions, a charge balance is responsible for an unusual current scaling, with the junction diameter (perimeter), rather than its area. This is attributed to the balance between the 2D charging at themore » metal/insulator interface and the 3D charging of the semiconductor space-charge region. A derivative method is developed to quantify transport across tunneling metal-insulator-semiconductor junctions; this enables separating the tunneling barrier from the space-charge barrier for a given current-voltage curve, without complementary measurements. The paper provides practical tools to analyze specific molecular junctions compatible with existing silicon technology, and demonstrates the importance of contacts' physics in modeling charge transport across molecular junctions.« less

Maximum Expected Wall Heat Flux and Maximum Pressure After Sudden Loss of Vacuum Insulation on the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) Liquid Helium (LHe) Dewars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ungar, Eugene K.

2014-01-01

The aircraft-based Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is a platform for multiple infrared observation experiments. The experiments carry sensors cooled to liquid helium (LHe) temperatures. A question arose regarding the heat input and peak pressure that would result from a sudden loss of the dewar vacuum insulation. Owing to concerns about the adequacy of dewar pressure relief in the event of a sudden loss of the dewar vacuum insulation, the SOFIA Program engaged the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC). This report summarizes and assesses the experiments that have been performed to measure the heat flux into LHe dewars following a sudden vacuum insulation failure, describes the physical limits of heat input to the dewar, and provides an NESC recommendation for the wall heat flux that should be used to assess the sudden loss of vacuum insulation case. This report also assesses the methodology used by the SOFIA Program to predict the maximum pressure that would occur following a loss of vacuum event.

Strain-induced metal-insulator transitions in d1 perovskites within DFT+DMFT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dymkowski, Krzysztof; Ederer, Claude

2014-03-01

We present results of combined density functional theory plus dynamical mean-field theory (DFT+DMFT) calculations, assessing the effect of epitaxial strain on the electronic properties of the Mott insulator LaTiO3 and the correlated metal SrVO3. In particular, we take into account the effect of strain on the collective tilts and rotations of the oxygen octahedra in the orthorhombically distorted Pbnm perovskite structure of LaTiO3. We find that LaTiO3 undergoes an insulator-to-metal transition under a compressive strain of about - 2 %, consistent with recent experimental observations. We show that this transition is driven mainly by strain-induced changes in the crystal-field splitting between the Ti t2 g orbitals, which in turn are related to changes in the octahedral tilt distortion. We compare this with the case of SrVO3, without octahedral tilts, where we find a metal-to-insulator transition under tensile epitaxial strain. Similar to LaTiO3, this metal-insulator transition is linked to the strain-induced change in the crystal-field splitting within the t2 g orbitals.

THERMAL INSULATION SYSTEMS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Augustynowicz, Stanislaw D. (Inventor); Fesmire, James E. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

Thermal insulation systems and with methods of their production. The thermal insulation systems incorporate at least one reflection layer and at least one spacer layer in an alternating pattern. Each spacer layer includes a fill layer and a carrier layer. The fill layer may be separate from the carrier layer, or it may be a part of the carrier layer, i.e., mechanically injected into the carrier layer or chemically formed in the carrier layer. Fill layers contain a powder having a high surface area and low bulk density. Movement of powder within a fill layer is restricted by electrostatic effects with the reflection layer combined with the presence of a carrier layer, or by containing the powder in the carrier layer. The powder in the spacer layer may be compressed from its bulk density. The thermal insulation systems may further contain an outer casing. Thermal insulation systems may further include strips and seams to form a matrix of sections. Such sections serve to limit loss of powder from a fill layer to a single section and reduce heat losses along the reflection layer.

Evaluating Domestic Hot Water Distribution System Options With Validated Analysis Models

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

Weitzel, E.; Hoeschele, M.

2014-09-01

A developing body of work is forming that collects data on domestic hot water consumption, water use behaviors, and energy efficiency of various distribution systems. A full distribution system developed in TRNSYS has been validated using field monitoring data and then exercised in a number of climates to understand climate impact on performance. This study builds upon previous analysis modelling work to evaluate differing distribution systems and the sensitivities of water heating energy and water use efficiency to variations of climate, load, distribution type, insulation and compact plumbing practices. Overall 124 different TRNSYS models were simulated. Of the configurations evaluated,more » distribution losses account for 13-29% of the total water heating energy use and water use efficiency ranges from 11-22%. The base case, an uninsulated trunk and branch system sees the most improvement in energy consumption by insulating and locating the water heater central to all fixtures. Demand recirculation systems are not projected to provide significant energy savings and in some cases increase energy consumption. Water use is most efficient with demand recirculation systems, followed by the insulated trunk and branch system with a central water heater. Compact plumbing practices and insulation have the most impact on energy consumption (2-6% for insulation and 3-4% per 10 gallons of enclosed volume reduced). The results of this work are useful in informing future development of water heating best practices guides as well as more accurate (and simulation time efficient) distribution models for annual whole house simulation programs.« less

Compact vacuum insulation embodiments

DOEpatents

Benson, D.K.; Potter, T.F.

1992-04-28

An ultra-thin compact vacuum insulation panel is comprised of two hard, but bendable metal wall sheets closely spaced apart from each other and welded around the edges to enclose a vacuum chamber. Glass or ceramic spacers hold the wall sheets apart. The spacers can be discrete spherical beads or monolithic sheets of glass or ceramic webs with nodules protruding therefrom to form essentially point' or line' contacts with the metal wall sheets. In the case of monolithic spacers that form line' contacts, two such spacers with the line contacts running perpendicular to each other form effectively point' contacts at the intersections. Corrugations accommodate bending and expansion, tubular insulated pipes and conduits, and preferred applications are also included. 26 figs.

Analytical treatment of gas flows through multilayer insulation, project 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, J. T.

1972-01-01

A theoretical investigation of gas flow inside a multilayer insulation system was made for the case of the broadside pumping process. A set of simultaneous first-order differential equations for the temperature and pressure of the gas molecules through the perforations on the insulation layers. A modified Runge-Kutta method was used for numerical experiment. The numerical stability problem was also investigated. It was shown that when the relaxation time is less than the time period over which the gas properties change appreciably, the set of differential equations can be replaced by a set of algebraic equations for solution. Numerical examples were given and comparisons with experimental data were made.

Compact vacuum insulation

DOEpatents

Benson, D.K.; Potter, T.F.

1993-01-05

An ultra-thin compact vacuum insulation panel is comprised of two hard, but bendable metal wall sheets closely spaced apart from each other and welded around the edges to enclose a vacuum chamber. Glass or ceramic spacers hold the wall sheets apart. The spacers can be discrete spherical beads or monolithic sheets of glass or ceramic webs with nodules protruding therefrom to form essentially point'' or line'' contacts with the metal wall sheets. In the case of monolithic spacers that form line'' contacts, two such spacers with the line contacts running perpendicular to each other form effectively point'' contacts at the intersections. Corrugations accommodate bending and expansion, tubular insulated pipes and conduits, and preferred applications are also included.

Compact vacuum insulation

DOEpatents

Benson, David K.; Potter, Thomas F.

1993-01-01

An ultra-thin compact vacuum insulation panel is comprised of two hard, but bendable metal wall sheets closely spaced apart from each other and welded around the edges to enclose a vacuum chamber. Glass or ceramic spacers hold the wall sheets apart. The spacers can be discrete spherical beads or monolithic sheets of glass or ceramic webs with nodules protruding therefrom to form essentially "point" or "line" contacts with the metal wall sheets. In the case of monolithic spacers that form "line" contacts, two such spacers with the line contacts running perpendicular to each other form effectively "point" contacts at the intersections. Corrugations accommodate bending and expansion, tubular insulated pipes and conduits, and preferred applications are also included.

Compact vacuum insulation embodiments

DOEpatents

Benson, David K.; Potter, Thomas F.

1992-01-01

An ultra-thin compact vacuum insulation panel is comprised of two hard, but bendable metal wall sheets closely spaced apart from each other and welded around the edges to enclose a vacuum chamber. Glass or ceramic spacers hold the wall sheets apart. The spacers can be discrete spherical beads or monolithic sheets of glass or ceramic webs with nodules protruding therefrom to form essentially "point" or "line" contacts with the metal wall sheets. In the case of monolithic spacers that form "line" contacts, two such spacers with the line contacts running perpendicular to each other form effectively "point" contacts at the intersections. Corrugations accommodate bending and expansion, tubular insulated pipes and conduits, and preferred applications are also included.

Designing insulation for cryogenic ducts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Love, C. C.

1984-03-01

It is pointed out that the great temperature difference between the outside of a cryogenic duct and the liquified gas it carries can cause a high heat input unless blocked by a high thermal resistance. High thermal resistance for lines needing maximum insulation is provided by metal vacuum jackets. Low-density foam is satisfactory in cases in which higher heat input can be tolerated. Attention is given to the heat transfer through a duct vacuum jacket, the calculation of heat input and the exterior surface's steady-state temperature for various thicknesses of insulation, the calculation of the heat transfer through gimbal jackets, and design specifications regarding the allowable pressure rise in the jacket's annular space.

Methods for Determining the Optimum Design of Structures Protected from Aerodynamic Heating and Application to Typical Boost-Glide or Reentry Flight Paths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, Robert S., Jr.; Davidson, John R.

1962-01-01

General equations are developed for the design of efficient structures protected from thermal environments typical of those encountered in boost-glide or atmospheric-reentry conditions. The method is applied to insulated heat-sink stressed-skin structures and to internally cooled insulated structures. Plates loaded in compression are treated in detail. Under limited conditions of plate buckling, high loading, and short flight periods, and for aluminum structures only, the weights of both configurations are nearly equal. Load parameters are found and are similar to those derived in previous investigations for the restricted case of a constant equilibrium temperature at the outside surface of the insulation.

Asbestos Free Insulation Development for the Space Shuttle Solid Propellant Rocket Motor (RSRM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allred, Larry D.; Eddy, Norman F.; McCool, A. A. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Asbestos has been used for many years as an ablation inhibitor in insulating materials. It has been a constituent of the AS/NBR insulation used to protect the steel case of the RSRM (Reusable Solid Rocket Motor) since its inception. This paper discusses the development of a potential replacement RSRM insulation design, several of the numerous design issues that were worked and processing problems that were resolved. The earlier design demonstration on FSM-5 (Flight Support Motor) of the selected 7% and 11% Kevlar(registered) filled EPDM (KF/EPDM) candidate materials was expanded. Full-scale process simulation articles were built and FSM-8 was manufactured using multiple Asbestos Free (AF) components and materials. Two major problems had to be overcome in developing the AF design. First, bondline corrosion, which occurred in the double-cured region of the aft dome, had to be eliminated. Second, KF/EPDM creates high levels of electrostatic energy (ESE), which does not readily dissipate from the insulation surface. An uncontrolled electrostatic discharge (ESD) of this surface energy during many phases of production could create serious safety hazards. Numerous processing changes were implemented and a conductive paint was developed to prevent exposed external insulation surfaces from generating ESE/ESD. Additionally, special internal instrumentation was incorporated into FSM-8 to record real-time internal motor environment data. These data included inhibitor insulation erosion rates and internal thermal environments. The FSM-8 static test was successfully conducted in February 2000 and much valuable data were obtained to characterize the AF insulation design.

Building America Case Study: Excavationless Exterior-Side Foundation Insulation for Existing Homes, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Fact Sheet)

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

NorthernSTAR

Building science research supports installing exterior (soil side) foundation insulation as the optimal method to enhance the hygrothermal performance of new homes. With exterior foundation insulation, water management strategies are maximized while insulating the basement space and ensuring a more even temperature at the foundation wall. However, such an approach can be very costly and disruptive when applied to an existing home, requiring deep excavation around the entire house. The NorthernSTAR Building America Partnership team implemented an innovative, minimally invasive foundation insulation upgrade technique on an existing home. The approach consisted of using hydrovac excavation technology combined with a liquidmore » insulating foam. The team was able to excavate a continuous 4" wide by 4' to 5' deep trench around the entire house, 128 linear feet, except for one small part under the stoop that was obstructed with concrete debris. The combination pressure washer and vacuum extraction technology also enabled the elimination of large trenches and soil stockpiles normally produced by backhoe excavation. The resulting trench was filled with liquid insulating foam, which also served as a water-control layer of the assembly. The insulation was brought above grade using a liquid foam/rigid foam hybrid system and terminated at the top of the rim joist. Cost savings over the traditional excavation process ranged from 23% to 50%. The excavationless process could result in even greater savings since replacement of building structures, exterior features, utility meters, and landscaping would be minimal or non-existent in an excavationless process.« less

Environmental impact of thermal insulations: How do natural insulation products differ from synthetic ones?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dovjak, M.; Košir, M.; Pajek, L.; Iglič, N.; Božiček, D.; Kunič, R.

2017-10-01

As the environmental awareness of the public is rising and at the same time contemporary buildings are becoming more and more energy efficient, the focus is shifting towards the usage of environmentally friendly building products. Human decisions are often driven by emotions and perceptions. Consequently, there exists a strong tendency towards preferring “natural” constructional products to the synthetic ones, especially in the case of thermal insulations. Life cycle assessment (LCA) has enabled an opportunity to widen the meaning of the word “environmentally friendly”, giving researchers and building designers an objective decision making tool to determine the environmental impact of building products, building components and buildings as a whole. The purpose of this study was to compare the environmental impact of various thermal insulations for the cradle to gate life cycle stages, based on a unified functional unit. Overall, 15 most commonly used thermal insulation products were analysed and classified into natural and synthetic groups. Based on the differentiation, we compared the impact in the selected environmental categories and identified the most influential environmental drivers. The results show that in some environmental categoriesnatural thermal insulations perform better (i.e. global warming potential), whilein others (i.e. eutrophication potential) they underperform. However, environmental impact trends can be identified, specifically for the natural and the synthetic materials.

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

none,

This case study describes a DOE Zero Energy Ready home in Vassalboro, Maine, that scored HERS 35 without PV and HERS 11 with PV. This 1,200 ft2 home has 10.5-inch-thick double-walls with 3 layers of mineral wool batt insulation, an R-20 insulated slab, R-70 cellulose in the attic, extensive air sealing, a mini-split heat pump, an heat recovery ventilator, solar water heating, LED lighting, 3.9 kWh PV, and triple-pane windows.

Building America Case Study: Monitoring of Double Stud Wall Moisture Conditions in the Northeast, Devens, Massachusetts (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

2015-03-01

Double-stud walls insulated with cellulose or low-density spray foam can have R-values of 40 or higher. However, double stud walls have a higher risk of interior-sourced condensation moisture damage, when compared with high-R approaches using exterior insulating sheathing. Moisture conditions in double stud walls were monitored in Zone 5A (Massachusetts); three double stud assemblies were compared.

Detectability of Delaminations in Solid Rocket Motors with Embedded Stress Sensors

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-04

thick, respectively. The propellant is a typical HTPB/AP composite grain with an EPDM insulation layer. The temperature-dependent elastic mechanical...properties of HTPB/AP and EPDM were obtained from in-house testing at AFRL/RZSM (Edwards AFB). The motor case is assumed to be a filament-wound...collection of EPDM insulation material. REFERENCES   1 Ruderman, G. A., “Health Management Issues and Strategy for Air Force Missiles,” International

Flame trench analysis of NLS vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zeytinoglu, Nuri

1993-01-01

The present study takes the initial steps of establishing a better flame trench design criteria for future National Launch System vehicles. A three-dimensional finite element computer model for predicting the transient thermal and structural behavior of the flame trench walls was developed using both I-DEAS and MSC/NASTRAN software packages. The results of JANNAF Standardized Plume flowfield calculations of sea-level exhaust plume of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME), Space Transportation Main Engine (STME), and Advanced Solid Rocket Motors (ASRM) were analyzed for different axial distances. The results of sample calculations, using the developed finite element model, are included. The further suggestions are also reported for enhancing the overall analysis of the flame trench model.

Hermetic electronics package with dual-sided electrical feedthrough configuration

DOEpatents

Shah, Kedar G.; Pannu, Satinderpall S.

2016-11-22

A hermetic electronics package includes a metal case with opposing first and second open ends, with each end connected to a first feedthrough construction and a second feedthrough construction. Each feedthrough contruction has an electrically insulating substrate and an array of electrically conductive feedthroughs extending therethrough, with the electrically insulating substrates connected to the opposing first and second open ends, respectively, of the metal case so as to form a hermetically sealed enclosure. A set of electronic components are located within the hermetically sealed enclosure and are operably connected to the feedthroughs of the first and second feedthrough constructions so as to electrically communicate outside the package from opposite sides of the package.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

1991-07-01

This photograph shows the Solid Propellant Test Article (SPTA) test stand with the Modified Nasa Motor (M-NASA) test article at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The SPTA test stand, 12-feet wide by 12-feet long by 24-feet high, was built in 1989 to provide comparative performance data on nozzle and case insulation material and to verify thermostructural analysis models. A modified NASA 48-inch solid motor (M-NASA motor) with a 12-foot blast tube and 10-inch throat makes up the SPTA. The M-NASA motor is being used to evaluate solid rocket motor internal non-asbestos insulation materials, nozzle designs, materials, and new inspection techniques. New internal motor case instrumentation techniques are also being evaluated.

30 CFR 77.701 - Grounding metallic frames, casings, and other enclosures of electric equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... AND SURFACE WORK AREAS OF UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Grounding § 77.701 Grounding metallic frames, casings... equipment that can become “alive” through failure of insulation or by contact with energized parts shall be...

Compact wavelength-insensitive fabrication-tolerant silicon-on-insulator beam splitter.

PubMed

Rasigade, Gilles; Le Roux, Xavier; Marris-Morini, Delphine; Cassan, Eric; Vivien, Laurent

2010-11-01

A star coupler-based beam splitter for rib waveguides is reported. A design method is presented and applied in the case of silicon-on-insulator rib waveguides. Experimental results are in good agreement with simulations. Excess loss lower than 1 dB is experimentally obtained for star coupler lengths from 0.5 to 1 μm. Output balance is better than 1 dB, which is the measurement accuracy, and broadband transmission is obtained over 90 nm.

Long-Life Thermal Battery for Sonobuoy

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-04-20

Microtherm insulation. This Phase I project provided a cost-effective prototype development for fully meeting size ’A’ sonobuoy performance objectives. An...Crossection of Thermal Battery inside V/M-Insulated Battery Case having a Spun Inner Wall and the Standard Battery Can ( Microtherm added at header-end...34 thick Microtherm — — / 0.250" extra Fiberfrax Wrap X^ 0.075 " vacuum annulus ,/ Detail of Header-End 0.250’’ Fig.l, Drawing of a Prototype

Insulation Failure of the Linox Defibrillator Lead: A Case Report and Retrospective Review of a Single Center Experience.

PubMed

Howe, Andrew J; McKeag, Nicholas A; Wilson, Carol M; Ashfield, Kyle P; Roberts, Michael J

2015-06-01

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead insulation failure and conductor externalization have been increasingly reported. The 7.8F silicon-insulated Linox SD and Linox S ICD leads (Biotronik, Berlin, Germany) were released in 2006 and 2007, respectively, with an estimated 85,000 implantations worldwide. A 39-year-old female suffered an out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation (VF) arrest with successful resuscitation. An ICD was implanted utilizing a single coil active fixation Linox(Smart) S lead (Biotronik, Berlin, Germany). A device-triggered alert approximately 3 years after implantation confirmed nonphysiological high rate sensing leading to VF detection. A chest X-ray showed an abnormality of the ICD lead and fluoroscopic screening confirmed conductor externalization proximal to the defibrillator coil. In view of the combined electrical and fluoroscopic abnormalities, urgent lead extraction and replacement were performed. A review of Linox (Biotronik) and Vigila (Sorin Group, Milan, Italy) lead implantations within our center (n = 98) identified 3 additional patients presenting with premature lead failure, 2 associated with nonphysiological sensed events and one associated with a significant decrease in lead impedance. All leads were subsequently removed and replaced. This case provides a striking example of insulation failure affecting the Linox ICD lead and, we believe, is the first to demonstrate conductor externalization manifesting both electrical and fluoroscopic abnormalities. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reliability of the one-crossing approximation in describing the Mott transition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vildosola, V.; Pourovskii, L. V.; Manuel, L. O.; Roura-Bas, P.

2015-12-01

We assess the reliability of the one-crossing approximation (OCA) approach in a quantitative description of the Mott transition in the framework of the dynamical mean field theory (DMFT). The OCA approach has been applied in conjunction with DMFT to a number of heavy-fermion, actinide, transition metal compounds and nanoscale systems. However, several recent studies in the framework of impurity models pointed out serious deficiencies of OCA and raised questions regarding its reliability. Here we consider a single band Hubbard model on the Bethe lattice at finite temperatures and compare the results of OCA to those of a numerically exact quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) method. The temperature-local repulsion U phase diagram for the particle-hole symmetric case obtained by OCA is in good agreement with that of QMC, with the metal-insulator transition captured very well. We find, however, that the insulator to metal transition is shifted to higher values of U and, simultaneously, correlations in the metallic phase are significantly overestimated. This counter-intuitive behaviour is due to simultaneous underestimations of the Kondo scale in the metallic phase and the size of the insulating gap. We trace the underestimation of the insulating gap to that of the second moment of the high-frequency expansion of the impurity spectral density. Calculations of the system away from the particle-hole symmetric case are also presented and discussed.

Demonstration of Hybrid Multilayer Insulation for Fixed Thickness Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, W. L.; Fesmire, J. E.; Heckle, K. W.

2015-12-01

Cryogenic multilayer insulation (MLI) systems provide both conductive and radiative thermal insulation performance. The use of radiation shields with low conductivity spacers in between are required. By varying the distance and types of the spacers between the radiation shields, the relative radiation and conduction heat transfers can be manipulated. However, in most systems, there is a fixed thickness or volume allocated to the insulation. To understand how various combinations of different multilayer insulation (MLI) systems work together and to further validate thermal models of hybrid MLI systems, test data are needed. The MLI systems include combinations of Load-Bearing MLI (LB-MLI) and traditional MLI (tMLI). To further simulate the space launch vehicle case wherein both ambient pressure and vacuum environments are addressed, different cold-side thermal insulation substrates were included for select tests. The basic hybrid construction consists of some number of layers of LB-MLI on the cold side of the insulation system followed by layers of tMLI on the warm side of the system. The advantages of LB-MLI on the cold side of the insulation blanket are that its low layer density (0.5 - 0.6 layer/mm) is better suited for lower temperature applications and is a structural component to support heat interception shields that may be placed within the blanket. The advantage of tMLI systems on the warm side is that radiation is more dominant than conduction at warmer temperatures, so that a higher layer density is desired (2 - 3 layer/mm) and less effort need be put into minimizing conduction heat transfer. Liquid nitrogen boiloff test data using a cylindrical calorimeter are presented along with analysis for spacecraft tank applications.

Implementation of environmentally compliant cleaning and insulation bonding for MNASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutchens, Dale E.; Keen, Jill M.; Smith, Gary M.; Dillard, Terry W.; Deweese, C. Darrell; Lawson, Seth W.

1995-01-01

Historically, many subscale and full-scale rocket motors have employed environmentally and physiologically harmful chemicals during the manufacturing process. This program examines the synergy and interdependency between environmentally acceptable materials for solid rocket motor insulation applications, bonding, corrosion inhibiting, painting, priming, and cleaning, and then implements new materials and processes in subscale motors. Tests have been conducted to eliminate or minimize hazardous chemicals used in the manufacture of modified-NASA materials test motor (MNASA) components and identify alternate materials and/or processes following NASA Operational Environmental Team (NOET) priorities. This presentation describes implementation of high pressure water refurbishment cleaning, aqueous precision cleaning using both Brulin 815 GD and Jettacin, and insulation case bonding using ozone depleting chemical (ODC) compliant primers and adhesives.

Metal-insulator transition in a doubly orbitally degenerate model with correlated hopping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Didukh, L.; Skorenkyy, Yu.; Dovhopyaty, Yu.; Hankevych, V.

2000-03-01

In the present paper, we propose a doubly orbitally degenerate narrow-band model with correlated hopping. The peculiarity of the model is taking into account the matrix element of electron-electron interaction, which describes intersite hoppings of electrons. In particular, this leads to the concentration dependence of the effective hopping integral. The cases of the strong and weak Hund's coupling are considered. By means of a generalized mean-field approximation the single-particle Green function and quasiparticle energy spectrum are calculated. Metal-insulator transition is studied in the model at different integer values of the electron concentration. With the help of the obtained energy spectrum, we find energy gap width and criteria of metal-insulator transition.

Insulation of a synthetic hydrogen metabolism circuit in bacteria

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background The engineering of metabolism holds tremendous promise for the production of desirable metabolites, particularly alternative fuels and other highly reduced molecules. Engineering approaches must redirect the transfer of chemical reducing equivalents, preventing these electrons from being lost to general cellular metabolism. This is especially the case for high energy electrons stored in iron-sulfur clusters within proteins, which are readily transferred when two such clusters are brought in close proximity. Iron sulfur proteins therefore require mechanisms to ensure interaction between proper partners, analogous to many signal transduction proteins. While there has been progress in the isolation of engineered metabolic pathways in recent years, the design of insulated electron metabolism circuits in vivo has not been pursued. Results Here we show that a synthetic hydrogen-producing electron transfer circuit in Escherichia coli can be insulated from existing cellular metabolism via multiple approaches, in many cases improving the function of the pathway. Our circuit is composed of heterologously expressed [Fe-Fe]-hydrogenase, ferredoxin, and pyruvate-ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR), allowing the production of hydrogen gas to be coupled to the breakdown of glucose. We show that this synthetic pathway can be insulated through the deletion of competing reactions, rational engineering of protein interaction surfaces, direct protein fusion of interacting partners, and co-localization of pathway components on heterologous protein scaffolds. Conclusions Through the construction and characterization of a synthetic metabolic circuit in vivo, we demonstrate a novel system that allows for predictable engineering of an insulated electron transfer pathway. The development of this system demonstrates working principles for the optimization of engineered pathways for alternative energy production, as well as for understanding how electron transfer between proteins is controlled. PMID:20184755

Tuning the metal-insulator transition in d1 and d2 perovskites by epitaxial strain: A first-principles-based study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sclauzero, Gabriele; Dymkowski, Krzysztof; Ederer, Claude

2016-12-01

We investigate the effect of epitaxial strain on the Mott metal-insulator transition (MIT) in perovskite systems with d1 and d2 electron configurations of the transition metal (TM) cation. We first discuss the general trends expected from the changes in the crystal-field splitting and in the hopping parameters that are induced by epitaxial strain. We argue that the strain-induced crystal-field splitting generally favors the Mott-insulating state, whereas the strain-induced changes in the hopping parameters favor the metallic state under compressive strain and the insulating state under tensile strain. Thus the two effects can effectively cancel each other under compressive strain, while they usually cooperate under tensile strain, in this case favoring the insulating state. We then validate these general considerations by performing electronic structure calculations for several d1 and d2 perovskites, using a combination of density functional theory (DFT) and dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT). We isolate the individual effects of strain-induced changes in either hopping or crystal-field by performing DMFT calculations where we fix one type of parameter to the corresponding unstrained DFT values. These calculations confirm our general considerations for SrVO3 (d1) and LaVO3 (d2), whereas the case of LaTiO3 (d1) is distinctly different, due to the strong effect of the octahedral tilt distortion in the underlying perovskite crystal structure. Our results demonstrate the possibility to tune the electronic properties of correlated TM oxides by using epitaxial strain, which allows to control the strength of electronic correlations and the vicinity to the Mott MIT.

ToF-SIMS Depth Profiling Of Insulating Samples, Interlaced Mode Or Non-interlaced Mode?

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

Wang, Zhaoying; Jin, Ke; Zhang, Yanwen

2014-11-01

Dual beam depth profiling strategy has been widely adopted in ToF-SIMS depth profiling, in which two basic operation modes, interlaced mode and non-interlaced mode, are commonly used. Generally, interlaced mode is recommended for conductive or semi-conductive samples, whereas non-interlaced mode is recommended for insulating samples, where charge compensation can be an issue. Recent publications, however, show that the interlaced mode can be used effectively for glass depth profiling, despite the fact that glass is an insulator. In this study, we provide a simple guide for choosing between interlaced mode and non-interlaced mode for insulator depth profiling. Two representative cases aremore » presented: (1) depth profiling of a leached glass sample, and (2) depth profiling of a single crystal MgO sample. In brief, the interlaced mode should be attempted first, because (1) it may provide reasonable-quality data, and (2) it is time-saving for most cases, and (3) it introduces low H/C/O background. If data quality is the top priority and measurement time is flexible, non-interlaced mode is recommended because interlaced mode may suffer from low signal intensity and poor mass resolution. A big challenge is tracking trace H/C/O in a highly insulating sample (e.g., MgO), because non-interlaced mode may introduce strong H/C/O background but interlaced mode may suffer from low signal intensity. Meanwhile, a C or Au coating is found to be very effective to improve the signal intensity. Surprisingly, the best analyzing location is not on the C or Au coating, but at the edge (outside) of the coating.« less

Multi-Center Pilot Study to Evaluate the Safety Pro le of High Energy Fractionated Radiofrequency With Insulated Microneedles to Multiple Levels of the Dermis.

PubMed

Cohen, Joel L; Weiner, Steven F; Pozner, Jason N; Ibrahimi, Omar A; Vasily, David B; Ross, E Victor; Gabriel, Zena

2016-11-01

In this multi-center pilot study, the safety pro le of high intensity focused radiofrequency (RF) delivered to the dermis was evaluated for safety in the treatment of the aging neck and face. A newly designed insulated microneedle system delivers a signi cant coagulative thermal injury into the dermis while sparing the epidermis from RF injury. Thirty- ve healthy subjects from seven aesthetic practices were evaluated, and data from each were incorporated in this case report. The subjects received a single treatment using settings that delivered the highest RF energies suggested from the new recommended protocols. The depth of thermal delivery was adjusted before each pass and all subjects received a minimum of two to three passes to the treated areas. Before and after photographs along with adverse effects were recorded. This case report demonstrates the ability to deliver significant RF thermal injury to several layers of the dermis with insulated microneedles safely with little injury to the epidermis and minimum downtime. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(11):1308-1312..

Development of advanced material composites for use as internal insulation for LH2 tanks (gas layer concept)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gille, J. P.

1972-01-01

A program is described that was conducted to develop an internal insulation system for potential application to the liquid hydrogen tanks of a reusable booster, where the tanks would be subjected to repeated high temperatures. The design of the internal insulation is based on a unique gas layer concept, in which capillary or surface tension effects are used to maintain a stable gas layer, within a cellular core structure, between the tank wall and the contained liquid hydrogen. Specific objectives were to select materials for insulation systems that would be compatible with wall temperatures of 350 F and 650 F during reentry into the earth's atmosphere, and to fabricate and test insulation systems under conditions simulating the operating environment. A materials test program was conducted to evaluate the properties of candidate materials at elevated temperatures and at the temperature of liquid hydrogen, and to determine the compatibility of the materials with a hydrogen atmosphere at the appropriate elevated temperature. The materials that were finally selected included Kapton polyimide films, silicone adhesives, fiber glass batting, and in the case of the 350 F system, Teflon film.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Monitoring of Double Stud Wall Moisture Conditions in the Northeast, Devens, Massachusetts

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

None

2015-03-01

Double stud walls have a higher risk of interior-sourced condensation moisture damage when compared with high-R approaches using exterior insulating sheathing. In this project, Building Science Corporation monitored moisture conditions in double-stud walls from 2011 through 2014 at a new production house located in Devens, Massachusetts. The builder, Transformations, Inc., has been using double-stud walls insulated with 12 in. of open cell polyurethane spray foam (ocSPF); however, the company has been considering a change to netted and blown cellulose insulation for cost reasons. Cellulose is a common choice for double-stud walls because of its lower cost (in most markets). However,more » cellulose is an air-permeable insulation, unlike spray foams, which increases interior moisture risks. The team compared three double-stud assemblies: 12 in. of ocSPF, 12 in. of cellulose, and 5-½ in. of ocSPF at the exterior of a double-stud wall (to approximate conventional 2 × 6 wall construction and insulation levels, acting as a control wall). These assemblies were repeated on the north and south orientations, for a total of six assemblies.« less

Emergence, evolution, and control of multistability in a hybrid topological quantum/classical system.

PubMed

Wang, Guanglei; Xu, Hongya; Lai, Ying-Cheng

2018-03-01

We present a novel class of nonlinear dynamical systems-a hybrid of relativistic quantum and classical systems and demonstrate that multistability is ubiquitous. A representative setting is coupled systems of a topological insulator and an insulating ferromagnet, where the former possesses an insulating bulk with topologically protected, dissipationless, and conducting surface electronic states governed by the relativistic quantum Dirac Hamiltonian and the latter is described by the nonlinear classical evolution of its magnetization vector. The interactions between the two are essentially the spin transfer torque from the topological insulator to the ferromagnet and the local proximity induced exchange coupling in the opposite direction. The hybrid system exhibits a rich variety of nonlinear dynamical phenomena besides multistability such as bifurcations, chaos, and phase synchronization. The degree of multistability can be controlled by an external voltage. In the case of two coexisting states, the system is effectively binary, opening a door to exploitation for developing spintronic memory devices. Because of the dissipationless and spin-momentum locking nature of the surface currents of the topological insulator, little power is needed for generating a significant current, making the system appealing for potential applications in next generation of low power memory devices.

Emergence, evolution, and control of multistability in a hybrid topological quantum/classical system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guanglei; Xu, Hongya; Lai, Ying-Cheng

2018-03-01

We present a novel class of nonlinear dynamical systems—a hybrid of relativistic quantum and classical systems and demonstrate that multistability is ubiquitous. A representative setting is coupled systems of a topological insulator and an insulating ferromagnet, where the former possesses an insulating bulk with topologically protected, dissipationless, and conducting surface electronic states governed by the relativistic quantum Dirac Hamiltonian and the latter is described by the nonlinear classical evolution of its magnetization vector. The interactions between the two are essentially the spin transfer torque from the topological insulator to the ferromagnet and the local proximity induced exchange coupling in the opposite direction. The hybrid system exhibits a rich variety of nonlinear dynamical phenomena besides multistability such as bifurcations, chaos, and phase synchronization. The degree of multistability can be controlled by an external voltage. In the case of two coexisting states, the system is effectively binary, opening a door to exploitation for developing spintronic memory devices. Because of the dissipationless and spin-momentum locking nature of the surface currents of the topological insulator, little power is needed for generating a significant current, making the system appealing for potential applications in next generation of low power memory devices.

Vibration Considerations for Cryogenic Tanks Using Glass Bubbles Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Werlink, Rudolph J.; Fesmire, James E.; Sass, Jared P.

2011-01-01

The use of glass bubbles as an efficient and practical thermal insulation system has been previously demonstrated in cryogenic storage tanks. One such example is a spherical, vacuum-jacketed liquid hydrogen vessel of 218,000 liter capacity where the boiloff rate has been reduced by approximately 50 percent. Further applications may include non-stationary tanks such as mobile tankers and tanks with extreme duty cycles or exposed to significant vibration environments. Space rocket launch events and mobile tanker life cycles represent two harsh cases of mechanical vibration exposure. A number of bulk fill insulation materials including glass bubbles, perlite powders, and aerogel granules were tested for vibration effects and mechanical behavior using a custom design holding fixture subjected to random vibration on an Electrodynamic Shaker. The settling effects for mixtures of insulation materials were also investigated. The vibration test results and granular particle analysis are presented with considerations and implications for future cryogenic tank applications. A thermal performance update on field demonstration testing of a 218,000 L liquid hydrogen storage tank, retrofitted with glass bubbles, is presented. KEYWORDS: Glass bubble, perlite, aerogel, insulation, liquid hydrogen, storage tank, mobile tanker, vibration.

Technique for Evaluating the Erosive Properties of Ablative Internal Insulation Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McComb, J. C.; Hitner, J. M.

1989-01-01

A technique for determining the average erosion rate versus Mach number of candidate internal insulation materials was developed for flight motor applications in 12 inch I.D. test firing hardware. The method involved the precision mounting of a mechanical measuring tool within a conical test cartridge fabricated from either a single insulation material or two non-identical materials each of which constituted one half of the test cartridge cone. Comparison of the internal radii measured at nine longitudinal locations and between eight to thirty two azimuths, depending on the regularity of the erosion pattern before and after test firing, permitted calculation of the average erosion rate and Mach number. Systematic criteria were established for identifying erosion anomalies such as the formation of localized ridges and for excluding such anomalies from the calculations. The method is discussed and results presented for several asbestos-free materials developed in-house for the internal motor case insulation in solid propellant rocket motors.

Nanoporous Silica Thermal Insulation for Space Shuttle Cryogenic Tanks: A Case Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noever, David A.

1999-01-01

Nanoporous silica (with typical 10-50 nm porous radii) has been benchmarked for thermal insulators capable of maintaining a 150 K/cm temperature gradient. For cryogenic use in aerospace applications, the combined features for low-density, high thermal insulation factors, and low temperature compatibility are demonstrated in a prototype sandwich structure between two propulsion tanks. Theoretical modelling based on a nanoscale fractal structure suggest that the thermal conductivity scales proportionally (exponent, 1.7) with the material density-lower density increases the thermal insulation rating. Computer simulations, however, support the optimization tradeoff between material strength (Young moduli, proportional to density with exponent, 3.7), the characteristic (colloidal silica, less than 5 nm) particle size, and the thermal rating. The results of these simulations indicate that as nanosized particles are incorporated into the silica backbone, the resulting physical properties will be tailored by the smallest characteristic length and their fractal interconnections (dimension and fractal size). The application specifies a prototype panel which takes advantage of the processing flexibility inherent in sol-gel chemistry.

A new test method for the assessment of the arc tracking properties of wire insulation in air, oxygen enriched atmospheres and vacuum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koenig, Dieter

1994-01-01

Development of a new test method suitable for the assessment of the resistance of aerospace cables to arc tracking for different specific environmental and network conditions of spacecraft is given in view-graph format. The equipment can be easily adapted for tests at different realistic electrical network conditions incorporating circuit protection and the test system works equally well whatever the test atmosphere. Test results confirm that pure Kapton insulated wire has bad arcing characteristics and ETFE insulated wire is considerably better in air. For certain wires, arc tracking effects are increased at higher oxygen concentrations and significantly increased under vacuum. All tests on different cable insulation materials and in different environments, including enriched oxygen atmospheres, resulted in a more or less rapid extinguishing of all high temperature effects at the beginning of the post-test phase. In no case was a self-maintained fire initiated by the arc.

Mechanism and influencing factors on critical pulse width of oil-immersed polymer insulators under short pulses

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

Zhao, Liang, E-mail: zhaoliang@ninit.ac.cn; Li, Rui; Zheng, Lei

2015-04-15

The critical pulse width (τ{sub c}) is a pulse width at which the surface flashover threshold (E{sub f}) is equal to the bulk breakdown threshold (E{sub BD}) for liquid-polymer composite insulation systems, which is discovered by Zhao et al. [Annual Report Conference on Electrical Insulation and Dielectric Phenomena (IEEE Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation Society, Shenzhen, China, 2013), Vol. 2, pp. 854–857]. In this paper, the mechanism of τ{sub c} is interpreted in perspective of the threshold and the time delay (t{sub d}) of surface flashover and bulk breakdown, respectively. It is found that two changes appear as the pulse widthmore » decreases which are responsible for the existence of τ{sub c}: (1) E{sub BD} is lower than E{sub f}; (2) t{sub d} of bulk breakdown is shorter than t{sub d} of surface flashover. In addition, factors which have influences on τ{sub c} are investigated, such as the dielectric type, the insulation length, the dielectric thickness, the dielectrics configuration, the pulse number, and the liquid purity. These influences of factors are generalized as three types if τ{sub c} is expected to increase: (1) factors causing E{sub BD} to decrease, such as increasing the pulse number or employing a dielectric of lower E{sub BD}; (2) factors causing E{sub f} to increase, such as complicating the insulator's configuration or increasing the liquid purity; (3) factors causing E{sub BD} and E{sub f} to increase together, but E{sub f} increases faster than E{sub BD}, such as decreasing the dielectric thickness or the insulation length. With the data in references, all the three cases are verified experimentally. In the end, a general method based on τ{sub c} for solid insulation design is presented and the significance of τ{sub c} on solid insulation design and on solid demolition are discussed.« less

DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Case Study: John Hubert Associates — EXIT-0 House, North Cape May, NJ

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

none,

This house is the first DOE Zero Energy Ready Home for this builder and won a Custom Builder award in the 2014 Housing Innovation Awards. The 1,871-ft2 home features advanced-framed above-grade walls with R-21 fiberglass batt plus an R-3.6-insulated coated OSB sheathing, R-18 rigid-foam-insulated crawlspace walls, solar water heating, a high-efficiency heat pump, an HRV, and mostly LED lighting.

The full-scale process and design changes for elimination of insulation edge separations and voids in tang flap area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Danforth, Richard A.

1991-01-01

Qualification of the full-scale process and design changes for elimination of redesigned solid rocket motor tang nitrile butadiene rubber insulation edge separations and voids was performed from 24 March to 3 December 1990. The objectives of this test were: to qualify design and process changes on flight hardware using a tie ply between the redesigned solid rocket motor steel case and the nitrile butadiene rubber insulation over the tang capture features; to qualify the use of methyl ethyl ketone in the tang flap region to reduce voids; and to determine if holes in the separator film reduce voids in the tang flap region. The tie ply is intended to aid insulation flow during the insulation cure process, and thus reduce or eliminate edge unbonds. Methyl ethyl ketone is intended to reduce voids in the tang flap area by providing better tacking characteristics. The perforated film was intended to provide possible vertical breathe paths to reduce voids in the tang area. Tang tie ply testing consisted of 270 deg of the tang circumference using a new layup method and 90 deg of the tang circumference using the current layup methods. Tie ply process success was defined as a reduction of insulation unbonds. Lack of any insulation edge unbonds on the tang area where the new process was used, and the presence of 17 unbonds with the current process, proves the test to be a success. Successful completion of this test has qualified the new processes.

Reliability Improvement of Ground Fault Protection System Using an S-Type Horn Attachment Gap in AC Feeding System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajiki, Kohji; Morimoto, Hiroaki; Shimokawa, Fumiyuki; Sakai, Shinya; Sasaki, Kazuomi; Sato, Ryogo

Contact wires used in feeding system for electric railroad are insulated by insulators. However, insulation of an insulator sometimes breaks down by surface dirt of an insulator and contact with a bird. The insulator breakdown derives a ground fault in feeding system. Ground fault will cause a human electric shock and a destruction of low voltage electric equipment. In order to prevent the damage by ground fault, an S-type horn has been applicable as equipped on insulators of negative feeder and protective wire until present. However, a concrete pole breaks down at the time of the ground fault because a spark-over voltage of the S-type horn is higher than a breakdown voltage of a concrete pole. Farther, the S-type horn installed in the steel tube pole does not discharge a case, because the earth resistance of a steel tube pole is very small. We assumed that we could solve these troubles by changing the power frequency spark-over voltage of the S-type horn from 12kV to 3kV. Accordingly, we developed an attachment gap that should be used to change the power frequency spark-over voltage of the S-type horn from 12kV to 3kV. The attachment gap consists of a gas gap arrester and a zinc oxide element. By the dynamic current test and the artificial ground fault test, we confirmed that the attachment gap in the S-type horn could prevent a trouble at the time of the ground fault.

Solid Propellant Test Article (SPTA) Test Stand

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

This photograph shows the Solid Propellant Test Article (SPTA) test stand with the Modified Nasa Motor (M-NASA) test article at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The SPTA test stand, 12-feet wide by 12-feet long by 24-feet high, was built in 1989 to provide comparative performance data on nozzle and case insulation material and to verify thermostructural analysis models. A modified NASA 48-inch solid motor (M-NASA motor) with a 12-foot blast tube and 10-inch throat makes up the SPTA. The M-NASA motor is being used to evaluate solid rocket motor internal non-asbestos insulation materials, nozzle designs, materials, and new inspection techniques. New internal motor case instrumentation techniques are also being evaluated.

Metal-Insulator Transition Revisited for Cold Atoms in Non-Abelian Gauge Potentials

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

Satija, Indubala I.; National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899; Dakin, Daniel C.

2006-11-24

We discuss the possibility of realizing metal-insulator transitions with ultracold atoms in two-dimensional optical lattices in the presence of artificial gauge potentials. For Abelian gauges, such transitions occur when the magnetic flux penetrating the lattice plaquette is an irrational multiple of the magnetic flux quantum. Here we present the first study of these transitions for non-Abelian U(2) gauge fields. In contrast to the Abelian case, the spectrum and localization transition in the non-Abelian case is strongly influenced by atomic momenta. In addition to determining the localization boundary, the momentum fragments the spectrum. Other key characteristics of the non-Abelian case includemore » the absence of localization for certain states and satellite fringes around the Bragg peaks in the momentum distribution and an interesting possibility that the transition can be tuned by the atomic momenta.« less

Transient aero-thermal mapping of passive Thermal Protection system for nose-cap of Reusable Hypersonic Vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahulikar, Shripad P.; Khurana, Shashank; Dungarwal, Ritesh; Shevakari, Sushil G.; Subramanian, Jayakumar; Gujarathi, Amit V.

2008-12-01

The temperature field history of passive Thermal Protection System (TPS) material at the nose-cap (forward stagnation region) of a Reusable Hypersonic Vehicle (RHV) is generated. The 3-D unsteady heat transfer model couples conduction in the solid with external convection and radiation that are modeled as time-varying boundary conditions on the surface. Results are presented for the following two cases: (1) nose-cap comprised of ablative TPS material only (SIRCA/PICA), and (2) nose-cap comprised of a combination of ablative TPS material with moderate thermal conductivity and insulative TPS material. Comparison of the temperature fields of SIRCA and PICA [Case (1)] indicates lowering of the peak stagnation region temperatures for PICA, due to its higher thermal conductivity. Also, the use of PICA and insulative TPS [Case (2)] for the nose-cap has higher potential for weight reduction than the use of ablative TPS alone.

A comparative study of satellite estimation for solar insolation in Albania with ground measurements

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

Mitrushi, Driada, E-mail: driadamitrushi@yahoo.com; Berberi, Pëllumb, E-mail: pellumb.berberi@gmail.com; Muda, Valbona, E-mail: vmuda@hotmail.com

The main objective of this study is to compare data provided by Database of NASA with available ground data for regions covered by national meteorological net NASA estimates that their measurements of average daily solar radiation have a root-mean-square deviation RMSD error of 35 W/m{sup 2} (roughly 20% inaccuracy). Unfortunately valid data from meteorological stations for regions of interest are quite rare in Albania. In these cases, use of Solar Radiation Database of NASA would be a satisfactory solution for different case studies. Using a statistical method allows to determine most probable margins between to sources of data. Comparison of meanmore » insulation data provided by NASA with ground data of mean insulation provided by meteorological stations show that ground data for mean insolation results, in all cases, to be underestimated compared with data provided by Database of NASA. Converting factor is 1.149.« less

Symptomatic benign pleural effusions among asbestos insulation workers: residual radiographic abnormalities.

PubMed Central

Lilis, R; Lerman, Y; Selikoff, I J

1988-01-01

During a cross sectional medical survey of 2815 insulation workers with 30 years or more from onset of asbestos exposure conducted from 1981 to 1983, a positive history of benign pleural effusion was found in 20 (0.71%). Two or three such episodes had occurred in four of these 20 subjects. The chest x ray abnormalities in these cases were characterised by pleural fibrosis in 19 and diffuse pleural fibrosis with blunting of the corresponding costophrenic angle in 16. In the total group of 2815 insulation workers diffuse pleural fibrosis was found in 142 (5.0%). Thus diffuse pleural fibrosis with blunting of the corresponding costophrenic angle is a frequent residual abnormality after benign pleural effusion. Its impact on pulmonary function can be pronounced. Images PMID:3260799

Unravelling the switching mechanisms in electric field induced insulator-metal transitions in VO2 nanobeams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rathi, Servin; Park, Jin-Hyung; Lee, In-yeal; Baik, Jeong Min; Yi, Kyung Soo; Kim, Gil-Ho

2014-07-01

We studied insulator-metal transitions in VO2 nanobeams for both abrupt and gradual changes in applied electric fields. Based on the observations, the Poole-Frenkel effect explained the abrupt transition, while the gradual case is found to be dominated by the Joule heating phenomenon. We also carried out power model and finite element method based simulations which supported the Joule heating phenomena for gradual transition. An in-principle demonstration of the Poole-Frenkel effect, performed using a square voltage pulse of 1 µs duration, further confirms the proposed insulator-metal transition mechanism with a switching time in the order of 100 ns. Finally, conductivity variations introduced via rapid thermal annealing at various temperatures validate the roles of both Joule heating and Poole-Frenkel mechanisms in the transitions.

Thermal engineering research. [Runge-Kutta investigation of gas flow inside multilayer insulation system for rocket booster fuel tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shih, C. C.

1973-01-01

A theoretical investigation of gas flow inside a multilayer insulation system has been made for the case of the broadside pumping process. A set of simultaneous first-order differential equations for the temperature and pressure of the gas mixture was obtained by considering the diffusion mechanism of the gas molecules through the perforations on the insulation layers. A modified Runge-Kutta method was used for numerical experiment. The numerical stability problem was investigated. It has been shown that when the relaxation time is small compared with the time period over which the gas properties change appreciably, the set of differential equations can be replaced by a set of algebraic equations for solution. Numerical examples were given, and comparisons with experimental data were made.

Sceening, down selection, and implementation of environmentally compliant cleaning and insulation bonding for MNASA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keen, Jill M.; Hutchens, D. E.; Smith, G. M.; Dillard, T. W.

1994-06-01

MNASA, a quarter-scale space shuttle solid rocket motor, has historically been processed using environmentally and physiologically harmful chemicals. This program draws from previous testing done in support of full-scale manufacturing and examines the synergy and interdependency between environmentally acceptable materials for Solid Rocket Motor insulation applications, bonding, corrosion inhibiting, painting, priming and cleaning; and then implements new materials and processes in sub-scale motors. Tests have been conducted to eliminate or minimize hazardous chemicals used in the manufacture of MNASA components and identify alternate materials and/or processes following NASA Operational Environment Team (NOET) priorities. This presentation describes implementation of high pressure water refurbishment cleaning, aqueous precision cleaning using both Brulin 815 GD and Jettacin and insulation case bonding using ODC compliant primers and adhesives.

Best Practices Case Study: Imagine Homes - Stillwater Ranch, San Antonio, TX

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

none,

2011-04-01

This case study describes Imagine Homes, who met Builders Challenge criteria on more than 200 homes in San Antonio with rigid foam exterior sheathing, ducts and air handler in conditioned space in a spray-foam insulated attic, and high-efficiency HVAC, windows, and appliances.

Metal-as-insulation variant of no-insulation HTS winding technique: pancake tests under high background magnetic field and high current at 4.2 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lécrevisse, T.; Badel, A.; Benkel, T.; Chaud, X.; Fazilleau, P.; Tixador, P.

2018-05-01

In the framework of a project aiming at fabricating a 10 T high temperature superconducting (HTS) insert to operate in a 20 T background field, we are investigating the behavior of pancakes consisting of a REBCO HTS tape co-wound with a stainless steel tape (metal-as-insulation (MI) coil). The MI winding is inducing a significant turn-to-turn electrical resistance which helps to reduce the charging time delay. Despite this resistance, the self-protection feature of no-insulation coils is still enabled, thanks to the voltage limit of the power supply. We have built a single pancake coil representative of the pancake that will be used in the insert and performed tests under very high background magnetic field. Our coil experienced over 100 heater induced quenches without a measureable increase of its internal resistance. We have gathered stability and quench behavior data for magnetic fields and engineering current densities (je ) in the range of 0–17 T and 0–635 A mm‑2 respectively. We also present our very first experiments on the insert/outsert interaction in the case of a resistive magnet fault. We show that if self-protection of the MI winding is really effective in the case of a MI coil quench, a major issue comes from the outsert fault which induces a huge current inside the MI coil.

Durability of crosslinked polydimethylsyloxanes: the case of composite insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delor-Jestin, Florence; Tomer, Namrata S.; Pal Singh, Raj; Lacoste, Jacques

2008-04-01

Most applications of silicones are linked to their hydrophobic properties and (or) their high resistance to ageing (e.g. thermal ageing and photoageing). However, when placed in extreme environments, these materials can fail as in the case of epoxy/fiber glass composite powerlines insulators, where crosslinked polymethylsyloxanes (PDMSs) are used as the protective envelope (housing) of the insulator. We report on the behavior of both pure/noncrosslinked PDMSs and typical formulations used in industrial insulators, i.e. containing peroxide crosslinked PDMS, alumina trioxide hydrated (ATH) and silica. Special attention is paid on both (i) the sources of potential degradation and (ii) the best analytical methods that can be applied to the study of very complex formulations. (i) Aside from conventional types of ageing such as photo-ageing and thermal, hydrolytic, and service life ageings, treatments with acidic vapors, plasma and ozone possibly generating species from the reaction of a high electric field with air were also performed, which allowed to accelerate electrical and out-door ageings and to obtain differently aged materials. (ii) Aside from conventional analytical methods of polymer degradation such as FTIR/ATR spectroscopy and SEC, TG, hardness measurements, more specific methods like photo/DSC, TG/IR, thermoporosimetry, resistivity and density measurements were also performed to characterize the chemical and physical evolutions of polymer materials. In particular, it was found that treatment with nitric acid vapor has detrimental effects on the properties of both fire retardants (e.g. ATH) and PDMSs, affecting the hardness and resistivity of the formulated material.

2D layered transport properties from topological insulator Bi2Se3 single crystals and micro flakes

PubMed Central

Chiatti, Olivio; Riha, Christian; Lawrenz, Dominic; Busch, Marco; Dusari, Srujana; Sánchez-Barriga, Jaime; Mogilatenko, Anna; Yashina, Lada V.; Valencia, Sergio; Ünal, Akin A.; Rader, Oliver; Fischer, Saskia F.

2016-01-01

Low-field magnetotransport measurements of topological insulators such as Bi2Se3 are important for revealing the nature of topological surface states by quantum corrections to the conductivity, such as weak-antilocalization. Recently, a rich variety of high-field magnetotransport properties in the regime of high electron densities (∼1019 cm−3) were reported, which can be related to additional two-dimensional layered conductivity, hampering the identification of the topological surface states. Here, we report that quantum corrections to the electronic conduction are dominated by the surface states for a semiconducting case, which can be analyzed by the Hikami-Larkin-Nagaoka model for two coupled surfaces in the case of strong spin-orbit interaction. However, in the metallic-like case this analysis fails and additional two-dimensional contributions need to be accounted for. Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations and quantized Hall resistance prove as strong indications for the two-dimensional layered metallic behavior. Temperature-dependent magnetotransport properties of high-quality Bi2Se3 single crystalline exfoliated macro and micro flakes are combined with high resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, confirming the structure and stoichiometry. Angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy proves a single-Dirac-cone surface state and a well-defined bulk band gap in topological insulating state. Spatially resolved core-level photoelectron microscopy demonstrates the surface stability. PMID:27270569

Insulation defects in Riata implantable cardioverter-defibrillator leads.

PubMed

Sato, Akinori; Chinushi, Masaomi; Iijima, Kenichi; Izumi, Daisuke; Furushima, Hiroshi

2012-01-01

The structures composing implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads have become more complicated and thinner with technological advances. Silicon insulation defects with and without clinically manifested electrical abnormalities have been reported in Riata leads (St. Jude Medical). The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and clinical implications of insulation defects in Riata leads implanted at our hospital. The subjects included 10 consecutive patients who received 8-French Riata ICD leads with dual-coil conductors (model 1580 or 1581) between 2006 and 2010 at our hospital. Operative records, chest X-rays and interrogation data were reviewed. In all cases, Atlas+ (St. Jude Medical) was used as an ICD generator and the Riata leads were implanted transvenously and fixed to the right ventricular apex. During a mean follow-up period of 52±9 (36-70) months, chest X-rays revealed insulation defects in Riata leads and conductor wires projecting from the bodies of the Riata leads in two of 10 (20%) patients. One of the patients received inappropriate ICD therapies due to T-wave oversensing based on attenuation of R waves and augmentation of T waves 41 months after implantation. In the other patient, an insulation defect without any clinically manifested electrical troubles was detected 50 months after implantation. Riata leads have a high incidence of insulation defects, which may be occasionally accompanied by inappropriate ICD discharges. For patients with Riata leads, careful observation of any changes in the lead-electrical measurements and a routine chest X-ray follow-up are necessary.

Measurement of a solid-state triple point at the metal-insulator transition in VO2.

PubMed

Park, Jae Hyung; Coy, Jim M; Kasirga, T Serkan; Huang, Chunming; Fei, Zaiyao; Hunter, Scott; Cobden, David H

2013-08-22

First-order phase transitions in solids are notoriously challenging to study. The combination of change in unit cell shape, long range of elastic distortion and flow of latent heat leads to large energy barriers resulting in domain structure, hysteresis and cracking. The situation is worse near a triple point, where more than two phases are involved. The well-known metal-insulator transition in vanadium dioxide, a popular candidate for ultrafast optical and electrical switching applications, is a case in point. Even though VO2 is one of the simplest strongly correlated materials, experimental difficulties posed by the first-order nature of the metal-insulator transition as well as the involvement of at least two competing insulating phases have led to persistent controversy about its nature. Here we show that studying single-crystal VO2 nanobeams in a purpose-built nanomechanical strain apparatus allows investigation of this prototypical phase transition with unprecedented control and precision. Our results include the striking finding that the triple point of the metallic phase and two insulating phases is at the transition temperature, Ttr = Tc, which we determine to be 65.0 ± 0.1 °C. The findings have profound implications for the mechanism of the metal-insulator transition in VO2, but they also demonstrate the importance of this approach for mastering phase transitions in many other strongly correlated materials, such as manganites and iron-based superconductors.

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

Ueno, Kohta

There are many existing buildings with load-bearing mass masonry walls, whose energy performance could be improved with the retrofit of insulation. However, adding insulation to the interior side of walls of such masonry buildings in cold (and wet) climates may cause performance and durability problems. Some concerns, such as condensation and freeze-thaw have known solutions. But wood members embedded in the masonry structure will be colder (and potentially wetter) after an interior insulation retrofit. Moisture content & relative humidity were monitored at joist ends in historic mass brick masonry walls retrofitted with interior insulation in a cold climate (Zone 5A);more » data were collected from 2012-2015. Eleven joist ends were monitored in all four orientations. One limitation of these results is that the renovation is still ongoing, with limited wintertime construction heating and no permanent occupancy to date. Measurements show that many joists ends remain at high moisture contents, especially at north- and east-facing orientations, with constant 100% RH conditions at the worst cases. These high moisture levels are not conducive for wood durability, but no evidence for actual structural damage has been observed. Insulated vs. non-insulated joist pockets do not show large differences. South facing joists have safe (10-15%) moisture contents. Given the uncertainty pointed out by research, definitive guidance on the vulnerability of embedded wood members is difficult to formulate. In high-risk situations, or when a very conservative approach is warranted, the embedded wood member condition can be eliminated entirely, supporting the joist ends outside of the masonry pocket.« less

Electromagnetic pump stator frame having power crossover struts

DOEpatents

Fanning, Alan W.; Olich, Eugene E.

1995-01-01

A stator frame for an electromagnetic pump includes a casing joined to a hub by a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart struts. At least one electrically insulated power crossover lead extends through the hub, through a crossover one of the struts, and through the casing for carrying electrical current therethrough.

Low-thrust chemical orbit to orbit propulsion system propellant management study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dergance, R. H.

1980-01-01

Propellant requirements, tankage configurations, preferred propellant management techniques, propulsion systems weights, and technology deficiencies for low thrust expendable propulsion systems are examined. A computer program was utilized which provided a complete propellant inventory (including boil-off for cryogenic cases), pressurant and propellant tank dimensions for a given ullage, pressurant requirements, insulation requirements, and miscellaneous masses. The output also includes the masses of all tanks; the mass of the insulation, engines and other components; total wet system and burnout mass; system mass fraction; total impulse and burn time.

Magnetoresistance of a nanostep junction based on topological insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Wei; Hong, Jin-Bin; Zhai, Feng

2018-06-01

We investigate ballistic transport of helical electrons in a three-dimensional topological insulator traversing a nanostep junction. We find that a magnetic field perpendicular to its side surface shrinks the phase space for transmission, leading to magnetoresistance for the Fermi energy close to the Dirac point of the top surface. We also find transmission resonances and suppression of the Fano factor due to Landau-level-related quasibound states. The transmission blockade in the off-resonance case can result in a huge magnetoresistance for Fermi energy higher than the Dirac point of the side surface.

Doping induced carrier and band-gap modulation in bulk versus nano for topological insulators: A test case of Stibnite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maji, Tuhin Kumar; Pal, Samir Kumar; Karmakar, Debjani

2018-04-01

We aim at comparing the electronic properties of topological insulator Sb2S3 in bulk and Nanorod using density-functional scheme and investigating the effects of Se-doping at chalcogen-site. While going from bulk to nano, there is a drastic change in the band gap due to surface-induced strain. However, the trend of band gap modulation with increased Se doping is more prominent in bulk. Interestingly, Se-doping introduces different type of carriers in bulk and nano.

DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Case Study: Transformations, Inc., Production House, Devens, Massachusetts

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

none,

2013-09-01

A collaboration with Building America team Building Science Corporation helped this builder win a 2013 Housing Innovation Award in 2013—a 2,508-ft2 home built on speculation in the Devens, MA, subdivision. For the above-grade walls, the super-insulated building shell starts with 12 inch thick double walls composed of two 2x4 16-inch on-center walls spaced 5 inches apart. The space between the walls is filled with low-density (open-cell) spray foam for an insulation value of R-45.

Improved multilayer insulation applications. [spacecraft thermal control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikk, G.

1982-01-01

Multilayer insulation blankets used for the attenuation of radiant heat transfer in spacecraft are addressed. Typically, blanket effectiveness is degraded by heat leaks in the joints between adjacent blankets and by heat leaks caused by the blanket fastener system. An approach to blanket design based upon modular sub-blankets with distributed seams and upon an associated fastener system that practically eliminates the through-the-blanket conductive path is described. Test results are discussed providing confirmation of the approach. The specific case of the thermal control system for the optical assembly of the Space Telescope is examined.

Tank Applied Testing of Load-Bearing Multilayer Insulation (LB-MLI)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Wesley L.; Valenzuela, Juan G.; Feller, Jerr; Plachta, Dave

2014-01-01

The development of long duration orbital cryogenic storage systems will require the reduction of heat loads into the storage tank. In the case of liquid hydrogen, complete elimination of the heat load at 20 K is currently impractical due to the limitations in lift available on flight cryocoolers. In order to reduce the heat load, without having to remove heat at 20 K, the concept of Reduced Boil-Off uses cooled shields within the insulation system at approximately 90 K. The development of Load-Bearing Multilayer Insulation (LB-MLI) allowed the 90 K shield with tubing and cryocooler attachments to be suspended within the MLI and still be structurally stable. Coupon testing both thermally and structurally were performed to verify that the LB-MLI should work at the tank applied level. Then tank applied thermal and structural (acoustic) testing was performed to demonstrate the functionality of the LB-MLI as a structural insulation system. The LB-MLI showed no degradation of thermal performance due to the acoustic testing and showed excellent thermal performance when integrated with a 90 K class cryocooler on a liquid hydrogen tank.

Assessing thermal conductivity of composting reactor with attention on varying thermal resistance between compost and the inner surface.

PubMed

Wang, Yongjiang; Niu, Wenjuan; Ai, Ping

2016-12-01

Dynamic estimation of heat transfer through composting reactor wall was crucial for insulating design and maintaining a sanitary temperature. A model, incorporating conductive, convective and radiative heat transfer mechanisms, was developed in this paper to provide thermal resistance calculations for composting reactor wall. The mechanism of thermal transfer from compost to inner surface of structural layer, as a first step of heat loss, was important for improving insulation performance, which was divided into conduction and convection and discussed specifically in this study. It was found decreasing conductive resistance was responsible for the drop of insulation between compost and reactor wall. Increasing compost porosity or manufacturing a curved surface, decreasing the contact area of compost and the reactor wall, might improve the insulation performance. Upon modeling of heat transfers from compost to ambient environment, the study yielded a condensed and simplified model that could be used to conduct thermal resistance analysis for composting reactor. With theoretical derivations and a case application, the model was applicable for both dynamic estimation and typical composting scenario. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tank Applied Testing of Load-Bearing Multilayer Insulation (LB-MLI)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Wesley L.; Valenzuela, Juan G.; Feller, Jeffrey R.; Plachta, David W.

2014-01-01

The development of long duration orbital cryogenic storage systems will require the reduction of heat loads into the storage tank. In the case of liquid hydrogen, complete elimination of the heat load at 20 K is currently impractical due to the limitations in lift available on flight cryocoolers. In order to reduce the heat load, without having to remove heat at 20 K, the concept of Reduced Boil-Off uses cooled shields within the insulation system at approximately 90 K. The development of Load-Bearing Multilayer Insulation (LB-MLI) allowed the 90 K shield with tubing and cryocooler attachments to be suspended within the MLI and still be structurally stable. Coupon testing, both thermal and structural was performed to verify that the LB-MLI should work at the tank applied level. Then tank applied thermal and structural (acoustic) testing was performed to demonstrate the functionality of the LB-MLI as a structural insulation system. The LB-MLI showed no degradation of thermal performance due to the acoustic testing and showed excellent thermal performance when integrated with a 90 K class cryocooler on a liquid hydrogen tank.

Low-temperature resistant, elastic adhesives and sealants for gas tank insulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karrer, R.

The leading European insulating firms in the domain of liquid natural gas (LNG)/liquid petroleum gas (LPG) carriers have developed special sandwich elements for the insulation of liquid gas tanks. The trend to increasing tank volumes and, at the same time, to reducing the number of cargo tanks in modern liquid gas carriers with loading capacities of up to 135,000 m 3 has in some cases entailed major changes with respect to tank design (Kaefer-Isoliertechnik, Hansa Schiffahrt-Schiffbau-Hafen, 133rd year, 1996, 2, 20-22). These changes have equally influenced both the design and the assembly of the panels used for insulation, as well as the adhesives and sealants applied for this purpose. This article describes the requirement profile and the possible applications of solvent-free two-component polyurethane adhesives (2-K PU) and recently developed polyurethane hot-melt adhesives (PU-HM) for the manufacture and/or assembly of panels. Moreover, it deals with the role of the advanced solvent-free, silane-modified polymers (MS polymers) in the pointing of panels (seam-sealing) exposed to low temperatures.

Persistent Hall voltages across thin planar charged quantum rings on the surface of a topological insulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durganandini, P.

2015-03-01

We consider thin planar charged quantum rings on the surface of a three dimensional topological insulator coated with a thin ferromagnetic layer. We show theoretically, that when the ring is threaded by a magnetic field, then, due to the Aharanov-Bohm effect, there are not only the well known circulating persistent currents in the ring but also oscillating persistent Hall voltages across the thin ring. Such oscillating persistent Hall voltages arise due to the topological magneto-electric effect associated with the axion electrodynamics exhibited by the surface electronic states of the three dimensional topological insulator when time reversal symmetry is broken. We further generalize to the case of dipole currents and show that analogous Hall dipole voltages arise. We also discuss the robustness of the effect and suggest possible experimental realizations in quantum rings made of semiconductor heterostructures. Such experiments could also provide new ways of observing the predicted topological magneto-electric effect in three dimensional topological insulators with time reversal symmetry breaking. I thank BCUD, Pune University, Pune for financial support through research grant.

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

Vexler, M. I., E-mail: shulekin@mail.ioffe.ru; Grekhov, I. V.

The features of electron tunneling from or into the silicon valence band in a metal–insulator–semiconductor system with the HfO{sub 2}(ZrO{sub 2})/SiO{sub 2} double-layer insulator are theoretically analyzed for different modes. It is demonstrated that the valence-band current plays a less important role in structures with HfO{sub 2}(ZrO{sub 2})/SiO{sub 2} than in structures containing only silicon dioxide. In the case of a very wide-gap high-K oxide ZrO{sub 2}, nonmonotonic behavior related to tunneling through the upper barrier is predicted for the valence-band–metal current component. The use of an insulator stack can offer certain advantages for some devices, including diodes, bipolar tunnel-emittermore » transistors, and resonant-tunneling diodes, along with the traditional use of high-K insulators in a field-effect transistor.« less

Electrical conductivity of rigid polyurethane foam at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, R. T., Jr.

1982-08-01

The electrical conductivity of rigid polyurethane foam, used for electronic encapsulation, was measured during thermal decomposition to 3400 C. At higher temperatures the conductance continues to increase. With pressure loaded electrical leads, sample softening results in eventual contact between electrodes which produces electrical shorting. Air and nitrogen environments show no significant dependence of the conductivity on the atmosphere over the temperature range. The insulating characteristics of polyurethane foam below approx. 2700 C are similar to those for silicone based materials used for electronic case housings and are better than those for phenolics. At higher temperatures (greater than or equal to 2700 C) the phenolics appear to be better insulators to approx. 5000 C and the silicones to approx. 6000 C. It is concluded that the Sylgard 184/GMB encapsulant is a significantly better insulator at high temperature than the rigid polyurethane foam.

An Angle Resolved Photoemission Study of a Mott Insulator and Its Evolution to a High Temperature Superconductor

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

Ronning, Filip

2002-03-19

One of the most remarkable facts about the high temperature superconductors is their close proximity to an antiferromagnetically ordered Mott insulating phase. This fact suggests that to understand superconductivity in the cuprates we must first understand the insulating regime. Due to material properties the technique of angle resolved photoemission is ideally suited to study the electronic structure in the cuprates. Thus, a natural starting place to unlocking the secrets of high Tc would appears to be with a photoemission investigation of insulating cuprates. This dissertation presents the results of precisely such a study. In particular, we have focused on themore » compound Ca{sub 2-x}Na{sub x}CuO{sub 2}Cl{sub 2}. With increasing Na content this system goes from an antiferromagnetic Mott insulator with a Neel transition of 256K to a superconductor with an optimal transition temperature of 28K. At half filling we have found an asymmetry in the integrated spectral weight, which can be related to the occupation probability, n(k). This has led us to identify a d-wave-like dispersion in the insulator, which in turn implies that the high energy pseudogap as seen by photoemission is a remnant property of the insulator. These results are robust features of the insulator which we found in many different compounds and experimental conditions. By adding Na we were able to study the evolution of the electronic structure across the insulator to metal transition. We found that the chemical potential shifts as holes are doped into the system. This picture is in sharp contrast to the case of La{sub 2-x}Sr{sub x}CuO{sub 4} where the chemical potential remains fixed and states are created inside the gap. Furthermore, the low energy excitations (ie the Fermi surface) in metallic Ca{sub 1.9}Na{sub 0.1}CuO{sub 2}Cl{sub 2} is most well described as a Fermi arc, although the high binding energy features reveal the presence of shadow bands. Thus, the results in this dissertation provide a new avenue for understanding the evolution of the Mott insulator to high temperature superconductor.« less

Bondable Stainless Surface Coats Protect Against Rust

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, G. D.; Shaffer, D. K.; Clearfield, H. M.; Nagle, D.; Groff, G.

1995-01-01

Report describes tests conducted to assess use of bondable stainless surface (BOSS) coating materials to protect steel cases of solid-fuel rocket motors against corrosion and to provide surface microstructure and chemistry suitable for bonding to insulating material. Eliminates need to cover cases with grease to prevent corrosion and degreasing immediately prior to use.

Thoracoscopic patch insulation to correct phrenic nerve stimulation secondary to cardiac resynchronization therapy.

PubMed

Mediratta, Neeraj; Barker, Diane; McKevith, James; Davies, Peter; Belchambers, Sandra; Rao, Archana

2012-07-01

Cardiac resynchronization therapy is an established therapy for heart failure, improving quality of life and prognosis. Despite advances in technique, available leads and delivery systems, trans-venous left ventricular (LV) lead positioning remains dependent on the patient's underlying venous anatomy. The left phrenic nerve courses over the surface of the pericardium laterally and may be stimulated by the LV pacing lead, causing uncomfortable diaphragmatic twitch. This paper describes a video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) procedure to correct phrenic nerve stimulation secondary to cardiac resynchronization therapy. Most current ways of avoiding phrenic stimulation involve either electronic reprogramming to distance the phrenic nerve from the stimulation circuit or repositioning the lead. We describe a case where the phrenic nerve was surgically insulated from the stimulating current by insinuating a patch of bovine pericardium between the epicardium and native pericardium of the heart thus completely resolving previously intolerable and incessant diaphragmatic twitch. The procedure was performed under general anaesthesia with single-lung ventilation and minimal use of neuromuscular blocking agents. Surgical patch insulation of the phrenic nerve was performed using minimally invasive VATS surgery, as a short-stay procedure, with no complications. No diaphragmatic twitch occurred post-surgery and the patient continued to gain symptomatic benefit from cardiac synchronization therapy (New York Heart Association Class III to II), enabling return to work. In cases where the trans-venous position of a LV lead is limited by troublesome phrenic nerve stimulation, thoracoscopic surgical patch insulation of the phrenic nerve could be considered to allow beneficial cardiac resynchronization therapy.

Minimising mortality in endangered raptors due to power lines: the importance of spatial aggregation to optimize the application of mitigation measures.

PubMed

Guil, Francisco; Fernández-Olalla, Mariana; Moreno-Opo, Rubén; Mosqueda, Ignacio; Gómez, María Elena; Aranda, Antonio; Arredondo, Angel; Guzmán, José; Oria, Javier; González, Luis Mariano; Margalida, Antoni

2011-01-01

Electrocution by power lines is one of the main causes of non-natural mortality in birds of prey. In an area in central Spain, we surveyed 6304 pylons from 333 power lines to determine electrocution rates, environmental and design factors that may influence electrocution and the efficacy of mitigation measures used to minimise electrocution cases. A total of 952 electrocuted raptors, representing 14 different species, were observed. Electrocuted raptors were concentrated in certain areas and the environmental factors associated with increased electrocution events were: greater numbers of prey animals; greater vegetation cover; and shorter distance to roads. The structural elements associated with electrocutions were shorter strings of insulators, one or more phases over the crossarm, cross-shaped design and pylon function. Of the 952 carcasses found, 148 were eagles, including golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Spanish imperial eagle (Aquila adalberti) and Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata). Electrocuted eagles were clustered in smaller areas than other electrocuted raptors. The factors associated with increased eagle electrocution events were: pylons function, shorter strings of insulators, higher slopes surrounding the pylon, and more numerous potential prey animals. Pylons with increased string of insulators had lower raptor electrocution rates than unimproved pylons, although this technique was unsuccessful for eagles. Pylons with cable insulation showed higher electrocution rates than unimproved pylons, both for raptors and eagles, despite this is the most widely used and recommended mitigation measure in several countries. To optimize the application of mitigation measures, our results recommend the substitution of pin-type insulators to suspended ones and elongating the strings of insulators.

SRM Internal Flow Tests and Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis. Volume 3; Titan, ASRM, and Subscale Motor Analyses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis has been performed on the aft slot region of the Titan 4 Solid Rocket Motor Upgrade (SRMU). This analysis was performed in conjunction with MSFC structural modeling of the propellant grain to determine if the flow field induced stresses would adversely alter the propellant geometry to the extent of causing motor failure. The results of the coupled CFD/stress analysis have shown that there is a continual increase of flow field resistance at the aft slot due to the aft segment propellant grain being progressively moved radially toward the centerline of the motor port. This 'bootstrapping' effect between grain radial movement and internal flow resistance is conducive to causing a rapid motor failure.

Internal ballistics model update for ASRM dome

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bowden, Mark H.; Jenkins, Billy Z.

1991-01-01

A previous report (no. 5-32279, contract NAS8-36955, DO 51) describes the measures taken to adapt the NASA Complex Burning Region Model and code so that is was applicable to the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor as envisioned at that time. The code so modified was called the CBRM-A. CBRM-A could calculate the port volume and burning area for the star, transition, and cylindrically perforated regions of the motor. Described here is a subsequent effort to add computation of port volume and burning area for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor head dome. Sample output, input, and overview of the models are included. The software was configured in two forms - a stand alone head dome code and a code integrating the head dome solution with the CBRM-A.

Localization of electrons and excitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larsson, Sven

2006-07-01

Electrons, electron holes, or excitations in finite or infinite 'multimer systems' may be localized or delocalized. In the theory of Hush, localization depends on the ratio Δ/ λ ( Δ/2 = coupling; λ = reorganization energy). The latter theory has been extended to the infinite system [S. Larsson, A. Klimkāns, Mol. Cryst. Liq. Cryst. 355 (2000) 217]. The metal/insulator transition often takes place abruptly as a function of Δ/ λ. It is argued that localization in a system with un-filled bands cannot be determined on the basis of Mott-Hubbard U alone, but depends on the number of accessible valence states, reorganization energy λ and coupling Δ (=2t). In fact U = 0 does not necessarily imply delocalization. The analysis here shows that there are many different situations for an insulator to metal transition. Charge transfer in doped NiO is characterized by Ni 2+ - Ni 3+ exchange while charge transfer in pure NiO is characterized by a disproportionation 2Ni 2+ → Ni + + Ni 3+. In spite of the great differences between these two cases, U has been applied without discrimination to both. The relevant localization parameters appear to be Δ and λ in the first case, with only two oxidation states, and U, Δ and λ in the second case with three oxidation states. The analysis is extended to insulator-metal transitions, giant magnetic resistance (GMR) and high Tc superconductivity (SC). λ and Δ can be determined quite accurately in quantum mechanical calculations involving only one and two monomers, respectively.

High Temperature Variable Conductance Heat Pipes for Radioisotope Stirling Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tarau, Calin; Walker, Kara L.; Anderson, William G.

2009-01-01

In a Stirling radioisotope system, heat must continually be removed from the GPHS modules, to maintain the GPHS modules and surrounding insulation at acceptable temperatures. Normally, the Stirling convertor provides this cooling. If the Stirling convertor stops in the current system, the insulation is designed to spoil, preventing damage to the GPHS, but also ending the mission. An alkali-metal Variable Conductance Heat Pipe (VCHP) is under development to allow multiple stops and restarts of the Stirling convertor. The status of the ongoing effort in developing this technology is presented in this paper. An earlier, preliminary design had a radiator outside the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator (ASRG) casing, used NaK as the working fluid, and had the reservoir located on the cold side adapter flange. The revised design has an internal radiator inside the casing, with the reservoir embedded inside the insulation. A large set of advantages are offered by this new design. In addition to reducing the overall size and mass of the VCHP, simplicity, compactness and easiness in assembling the VCHP with the ASRG are significantly enhanced. Also, the permanently elevated temperatures of the entire VCHP allows the change of the working fluid from a binary compound (NaK) to single compound (Na). The latter, by its properties, allows higher performance and further mass reduction of the system. Preliminary design and analysis shows an acceptable peak temperature of the ASRG case of 140 C while the heat losses caused by the addition of the VCHP are 1.8 W.

Excitonic Phase Diagram of the Three-Chain Hubbard Model for Semiconducting and Semimetallic Ta2NiSe5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Domon, Kaoru; Yamada, Takemi; Ōno, Yoshiaki

2018-05-01

Transition metal chalcogenide Ta2NiSe5, a promising material for the excitonic insulator, is investigated on the basis of the three-chain Hubbard model with two conduction (c) bands and one valence (f) band. In the semimetallic case where only one of two c bands and the f band cross the Fermi level, the transition from the c-f compensated semimetal to the uniform excitonic order, the so-called excitonic insulator, takes place at low temperature as the same as in the semiconducting case. On the other hand, when another c band also crosses the Fermi level, the system shows three types of Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov (FFLO) excitonic orders characterized by the condensation of excitons with finite center-of-mass momentum q corresponding to the three types of nesting vectors between the imbalanced two c and one f Fermi surfaces. The obtained FFLO excitonic states are metallic in contrast to the excitonic insulator and are expected to be observed in the semimetallic Ta2NiSe5 under high pressure. The effect of the electron-lattice coupling is also discussed briefly and is found to induce the monoclinic distortion not only in the uniform excitonic state but also in the FFLO one resulting in the orthorhombic-monoclinic structural phase transition for both cases as observed in Ta2NiSe5 for both low-pressure semiconducting and high-pressure semimetallic regimes.

Nanoscale orbital excitations and the infrared spectrum of a molecular Mott insulator: A15-Cs3C60.

PubMed

Naghavi, S S; Fabrizio, M; Qin, T; Tosatti, E

2016-10-14

The quantum physics of ions and electrons behind low-energy spectra of strongly correlated molecular conductors, superconductors and Mott insulators is poorly known, yet fascinating especially in orbitally degenerate cases. The fulleride insulator Cs 3 C 60 (A15), one such system, exhibits infrared (IR) spectra with low temperature peak features and splittings suggestive of static Jahn-Teller distortions with a breakdown of orbital symmetry in the molecular site. That is puzzling, since there is no detectable static distortion, and because the features and splittings disappear upon modest heating, which they should not. Taking advantage of the Mott-induced collapse of electronic wavefunctions from lattice-extended to nanoscale localized inside a caged molecular site, we show that the unbroken spin and orbital symmetry of the ion multiplets explains the IR spectrum without adjustable parameters. This demonstrates the importance of a fully quantum treatment of nuclear positions and orbital momenta in the Mott insulator sites, dynamically but not statically distorted. The observed demise of these features with temperature is explained by the thermal population of a multiplet term whose nuclear positions are essentially undistorted, but whose energy is very low-lying. That term is in fact a scaled-down orbital excitation analogous to that of other Mott insulators, with the same spin 1/2 as the ground state, but with a larger orbital momentum of two instead of one.

Design of a -1 MV dc UHV power supply for ITER NBI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, K.; Yamamoto, M.; Takemoto, J.; Yamashita, Y.; Dairaku, M.; Kashiwagi, M.; Taniguchi, M.; Tobari, H.; Umeda, N.; Sakamoto, K.; Inoue, T.

2009-05-01

Procurement of a dc -1 MV power supply system for the ITER neutral beam injector (NBI) is shared by Japan and the EU. The Japan Atomic Energy Agency as the Japan Domestic Agency (JADA) for ITER contributes to the procurement of dc -1 MV ultra-high voltage (UHV) components such as a dc -1 MV generator, a transmission line and a -1 MV insulating transformer for the ITER NBI power supply. The inverter frequency of 150 Hz in the -1 MV power supply and major circuit parameters have been proposed and adopted in the ITER NBI. The dc UHV insulation has been carefully designed since dc long pulse insulation is quite different from conventional ac insulation or dc short pulse systems. A multi-layer insulation structure of the transformer for a long pulse up to 3600 s has been designed with electric field simulation. Based on the simulation the overall dimensions of the dc UHV components have been finalized. A surge energy suppression system is also essential to protect the accelerator from electric breakdowns. The JADA contributes to provide an effective surge suppression system composed of core snubbers and resistors. Input energy into the accelerator from the power supply can be reduced to about 20 J, which satisfies the design criteria of 50 J in total in the case of breakdown at -1 MV.

[Heated humidification during CPAP with and without tube insulation].

PubMed

Rühle, K-H; Domanski, U; Schröder, M; Franke, K J; Nilius, G

2010-05-01

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) under continuous positive pressure (CPAP) often complain about drying-up of the throat and nasal mucosa. In many cases the problem can be eliminated with a heated humidifier (WLB). Especially in a cold environment condensation forming on cooling of the air in the tube and the mask can be observed. To avoid this, some patients use an insulating tube covering. We investigated the effect of temperature (T) and relative humidity (rH) of the environment, the ventilation pressure, mask leaks, insulation of tubing on the T and rH% of the delivered air at the end of the tube or in the mask in OSAS patients. All measurements were performed with a conventional WLB (S8, Resmed Fa) and a temperature and humidity sensor (Fa Testo, Lenzkirch). 8 patients with OSAS were examined during the day at a room temperature of 16.4 degrees C. The temperature at the outlet of the WLB increased with a higher ambient temperature. Through isolation with a hose cover the temperature drop in the tube was reduced by 2.3 degrees C. By tube insulation a mean increase in temperature between 1.6 and 1.0 C during normal breathing in dependence on the leakage flow in the mask was found. Due to additional insulation with a tube cover the mask temperature can be increased, albeit slightly, and the formation of condensation is reduced.

Externalized conductors and insulation failure in Biotronik defibrillator leads: History repeating or a false alarm?

PubMed

De Maria, Elia; Borghi, Ambra; Bonetti, Lorenzo; Fontana, Pier Luigi; Cappelli, Stefano

2017-02-16

Conductor externalization and insulation failure are frequent complications with the recalled St. Jude Medical Riata implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads. Conductor externalization is a "unique" failure mechanism: Cables externalize through the insulation ("inside-out" abrasion) and appear outside the lead body. Recently, single reports described a similar failure also for Biotronik leads. Moreover, some studies reported a high rate of electrical dysfunction (not only insulation failure) with Biotronik Linox leads and a reduced survival rate in comparison with the competitors. In this paper we describe the case of a patient with a Biotronik Kentrox ICD lead presenting with signs of insulation failure and conductor externalization at fluoroscopy. Due to the high risk of extraction we decided to implant a new lead, abandoning the damaged one; lead reimplant was uneventful. Subsequently, we review currently available literature about Biotronik Kentrox and Linox ICD lead failure and in particular externalized conductors. Some single-center studies and a non-prospective registry reported a survival rate between 88% and 91% at 5 years for Linox leads, significantly worse than that of other manufacturers. However, the preliminary results of two ongoing multicenter, prospective registries (GALAXY and CELESTIAL) showed 96% survival rate at 5 years after implant, well within industry standards. Ongoing data collection is needed to confirm longer-term performance of this family of ICD leads.

Externalized conductors and insulation failure in Biotronik defibrillator leads: History repeating or a false alarm?

PubMed Central

De Maria, Elia; Borghi, Ambra; Bonetti, Lorenzo; Fontana, Pier Luigi; Cappelli, Stefano

2017-01-01

Conductor externalization and insulation failure are frequent complications with the recalled St. Jude Medical Riata implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads. Conductor externalization is a “unique” failure mechanism: Cables externalize through the insulation (“inside-out” abrasion) and appear outside the lead body. Recently, single reports described a similar failure also for Biotronik leads. Moreover, some studies reported a high rate of electrical dysfunction (not only insulation failure) with Biotronik Linox leads and a reduced survival rate in comparison with the competitors. In this paper we describe the case of a patient with a Biotronik Kentrox ICD lead presenting with signs of insulation failure and conductor externalization at fluoroscopy. Due to the high risk of extraction we decided to implant a new lead, abandoning the damaged one; lead reimplant was uneventful. Subsequently, we review currently available literature about Biotronik Kentrox and Linox ICD lead failure and in particular externalized conductors. Some single-center studies and a non-prospective registry reported a survival rate between 88% and 91% at 5 years for Linox leads, significantly worse than that of other manufacturers. However, the preliminary results of two ongoing multicenter, prospective registries (GALAXY and CELESTIAL) showed 96% survival rate at 5 years after implant, well within industry standards. Ongoing data collection is needed to confirm longer-term performance of this family of ICD leads. PMID:28255544

Optimization of heat transfer during the directional solidification process of 1600 kg silicon feedstock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Chieh; Chen, Jyh Chen; Nguyen, Thi Hoai Thu; Hou, Zhi Zhong; Chen, Chun Hung; Huang, Yen Hao; Yang, Michael

2018-02-01

In this study, the power ratio between the top and side heaters and the moving velocity of the side insulation are designed to control the shape of the crystal-melt interface during the growth process of a 1600 kg multi-crystalline silicon ingot. The power ratio and insulation gap are adjusted to ensure solidification of the melt. To ensure that the crystal-melt interface is slightly convex in relation to the melt during the entire solidification process, the power ratio should be augmented gradually in the initial stages while being held to a constant value in the middle stages. Initially the gap between the side and the bottom insulation is kept small to reduce thermal stress inside the seed crystals. However, the growth rate will be slow in the early stages of the solidification process. Therefore, the movement of the side insulation is fast in the initial stages but slower in the middle stages. In the later stages, the side insulation gap is fixed. With these modifications, the convexity of the crystal-melt interface in relation to the melt can be maintained during the growth process with an approximately 41% reduction in the thermal stress inside the growing ingot and an 80% reduction in dislocation density along the center line of the ingot compared with the original case.

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

Ueno, Kohta

Adding insulation to the interior side of walls of masonry buildings in cold (and wet) climates may cause performance and durability problems. Some concerns, such as condensation and freeze-thaw, have known solutions, but wood members embedded in the masonry structure will be colder (and potentially wetter) after an interior insulation retrofit. Moisture content & relative humidity were monitored at joist ends in historic mass brick masonry walls retrofitted with interior insulation in a cold climate (Zone 5A); data were collected from 2012-2015. Eleven joist ends were monitored in all four orientations. One limitation of these results is that the renovationmore » is still ongoing, with limited wintertime construction heating and no permanent occupancy to date. Measurements show that many joists ends remain at high moisture contents, especially at north- and east-facing orientations, with constant 100% RH conditions at the worst cases. These high moisture levels are not conducive for wood durability, but no evidence for actual structural damage has been observed. Insulated versus non-insulated joist pockets do not show large differences. South facing joists have safe (10-15%) moisture contents. Given the uncertainty pointed out by research, definitive guidance on the vulnerability of embedded wood members is difficult to formulate. In high-risk situations, or when a very conservative approach is warranted, the embedded wood member condition can be eliminated entirely, supporting the joist ends outside of the masonry pocket.« less

Effect of the substrate on the insulator-metal transition of vanadium dioxide films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovács, György J.; Bürger, Danilo; Skorupa, Ilona; Reuther, Helfried; Heller, René; Schmidt, Heidemarie

2011-03-01

Single-phase vanadium dioxide films grown on (0001) sapphire and (001) silicon substrates show a very different insulator-metal electronic transition. A detailed description of the growth mechanisms and the substrate-film interaction is given, and the characteristics of the electronic transition are described by the morphology and grain boundary structure. (Tri-)epitaxy-stabilized columnar growth of VO2 takes place on the sapphire substrate, whereas on silicon the expected Zone II growth is identified. We have found that in the case of the Si substrate the reasons for the broader hysteresis and the lower switching amplitude are the formation of an amorphous insulating VOx (x > 2.6) phase coexisting with VO2 and the high vanadium vacancy concentration of the VO2. These phenomena are the result of the excess oxygen during the growth and the interaction between the silicon substrate and the growing film.

Interferometric measurement method for Z2 invariants of time-reversal invariant topological insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grusdt, Fabian; Abanin, Dmitry; Demler, Eugene

2013-05-01

Recently experiments with ultracold atoms started to explore topological phases in 1D optical lattices. While transport measurements are challenging in these systems, ways to directly measure topological quantum numbers using a combination of Bloch oscillations and Ramsey interferometry have been explored (Atala et al., arXiv:1212.0572). In this talk I will present ways to measure the Z2 topological quantum numbers of two and three dimensional time-reversal invariant (TR) topological insulators. In this case non-Abelian Bloch oscillations can be combined with Ramsey interferometry to map out the topological properties of a given band-structure. Our method is very general and works even in the presence of accidental degeneracies. The applicability of the scheme is discussed for different theoretically proposed implementations of TR topological insulators using ultracold atoms. F. G. is grateful to Harvard University for hospitality and acknowledges financial support from Graduate School Materials Science in Mainz (MAINZ).

Superconductor-insulator transition in a stripe-ordered cuprate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tranquada, John; Homes, C.; Gu, G. D.; Li, Q.; Huecker, M.

We reconsider the case of La2-xBaxCuO4 with x = 1 / 8 , where spin-stripe order and 2D superconducting correlations develop simultaneously at 40 K. The thermal evolution of the in-plane optical reflectivity suggests the development of a Josephson plasma resonance (JPR) between charge stripes, by analogy with the JPR seen in c-axis reflectivity in the superconducting state of Josephson-coupled CuO2 planes. At low-temperature, when the superconductivity is suppressed by a magnetic field, the resistivity exhibits insulating character. We interpret this as suppression of the Josephson coupling between pair correlations in neighboring charge stripes, with single-particle transport suppressed by the surviving spin-stripe order. To obtain direct evidence that the high-field insulator involves hole pairs localized to 1D stripes will require further experiments. Work at BNL supported by Office of Basic Energy Sciences, US DOE, under Contract No. DE-SC0012704.

Electrically controlled crossing of energy levels in quantum dots in two-dimensional topological insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sukhanov, Aleksei A.

2017-05-01

We study the energy spectra of bound states in quantum dots (QDs) formed by an electrostatic potential in two-dimensional topological insulator (TI) and their transformation with changes in QD depth and radius. It is found that, unlike a trivial insulator, the energy difference between the levels of the ground state and first excited state can decrease with decreasing the radius and increasing the depth of the QD so that these levels intersect under some critical condition. The crossing of the levels results in unusual features of optical properties caused by intraceneter electron transitions. In particular, it leads to significant changes of light absorption due to electron transitions between such levels and to the transient electroluminescence induced by electrical tuning of QD and TI parameters. In the case of magnetic TIs, the polarization direction of the absorbed or emitted circularly polarized light is changed due to the level crossing.

Energy and Environment 1990: Transportation-induced noise and air pollution

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

Not Available

1990-01-01

Contents: public reaction to low levels of aircraft noise; airport noise insulation of homes surrounding stapleton international airport; sound insulation and thermal performance modifications: case study for three dwellings near bwi airport; single-number ratings for outdoor-indoor sound insulation; control of wheel squeal noise in rail transit cars; knowledge-based preprocessor for traffic noise prediction; barrier overlap analysis procedure; atmospheric effects on traffic noise propagation; predicting stop-and-go traffic noise with stamina 2.0; feasibility of transparent noise barriers; field testing of the effectiveness of open-graded asphalt pavement in reducing tire noise from highway vehicles; cost of noise barrier construction in the united states;more » comparisons of emissions of transit buses using methanol and diesel fuel; high-speed rail system noise assessment; energy-related, environmental, and economic benefits of florida's high-speed rail and maglev systems proposals.« less

Direct measurement of magnon temperature: new insight into magnon-phonon coupling in magnetic insulators.

PubMed

Agrawal, M; Vasyuchka, V I; Serga, A A; Karenowska, A D; Melkov, G A; Hillebrands, B

2013-09-06

We present spatially resolved measurements of the magnon temperature in a magnetic insulator subject to a thermal gradient. Our data reveal an unexpectedly close correspondence between the spatial dependencies of the exchange magnon and phonon temperatures. These results indicate that if--as is currently thought--the transverse spin Seebeck effect is caused by a temperature difference between the magnon and phonon baths, it must be the case that the magnon temperature is spectrally nonuniform and that the effect is driven by the sparsely populated dipolar region of the magnon spectrum.

Technology Solutions for Existing Homes Case Study: Trade-Friendly Retrofit Insulated Panels for Existing Buildings

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

None

For this project with the U.S. Department of Energy Building America team Home Innovation Research Labs, the retrofit insulated panels relied on an enhanced expanded polystyrene (EPS) for thermal resistance of R-4.5/inch, which is an improvement of 10% over conventional (white-colored) EPS. EPS, measured by its life cycle, is an alternative to commonly used extruded polystyrene and spray polyurethane foam. It is a closed-cell product made up of 90% air, and it requires about 85% fewer petroleum products for processing than other rigid foams.

Beta > 1 Plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Robert

2017-10-01

I have suggested that fusion researchers should put more effort into the study of beta > 1 or wall confined plasmas. Magneto-Inertial Fusion and Magnetized Target Fusion projects at Los Alamos National Laboratory are recent examples of this sort of work. Unfortunately, theoretical studies of such systems may be employing overly optimistic models of the magnetic thermal insulation. One might well expect such systems to have stochastic field lines. If that is the case then we might want to employ turbulent thermal insulation as suggested in my papers: Current Science, pg 991, 1988 and Bull. Am. Phys. Soc., Nov. 4, 2009.

Credit PSR. View looks west southwest (238°) at the north ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

Credit PSR. View looks west southwest (238°) at the north and east elevations of the liner lab. Solid rocket motor casings receive specially formulated rubber insulating liners that protect the casings from the heat generated by burning solid motors - Jet Propulsion Laboratory Edwards Facility, Liner Laboratory, Edwards Air Force Base, Boron, Kern County, CA

Best Practices Case Study: Tindall Homes - Princeton, NJ, Legends at Mansfield, Columbus, NJ

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

None

2011-09-01

Case Study of Tindall Homes, who worked with Building America to design an optimal package including advanced framing, insulated precast concrete basement walls, polyurethane foam in the walls, and R-49 of batt plus blown cellulose in the attics. Some homes included a detached garden shed with photovoltaic panel-covered roofs.

Best Practices Case Study: Tom Walsh and Co. - New Columbus, Portland, OR

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

none,

2010-09-01

Case study of Tom Walsh, who achieved 50% in heating and cooling energy savings over the 2004 IECC with advanced framing, superior air sealing, extra insulation, and ducts in conditioned space. Surface water runoff in the large urban rebuild development was handled with pervious pavers, swales, retention of existing trees, and green spaces.

High-Frequency Response and Voltage Noise in Magnetic Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buznikov, N. A.; Iakubov, I. T.; Rakhmanov, A. L.; Kugel, K. I.; Sboychakov, A. O.

We study the noise spectra and high-frequency permeability of inhomogeneous magnetic materials consisting of single-domain magnetic nanoparticles embedded into an insulating matrix. Possible mechanisms of 1/f voltage noise in phase-separated manganites is analyzed. The material is modelled by a system of small ferromagnetic metallic droplets (magnetic polarons or ferrons) in insulating antiferromagnetic or paramagnetic matrix. The electron transport is related to tunnelling of charge carriers between droplets. One of the sources of the 1/f noise in such a system stems from fluctuations of the number of droplets with extra electron. In the case of strong magnetic anisotropy, the 1/f noise can arise also due to the fluctuations of the magnetic moments of ferrons. The high frequency magnetic permeability of nanocomposite film with magnetic particles in insulating non-magnetic matrix is studied in detail. The case of strong magnetic dipole interaction and strong magnetic anisotropy of ferromagnetic granules is considered. The composite is modelled by a cubic regular array of ferromagnetic particles. The high-frequency permeability tensor components are found as a functions of frequency, temperature, ferromagnetic phase content, and magnetic anisotropy. The results demonstrate that magnetic dipole interaction leads to a shift of the resonance frequencies towards higher values, and nanocomposite film could have rather high value of magnetic permeability in the microwave range.

High-Frequency Response and Voltage Noise in Magnetic Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buznikov, N. A.; Iakubov, I. T.; Rakhmanov, A. L.; Kugel, K. I.; Sboychakov, A. O.

2010-12-01

We study the noise spectra and high-frequency permeability of inhomogeneous magnetic materials consisting of single-domain magnetic nanoparticles embedded into an insulating matrix. Possible mechanisms of 1/f voltage noise in phase-separated manganites is analyzed. The material is modelled by a system of small ferromagnetic metallic droplets (magnetic polarons or ferrons) in insulating antiferromagnetic or paramagnetic matrix. The electron transport is related to tunnelling of charge carriers between droplets. One of the sources of the 1/f noise in such a system stems from fluctuations of the number of droplets with extra electron. In the case of strong magnetic anisotropy, the 1/f noise can arise also due to the fluctuations of the magnetic moments of ferrons. The high frequency magnetic permeability of nanocomposite film with magnetic particles in insulating non-magnetic matrix is studied in detail. The case of strong magnetic dipole interaction and strong magnetic anisotropy of ferromagnetic granules is considered. The composite is modelled by a cubic regular array of ferromagnetic particles. The high-frequency permeability tensor components are found as a functions of frequency, temperature, ferromagnetic phase content, and magnetic anisotropy. The results demonstrate that magnetic dipole interaction leads to a shift of the resonance frequencies towards higher values, and nanocomposite film could have rather high value of magnetic permeability in the microwave range.

Implementation of a virtual laboratory for training on sound insulation testing and uncertainty calculations in acoustic tests.

PubMed

Asensio, C; Gasco, L; Ruiz, M; Recuero, M

2015-02-01

This paper describes a methodology and case study for the implementation of educational virtual laboratories for practice training on acoustic tests according to international standards. The objectives of this activity are (a) to help the students understand and apply the procedures described in the standards and (b) to familiarize the students with the uncertainty in measurement and its estimation in acoustics. The virtual laboratory will not focus on the handling and set-up of real acoustic equipment but rather on procedures and uncertainty. The case study focuses on the application of the virtual laboratory for facade sound insulation tests according to ISO 140-5:1998 (International Organization for Standardization, Geneva, Switzerland, 1998), and the paper describes the causal and stochastic models and the constraints applied in the virtual environment under consideration. With a simple user interface, the laboratory will provide measurement data that the students will have to process to report the insulation results that must converge with the "virtual true values" in the laboratory. The main advantage of the virtual laboratory is derived from the customization of factors in which the student will be instructed or examined (for instance, background noise correction, the detection of sporadic corrupted observations, and the effect of instrument precision).

Comparison of currents predicted by NASCAP/LEO model simulations with elementary Langmuir-type bare probe models for an insulated cable containing a single pinhole

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Galofaro, Joel T.

1990-01-01

The behavior of a defect in the insulation of a short biased section of cable in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) space environment was examined. Such studies are of the utmost importance for large space power systems where great quantities of cabling will be deployed. An insulated probe containing a pinhole was placed into a hypothetical high speed LEO plasma. The NASA Charging Analyzer Program (NASCAP/LEO) was used to explore sheath growth about the probe as a function of applied voltage and to predict I-V behavior. A set of independent current calculations using Langmuir's formulations for concentric spheres and coaxial cylinders were also performed. The case of concentric spheres was here extended to include the case of concentric hemispheres. Several simple Langmuir-type models were then constructed to bracket the current collected by the cable. The space-charge sheath radius and impact parameters were used to determine the proper current regime. I-V curves were plotted for the models and comparisons were made with NASCAP/LEO results. Finally, NASCAP/LEO potential contours and surface cell potential plots were examined to explain interesting features in the NASCAP/LEO I-V curve.

Technological parameters influence on the non-autoclaved foam concrete characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartenjeva, Ekaterina; Mashkin, Nikolay

2017-01-01

Foam concretes are used as effective heat-insulating materials. The porous structure of foam concrete provides good insulating and strength properties that make them possible to be used as heat-insulating structural materials. Optimal structure of non-autoclaved foam concrete depends on both technological factors and properties of technical foam. In this connection, the possibility to manufacture heat-insulation structural foam concrete on a high-speed cavity plant with the usage of protein and synthetic foamers was estimated. This experiment was carried out using mathematical planning method, and in this case mathematical models were developed that demonstrated the dependence of operating performance of foam concrete on foaming and rotation speed of laboratory plant. The following material properties were selected for the investigation: average density, compressive strength, bending strength and thermal conductivity. The influence of laboratory equipment technological parameters on technical foam strength and foam stability coefficient in the cement paste was investigated, physical and mechanical properties of non-autoclaved foam concrete were defined based on investigated foam. As a result of investigation, foam concrete samples were developed with performance parameters ensuring their use in production. The mathematical data gathered demonstrated the dependence of foam concrete performance on the technological regime.

Manipulating topological-insulator properties using quantum confinement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotulla, M.; Zülicke, U.

2017-07-01

Recent discoveries have spurred the theoretical prediction and experimental realization of novel materials that have topological properties arising from band inversion. Such topological insulators are insulating in the bulk but have conductive surface or edge states. Topological materials show various unusual physical properties and are surmised to enable the creation of exotic Majorana-fermion quasiparticles. How the signatures of topological behavior evolve when the system size is reduced is interesting from both a fundamental and an application-oriented point of view, as such understanding may form the basis for tailoring systems to be in specific topological phases. This work considers the specific case of quantum-well confinement defining two-dimensional layers. Based on the effective-Hamiltonian description of bulk topological insulators, and using a harmonic-oscillator potential as an example for a softer-than-hard-wall confinement, we have studied the interplay of band inversion and size quantization. Our model system provides a useful platform for systematic study of the transition between the normal and topological phases, including the development of band inversion and the formation of massless-Dirac-fermion surface states. The effects of bare size quantization, two-dimensional-subband mixing, and electron-hole asymmetry are disentangled and their respective physical consequences elucidated.

Aging of XLPE cable insulation under combined electrical and mechanical stresses

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

David, E.; Parpal, J.L.; Crine, J.P.

1996-12-31

Extruded crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation is widely used in high-voltage cables since it presents such attractive features as excellent dielectric properties and good thermomechanical behavior. However, its performance is affected by long-term degradation when it is subjected to the various thermal, mechanical and environmental stresses occurring in service in combination with electrical stress. The synergetic effect of superposed electrical and other stresses remains to be fully clarified. In particular, a fairly high level of mechanical stresses can be present in the insulation volume, originating from residual internal stresses created during the cooling process in the fabrication, external forces when cablesmore » are bent sharply, or thermomechanical stresses caused by differential thermal expansion between the conductor and the insulating material. In order to investigate the influence of the superposition of mechanical and electrical stresses, various measurements were conducted on XLPE and LDPE specimens in tip-plane and plane-plane geometries. Experimental data of time-to-breakdown, breakdown field and tree length are presented as a function of the magnitude of the stresses. In all cases, superposition of the mechanical stress was found to reduce the dielectric strength of the material.« less

The “graying” of infertility services: an impending revolution nobody is ready for

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background As demand for infertility services by older women continues to grow, because achievable in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes are widely underestimated, most fertility centers do not offer maximal treatment options with use of autologous oocytes. Limited data suggest that clinical IVF outcomes in excess of what the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) considers “futile” can, likely, be achieved up to at least age 45 years. Methods In an attempt to point out an evolving demographic trend in IVF, we here report our center’s IVF data for 2010-2012 and national U.S. data for 1997-2010. Though our center’s data are representative of only one IVF center’s patients, they, likely, are unique since they probably represent the most adversely selected IVF patient population ever reported and, thus, are predictive of future demographic trends. In addition we performed a systematic review of the literature on the subject based on PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar searches till year-end 2013. The literature search was performed using key words and phrases relevant to fertility treatments in older women. Results As demonstrated by our center’s patient demographics and national U.S. data, IVF centers are destined to treat increasingly adversely selected patients. Despite our center’s already extremely adversely selected patient population, age-specific IVF cycle outcomes in women above age 40 years, nevertheless, exceeded criteria for “futility” by the ASRM and widely quoted outcome expectations in the literature for patient ages. Age 43 discriminates between better and poorer clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Conclusions “Graying” of the infertility populations in the developed world, a problem with potentially far-reaching medical and societal consequences, has so far been only insufficiently addressed in the literature. As women’s postmenopausal life spans already exceed postmenarcheal life spans at the start of the 20th century, the “graying” of infertility services can be expected to further accelerate, no longer as in recent decades bringing only women in their 40s into maternity wards but also women in their 50s and 60s. Medicine and society better get ready for this revolution. PMID:25012752

Minimising Mortality in Endangered Raptors Due to Power Lines: The Importance of Spatial Aggregation to Optimize the Application of Mitigation Measures

PubMed Central

Guil, Francisco; Fernández-Olalla, Mariana; Moreno-Opo, Rubén; Mosqueda, Ignacio; Gómez, María Elena; Aranda, Antonio; Arredondo, Ángel; Guzmán, José; Oria, Javier; González, Luis Mariano; Margalida, Antoni

2011-01-01

Electrocution by power lines is one of the main causes of non-natural mortality in birds of prey. In an area in central Spain, we surveyed 6304 pylons from 333 power lines to determine electrocution rates, environmental and design factors that may influence electrocution and the efficacy of mitigation measures used to minimise electrocution cases. A total of 952 electrocuted raptors, representing 14 different species, were observed. Electrocuted raptors were concentrated in certain areas and the environmental factors associated with increased electrocution events were: greater numbers of prey animals; greater vegetation cover; and shorter distance to roads. The structural elements associated with electrocutions were shorter strings of insulators, one or more phases over the crossarm, cross-shaped design and pylon function. Of the 952 carcasses found, 148 were eagles, including golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Spanish imperial eagle (Aquila adalberti) and Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata). Electrocuted eagles were clustered in smaller areas than other electrocuted raptors. The factors associated with increased eagle electrocution events were: pylons function, shorter strings of insulators, higher slopes surrounding the pylon, and more numerous potential prey animals. Pylons with increased string of insulators had lower raptor electrocution rates than unimproved pylons, although this technique was unsuccessful for eagles. Pylons with cable insulation showed higher electrocution rates than unimproved pylons, both for raptors and eagles, despite this is the most widely used and recommended mitigation measure in several countries. To optimize the application of mitigation measures, our results recommend the substitution of pin-type insulators to suspended ones and elongating the strings of insulators. PMID:22140549

Improving building efficiency in developing countries: Case study of insulation for northern Pakistan

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

Glicksman, L.R.; Norford, L.; Charlson, J.

1998-07-01

There is a need to improve building envelopes in many parts of the developing world. In cold climates, scarce fuel is consumed in an attempt to maintain reasonable indoor temperatures. In Northern Pakistan, traditional houses are made with stone walls while newer buildings, houses and schools, use uninsulated concrete block that has even lower thermal resistance. Evaluation and improvement of these buildings were undertaken with a regional non-governmental organization. Measurements were made of the thermal resistance of typical exterior walls. An energy analysis showed that using 1.0 kg of straw in an insulation board would save about 5 kg ofmore » firewood over a winter in a Pakistani school. Recent research has focused on development of an insulation that can be retrofitted over existing walls. The insulation board must be sufficiently strong to support itself during construction and resist damage at its surface. Several methods of containing and binding straw were examined; the most promising adhesive was commercially available methane di-isocyanate. Good mechanical properties were obtained at resin contents as low as 2% by weight. At densities of 128 and 160 kg/m{sup 3} (8 and 10 lb/ft{sup 3}), these boards have thermal conductivities of 0.039--0.041 W/m-K (R-values of 3.7 and 3.45 per inch), respectively. The boards have an estimated materials cost per unit thermal resistance that is roughly half the delivered cost of competing insulations available in Pakistan. Straw insulation boards have the added advantage that they can be made on site with semi-skilled local labor and local materials.« less

Unconventional Topological Phase Transition in Two-Dimensional Systems with Space-Time Inversion Symmetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahn, Junyeong; Yang, Bohm-Jung

2017-04-01

We study a topological phase transition between a normal insulator and a quantum spin Hall insulator in two-dimensional (2D) systems with time-reversal and twofold rotation symmetries. Contrary to the case of ordinary time-reversal invariant systems, where a direct transition between two insulators is generally predicted, we find that the topological phase transition in systems with an additional twofold rotation symmetry is mediated by an emergent stable 2D Weyl semimetal phase between two insulators. Here the central role is played by the so-called space-time inversion symmetry, the combination of time-reversal and twofold rotation symmetries, which guarantees the quantization of the Berry phase around a 2D Weyl point even in the presence of strong spin-orbit coupling. Pair creation and pair annihilation of Weyl points accompanying partner exchange between different pairs induces a jump of a 2D Z2 topological invariant leading to a topological phase transition. According to our theory, the topological phase transition in HgTe /CdTe quantum well structure is mediated by a stable 2D Weyl semimetal phase because the quantum well, lacking inversion symmetry intrinsically, has twofold rotation about the growth direction. Namely, the HgTe /CdTe quantum well can show 2D Weyl semimetallic behavior within a small but finite interval in the thickness of HgTe layers between a normal insulator and a quantum spin Hall insulator. We also propose that few-layer black phosphorus under perpendicular electric field is another candidate system to observe the unconventional topological phase transition mechanism accompanied by the emerging 2D Weyl semimetal phase protected by space-time inversion symmetry.

Size effect in Quincke rotation: a numerical study.

PubMed

Peters, F; Lobry, L; Khayari, A; Lemaire, E

2009-05-21

This paper deals with the Quincke rotation of small insulating particles. This dc electrorotation of insulating objects immersed in a slightly conducting liquid is usually explained by looking at the action of the free charges present in the liquid. Under the effect of the dc electric field, the charges accumulate at the surface of the insulating particle which, in turn, acquires a dipole moment in the direction opposite to that of the field and begins to rotate in order to flip its dipole moment. In the classical Quincke model, the charge distribution around the rotor is supposed to be purely superficial. A consequence of this assumption is that the angular velocity does not depend on the rotor size. Nevertheless, this hypothesis holds only if the rotor size is much larger than the characteristic ion layer thickness around the particle. In the opposite case, we show thanks to numerical calculations that the bulk charge distribution has to be accounted for to predict the electromechanical behavior of the rotor. We consider the case of an infinite insulating cylinder whose axis is perpendicular to the dc electric field. We use the finite element method to solve the conservation equations for the positive and the negative ions coupled with Navier-Stokes and Poisson equations. Doing so, we compute the bulk charge distribution and the velocity field in the liquid surrounding the cylinder. For sufficiently small cylinders, we show that the smaller the cylinder is, the smaller its angular velocity is when submitted to a dc electric field. This size effect is shown to originate both in ion diffusion and electromigration in the charge layer. At last, we propose a simple analytical model which allows calculating the angular velocity of the rotor when electromigration is present but weak and diffusion can be neglected.

Size effect in Quincke rotation: A numerical study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, F.; Lobry, L.; Khayari, A.; Lemaire, E.

2009-05-01

This paper deals with the Quincke rotation of small insulating particles. This dc electrorotation of insulating objects immersed in a slightly conducting liquid is usually explained by looking at the action of the free charges present in the liquid. Under the effect of the dc electric field, the charges accumulate at the surface of the insulating particle which, in turn, acquires a dipole moment in the direction opposite to that of the field and begins to rotate in order to flip its dipole moment. In the classical Quincke model, the charge distribution around the rotor is supposed to be purely superficial. A consequence of this assumption is that the angular velocity does not depend on the rotor size. Nevertheless, this hypothesis holds only if the rotor size is much larger than the characteristic ion layer thickness around the particle. In the opposite case, we show thanks to numerical calculations that the bulk charge distribution has to be accounted for to predict the electromechanical behavior of the rotor. We consider the case of an infinite insulating cylinder whose axis is perpendicular to the dc electric field. We use the finite element method to solve the conservation equations for the positive and the negative ions coupled with Navier-Stokes and Poisson equations. Doing so, we compute the bulk charge distribution and the velocity field in the liquid surrounding the cylinder. For sufficiently small cylinders, we show that the smaller the cylinder is, the smaller its angular velocity is when submitted to a dc electric field. This size effect is shown to originate both in ion diffusion and electromigration in the charge layer. At last, we propose a simple analytical model which allows calculating the angular velocity of the rotor when electromigration is present but weak and diffusion can be neglected.

Elastomeric Thermal Insulation Design Considerations in Long, Aluminized Solid Rocket Motors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Heath T.

2017-01-01

An all-new sounding rocket was designed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center that featured an aft finocyl, aluminized solid propellant grain and silica-filled ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (SFEPDM) internal insulation. Upon the initial static firing of the first of this new design, the solid rocket motor (SRM) case failed thermally just upstream of the aft closure early in the burn time. Subsequent fluid modeling indicated that the high-velocity combustion-product jets emanating from the fin-slots in the propellant grain were likely inducing a strongly swirling flow, thus substantially increasing the severity of the convective environment on the exposed portion of the SFEPDM insulation in this region. The aft portion of the fin-slots in another of the motors were filled with propellant to eliminate the possibility of both direct jet impingement on the exposed SFEPDM and the appearance of strongly swirling flow in the aft region of the motor. When static-fired, this motor's case still failed in the same axial location, and, though somewhat later than for the first static firing, still in less than 1/3rd of the desired burn duration. These results indicate that the extreme material decomposition rates of the SFEPDM in this application are not due to gas-phase convection or shear but rather to interactions with burning aluminum or alumina slag. Further comparisons with between SFEPDM performance in this design and that in other hot-fire tests provide insight into the mechanisms of SFEPDM decomposition in SRM aft domes that can guide the upcoming redesign effort, as well as other future SRM designs. These data also highlight the current limitations of modeling elastomeric insulators solely with diffusion-controlled, gas-phase thermochemistry in SRM regions with significant viscous shear and/or condense-phase impingement or flow.

Survival of asbestos insulation workers with mesothelioma.

PubMed Central

Ribak, J; Selikoff, I J

1992-01-01

Malignant mesothelioma is a lethal disease. It is rare in the general population; however, workers exposed to asbestos suffer significant burdens of the neoplasm. The survival time of 457 consecutive fatal cases of pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma that occurred among 17,800 asbestos insulation workers observed prospectively from 1 January 1967 to 1 January 1987 was studied. Mean survival time from initial presentation of the disease to death was 11.4 months for the pleural mesothelioma patients compared with 7.4 months for the peritoneal group. This difference was statistically significant. Mean survival time from diagnosis to death was shorter for both groups of patients: 8.4 months for pleural mesothelioma v 5.8 months for the peritoneal cases. In conclusion, survival time in mesothelioma patients is short; most die within a year from the onset of the initial symptoms. No effective therapy is yet available. PMID:1419863

Edge currents shunt the insulating bulk in gapped graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, M. J.; Kretinin, A. V.; Thompson, M. D.; Bandurin, D. A.; Hu, S.; Yu, G. L.; Birkbeck, J.; Mishchenko, A.; Vera-Marun, I. J.; Watanabe, K.; Taniguchi, T.; Polini, M.; Prance, J. R.; Novoselov, K. S.; Geim, A. K.; Ben Shalom, M.

2017-02-01

An energy gap can be opened in the spectrum of graphene reaching values as large as 0.2 eV in the case of bilayers. However, such gaps rarely lead to the highly insulating state expected at low temperatures. This long-standing puzzle is usually explained by charge inhomogeneity. Here we revisit the issue by investigating proximity-induced superconductivity in gapped graphene and comparing normal-state measurements in the Hall bar and Corbino geometries. We find that the supercurrent at the charge neutrality point in gapped graphene propagates along narrow channels near the edges. This observation is corroborated by using the edgeless Corbino geometry in which case resistivity at the neutrality point increases exponentially with increasing the gap, as expected for an ordinary semiconductor. In contrast, resistivity in the Hall bar geometry saturates to values of about a few resistance quanta. We attribute the metallic-like edge conductance to a nontrivial topology of gapped Dirac spectra.

The t J model for the oxide high-Tc superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogata, Masao; Fukuyama, Hidetoshi

2008-03-01

A theoretical review is given on high temperature superconductivity in copper oxides (cuprates) by focusing on the hole doping cases based on the view that it is realized in carrier doped Mott insulators, as noted by Anderson in the initial stage. From the detailed knowledge of electronic states deduced from experiments that showed the undoped parent case is Mott insulators (charge transfer type insulators, to be precise) and that the hole doping is mainly on oxygen sites, the t-J model, as derived by Zhang and Rice, is shown to be a canonical model for hole doped cuprates and values of various parameters of the model have been assessed. Results of many different numerical methods so far obtained for this t-J model, especially the variational Monte Carlo method, have clearly indicated the stability of the \\rmd_{x^2-y^2} -wave superconductivity at absolute zero for the parameter region of actual experimental interest and the particular doping dependences of the condensation energy of superconductivity reflecting particular features of doped Mott insulators. For finite temperatures, on the other hand, the field theoretical slave-boson approximation based on the spin (spinons) and charge (holons) separations and the gauge fields as a glue combining them predicts qualitatively particular features of the existence of characteristic crossover temperatures of the spin singlet of the resonating valence bond (RVB) state, TRVB and the onset of Bose condensation of holons, TB, triggering coherent motion of electrons as convoluted particles of spinons and holons. The considerations based on the gauge field indicate that the onset temperature of superconductivity, Tc, is the lower one of these two, i.e. either TB (overdoped cases) or TRVB (underdoped cases), respectively. These characteristic features of the 'phase diagram' at finite temperatures are in overall agreement with various experimental observations, especially with the existence of spin-gap or pseudo-gap phases. In more detailed examinations of the underdoped region, the antiferromagnetic long-range order and superconductivity show a very intricate relationship at low temperatures depending on the system; they coexist as clarified in the inner layer of Hg-1245 but spin glass states intervene between them in La2-xSrxCuO4 (LSCO). It is argued that these differences can be attributed to the different degrees of disorder. Actually, theories based on the t-J model have also predicted the coexistence of antiferromagnetism and superconductivity in the ground state of clean systems. On the other hand, interesting experimental findings of large Nernst effect and 'Fermi arc' in LSCO and impurity effects in YBCO have prompted the necessity of theoretical investigations of electronic states of lightly doped Mott insulators in the presence of strong disorder.

Customized Hermetic Feedthrough Developed to Isolate Fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meredith, Roger D.

1999-01-01

A common problem occurs when refrigerant fluids wick inside the insulation of thermocouple wires through a compressor's casing feedthrough and then leak into the adjacent disconnect box outside the casing. Leaking fluids create an unfavorable situation inside the disconnect box and may contaminate the fluids. To address this problem, NASA Lewis Research Center s Manufacturing Engineering Division developed a customized hermetic feedthrough for a bank of Worthington compressors. In these compressors, bearing temperatures are measured by internal thermocouples embedded in bearings located inside the compressor casings. The thermocouple wires need to be routed outside the casing and read at another location. These wires are short and are terminated to a disconnect strip inside the casing. The bearings operate at about 170 F, but because the casing is filled with R12 refrigerant oil, the casing has a maximum temperature of about 100 F. The operating conditions of these compressors permit the use of an epoxy that is compatible with the R12 fluid. The desired finished product is a stainless steel tube that has been filled solid with epoxy after thermocouple wires bonded and sealed by epoxy have been inserted through its length. Shrink tubing extends from both ends of the tube. The process that was developed to isolate the thermocouple wires from the R12 fluid follows. For this application, use an 8-in.-long piece of 0.500-in. 304 stainless steel tube with six pairs of 24-gauge stranded, PTFE-insulated (polytetrafluoroethylene) type "T" thermocouple wires for each feedthrough. Use shrink tubing to strain relief the insulated wires at their exit from the stainless steel tube. Cut the wire to length and identify the location of the stainless steel tube sleeve with masking tape. Then, remove the outer insulation from a 2-in. section of wire that will be inside the tube, and carefully strip to bare wire a 1-in. section in the middle of the section with the outer insulation removed. For an effective seal, the epoxy must penetrate between the strands when stranded conductors are used. Make the seal with epoxy bond on the bare wire. The bare wire must be encapsulated with a thin layer of the epoxy that leaves only a very low profile. These encapsulated wires must cure before the assembly can be continued. Then, inspect the cured wires for complete encapsulation before going to the next step. Insert the wires in the stainless steel tube and orient them so that the epoxied stripped sections are staggered within the tube; then, apply shrink tubing to one end of the cleaned wires, positioning it inside the edge of the tube. The small gaps between the wires on the other end will be used to inject the epoxy into the tube. Let the epoxy cure inside the tube, free of any voids. Then, continue to fill the tube until the entire 8-in. length is nearly filled, allowing room for the other strain-relieving shrink tubing. Since this first design, the process has been adjusted to fit many needs and situations. Customized feedthroughs have been assembled from various wire types, wire gauges, and/or stainless steel tube passages. The fittings selected to mount these feedthroughs allow their use in other areas, such as pressure or vacuum systems.

Building America Case Study: Initial and Long-Term Movement of Cladding Installed Over Exterior Rigid Insulation (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

Changes in the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) from 2009 to 2012 have resulted in the use of exterior rigid insulation becoming part of the prescriptive code requirements. With more jurisdictions adopting the 2012 IECC builders are going to finding themselves required to incorporate exterior insulation in the construction of their exterior wall assemblies. For thick layers of exterior insulation (levels greater than 1.5 inches), the use wood furring strips attached through the insulation back to the structure has been used by many contractors and designers as a means to provide a convenient cladding attachment location. However, there has beenmore » a significant resistance to its widespread implementation due to a lack of research and understanding of the mechanisms involved and potential creep effects of the assembly under the sustained dead load of a cladding. This research was an extension on previous research conducted by BSC in 2011, and 2012. Each year the understanding of the system discrete load component interactions, as well as impacts of environmental loading has increased. The focus of the research was to examine more closely the impacts of screw fastener bending on the total system capacity, effects of thermal expansion and contraction of materials on the compressive forces in the assembly, as well as to analyze a full years worth of cladding movement data from assemblies constructed in an exposed outdoor environment.« less

Head insulation and heat loss in naked and clothed newborns using a thermal mannequin.

PubMed

Elabbassi, Elmountacer Billah; Chardon, Karen; Bach, Véronique; Telliez, Frédéric; Delanaud, Stéphane; Libert, Jean-Pierre

2002-06-01

In newborns, large amounts of heat are lost from the head, due to its high skin surface area. Insulating the head (for example, with a hat or bonnet) can be a simple and effective method of reducing dry heat loss. In the present study, we evaluated the safety aspects of insulating the head of low-birth-weight naked or clothed newborns by using a heated mannequin that simulates a low-birth-weight newborn. Experimental conditions (comprising a nude and three clothed setups) were performed in a closed incubator at three different air temperatures (29 degrees C, 32 degrees C, and 34 degrees C) and with and without the head being covered with a bonnet in each case, i.e., 24 experimental conditions in all. The study shows that added clothing elements and insulating the head decreases the total heat loss of the mannequin as a whole. As regards the dry heat exchange from the head, wearing a bonnet decreases the local heat loss by an average of 18.9% in all clothed and thermal conditions. This phenomenon could be at the origin of brain overheating in heavily dressed newborns, when unrestricted heat loss is limited to the face only. Our results suggest that--apart from accidental hypothermia-in order to achieve thermal equilibrium of the body, it is preferable to leave the head unprotected and to increase the level of clothing insulation over the rest of the body.

Direct detection of metal-insulator phase transitions using the modified Backus-Gilbert method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulybyshev, Maksim; Winterowd, Christopher; Zafeiropoulos, Savvas

2018-03-01

The detection of the (semi)metal-insulator phase transition can be extremely difficult if the local order parameter which characterizes the ordered phase is unknown. In some cases, it is even impossible to define a local order parameter: the most prominent example of such system is the spin liquid state. This state was proposed to exist in the Hubbard model on the hexagonal lattice in a region between the semimetal phase and the antiferromagnetic insulator phase. The existence of this phase has been the subject of a long debate. In order to detect these exotic phases we must use alternative methods to those used for more familiar examples of spontaneous symmetry breaking. We have modified the Backus-Gilbert method of analytic continuation which was previously used in the calculation of the pion quasiparticle mass in lattice QCD. The modification of the method consists of the introduction of the Tikhonov regularization scheme which was used to treat the ill-conditioned kernel. This modified Backus-Gilbert method is applied to the Euclidean propagators in momentum space calculated using the hybrid Monte Carlo algorithm. In this way, it is possible to reconstruct the full dispersion relation and to estimate the mass gap, which is a direct signal of the transition to the insulating state. We demonstrate the utility of this method in our calculations for the Hubbard model on the hexagonal lattice. We also apply the method to the metal-insulator phase transition in the Hubbard-Coulomb model on the square lattice.

Prediction of weak and strong topological insulators in layered semiconductors.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Felser, Claudia

2013-03-01

We investigate a new class of ternary materials such as LiAuSe and KHgSb with a honeycomb structure in Au-Se and Hg-Sb layers. We demonstrate the band inversion in these materials similar to HgTe, which is a strong precondition for existence of the topological surface states. In contrast with graphene, these materials exhibit strong spin-orbit coupling and a small direct band gap at the point. Since these materials are centrosymmetric, it is straightforward to determine the parity of their wave functions, and hence their topological character. Surprisingly, the compound with strong spin-orbit coupling (KHgSb) is trivial, whereas LiAuSe is found to be a topological insulator. However KHgSb is a weak topological insulators in case of an odd number of layers in the primitive unit cell. Here, the single-layered KHgSb shows a large bulk energy gap of 0.24 eV. Its side surface hosts metallic surface states, forming two anisotropic Dirac cones. Although the stacking of even-layered structures leads to trivial insulators, the structures can host a quantum spin Hall layer with a large bulk gap, if an additional single layer exists as a stacking fault in the crystal. The reported honeycomb compounds can serve as prototypes to aid in the finding of new weak topological insulators in layered small-gap semiconductors. In collaboration with Binghai Yan, Lukas Müchler, Hai-Jun Zhang, Shou-Cheng Zhang and Jürgen Kübler.

School Law.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Splitt, David A.

1986-01-01

Outlines important implications for consideration in developing employment policies prohibiting sexual harassment. The recent Supreme Court decision on a sexual harassment case shows that employers are not "insulated" from liability if courts find harassment in the workplace. Also discusses two other Supreme Court decisions. (MD)

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

none,

This case study describes a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home in Boulder, Colorado, that scored HERS 38 without PV and 0 with PV. This 2,504 ft2 custom home has advanced framed walls, superior insulation a ground-source heat pump, ERV, and triple-pane windows.

New Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Tindall Homes, Columbus, New Jersey

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

none,

The builder worked with IBACOS to build 20 HERS-58 homes with R-49 mixed attic insulation, poly-iso foam in advanced framed walls, precast concrete basement walls with rigid foam, tight airsealing, and HRV

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

Marc Hoeschele; Eric Lee

Concrete slabs represent the primary foundation type in residential buildings in the fast-growing markets throughout the southern and southwestern United States. Nearly 75% of the 2005 U.S. population growth occurred in these southern tier states. Virtually all of these homes have uninsulated slab perimeters that transfer a small, but steady, flow of heat from conditioned space to outdoors during the heating season. It is estimated that new home foundations constructed each year add 0.016 quads annually to U.S. national energy consumption; we project that roughly one quarter of this amount can be attributed to heat loss through the slab edgemore » and the remaining three quarters to deep ground transfers, depending upon climate. With rising concern over national energy use and the impact of greenhouse gas emissions, it is becoming increasingly imperative that all cost-effective efforts to improve building energy efficiency be implemented. Unlike other building envelope components that have experienced efficiency improvements over the years, slab edge heat loss has largely been overlooked. From our vantage point, a marketable slab edge insulation system would offer significant benefits to homeowners, builders, and the society as a whole. Conventional slab forming involves the process of digging foundation trenches and setting forms prior to the concrete pour. Conventional wood form boards (usually 2 x 10's) are supported by vertical stakes on the outer form board surface, and by supporting 'kickers' driven diagonally from the top of the form board into soil outside the trench. Typically, 2 x 10's can be used only twice before they become waste material, contributing to an additional 400 pounds of construction waste per house. Removal of the form boards and stakes also requires a follow-up trip to the jobsite by the concrete subcontractor and handling (storage/disposal) of the used boards. In the rare cases where the slab is insulated (typically custom homes with radiant floor heating), the most practical insulation strategy is to secure rigid foam insulation, such as Dow Styrofoam{trademark}, to the inside of the wooden slab edge forms. An alternative is to clad insulation to the perimeter of the slab after the slab has been poured and cured. In either case, the foam must have a 'termite strip' that prevents termites from creating hidden tunnels through or behind the foam on their way to the wall framing above. Frequently this termite strip is a piece of sheet metal that must be fabricated for each project. The above-grade portion of the insulation also needs to be coated for appearance and to prevent damage from construction and UV degradation. All these steps add time, complexity, and expense to the insulating process.« less

Venting through multiple-layer insulation on Space Station Freedom. II - Ascent rate pressure chamber testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharp, Jeffrey B.; Buitekant, Alan; Fay, John F.; Holladay, Jon B.

1993-01-01

A test was conducted to determine the venting characteristics of the multiple-layer insulation (MLI) to be installed on the Space Station Freedom (SSF). A full MLI blanket with inter-blanket joints was installed onto a model of a section of the SSF pressure wall, support structure, and debris shield. Data were taken from this test and were used to predict the venting of the actual Space Station pressure-wall/MLI/debris-shield assemply during launch and possible re-entry. It was found that the pressure differences across the debris shields and MLI blankets were well within the specified limits in all cases.

Interband excitations in the 1D limit of two-band fractional Chern insulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaworowski, Błażej; Kaczmarkiewicz, Piotr; Potasz, Paweł; Wójs, Arkadiusz

2018-05-01

We investigate the stability of the one-dimensional limit of ν = 1 / 3 Laughlin-like fractional Chern insulator with respect to the interband interaction. We propose a construction for the excitations in the infinite-interaction case and show that the energy gap remains finite in the thermodynamic limit. Next, by means of exact diagonalization and Density Matrix Renormalization Group approaches, we consider deviations from ideal dimerization and show that they reduce the stability of the FCI-like states. Finally, to show that our approach is not restricted to one model, we identify the dimer structure behind the thin-torus limit of other system - the checkerboard lattice.

Two cases of electrocautery incision therapy using an insulated-tip knife for treatment of symptomatic benign short-segment colonic stenosis following colonic resection.

PubMed

Kwon, Jang Hoon; Han, Koon Hee; Kim, Moon Ho; Jang, Woo Sung; Yun, Jung Ho; Song, Yun A; Park, Jong Kyu; Cheon, Gab Jin

2014-09-25

Anastomotic stenosis of the colon is not an uncommon finding; however, its frequency varies from one study to another. Traditionally, postoperative colonic stenosis is managed surgically. However, endoscopic therapy has recently become the preferred treatment modality over traditional surgery. Good short-term success has been achieved with use of endoscopic balloon dilation; however, restenosis may occur over time in 14% to 25% of patients. The current report showed the effectiveness and usefulness of an insulated-tip knife (IT-knife) for electrocautery therapy of a patient with symptomatic anastomotic colonic stenosis.

Quasiparticle band gap in the topological insulator Bi2Te3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nechaev, I. A.; Chulkov, E. V.

2013-10-01

We present a theoretical study of dispersion of states that form the bulk band-gap edges in the three-dimensional topological insulator Bi2Te3. Within density functional theory, we analyze the effect of atomic positions varied within the error range of the available experimental data and approximation chosen for the exchange-correlation functional on the bulk band gap and k-space location of valence- and conduction-band extrema. For each set of the positions with different exchange-correlation functionals, we show how many-body corrections calculated within a one-shot GW approach affect the mentioned characteristics of electronic structure of Bi2Te3. We thus also illustrate to what degree the one-shot GW results are sensitive to the reference one-particle band structure in the case of bismuth telluride. We found that for this topological insulator the GW corrections enlarge the fundamental band gap and for certain atomic positions and reference band structure bring its value in close agreement with experiment.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Durable Interior Foundation Insulation Retrofits for Cold Climates, Cloquet, Minnesota

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

None

Thermal and moisture problems in existing basements create a unique challenge as the exterior face of the wall is not easily or inexpensively accessible. This approach by the NorthernSTAR Building America Partnership team addresses thermal and moisture management from the interior face of the wall without disturbing the exterior soil and landscaping. It is effective at reducing energy loss through the wall principally during the heating season. The team conducted experiments at the Cloquet Residential Research Facility to test the heat and moisture performance of four hollow masonry block wall systems and two rim-joist systems. These systems were retrofitted withmore » interior insulation in compliance with the 2012 IECC. The research showed for the first time that, for masonry block walls in a cold climate, a solid bond beam or equivalent provides adequate resistance to moisture transport from a hollow core to the rim-joist cavity. Thus, a solid top course is a minimum requirement for an interior retrofit insulation system.« less

Tuning the metal-insulator crossover and magnetism in SrRuO 3 by ionic gating

DOE PAGES

Yi, Hee Taek; Gao, Bin; Xie, Wei; ...

2014-10-13

Reversible control of charge transport and magnetic properties without degradation is a key for device applications of transition metal oxides. Chemical doping during the growth of transition metal oxides can result in large changes in physical properties, but in most of the cases irreversibility is an inevitable constraint. We report a reversible control of charge transport, metal-insulator crossover and magnetism in field-effect devices based on ionically gated archetypal oxide system - SrRuO 3. In these thin-film devices, the metal-insulator crossover temperature and the onset of magnetoresistance can be continuously and reversibly tuned in the range 90–250 K and 70–100 K,more » respectively, by application of a small gate voltage. We infer that a reversible diffusion of oxygen ions in the oxide lattice dominates the response of these materials to the gate electric field. These findings provide critical insights into both the understanding of ionically gated oxides and the development of novel applications.« less

Strongly correlated superconductivity and quantum criticality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tremblay, A.-M. S.

Doped Mott insulators and doped charge-transfer insulators describe classes of materials that can exhibit unconventional superconducting ground states. Examples include the cuprates and the layered organic superconductors of the BEDT family. I present results obtained from plaquette cellular dynamical mean-field theory. Continuous-time quantum Monte Carlo evaluation of the hybridization expansion allows one to study the models in the large interaction limit where quasiparticles can disappear. The normal state which is unstable to the superconducting state exhibits a first-order transition between a pseudogap and a correlated metal phase. That transition is the finite-doping extension of the metal-insulator transition obtained at half-filling. This transition serves as an organizing principle for the normal and superconducting states of both cuprates and doped organic superconductors. In the less strongly correlated limit, these methods also describe the more conventional case where the superconducting dome surrounds an antiferromagnetic quantum critical point. Sponsored by NSERC RGPIN-2014-04584, CIFAR, Research Chair in the Theory of Quantum Materials.

Tuning the metal-insulator crossover and magnetism in SrRuO₃ by ionic gating.

PubMed

Yi, Hee Taek; Gao, Bin; Xie, Wei; Cheong, Sang-Wook; Podzorov, Vitaly

2014-10-13

Reversible control of charge transport and magnetic properties without degradation is a key for device applications of transition metal oxides. Chemical doping during the growth of transition metal oxides can result in large changes in physical properties, but in most of the cases irreversibility is an inevitable constraint. Here we report a reversible control of charge transport, metal-insulator crossover and magnetism in field-effect devices based on ionically gated archetypal oxide system - SrRuO₃. In these thin-film devices, the metal-insulator crossover temperature and the onset of magnetoresistance can be continuously and reversibly tuned in the range 90-250 K and 70-100 K, respectively, by application of a small gate voltage. We infer that a reversible diffusion of oxygen ions in the oxide lattice dominates the response of these materials to the gate electric field. These findings provide critical insights into both the understanding of ionically gated oxides and the development of novel applications.

Thermal Transmittance and the Embodied Energy of Timber Frame Lightweight Walls Insulated with Straw and Reed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miljan, M.; Miljan, J.

2015-11-01

Sustainable energy use has become topical in the whole world. Energy gives us comfort we are used to. EU and national regulations determine energy efficiency of the buildings. This is one side of the problem - energy efficiency of houses during exploitation. But the other side is primary energy content of used materials and more rational use of resources during the whole life cycle of a building. The latter value constitutes about 8 - 20% from the whole energy content. Calculations of energy efficiency of materials lead us to energy efficiency of insulation materials and to comparison of natural and industrial materials taking into account their thermal conductivity as well as their primary energy content. Case study of the test house (built in 2012) insulated with straw bales gave the result that thermal transmittance of investigated straw bale walls was according to the minimum energy efficiency requirements set in Estonia U = 0.12 - 0.22 W/m2K (for walls).

Quasi-continuous transition from a Fermi liquid to a spin liquid in κ-(ET)2Cu2(CN)3.

PubMed

Furukawa, Tetsuya; Kobashi, Kazuhiko; Kurosaki, Yosuke; Miyagawa, Kazuya; Kanoda, Kazushi

2018-01-22

The Mott metal-insulator transition-a manifestation of Coulomb interactions among electrons-is known as a discontinuous transition. Recent theoretical studies, however, suggest that the transition is continuous if the Mott insulator carries a spin liquid with a spinon Fermi surface. Here, we demonstrate the case of a quasi-continuous Mott transition from a Fermi liquid to a spin liquid in an organic triangular-lattice system κ-(ET) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 . Transport experiments performed under fine pressure tuning have found that as the Mott transition is approached, the Fermi liquid coherence temperature continuously falls to the scale of kelvins, with a divergent quasi-particle decay rate on the metal side, and the charge gap continuously closes on the insulator side. A Clausius-Clapeyron analysis provides thermodynamic evidence for the extremely weak first-order nature of the transition. These results provide additional support for the existence of a spinon Fermi surface, which becomes an electron Fermi surface when charges are delocalized.

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

Brito, W. H.; Aguiar, M. C. O.; Haule, K.

In this study we present a comparative investigation of the electronic structures of NbO 2 and VO 2 obtained within a combination of density functional theory and cluster-dynamical mean-field theory calculations. We investigate the role of dynamic electronic correlations on the electronic structure of the metallic and insulating phases of NbO 2 and VO 2, with a focus on the mechanism responsible for the gap opening in the insulating phases. For the rutile metallic phases of both oxides, we obtain that electronic correlations lead to a strong renormalization of the t 2g subbands, as well as the emergence of incoherentmore » Hubbard subbands, signaling that electronic correlations are also important in the metallic phase of NbO 2. Interestingly, we find that nonlocal dynamic correlations do play a role in the gap formation of the [body-centered-tetragonal (bct)] insulating phase of NbO 2, by a similar physical mechanism as that recently proposed by us in the case of the monoclinic (M 1) dimerized phase of VO 2. Finally, although the effect of nonlocal dynamic correlations in the gap opening of bct phase is less important than in the (M 1 and M 2) monoclinic phases of VO 2, their presence indicates that the former is not a purely Peierls-type insulator, as it was recently proposed.« less

Using Ultrathin Parylene Films as an Organic Gate Insulator in Nanowire Field-Effect Transistors.

PubMed

Gluschke, J G; Seidl, J; Lyttleton, R W; Carrad, D J; Cochrane, J W; Lehmann, S; Samuelson, L; Micolich, A P

2018-06-27

We report the development of nanowire field-effect transistors featuring an ultrathin parylene film as a polymer gate insulator. The room temperature, gas-phase deposition of parylene is an attractive alternative to oxide insulators prepared at high temperatures using atomic layer deposition. We discuss our custom-built parylene deposition system, which is designed for reliable and controlled deposition of <100 nm thick parylene films on III-V nanowires standing vertically on a growth substrate or horizontally on a device substrate. The former case gives conformally coated nanowires, which we used to produce functional Ω-gate and gate-all-around structures. These give subthreshold swings as low as 140 mV/dec and on/off ratios exceeding 10 3 at room temperature. For the gate-all-around structure, we developed a novel fabrication strategy that overcomes some of the limitations with previous lateral wrap-gate nanowire transistors. Finally, we show that parylene can be deposited over chemically treated nanowire surfaces, a feature generally not possible with oxides produced by atomic layer deposition due to the surface "self-cleaning" effect. Our results highlight the potential for parylene as an alternative ultrathin insulator in nanoscale electronic devices more broadly, with potential applications extending into nanobioelectronics due to parylene's well-established biocompatible properties.

Improved Aerogel Vacuum Thermal Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruemmele, Warren P.; Bue, Grant C.

2009-01-01

An improved design concept for aerogel vacuum thermal-insulation panels calls for multiple layers of aerogel sandwiched between layers of aluminized Mylar (or equivalent) poly(ethylene terephthalate), as depicted in the figure. This concept is applicable to both the rigid (brick) form and the flexible (blanket) form of aerogel vacuum thermal-insulation panels. Heretofore, the fabrication of a typical aerogel vacuum insulating panel has involved encapsulation of a single layer of aerogel in poly(ethylene terephthalate) and pumping of gases out of the aerogel-filled volume. A multilayer panel according to the improved design concept is fabricated in basically the same way: Multiple alternating layers of aerogel and aluminized poly(ethylene terephthalate) are assembled, then encapsulated in an outer layer of poly(ethylene terephthalate), and then the volume containing the multilayer structure is evacuated as in the single-layer case. The multilayer concept makes it possible to reduce effective thermal conductivity of a panel below that of a comparable single-layer panel, without adding weight or incurring other performance penalties. Implementation of the multilayer concept is simple and relatively inexpensive, involving only a few additional fabrication steps to assemble the multiple layers prior to evacuation. For a panel of the blanket type, the multilayer concept, affords the additional advantage of reduced stiffness.

Admittance of MIS-Structures Based on HgCdTe with a Double-Layer CdTe/Al2O3 Insulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dzyadukh, S. M.; Voitsekhovskii, A. V.; Nesmelov, S. N.; Sidorov, G. Yu.; Varavin, V. S.; Vasil'ev, V. V.; Dvoretsky, S. A.; Mikhailov, N. N.; Yakushev, M. V.

2018-03-01

Admittance of MIS structures based on n( p)- Hg1-xCdxTe (at x from 0.22 to 0.40) with SiO2/Si3N4, Al2O3, and CdTe/Al2O3 insulators is studied experimentally at 77 K. Growth of an intermediate CdTe layer during epitaxy results in the almost complete disappearance of the hysteresis of electrophysical characteristics of MIS structures based on graded-gap n-HgCdTe for a small range of the voltage variation. For a wide range of the voltage variation, the hysteresis of the capacitance-voltage characteristics appears for MIS structures based on n-HgCdTe with the CdTe/Al2O3 insulator. However, the hysteresis mechanism differs from that in case of a single-layer Al2O3 insulator. For MIS structures based on p-HgCdTe, introduction of an additional CdTe layer does not lead to a significant decrease of the hysteresis phenomena, which may be due to the degradation of the interface properties when mercury leaves the film as a result of low-temperature annealing changing the conductivity type of the semiconductor.

Localized etching of an insulator film coated on a copper wire using an atmospheric-pressure microplasma jet.

PubMed

Yoshiki, Hiroyuki

2007-04-01

Atmospheric-pressure microplasma jets (APmicroPJs) of Ar and ArO(2) gases were generated from the tip of a stainless steel surgical needle having outer and inner diameters of 0.4 and 0.2 mm, respectively, with a rf excitation of 13.56 MHz. The steel needle functions both as a powered electrode and a gas nozzle. The operating power is 1.2-6 W and the corresponding peak-to-peak voltage Vp.p. is about 1.5 kV. The APmicroPJ was applied to the localized etching of a polyamide-imide insulator film (thickness of 10 microm) of a copper winding wire of 90 microm diameter. The insulator film around the copper wire was completely removed by the irradiated plasma from a certain direction without fusing the wire. The removal time under the Ar APmicroPJ irradiation was only 3 s at a rf power of 4 W. Fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscope images reveal that good selectivity of the insulator film to the copper wire was achieved. In the case of ArO(2) APmicroPJ irradiation with an O(2) concentration of 10% or more, the removed copper surface was converted to copper monoxide CuO.

Production of thermal insulation blocks from bottom ash of fluidized bed combustion system.

PubMed

Mandal, A K; Sinha, O P

2017-08-01

The issues of disposal and environmental problems are increased by the generation of bottom ash from the thermal power plants day by day; hence, its recycling is required. The present study aimed to make thermal insulation blocks using as raw material bottom ash and iron ore slime as a binder and to characterize their engineering properties. Two different fineness values of bottom ash were considered with varying amounts of iron ore slime (0-10%) to make the blocks. Blocks were dried followed by firing at 1000, 1100 and 1200°C, respectively. Cold crushing strength, density and thermal conductivity of these fired blocks showed increasing behaviour with firing temperature, fineness of bottom ash and iron ore slime content. In contrast, a reverse trend was observed in the case of porosity. With increasing firing temperature, the formation of lower melting phases like iron silicate followed by iron aluminium silicate was observed, which imparts the strength inside the blocks. The coarser particles of bottom ash increase the interparticle spaces, which enhances the apparent porosity, resulting in higher thermal insulation property in the blocks. Blocks having better thermal insulation property could be possible to make effectively from coarse bottom ash by adding iron ore slime as a binder.

Highly sensitive optically controlled tunable capacitor and photodetector based on a metal-insulator-semiconductor on silicon-on-insulator substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikhelashvili, V.; Cristea, D.; Meyler, B.; Yofis, S.; Shneider, Y.; Atiya, G.; Cohen-Hyams, T.; Kauffmann, Y.; Kaplan, W. D.; Eisenstein, G.

2015-01-01

We describe a new type of optically sensitive tunable capacitor with a wide band response ranging from the ultraviolet (245 nm) to the near infrared (880 nm). It is based on a planar Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) structure fabricated on an insulator on silicon substrate where the insulator layer comprises a double layer dielectric stack of SiO2-HfO2. Two operating configurations have been examined, a single diode and a pair of back-to-back connected devices, where either one or both diodes are illuminated. The varactors exhibit, in all cases, very large sensitivities to illumination. Near zero bias, the capacitance dependence on illumination intensity is sub linear and otherwise it is nearly linear. In the back-to-back connected configuration, the reverse biased diode acts as a light tunable resistor whose value affects strongly the capacitance of the second, forward biased, diode and vice versa. The proposed device is superior to other optical varactors in its large sensitivity to illumination in a very broad wavelength range (245 nm-880 nm), the strong capacitance dependence on voltage and the superior current photo responsivity. Above and beyond that structure requires a very simple fabrication process which is CMOS compatible.

Investigation of piezoelectric impedance-based health monitoring of structure interface debonding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Li; Chen, Guofeng; Chen, Xiaoming; Qu, Wenzhong

2016-04-01

Various damages might occur during the solid rocket motor (SRM) manufacturing/operational phase, and the debonding of propellant/insulator/composite case interfaces is one of damage types which determine the life of a motor. The detection of such interface debonding damage will be beneficial for developing techniques for reliable nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and structural health monitoring (SHM). Piezoelectric sensors are widely used for structural health monitoring technique. In particular, electromechanical impedance (EMI) techniques give simple and low-cost solutions for detecting damage in various structures. In this work, piezoelectric EMI structural health monitoring technique is applied to identify the debonding condition of propellant/insulator interface structure using finite element method and experimental investigation. A three-dimensional coupled field finite element model is developed using the software ANSYS and the harmonic analysis is conducted for high-frequency impedance analysis procedure. In the experimental study, the impedance signals were measured from PZT and MFC sensors outside attached to composite case monitoring the different debonding conditions between the propellant and insulator. Root mean square deviation (RMSD) based damage index is conducted to quantify the changes i n impedance for different de bonding conditions and frequency range. Simulation and experimental results confirmed that the EMI technique can be used effectively for detecting the debonding damage in SRM and is expected to be useful for future application of real SRM's SHM.

BSM Delta qualification 2, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

This report, presented in three volumes, provides the results of a two-motor Delta Qualification 2 program conducted in 1993 to certify the following enhancements for incorporation into Booster Separation Motor (BSM) flight hardware: (1) vulcanized-in-place nozzle aft closure insulation; (2) new isostatic ATJ bulk graphite throat insert material; (3) adhesive EA 9394 for bonding the nozzle throat, igniter grain rod/centering insert/igniter case; (4) deletion of the igniter adapter insulator ring; (5) deletion of igniter adapter/igniter case interface RTV; and (6) deletion of Loctite from igniter retainer plate threads. The enhancements above directly resulted from (1) the BSM Total Quality Management (TQM) Team initiatives to enhance the BSM producibility, and (2) the necessity to qualify new throat insert and adhesive systems to replace existing materials that will not be available. Testing was completed at both the component and motor levels. Component testing was accomplished to screen candidate materials (e.g., throat materials, adhesive systems) and to optimize processes (e.g., aft closure insulator vulcanization approach) prior to their incorporation into the test motors. Motor testing - consisting of two motors, randomly selected by USBI's onsite quality personnel from production lot AAY, which were modified to accept the enhancements - were completed to provide the final qualification of the enhancements for incorporation into flight hardware. It is concluded that all of the enhancements herein tested are qualified to be incorporated into flight hardware for the BSM.

BSM Delta Qualification 2, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

This report, presented in three volumes, provides the results of a two-motor Delta Qualification 2 program conducted in 1993 to certify the following enhancements for incorporation into booster separation motor (BSM) flight hardware: vulcanized-in-place nozzle aft closure insulation; new iso-static ATJ bulk graphite throat insert material; adhesive EA 9394 for bonding the nozzle throat, igniter grain rod/centering insert/igniter case; deletion of the igniter adapter insulator ring; deletion of the igniter adapter/igniter case interface RTV; and deletion of loctite from igniter retainer plate threads. The enhancements above directly resulted from (1) the BSM total quality management (TQM) team initiatives to enhance the BSM producibility, and (2) the necessity to qualify new throat insert and adhesive systems to replace existing materials that will not be available. Testing was completed at both the component and motor levels. Component testing was accomplished to screen candidate materials (e.g., throat materials, adhesive systems) and to optimize processes (e.g., aft closure insulator vulcanization approach) prior to their incorporation into the test motors. Motor tests -- consisting of two motors, randomly selected by USBI's on-site quality personnel from production lot AAY, which were modified to accept the enhancements -- were completed to provide the final qualification of the enhancements for incorporation into flight hardware. Volume 2 details the environmental testing (vibration and shock) conducted at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to which the motors were subjected prior to static tests.

Drosophila mini-white model system: new insights into positive position effects and the role of transcriptional terminators and gypsy insulator in transgene shielding

PubMed Central

Silicheva, Margarita; Golovnin, Anton; Pomerantseva, Ekaterina; Parshikov, Aleksander; Georgiev, Pavel; Maksimenko, Oksana

2010-01-01

The white gene, which is responsible for eye pigmentation, is widely used to study position effects in Drosophila. As a result of insertion of P-element vectors containing mini-white without enhancers into random chromosomal sites, flies with different eye color phenotypes appear, which is usually explained by the influence of positive/negative regulatory elements located around the insertion site. We found that, in more than 70% of cases when mini-white expression was subject to positive position effects, deletion of the white promoter had no effect on eye pigmentation; in these cases, the transposon was inserted into the transcribed regions of genes. Therefore, transcription through the mini-white gene could be responsible for high levels of its expression in most of chromosomal sites. Consistently with this conclusion, transcriptional terminators proved to be efficient in protecting mini-white expression from positive position effects. On the other hand, the best characterized Drosophila gypsy insulator was poorly effective in terminating transcription and, as a consequence, only partially protected mini-white expression from these effects. Thus, to ensure maximum protection of a transgene from position effects, a perfect boundary/insulator element should combine three activities: to block enhancers, to provide a barrier between active and repressed chromatin, and to terminate transcription. PMID:19854952

Space shuttle development Motor No. 9 (DM-9), volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garecht, Diane M.

1990-01-01

The results obtained during the December 23, 1987 static firing of the DM-9 test article are presented. The DM-9 full-scale static test article employed redesigned solid rocket motor (RSRM) field joint capture feature hardware with J-seal insulation configuration, and nozzle-to-case joint radial bolt design with bonded insulation configuration. The nozzle incorporated RSRM components, including a thicker cowl with involuted outer boot ring. The nozzle employed redundant and verifiable seals in all five joints, and room temperature vulcanization backfill in three joints. With very few exceptions, the DM-9 test article was flight configuration. The test was conducted under extreme weather conditions: temperature of 25 F and wind at 15 to 20 mph. Ballistics performance values were within specification requirements. The RSRM field joint (J-seal) insulation configuration functioned as predicted with no indication of hot gases reaching the capture feature O-rings. There was a blowhole in the polysulfide adhesive in the nozzle-to-case joint, but no evidence of hot gases past the wiper O-ring. Nozzle design changes appeared to perform nominally, with the exception of the outer boot ring, which suffered partial structural breakup late in the test. Field joint heaters maintained the controlling resistance temperature device temperature within the specified requirements during heater operation. The thrust vector control system operated properly. The redesigned water deluge system, temperature conditioning equipment, and other test support equipment performed as planned.

Thermal implications of interactions between insulation, solar reflectance, and fur structure in the summer coats of diverse species of kangaroo.

PubMed

Dawson, Terence J; Maloney, Shane K

2017-04-01

Not all of the solar radiation that impinges on a mammalian coat is absorbed and converted into thermal energy at the coat surface. Some is reflected back to the environment, while another portion is reflected further into the coat where it is absorbed and manifested as heat at differing levels. Substantial insulation in a coat limits the thermal impact at the skin of solar radiation, irrespective where in the coat it is absorbed. In coats with low insulation, the zone where solar radiation is absorbed may govern the consequent heat load on the skin (HL-SR). Thin summer furs of four species of kangaroo from differing climatic zones were used to determine how variation in insulation and in coat spectral and structural characteristics influence the HL-SR. Coat depth, structure, and solar reflectance varied between body regions, as well as between species. The modulation of solar radiation and resultant heat flows in these coats were measured at low (1 m s -1 ) and high (6 m s -1 ) wind speeds by mounting them on a heat flux transducer/temperature-controlled plate apparatus in a wind tunnel. A lamp with a spectrum similar to solar radiation was used as a proxy for the sun. We established that coat insulation was largely determined by coat depth at natural fur lie, despite large variations in fibre density, fibre diameter, and fur mass. Higher wind speed decreased coat insulation, but depth still determined the overall level. A multiple regression analysis that included coat depth (insulation), fibre diameter, fibre density, and solar reflectance was used to determine the best predictors of HL-SR. Only depth and reflectance had significant impacts and both factors had negative weights, so, as either insulation or reflectance increased, HL-SR declined, the larger impact coming from coat reflectance. This reverses the pattern observed in deep coats where insulation dominates over effects of reflectance. Across all coats, as insulation declined, reflectance increased. An increase in reflectance in the thinnest coats was not the sole reason for the limited rise in HL-SR. Higher reflectance should increase the depth of penetrance of solar radiation, thus increasing HL-SR. But in M. antilopinus and Macropus rufus, which had the highest of coat reflectances, penetrance was relatively shallow. This effect appears due to high fibre density (M. rufus) and major modifications in the fibre structure (M. antilopinus). The differing adaptations likely relate to the habitats of these species, desert in the case of M. rufus and monsoon tropical woodland with M. antilopinus.

Impact Verification of Aerogel Insulation Paint on Historic Brick Facades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganobjak, Michal; Kralova, Eva

2017-10-01

Increasing the sustainability of existing buildings is being motivated by reduction of their energy demands. It is the above all the building envelope and its refurbishment by substitution or addition of new materials that makes the opportunity for reduction of energy consumption. A special type of refurbishment is conservation of historical buildings. Preservation of historic buildings permits also application of innovative methods and materials in addition to the original materials if their effects are known and the gained experience ensures their beneficial effect. On the market, there are new materials with addition of silica aerogel in various forms of products. They are also potentially useful in conservation of monuments. However, the effects of aerogel application in these cases are not known. For refurbishment is commercially available additional transparent insulation paint - Nansulate Clear Coat which is containing aerogel and can be used for structured surfaces such as bricks. A series of experiments examined the thermo-physical manifestation of an ultra-thin insulation coating of Nansulate Clear Coat containing silica aerogel on a brick facade. The experiments of active and passive thermography have observed effects of application on the small-scale samples of the brick façade of a protected historical building. Through a series of experiments were measured thermal insulation effect and influence on the aesthetic characteristics such as change in colour and gloss. The treated samples were compared to a reference. Results have shown no thermal-insulating manifestation of the recommended three layers of insulation paint. The three layers recommended by the manufacturer did not significantly affect the appearance of the brick facade. Color and gloss were not significantly changed. Experiments showed the absence of thermal insulation effect of Nansulate transparent triple coating. The thermal insulation effect could likely be reached by more layers of application, which, on the other hand may be unacceptable on the heritage conservation because of number of applications, time demand and financial costs. The effects of multiple layers on heritage attributes were not researched. Extrapolating the measured results, it can be expected that application of more than three layers of paint can significantly affect the aesthetic characteristics of the monument such as gloss and colours of historic brick facades. Due to specific material consistence of historic architecture and new insulation paint materials on the market, it is recommended to provide independent laboratory testing and on-site tests on facades of historic buildings in cooperation with the Monument Protection Board.

The gut microbiome composition associates with bipolar disorder and illness severity.

PubMed

Evans, Simon J; Bassis, Christine M; Hein, Robert; Assari, Shervin; Flowers, Stephanie A; Kelly, Marisa B; Young, Vince B; Ellingrod, Vicky E; McInnis, Melvin G

2017-04-01

The gut microbiome is emerging as an important factor in regulating mental health yet it remains unclear what the target should be for psychiatric treatment. We aimed to elucidate the complement of the gut-microbiome community for individuals with bipolar disorder relative to controls; and test for relationships with burden of disease measures. We compared the stool microbiome from individuals with bipolar disorder (n = 115) and control subjects (n = 64) using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequence analysis. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed global community case-control differences (AMOVA p = 0.047). Operational Taxonomical Unit (OTU) level analysis revealed significantly decreased fractional representation (p < 0.001) of Faecalibacterium after adjustment for age, sex, BMI and false discovery rate (FDR) correction at the p < 0.05 level. Within individuals with bipolar disorder, the fractional representation of Faecalibacterium associated with better self-reported health outcomes based on the Short Form Health Survey (SF12); the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9); the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI); the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD7); and the Altman Mania Rating Scale (ASRM), independent of covariates. This study provides the first detailed analysis of the gut microbiome relationships with multiple psychiatric domains from a bipolar population. The data support the hypothesis that targeting the microbiome may be an effective treatment paradigm for bipolar disorder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Case Study: Caldwell and Johnson — Church Community and Housing Corporation, Charlestown, RI

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

none,

2014-09-01

This DOE Zero Energy Ready Home garnered an Affordable Builder award in the 2014 Housing Innovation Awards, for its highly insulated construction, minisplit heat pump and water heater, and triple pane windows.

Directly probing spin dynamics in insulating antiferromagnets using ultrashort terahertz pulses

DOE PAGES

Bowlan, Pamela Renee; Trugman, Stuart Alan; Wang, X.; ...

2016-11-22

We investigate spin dynamics in the antiferromagnetic (AFM) multiferroic TbMnO3 using opticalpump, terahertz (THz)-probe spectroscopy. Photoexcitation results in a broadband THz transmission change, with an onset time of 25 ps at 6 K that becomes faster at higher temperatures. We attribute this time constant to spin-lattice thermalization. The excellent agreement between our measurements and previous ultrafast resonant x-ray diffraction measurements on the same material confirms that our THz pulse directly probes spin order. We suggest that this could be the case in general for insulating AFM materials, if the origin of the static absorption in the THz spectral range ismore » magnetic.« less

Portable heatable container

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, L. C. (Inventor)

1980-01-01

A container is provided which can be designed to heat its outer surface to sterilize it, or to heat its inner surface and any contents therewithin. In a container that self sterilizes its outer surface, the container includes a combustible layer of thermite-type pyrotechnic material which can be ignited to generate considerable heat, and a thin casing around the combustible layer which is of highly thermally conductive materials such as aluminum which can be heated to a high temperature by the ignited combustible layer. A buffer layer which may be of metal, lies within the combustible layer, and a layer of insulation such as Teflon lies within the buffer layer to insulate the contents of the container from the heat.

Status of candidate materials for full-scale tests in the 737 fuselage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Supkis, D.

1979-01-01

The test program has the objectives to: (1) increase passenger evacuation time to a minimum of five minutes from commercial aircraft in case of a fire; (2) prevent an external fire from entering closed cabins for five minutes by using fire barrier materials in the exterior wall; (3) demonstrate that a closed cabin will not reach 400 F; and (4) prove that a fire near a cabin opening will not propagate through the cabin for a minimum of five minutes. The materials status is outlined for seat cushions, upholstery and associated seat materials, wall and ceiling panels, floor panels, carpet and carpet underlay, windows, cargo bay liners, insulation bagging, and thermal acoustical insulation.

Portable heatable container

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, L. C.

1980-03-01

A container is provided which can be designed to heat its outer surface to sterilize it, or to heat its inner surface and any contents therewithin. In a container that self sterilizes its outer surface, the container includes a combustible layer of thermite-type pyrotechnic material which can be ignited to generate considerable heat, and a thin casing around the combustible layer which is of highly thermally conductive materials such as aluminum which can be heated to a high temperature by the ignited combustible layer. A buffer layer which may be of metal, lies within the combustible layer, and a layer of insulation such as Teflon lies within the buffer layer to insulate the contents of the container from the heat.

DOE ZERH Case Study: Addison Homes, Cobbler Lane, Simpsonville, SC

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

none,

2015-09-01

Case study of a DOE 2015 Housing Innovation Award winning custom home in the mixed humid climate that got a HERS 41 without PV, with 2x4 16” on-center walls with 1 inch rigid foam, a sealed conditioned crawl space insulated on inside with 2 inches poly iso, a vented attic with R-38 blown fiberglass, a central heat pump with fresh air intake.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Cold Climate Foundation Wall Hygrothermal Research Facility, Cloquet, Minnesota

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

None

2014-09-01

This case study describes the University of Minnesota’s Cloquet Residential Research Facility (CRRF) in northern Minnesota, which features more than 2,500 ft2 of below-grade space for building systems foundation hygrothermal research. Here, the NorthernSTAR Building America Partnership team researches ways to improve the energy efficiency of the building envelope, including wall assemblies, basements, roofs, insulation, and air leakage.

Carcinogens in the construction industry.

PubMed

Järvholm, Bengt

2006-09-01

The construction industry is a complex work environment. The work sites are temporary and rapidly changing. Asbestos has been widely used in construction industry, but the risks were primarily detected in specialized trades, such as insulation workers and plumbers. Today, the majority of cases related to asbestos exposure will occur in other occupational groups in the construction industry. In a large cohort of Swedish construction workers, insulators and plumbers constituted 37% of all cases of pleural mesothelioma between 1975 and 1984 while they constituted 21% of the cases between 1998 and 2002. It is estimated that 25-40% of all male cases of pleural mesothelioma in Sweden are caused by asbestos exposure in the construction trades. There are many other known carcinogens occurring in the construction industry, including PAHs, diesel exhausts, silica, asphalt fumes, solvents, etc., but it is difficult to estimate exposures and thus the size of the risk. The risk of cancer is less easy to detect with traditional epidemiological methods in the construction industry than in other industrial sectors. It is not sufficient to rely upon broad epidemiological data to estimate the risk of cancer due chemicals in the construction industry. Thus, a strategy to decrease exposure, e.g., to dust, seems a feasible way to reduce the risk.

Baxter Community—High Performance Green Building

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

None

2009-02-16

This case study describes the Baxter community built by David Weekley Homes, which is reducing their energy demand through a number of techniques including advanced air sealing techniques, the installation of SEER 14 air conditioners, and Low-e windows in conjunction with conventional framing and insulation.

Single-electron induced surface plasmons on a topological nanoparticle

PubMed Central

Siroki, G.; Lee, D.K.K.; Haynes, P. D.; Giannini, V.

2016-01-01

It is rarely the case that a single electron affects the behaviour of several hundred thousands of atoms. Here we demonstrate a phenomenon where this happens. The key role is played by topological insulators—materials that have surface states protected by time-reversal symmetry. Such states are delocalized over the surface and are immune to its imperfections in contrast to ordinary insulators. For topological insulators, the effects of these surface states will be more strongly pronounced in the case of nanoparticles. Here we show that under the influence of light a single electron in a topologically protected surface state creates a surface charge density similar to a plasmon in a metallic nanoparticle. Such an electron can act as a screening layer, which suppresses absorption inside the particle. In addition, it can couple phonons and light, giving rise to a previously unreported topological particle polariton mode. These effects may be useful in the areas of plasmonics, cavity electrodynamics and quantum information. PMID:27491515

Quantum interference effects on tunneling conductance and shot noise in ferromagnet/ferromagnet/d-wave superconductor double tunnel junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Z. C.; Xing, D. Y.; Dong, Jinming

2002-06-01

We study the oscillatory behavior of differential conductance (G) and shot noise (S) in ferromagnet/insulator/ferromagnet/insulator/d-wave superconductor (FM/I/FM/I/d-wave SC) structures by applying an extended Blonder-Tinkham-Klapwijk approach. There are two oscillation components with different periods in either G or S. It is found that the short-period component can be separated from the long-period one by increasing the exchange splitting in FM's and the barrier strength at the FM/SC interface, and vice versa, indicating that the long- and short-period components arise from quantum interference effects, respectively, due to the Andreev and normal reflections at the FM/SC interface. It is also shown that zero-bias G and S in the d-wave SC case is quite different from in the s-wave SC case, which may be used to distinguish between d-wave and s-wave SC's.

Large early gastric cancers treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection with an insulation-tipped diathermic knife.

PubMed

Chang, Chun-Chao; Tiong, Cheng; Fang, Chia-Lang; Pan, Shiann; Liu, Jean-Dean; Lou, Horng-Yuan; Hsieh, Ching-Ruey; Chen, Sheng-Hsuan

2007-03-01

It is difficult to remove a large early gastric cancer (> or = 3 cm) in one-piece resection using conventional endoscopic mucosal resection. We tried to use an insulation-tipped (IT) diathermic knife to dissect these lesions. IT-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed in four aging patients with gastric malignancy. All lesions could be removed in one-piece resection by IT-ESD, although three of them exhibited remarkable fibrosis and ulceration. Three cases experienced curative treatment with IT-ESD after the pathologic evaluation, but it was not curative in one case because the pathology showed angiolymphatic invasion. This patient refused additional surgery in consideration of existing major systemic diseases. At 3 months to 1 year of follow-up, endoscopy showed no evidence of residual cancer. IT-ESD is effective in the treatment of large early gastric cancer and is an alternative treatment for early gastric cancer patients who are at risk for major operation.

Stress corrosion evaluation of HP 9Ni-4Co-0.20C steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Torres, Pablo D.

1993-01-01

A stress corrosion cracking (SCC) evaluation was undertaken on HP 9Ni-4Co-0.20C steel in support of the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) program. This alloy was tested in plate, bar, and ring forging forms. Several heat treating procedures yielded ultimate tensile strengths ranging from 1,407 to 1,489 MPa (204 to 216 ksi). The test environments were high humidity, alternate immersion in 3.5-percent NaCl, and 5-percent salt spray. Stress levels ranged from 25 to 90 percent of the yield strengths. The majority of the tests were conducted for 90 days. Even though the specimens rusted significantly in salt spray and alternate immersion, no failures occurred. Therefore, it can be concluded that this alloy, in the forms and at the strength levels tested, is highly resistant to SCC in salt and high humidity environments.

The prevalence of phenotypic subgroups in Greek women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

PubMed

Vaggopoulos, V; Trakakis, E; Panagopoulos, P; Basios, G; Salloum, I; Christodoulaki, C; Chrelias, C

2013-01-01

Since 2003, when the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) sponsored consensus established criteria for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis, the phenotypic spectrum of the syndrome has been significantly broadened. This survey makes an effort to distinguish PCOS according to phenotypic expression and to estimate its prevalence in a Greek population. Greek women from 18 to 35 years of age, who visited the outpatient department, claiming either irregular menstruation (oligo- or anovulation, OA) or clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenemia (HA) were recruited. They gave full disease history and underwent clinical examination, including transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) scan to identify PCO morphology. Blood samples were collected to perform hormonal and metabolic analyses. Acute or chronic disorders were excluded. Finally, 266 PCOS women constituted the study population. The full-blown phenotype (HA+OA+PCO) is the predominant phenotype in this Greek population.

Shuttle Rocket Motor Program: NASA should delay awarding some construction contracts. Report to the Chair, Subcommittee on Government Activities and Transportation, Committee on Government Operations, House of Representatives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

Even though the executive branch has proposed terminating the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) program, NASA is proceeding with all construction activity planned for FY 1992 to avoid schedule slippage if the program is reinstated by Congress. However, NASA could delay some construction activities for at least a few months without affecting the current launch data schedule. For example, NASA could delay Yellow Creek's motor storage and dock projects, Stennis' dock project, and Kennedy's rotation processing and surge facility and dock projects. Starting all construction activities as originally planned could result in unnecessarily incurring additional costs and termination liability if the funding for FY 1993 is not provided. If Congress decides to continue the program, construction could still be completed in time to avoid schedule slippage.

An improved principal component analysis based region matching method for fringe direction estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, A.; Quan, C.

2018-04-01

The principal component analysis (PCA) and region matching combined method is effective for fringe direction estimation. However, its mask construction algorithm for region matching fails in some circumstances, and the algorithm for conversion of orientation to direction in mask areas is computationally-heavy and non-optimized. We propose an improved PCA based region matching method for the fringe direction estimation, which includes an improved and robust mask construction scheme, and a fast and optimized orientation-direction conversion algorithm for the mask areas. Along with the estimated fringe direction map, filtered fringe pattern by automatic selective reconstruction modification and enhanced fast empirical mode decomposition (ASRm-EFEMD) is used for Hilbert spiral transform (HST) to demodulate the phase. Subsequently, windowed Fourier ridge (WFR) method is used for the refinement of the phase. The robustness and effectiveness of proposed method are demonstrated by both simulated and experimental fringe patterns.

ASRM propellant and igniter propellant development and process scale-up

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landers, L. C.; Booth, D. W.; Stanley, C. B.; Ricks, D. W.

1993-01-01

A program of formulation and process development for ANB-3652 motor propellant was conducted to validate design concepts and screen critical propellant composition and process parameters. Design experiments resulted in the selection of a less active grade of ferric oxide to provide better burning rate control, the establishment of AP fluidization conditions that minimized the adverse effects of particle attrition, and the selection of a higher mix temperature to improve mechanical properties. It is shown that the propellant can be formulated with AP and aluminum powder from various producers. An extended duration pilot plant run demonstrated stable equipment operation and excellent reproducibility of propellant properties. A similar program of formulation and process optimization culminating in large batch scaleup was conducted for ANB-3672 igniter propellant. The results for both ANB-3652 and ANB 37672 confirmed that their processing characteristics are compatible with full-scale production.

Improved ablative materials for the ASRM nozzle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canfield, A.; Clinton, R. G.; Armour, W.; Koenig, J.

1992-01-01

Rayon precursor carbon-cloth phenolic was developed more than 30 years ago and is used in most nozzles today including the Poseidon, Trident, Peacekeeper, Small ICBM, Space Shuttle, and numerous tactical and space systems. Specifications and manufacturing controls were placed on these materials and, once qualified, a no-change policy was instituted. The current material is acceptable; however, prepreg variability does not always accommodate the requirements of automation. The advanced solid rocket motor requires material with less variability for automated manufacturing. An advanced solid rocket motor materials team, composed of NASA, Thiokol, Aerojet, SRI, and Lockheed specialists, along with materials suppliers ICI Fiberite/Polycarbon, BP Chemicals/Hitco, and Amoco, embarked on a program to improve the current materials. The program consisted of heat treatment studies and standard and low-density material improvements evaluation. Improvements evaluated included fiber/fabric heat treatments, weave variations, resin application methods, process controls, and monitors.

Propellant development for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landers, L. C.; Stanley, C. B.; Ricks, D. W.

1991-01-01

The properties of a propellant developed for the NASA Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) are described in terms of its composition, performance, and compliance to NASA specifications. The class 1.3 HTPB/AP/A1 propellant employs an ester plasticizer and the content of ballistic solids is set at 88 percent. Ammonia evolution is prevented by the utilization of a neutral bonding agent which allows continuous mixing. The propellant also comprises a bimodal AP blend with one ground fraction, ground AP of at least 20 microns, and ferric oxide to control the burning rate. The propellant's characteristics are discussed in terms of tradeoffs in AP particle size and the types of Al powder, bonding agent, and HTPB polymer. The size and shape of the ballistic solids affect the processability, ballistic properties, and structural properties of the propellant. The revised baseline composition is based on maximizing the robustness of in-process viscosity, structural integrity, and burning-rate tailoring range.

Biodegradation performance of environmentally-friendly insulating oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Jun; He, Yan; Cai, Shengwei; Chen, Cheng; Wen, Gang; Wang, Feipeng; Fan, Fan; Wan, Chunxiang; Wu, Liya; Liu, Ruitong

2018-02-01

In this paper, biodegradation performance of rapeseed insulating oil (RDB) and FR3 insulating oil (FR3) was studied by means of ready biodegradation method which was performed with Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 301B. For comparison, the biodegradation behaviour of 25# mineral insulating oil was also characterized with the same method. The testing results shown that the biodegradation degree of rapeseed insulating oil, FR3 insulating oil and 25# mineral insulating oil was 95.8%, 98.9% and 38.4% respectively. Following the “new chemical risk assessment guidelines” (HJ/T 154 - 2004), which illustrates the methods used to identify and assess the process safety hazards inherent. The guidelines can draw that the two vegetable insulating oils, i.e. rapeseed insulating oil and FR3 insulating oil are easily biodegradable. Therefore, the both can be classified as environmentally-friendly insulating oil. As expected, 25# mineral insulating oil is hardly biodegradable. The main reason is that 25# mineral insulating oil consists of isoalkanes, cyclanes and a few arenes, which has few unsaturated bonds. Biodegradation of rapeseed insulating oil and FR3 insulating oil also remain some difference. Biodegradation mechanism of vegetable insulating oil was revealed from the perspective of hydrolysis kinetics.

Thermal Barriers Developed for Solid Rocket Motor Nozzle Joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steinetz, Bruce M.; Dunlap, Patrick H., Jr.

2000-01-01

Space shuttle solid rocket motor case assembly joints are sealed with conventional O-ring seals that are shielded from 5500 F combustion gases by thick layers of insulation and by special joint-fill compounds that fill assembly splitlines in the insulation. On a number of occasions, NASA has observed hot gas penetration through defects in the joint-fill compound of several of the rocket nozzle assembly joints. In the current nozzle-to-case joint, NASA has observed penetration of hot combustion gases through the joint-fill compound to the inboard wiper O-ring in one out of seven motors. Although this condition does not threaten motor safety, evidence of hot gas penetration to the wiper O-ring results in extensive reviews before resuming flight. The solid rocket motor manufacturer (Thiokol) approached the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field about the possibility of applying Glenn's braided fiber preform seal as a thermal barrier to protect the O-ring seals. Glenn and Thiokol are working to improve the nozzle-to-case joint design by implementing a more reliable J-leg design and by using a braided carbon fiber thermal barrier that would resist any hot gases that the J-leg does not block.

On-surface synthesis on a bulk insulator surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richter, Antje; Floris, Andrea; Bechstein, Ralf; Kantorovich, Lev; Kühnle, Angelika

2018-04-01

On-surface synthesis has rapidly emerged as a most promising approach to prepare functional molecular structures directly on a support surface. Compared to solution synthesis, performing chemical reactions on a surface offers several exciting new options: due to the absence of a solvent, reactions can be envisioned that are otherwise not feasible due to the insolubility of the reaction product. Perhaps even more important, the confinement to a two-dimensional surface might enable reaction pathways that are not accessible otherwise. Consequently, on-surface synthesis has attracted great attention in the last decade, with an impressive number of classical reactions transferred to a surface as well as new reactions demonstrated that have no classical analogue. So far, the majority of the work has been carried out on conducting surfaces. However, when aiming for electronic decoupling of the resulting structures, e.g. for the use in future molecular electronic devices, non-conducting surfaces are highly desired. Here, we review the current status of on-surface reactions demonstrated on the (10.4) surface of the bulk insulator calcite. Besides thermally induced C-C coupling of halogen-substituted aryls, photochemically induced [2  +  2] cycloaddition has been proven possible on this surface. Moreover, experimental evidence exists for coupling of terminal alkynes as well as diacetylene polymerization. While imaging of the resulting structures with dynamic atomic force microscopy provides a direct means of reaction verification, the detailed reaction pathway often remains unclear. Especially in cases where the presence of metal atoms is known to catalyze the corresponding solution chemistry reaction (e.g. in the case of the Ullmann reaction), disclosing the precise reaction pathway is of importance to understand and generalize on-surface reactivity on a bulk insulator surface. To this end, density-functional theory calculations have proven to provide atomic-scale insights that have greatly contributed to unravelling the details of on-surface synthesis on a bulk insulator surface.

Microsphere insulation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Mark S. (Inventor); Willen, Gary S. (Inventor); Mohling, Robert A. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

A new insulation system is provided that contains microspheres. This insulation system can be used to provide insulated panels and clamshells, and to insulate annular spaces around objects used to transfer, store, or transport cryogens and other temperature-sensitive materials. This insulation system provides better performance with reduced maintenance than current insulation systems.

DEVELOPMENT OF FLEXIBLE INSULATION FOR SOLID PROPELLANT ROCKET MOTOR CASES

DTIC Science & Technology

acrylonitrile-phenol furfural -asbestos composition. Other promising materials which are reported are based on two types of liquid butadiene/styrene cbers. The...This material was based on a butadiene/acrylonitrile-phenol furfural -asbestos composition. Other promising materials which are reported are based on two

New Whole-House Solutions Case Study: John Wesley Miller, Tucson, Arizona

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

none,

This builder worked with the National Association of Home Builders Research Center to build two net-zero energy homes with foam-sheathed masonry walls, low-E windows 2.9 ACH50 air sealing, transfer grilles, ducts in insulated attic, PV, and solar water heating.

Dynamic electronic correlation effects in NbO 2 as compared to VO 2

DOE PAGES

Brito, W. H.; Aguiar, M. C. O.; Haule, K.; ...

2017-11-01

In this study we present a comparative investigation of the electronic structures of NbO 2 and VO 2 obtained within a combination of density functional theory and cluster-dynamical mean-field theory calculations. We investigate the role of dynamic electronic correlations on the electronic structure of the metallic and insulating phases of NbO 2 and VO 2, with a focus on the mechanism responsible for the gap opening in the insulating phases. For the rutile metallic phases of both oxides, we obtain that electronic correlations lead to a strong renormalization of the t 2g subbands, as well as the emergence of incoherentmore » Hubbard subbands, signaling that electronic correlations are also important in the metallic phase of NbO 2. Interestingly, we find that nonlocal dynamic correlations do play a role in the gap formation of the [body-centered-tetragonal (bct)] insulating phase of NbO 2, by a similar physical mechanism as that recently proposed by us in the case of the monoclinic (M 1) dimerized phase of VO 2. Finally, although the effect of nonlocal dynamic correlations in the gap opening of bct phase is less important than in the (M 1 and M 2) monoclinic phases of VO 2, their presence indicates that the former is not a purely Peierls-type insulator, as it was recently proposed.« less

Building America Case Study: Measure Guideline: Guidance on Taped Insulating Sheathing Drainage Planes (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

This guide provides information and recommendations to the following groups: Insulation contractors, General contractors, Builders, Home remodelers, Mechanical contractors, and Homeowners as a guide to the work that needs to be done. The order of work completed during home construction and retrofit improvements is important. Health and safety issues must be addressed first and are more important than durability issues. And durability issues are more important than saving energy. Not all techniques can apply to all houses. Special conditions will require special action. Some builders or homeowners will wish to do more than the important but basic retrofit strategies outlinedmore » by this guide. The following are best practice and product recommendations from the interviewed contractors and home builders who collectively have a vast amount of experience. Three significant items were discussed with the group which are required to make taped insulating sheathing a simple, long term, and durable drainage plane: 4. Horizontal joints should be limited or eliminated wherever possible 5. Where a horizontal joint exists use superior materials 6. Frequent installation inspection and regular trade training are required to maintain proper installation Section 5 of this measure guideline contains the detailed construction procedure for the three recommended methods to effectively seal the joints in exterior insulating sheathing to create a simple, long term, and durable drainage plane.« less

Thermocouple Errors when Mounted on Cylindrical Surfaces in Abnormal Thermal Environments.

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

Nakos, James T.; Suo-Anttila, Jill M.; Zepper, Ethan T.

Mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed, Type-K thermocouples are used to measure the temperature of various items in high-temperature environments, often exceeding 1000degC (1273 K). The thermocouple wires (chromel and alumel) are protected from the harsh environments by an Inconel sheath and magnesium oxide (MgO) insulation. The sheath and insulation are required for reliable measurements. Due to the sheath and MgO insulation, the temperature registered by the thermocouple is not the temperature of the surface of interest. In some cases, the error incurred is large enough to be of concern because these data are used for model validation, and thus the uncertainties of themore » data need to be well documented. This report documents the error using 0.062" and 0.040" diameter Inconel sheathed, Type-K thermocouples mounted on cylindrical surfaces (inside of a shroud, outside and inside of a mock test unit). After an initial transient, the thermocouple bias errors typically range only about +-1-2% of the reading in K. After all of the uncertainty sources have been included, the total uncertainty to 95% confidence, for shroud or test unit TCs in abnormal thermal environments, is about +-2% of the reading in K, lower than the +-3% typically used for flat shrouds. Recommendations are provided in Section 6 to facilitate interpretation and use of the results. .« less

Effect of the insulation by the mud on the convection in building in the Sahara of Algeria - case of Bechar City

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benachour, Elhadj; Draoui, Belkacem; Imine, Baachir; Hasnat, Mohammed; Rahmani, Lakhdar

2016-03-01

The thermal behavior of the buildings is a current problem which arouses the interest of many researchers. Indeed, the control of the loads of air conditioning or heating requires a thorough knowledge. Since the thermal quality of the buildings in the Maghreb is there generally very insufficient in particular in the Sahara of Algeria, the insulation proved that it is a very important parameter to minimize the thermal diffusion process inside on all when the insulator is a local material as the Mud which is in our region with a significant amount and almost free quantity. This work presents a study of numerical simulation aiming at the role and the influence of the insulation by the mud Reduced like a local material to the town of Bechar located at the south west of Algeria, or one is interested in a comparative study for pursued these goals. In this context, an analogy was used for the functions which are discretized by the finite difference method and integrated in the Fluent code which is based on the finite volume method. The validation of this procedure was confirmed while comparing some results. The results are presented in the form of distributions of the isotherms, the streamlines, local and average Nusselt of which the goal to study the influence on comfort.

Cellular Convection in a Chamber with a Warm Surface Raft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitehead, John; Shea, Erin; Behn, Mark

2011-11-01

We calculate velocity and temperature fields for Rayleigh-Benard convection in a chamber with a warm raft that can float along the top surface for Rayleigh number up to Ra=20,000. Two-dimensional, infinite Prandtl number, Boussinesq approximation equations are numerically advanced in time from a motionless state in a chamber of length L' and depth D'. We consider cases with an insulated raft and a raft of fixed temperature. Either oscillatory or stationary flow exists. The case of an insulated raft has three governing parameters: Ra, scaled chamber length L=L'/D', and scaled raft width W. For W=0 and L=1, the marginal state is at Ra=779.3. For smallest W (determined by numerical grid size) and Ra <790 the raft approaches the center monotonically in time. For 790 Ra >871 amplitude is steady, starting small and increasing with larger Ra and for Ra >871 raft movement ceases. For larger W, a range of W and Ra has raft oscillation up to Ra=20,000. Rafts in longer cavities (L=2 and 4) have almost no oscillatory behavior. With a raft of temperature Tr rather than insulating, Ra=20,000, and with internal heating, there are wider ranges of oscillating flow. Thus the presence or absence of motion is very sensitive to W, L, raft thermal properties and Ra. Reasons why are discussed.

Novel δ-doped partially insulated junctionless transistor for mixed signal integrated circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Ganesh C.; Bonge, Vijaysinh H.; Malode, Mayur M.; Jain, Rahul G.

2016-02-01

In this paper, δ-doped partially insulated junctionless transistor (δ-Pi-OXJLT) has been proposed which shows that, employing highly doped δ-region below the channel not only reduces the off-state leakage current (IOFF) and short channel effects (SCEs) but also reduce the requirements of scaling channel thickness of junctionless transistor (JLT). The comparative analysis of digital and analog circuit performance of proposed δ-Pi-OXJLT, bulk planar (BP) JLT and silicon-on-insulator (SOI) JLT has also been carried out. The digital parameters analyzed in this work are, on-state drive current (ION), IOFF, ION/IOFF ratio, static power dissipation (PSTAT) whereas the analog parameters analyzed includes, transconductance (GM), transconductance generation factor (GM/IDS), intrinsic gain (GMRO) and cut-off frequency (fT) of the devices. In addition, scaling behavior of the devices is studied for various channel lengths by using the parameters such as drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL) and sub-threshold swing (SS). It has been found that, the proposed δ-Pi-OXJLT shows significant reduction in IOFF, DIBL and SS over BPJLT and SOIJLT devices. Further, ION and ION/IOFF ratio in the case of proposed δ-Pi-OXJLT also improves over the BPJLT device. Furthermore, the improvement in analog figures of merit, GM, GM/IDS, GMRO and fT in the case of proposed δ-Pi-OXJLT clearly shows that the proposed δ-Pi-OXJLT is the promising device for mixed signal integrated circuits.

Best Practices Case Study: Pulte Homes and Communities of Del Webb, Las Vegas Division

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

None

2009-10-01

Case study of Pulte Homes Las Vegas Division, who certified nearly 1,200 homes to the DOE Builders Challenge between 2008 and 2012. All of the homes by Las Vegas’ biggest builder achieved HERS scores of lower than 70, and many floor plans got down to the mid 50s, with ducts located in sealed attics insulated along the roof line, advanced framing, and extra attention to air sealing.

Wire Insulation Flammability Experiment: USML-1 One Year Post Mission Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenberg, Paul S.; Sacksteder, Kurt R.; Kashiwagi, Takashi

1994-01-01

Herein we report the results from the Wire Insulation Flammability (WIF) Experiment performed in the Glovebox Facility on the USML-1 mission. This experiment explored various aspects of electrically induced fire scenarios in a reduced gravity environment. Under quiescent microgravity conditions, heat and mass transfer are dominated by diffusive and radiative transport; while in normal-gravity buoyancy induced convection often dominates. Of considerable scientific and practical interest is the intermediate situation of combustion occurring in the presence of imposed gas flows, with lower characteristic velocities than those induced by buoyancy in noma1 gravity. Two distinct cases naturally arise: flow direction opposed to, or concurrent with, the flame spread direction. Two tests of each kind were conducted in the WIF experiment, providing the first controlled demonstration of flame spreading in forced convection ever conducted in space. Four test modules were flown. The wire insulation, 1.5 mm in diameter, was polyethylene, extruded onto nichrome wire. Temperatures of the wh3 cores and insulation heated in quiescent and flowing environments were measured. Video and still-camera images of the samples, burning in air flowing at approximately 10 cm/sec, were recorded to obtain flame characteristics including spread rate, structure and temperature. Flame spread rates in concurrent flow were approximately twice those in opposed flow. In concurrent and opposed flow regimes, the spreading flames stabilized around a bead of molten insulation material, within which bubble nucleation was observed. An ignition attempt without flow mated a quiescent cloud of vaporized fuel which ignited dramatically yet failed to sustain normal flame spread. Finally, all tests produced substantial soot agglomerates, particularly the concurrent flow tests; and the collected soot has a morphology very distinct from soot formed in normal gravity flames. Several unexpected and unique microgravity combustion phenomena were observed.

New self-magnetically insulated connection of multilevel accelerators to a common load

DOE PAGES

VanDevender, J. Pace; Langston, William L.; Pasik, Michael F.; ...

2015-03-04

A new way to connect pulsed-power modules to a common load is presented. Unlike previous connectors, the clam shell magnetically insulated transmission line (CSMITL) has magnetic nulls only at large radius where the cathode electric field is kept below the threshold for emission, has only a simply connected magnetic topology to avoid plasma motion along magnetic field lines into highly stressed gaps, and has electron injectors that ensure efficient electron flow even in the limiting case of self-limited MITLs. Multilevel magnetically insulated transmission lines with a posthole convolute are the standard solution but associated losses limit the performance of state-of-the-artmore » accelerators. Mitigating these losses is critical for the next generation of pulsed-power accelerators. A CSMITL has been successfully implemented on the Saturn accelerator. A reference design for the Z accelerator is derived and presented. The design conservatively meets the design requirements and shows excellent transport efficiency in three simulations of increasing complexity: circuit simulations, electromagnetic fields only with Emphasis, fields plus electron and ion emission with Quicksilver.« less

Analysis and test results for a molten salt thermal energy storage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sterrett, R. H.; Scott, O. L.

A system has been developed to provide low cost thermal energy storage using molten salt. It consists of a hot tank to store the 565 C (1050 F) salt and a cold tank to store the 289 C (550 F) salt. The hot tank uses internal insulation protected by a liner to enable the use of a carbon steel shell for structural support. Due to the lower salt temperature, the cold tank can be a carbon steel shell with external insulation. This paper describes an analytical method used to predict the thermal performance of such systems and presents experimental data from a Subsystem Research Experiment (SRE) conducted by Martin Marietta Aerospace, Solar Energy Systems under contract from Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, CA. The results from three of the SRE test cases are compared with the STS model results. These are (1) steady state operation, (2) concurrent charging and discharging, and (3) transient cooldown. The temperature differences between the analytical and experimental results were less than 10%. The internally insulated hot tank performed well.

Atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3-HfO2-Al2O3 dielectrics for metal-insulator-metal capacitor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Shi-Jin; Zhu, Chunxiang; Li, Ming-Fu; Zhang, David Wei

2005-08-01

Atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3-HfO2-Al2O3 dielectrics have been investigated to replace conventional silicon oxide and nitride for radio frequency and analog metal-insulator-metal capacitors applications. In the case of 1-nm-Al2O3, sufficiently good electrical performances are achieved, including a high dielectric constant of ˜17, a small dissipation factor of 0.018 at 100kHz, an extremely low leakage current of 7.8×10-9A/cm2 at 1MV/cm and 125°C, perfect voltage coefficients of capacitance (74ppm/V2 and 10ppm/V). The quadratic voltage coefficient of capacitance decreases with the applied frequency due to the change of relaxation time with different carrier mobility in insulator, and correlates with the dielectric composition and thickness, which is of intrinsic property owing to electric field polarization. Furthermore, the conduction mechanism of the AHA dielectrics is also discussed, indicating the Schottky emission dominated at room temperature.

Assessment of the insulation degradation of cables used in nuclear power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartoníc̆ek, B.; Hnát, V.; Plac̆ek, V.

1999-05-01

Cable insulating materials are usually, during their operational lifetime, exposed to a high number of various deteriorative enviromental effects resulting in their degradation. In the case of cables used in the nuclear power plant (NPP) hermetic zone these factors consist predominantly of long-term irradiation (at rather low dose rates, in the presence of oxygen) and enhanced temperature. Hence, all cables assigned for use in NPP have to be qualified for use under such severe conditions. However, not only the initial qualification but also monitoring of the actual state of the installed cables in regular intervals is now recommended. Monitoring of the actual state of the cable insulation and the prediction of their residual service life (i.e., the on-going qualification) consist of the measurement of the properties that are directly proportional to the functionality of the cables (usually the elongation at break is used as the critical parameter). For the cables installed in the NPP hermetic zone a method based on the measurement of the thermo-oxidative stability by the differential scanning calorimetry has been developed.

Analysis of Deep and Shallow Traps in Semi-Insulating CdZnTe

DOE PAGES

Kim, Kihyun; Yoon, Yongsu; James, Ralph B.

2018-03-13

Trap levels which are deep or shallow play an important role in the electrical and the optical properties of a semiconductor; thus, a trap level analysis is very important in most semiconductor devices. Deep-level defects in CdZnTe are essential in Fermi level pinning at the middle of the bandgap and are responsible for incomplete charge collection and polarization effects. However, a deep level analysis in semi-insulating CdZnTe (CZT) is very difficult. Theoretical capacitance calculation for a metal/insulator/CZT (MIS) device with deep-level defects exhibits inflection points when the donor/acceptor level crosses the Fermi level in the surface-charge layer (SCL). Three CZTmore » samples with different resistivities, 2 × 10 4 (n-type), 2 × 10 6 (p-type), and 2 × 10 10 (p-type) Ω·cm, were used in fabricating the MIS devices. These devices showed several peaks in their capacitance measurements due to upward/downward band bending that depend on the surface potential. In conclusion, theoretical and experimental capacitance measurements were in agreement, except in the fully compensated case.« less

Amorphous topological insulators constructed from random point sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitchell, Noah P.; Nash, Lisa M.; Hexner, Daniel; Turner, Ari M.; Irvine, William T. M.

2018-04-01

The discovery that the band structure of electronic insulators may be topologically non-trivial has revealed distinct phases of electronic matter with novel properties1,2. Recently, mechanical lattices have been found to have similarly rich structure in their phononic excitations3,4, giving rise to protected unidirectional edge modes5-7. In all of these cases, however, as well as in other topological metamaterials3,8, the underlying structure was finely tuned, be it through periodicity, quasi-periodicity or isostaticity. Here we show that amorphous Chern insulators can be readily constructed from arbitrary underlying structures, including hyperuniform, jammed, quasi-crystalline and uniformly random point sets. While our findings apply to mechanical and electronic systems alike, we focus on networks of interacting gyroscopes as a model system. Local decorations control the topology of the vibrational spectrum, endowing amorphous structures with protected edge modes—with a chirality of choice. Using a real-space generalization of the Chern number, we investigate the topology of our structures numerically, analytically and experimentally. The robustness of our approach enables the topological design and self-assembly of non-crystalline topological metamaterials on the micro and macro scale.

New Whole-House Case Study: Transformations, Inc. Net Zero Energy Communities, Devens, Easthampton, Townsend, Massachusetts

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

None

2013-11-01

In 2009, Transformations, Inc. partnered with Building America team Building Science Corporation (BSC) to build new net zero energy houses in three developments in Massachusetts. The company has been developing strategies for cost-effective super-insulated homes in the New England market since 2006. After years of using various construction techniques, it has developed a specific set of assemblies and specifications that achieve a 44.9% reduction in energy use compared with a home built to the 2009 International Residential Code, qualifying the houses for the DOE’s Challenge Home. The super-insulated houses provide data for several research topics in a cold climate. BSCmore » studied the moisture risks in double stud walls insulated with open cell spray foam and cellulose. The mini-split air source heat pump (ASHP) research focused on the range of temperatures experienced in bedrooms as well as the homeowners’ perceptions of equipment performance. BSC also examined the developer’s financing options for the photovoltaic (PV) systems, which take advantage of Solar Renewable Energy Certificates, local incentives, and state and federal tax credits.« less

Analysis of Deep and Shallow Traps in Semi-Insulating CdZnTe

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

Kim, Kihyun; Yoon, Yongsu; James, Ralph B.

Trap levels which are deep or shallow play an important role in the electrical and the optical properties of a semiconductor; thus, a trap level analysis is very important in most semiconductor devices. Deep-level defects in CdZnTe are essential in Fermi level pinning at the middle of the bandgap and are responsible for incomplete charge collection and polarization effects. However, a deep level analysis in semi-insulating CdZnTe (CZT) is very difficult. Theoretical capacitance calculation for a metal/insulator/CZT (MIS) device with deep-level defects exhibits inflection points when the donor/acceptor level crosses the Fermi level in the surface-charge layer (SCL). Three CZTmore » samples with different resistivities, 2 × 10 4 (n-type), 2 × 10 6 (p-type), and 2 × 10 10 (p-type) Ω·cm, were used in fabricating the MIS devices. These devices showed several peaks in their capacitance measurements due to upward/downward band bending that depend on the surface potential. In conclusion, theoretical and experimental capacitance measurements were in agreement, except in the fully compensated case.« less

Epitaxy, strain, and composition effects on metal-insulator transition characteristics of SmNiO{sub 3} thin films

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

Aydogdu, Gulgun H.; Ha, Sieu D.; Viswanath, B.

SmNiO{sub 3} (SNO) thin films were deposited on LaAlO{sub 3} (LAO), SrTiO{sub 3}, SrLaAlO{sub 4}, Si, and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} (sapphire) substrates by RF magnetron sputtering and studies were conducted to understand how film structure and composition influence the insulator-metal transition properties. It is observed that the compressive strain induces the insulator to metal transition (MIT), while tensile strain suppresses it. In the case of non-epitaxial films, semiconducting behavior is obtained on sapphire over a broad temperature range, while on heavily-doped Si substrate; an MIT is seen in out-of-plane resistance measurement. In addition, thickness dependence on the resistance behavior andmore » nickel oxidation state has been examined for epitaxial SNO films on LAO substrates. Fine control of the MIT by modifications to the mismatch strain and thickness provides insights to enhance the performance and the functionality of these films for emerging electron devices.« less

Insulation co-ordination aspects for power stations with generator circuit-breakers

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

Sanders, M.; Koeppl, G.; Kreuzer, J.

1995-07-01

The generator circuit-breaker (gen. c.b.) located between the generator and the step-up transformer, is now being applied world-wide. It has become a recognized electrical component of power stations which is largely due to economical advantages and increased power station availability. Technical protection considerations for power stations have always been the reason for discussion and the object of improvement. With the use of a gen. c.b., some points of view need to be considered anew. Not only the protection system in case of fault conditions will be influenced, but also the insulation co-ordination philosophy. Below the results of some calculations concerningmore » expected overvoltages are presented. These calculations are based on a transformer rated 264/15.5kV, 220 MVA. But the results are transferable to other power plants. Some measurements carried out on a transformer of the same rating complement the calculations. The findings may contribute to an improvement in insulation co-ordination and protection of the electrical system generator--step-up transformer.« less

Optimal Design of Functionally Graded Metallic Foam Insulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haftka, Raphael T.; Sankar, Bhavani; Venkataraman, Satchi; Zhu, Huadong

2002-01-01

The focus of our work has been on developing an insight into the physics that govern the optimum design of thermal insulation for use in thermal protection systems of launch vehicle. Of particular interest was to obtain optimality criteria for designing foam insulations that have density (or porosity) distributions through the thickness for optimum thermal performance. We investigate the optimum design of functionally graded thermal insulation for steady state heat transfer through the foam. We showed that the heat transfer in the foam has competing modes, of radiation and conduction. The problem assumed a fixed inside temperature of 400 K and varied the aerodynamic surface heating on the outside surface from 0.2 to 1.0 MW/sq m. The thermal insulation develops a high temperature gradient through the thickness. Investigation of the model developed for heat conduction in foams showed that at high temperatures (as on outside wall) intracellular radiation dominates the heat transfer in the foam. Minimizing radiation requires reducing the pore size, which increases the density of the foam. At low temperatures (as on the inside wall), intracellular conduction (of the metal and air) dominates the heat transfer. Minimizing conduction requires increasing the pore size. This indicated that for every temperature there was an optimum value of density that minimized the heat transfer coefficient. Two optimization studies were performed. One was to minimize the heat transmitted though a fixed thickness insulation by varying density profiles. The second was to obtain the minimum mass insulation for specified thickness. Analytical optimality criteria were derived for the cases considered. The optimality condition for minimum heat transfer required that at each temperature we find the density that minimizes the heat transfer coefficient. Once a relationship between the optimum heat transfer coefficient and the temperature was found, the design problem reduced to the solution of a simple nonlinear differential equation. Preliminary results of this work were presented at the American Society of Composites meeting, and the final version was submitted for publication in the AIAA Journal. In addition to minimizing the transmitted heat, we investigated the optimum design for minimum weight given an acceptable level of heat transmission through the insulation. The optimality criterion developed was different from that obtained for minimizing beat transfer coefficient. For minimum mass design, we had to find for a given temperature the optimum density, which minimized the logarithmic derivative of the insulation thermal conductivity with respect to its density. The logarithmic derivative is defined as the ratio of relative change in the dependent response (thermal conductivity) to the relative change in the independent variable (density). The results have been documented as a conference paper that will be presented at the upcoming AIAA.

Properties and processing characteristics of low density carbon cloth phenolic composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, C. Jeff

1993-01-01

Ply-lift and pocketing are two critical anomalies of carbon cloth phenolic composites (CCPC) in rocket nozzle applications. Ply lift occurs at low temperatures when the A/P and in-plane permeabilities of the composite materials are still very low and in-plane porous paths are blocked. Pocketing occurs at elevated temperatures when in-plane permeability is reduced by the A/P compressive stress. The thermostructural response of CCPC in a rapid heating environment involves simultaneous heat, mass, and momentum transfer along with the degradation of phenolic resin in a multiphase system with temperature- and time-dependent material properties as well as dynamic processing conditions. Three temperature regions represent the consequent chemical reactions, material transformations, and property transitions, and provide a quick qualitative method for characterizing the thermostructural behavior of a CCPC. In order to optimize the FM5939 LDCCP (low density carbon cloth phenolic) for the nozzle performance required in the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor (ASRM) program, a fundamental study on LDCCP materials was conducted. The cured composite has a density of 1.0 +/- 0.5 gm/cc which includes 10 to 25 percent void volume. The weight percent of carbon microballoon is low (7-15 percent). However, they account for approximately one third of the volume and historically their percentages have not been controlled very tightly. In addition, the composite properties show no correlation with microballoon weight percent or fiber properties (e.g. fiber density or fiber moisture adsorption capacity). Test results concerning the ply-lift anomaly in the MNASA motor firings were: (1) Steeper ply angle (shorter path lenght) designs minimized/eliminated by lifting, (2) material with higher void volume ply lifted less frequently, (3) materials with high (greater than 9 percent) microballoon content had a higher rate of ply lifting, and (4) LDCCP materials failed at microballoon-resin interfaces. The objectives of this project are: (1) to investigate the effects of carbon microballoon and cabosil fillers as well as fiber heat treatment on plylift-related mechanical properties, (2) to develop a science-based thermostructural process model for the carbon phenolics. The model can be used in the future for the selection of the improved ASRM materials, (3) to develop the micro-failure mechanisms for the ply-lift initiation and propagation processes during the thermoelastic region of phenolic degradation, i.e. postcuring and devolatilization.

Positive Coping Strategies among Immigrant Cambodian Families: An Ethnographic Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reiboldt, Wendy; Goldstein, Avery E.

2000-01-01

Interviews with two Cambodian immigrant families over 2 years revealed how they relied on each other more than formal service providers to cope with difficulties. They focused on children's education and safety, insulation of the family from external influences, and interdependence with the immigrant community. (SK)

In-Situ Air Sparaing: Engineering and Design

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-31

Construction Materials. Although PVC casing is commonly used, flexible or rigid polyethylene pipe may be more efficient for certain excavation methods, such as...depth, etc.) Piping insulation/ heat tape installed Piping flushed/cleaned/pressure tested Subsurface as-built equipment...4-4 Figure 4-2 Pilot-Scale Piping and Instrumentation Diagram

Assessment of the Technology and Practice for Determining Casing Degradation during Offshore Drilling Operations.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-09-01

industries. Transport of hydrocarbons Castagnet. A.COG. InStituto de Energia Atomica. Sao Paulo (Brazil). Divisao de ApI icacao de Radioisotopos na...DETECTOR*; MEETING PAPER; OPERATING CONDITION; PIPELINE*; PRESSURE: SAFETY EQUIPMENT; SOLAR ENERGY: THERMAL INSULATION: TUBE; VALVE Leaks In gas grids

Low-loss and broadband anomalous Floquet topological insulator for airborne sound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yu-Gui; Shen, Ya-Xi; Zhao, De-Gang; Zhu, Xue-Feng

2017-04-01

Anomalous Floquet topological insulators (AFIs) for airborne sound have recently been realized in experiments. However, the implemented version suffers from significant loss and narrowband due to thermal viscosity and dispersive coupling strength between unit-cells. Here, we propose a solution for realizing low-loss and broadband acoustic AFI. We show that the loss after passing through one unit-cell can be less than 2% for the topological edge states. It is also theoretically unveiled that in the frequency range of nearly unitary coupling (˜0.97 from 4.8 kHz to 7.0 kHz in our case), around 84% corresponds to topological bands. Our proposal may promote the application of large-dimension acoustic topological devices.

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

Glagovskii, V. B.; Kassirova, N. A.; Turchina, O. A.

In designing stationary oil-gas recovery platforms on the continental shelf, the need arises to compute the estimated strength of their support base during seismic events. This paper is devoted to this estimation. The paper examines a structure consisting of the superstructure of an oil-gas platform and its gravity-type base. It is possible to install earthquake-insulating supports between them. Calculations performed for the design earthquake indicated that the design of the gravity base can resist a seismic effect without special additional measures. During the maximum design earthquake, moreover, significant stresses may develop in the zone of base where the columns aremore » connected to the upper slab of the caisson. In that case, the earthquake insulation considered for the top of the platform becomes critical.« less

Tuning near field radiative heat flux through surface excitations with a metal insulator transition.

PubMed

van Zwol, P J; Ranno, L; Chevrier, J

2012-06-08

The control of heat flow is a formidable challenge due to lack of good thermal insulators. Promising new opportunities for heat flow control were recently theoretically discovered for radiative heat flow in near field, where large heat flow contrasts may be achieved by tuning electronic excitations on surfaces. Here we show experimentally that the phase transition of VO2 entails a change of surface polariton states that significantly affects radiative heat transfer in near field. In all cases the Derjaguin approximation correctly predicted radiative heat transfer in near field, but it underestimated the far field limit. Our results indicate that heat flow contrasts can be realized in near field that can be larger than those obtained in far field.

DC Interruption Characteristic on Vacuum Circuit Breaker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odaka, Hiromi; Yamada, Masataka; Sakuma, Ryohei; Ding, Cuie; Kaneko, Eiji; Yanabu, Satoru

A high speed vacuum circuit breaker (HSVCB) has been investigated. HSVCB makes high frequency current superimposed on a fault current so that the current is forced to be zero and is interrupted. Its interruption performance is considered to be dependent on a rate of change of the current (di/dt). As a fundamental research, we investigated the di/dt-dv/dt characteristics and the insulation recovery characteristic after interrupting the counter-pulse current for various contact materials of AgWC, CuW, and CuCr. The results revealed that the case where gap length is larger is better in a current interruption performance. Moreover, it was found that di/dt is not dependent on the insulation recovery characteristics, but the magnitude of interruption current influences greatly.

Insulated Foamy Viral Vectors

PubMed Central

Browning, Diana L.; Collins, Casey P.; Hocum, Jonah D.; Leap, David J.; Rae, Dustin T.; Trobridge, Grant D.

2016-01-01

Retroviral vector-mediated gene therapy is promising, but genotoxicity has limited its use in the clinic. Genotoxicity is highly dependent on the retroviral vector used, and foamy viral (FV) vectors appear relatively safe. However, internal promoters may still potentially activate nearby genes. We developed insulated FV vectors, using four previously described insulators: a version of the well-studied chicken hypersensitivity site 4 insulator (650cHS4), two synthetic CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF)-based insulators, and an insulator based on the CCAAT box-binding transcription factor/nuclear factor I (7xCTF/NF1). We directly compared these insulators for enhancer-blocking activity, effect on FV vector titer, and fidelity of transfer to both proviral long terminal repeats. The synthetic CTCF-based insulators had the strongest insulating activity, but reduced titers significantly. The 7xCTF/NF1 insulator did not reduce titers but had weak insulating activity. The 650cHS4-insulated FV vector was identified as the overall most promising vector. Uninsulated and 650cHS4-insulated FV vectors were both significantly less genotoxic than gammaretroviral vectors. Integration sites were evaluated in cord blood CD34+ cells and the 650cHS4-insulated FV vector had fewer hotspots compared with an uninsulated FV vector. These data suggest that insulated FV vectors are promising for hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy. PMID:26715244

Demonstration of Microsphere Insulation in Cryogenic Vessels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baumgartner, R. G.; Myers, E. A.; Fesmire, J. E.; Morris, D. L.; Sokalski, E. R.

2006-04-01

While microspheres have been recognized as a legitimate insulation material for decades, actual use in full-scale cryogenic storage tanks has not been demonstrated until now. The performance and life-cycle-cost advantages previously predicted have now been proven. Most bulk cryogenic storage tanks are insulated with either multilayer insulation (MLI) or perlite. Microsphere insulation, consisting of hollow glass bubbles, combines in a single material the desirable properties that other insulations only have individually. The material has high crush strength, low density, is noncombustible, and performs well in soft vacuum. These properties were proven during recent field testing of two 22,700-L (6,000-gallon) liquid nitrogen tanks, one insulated with microsphere insulation and the other with perlite. Normal evaporation rates (NER) for both tanks were monitored with precision test equipment and insulation levels within the tanks were observed through view ports as an indication of insulation compaction. Specific industrial applications were evaluated based on the test results and beneficial properties of microsphere insulation. Over-the-road trailers previously insulated with perlite will benefit not only from the reduced heat leak, but also the reduced mass of microsphere insulation. Economic assessments for microsphere-insulated cryogenic vessels including life-cycle cost are also presented.

Thermal insulation of young calves exposed to cold.

PubMed Central

Rawson, R E; Dziuk, H E; Good, A L; Anderson, J F; Bates, D W; Ruth, G R

1989-01-01

Tissue, external and whole animal insulation values were determined for 12 newborn male Holstein calves continuously housed for two weeks in hutches within environmental chambers in which temperature was maintained at a constant 17 degrees C (three calves) or cycled on a daily basis either between -20 degrees and -8 degrees C (three calves) or between -30 degrees and -18 degrees C (six calves). Three of the six calves at the coldest temperature were outfitted with an insulated coat. The insulated coat provided calves a 52% increase in total insulation. Tissue insulation of cold-housed calves increased 37.2% over the first two weeks of life. It was concluded that the capacity for vasoconstriction improved with age. External insulation did not change significantly except during the first week in cold-housed calves without insulated coats. External insulation values were five to eight times those of tissue insulation values for all treatment groups. This indicated that insulation of structures external to the skin (hair, bedding, ground, etc.) provided most of the insulation for calves. PMID:2766147

Dirac-electron-mediated magnetic proximity effect in topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterostructures

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

Li, Mingda; Song, Qichen; Zhao, Weiwei

The possible realization of dissipationless chiral edge current in a topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterostructure is based on the condition that the magnetic proximity exchange coupling at the interface is dominated by the Dirac surface states of the topological insulator. We report a polarized neutron reflectometry observation of Dirac-electron-mediated magnetic proximity effect in a bulk-insulating topological insulator (Bi 0.2Sb 0.8) 2Te 3/magnetic insulator EuS heterostructure. We are able to maximize the proximity-induced magnetism by applying an electrical back gate to tune the Fermi level of topological insulator to be close to the Dirac point. A phenomenological model based on diamagnetic screeningmore » is developed to explain the suppressed proximity-induced magnetism at high carrier density. Our work paves the way to utilize the magnetic proximity effect at the topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterointerface for low-power spintronic applications.« less

Dirac-electron-mediated magnetic proximity effect in topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterostructures

DOE PAGES

Li, Mingda; Song, Qichen; Zhao, Weiwei; ...

2017-11-01

The possible realization of dissipationless chiral edge current in a topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterostructure is based on the condition that the magnetic proximity exchange coupling at the interface is dominated by the Dirac surface states of the topological insulator. We report a polarized neutron reflectometry observation of Dirac-electron-mediated magnetic proximity effect in a bulk-insulating topological insulator (Bi 0.2Sb 0.8) 2Te 3/magnetic insulator EuS heterostructure. We are able to maximize the proximity-induced magnetism by applying an electrical back gate to tune the Fermi level of topological insulator to be close to the Dirac point. A phenomenological model based on diamagnetic screeningmore » is developed to explain the suppressed proximity-induced magnetism at high carrier density. Our work paves the way to utilize the magnetic proximity effect at the topological insulator/magnetic insulator heterointerface for low-power spintronic applications.« less

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Deep Energy Retrofit of 1910 House, Portland, Oregon

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

none,

2011-12-01

This case study lists project information, cost and energy efficiency performance data, energy efficiency measures and lessons learned for a 100-year-old home in Portland, Oregon, audited by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for a deep energy retrofit. New HVAC and extensive insulation upgrades including rigid XPS and new siding over the old lead painted siding, and EPS on the basement walls and in cathedral ceiling helped bring HERS down to 68.

77 FR 20806 - Nationwide Categorical Waivers Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-06

... the insulation for leak detection and location); pre-insulated steel fittings with the same... in the insulation for leak detection and location); pre-insulated steel fittings with the same... the insulation for leak detection and location); pre-insulated steel fittings with the same...

Heat insulating device for low temperature liquefied gas storage tank

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

Okamoto, T.; Nishimoto, T.; Sawada, K.

1978-05-02

Hitachi Shipbuilding and Engineering Co., Ltd.'s insulation method for spherical LNG containers solves various problems associated with insulating a sphere's three-dimensional curved surface; equalizing the thickness of the insulation, insulating the junctions between insulation blocks, and preventing seawater or LNG from penetrating the insulation barrier in the event of a rupture in the tank and ship's hull. The design incorporates a number of blocks or plates of rigid foam-insulating material bonded to the outer wall; seats for receiving pressing jigs for the bonding operation are secured to the outer wall in the joints between the insulating blocks. The joints aremore » filled with soft synthetic foam (embedding the seats), a moistureproof layer covers the insulating blocks and joints, and a waterproof material covers the moistureproof layer.« less

[Effects of functional interactions between nonhomologous insulators Wari and Su(Hw)].

PubMed

Erokhin, M M; Georgiev, P G; Chetverina, D A

2010-01-01

Insulators are regulatory DNA elements restricting gene activation by enhancers. Interactions between insulators can lead to both insulation and activation of promoters by enhancers. In this work, we analyzed the effects of interaction of two Drosophila insulators, Wari and Su(Hw). The functional interaction between these insulators was found to enhance the activity of the Su(Hw) insulator only, but not of the Wari insulator. This suggests that the formation of a chromatin loop between interacting insulators is not a key factor for enhancement of insulation, which is in disagreement with the main idea of structural models. In addition, the effect of interaction between Wari and Su(Hw) depends on a distance between them and on the position in the system relative to other regulatory elements.

Ceramic fiber insulation impregnated with an infra-red retardant coating and method for production thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zinn, Alfred A. (Inventor); Tarkanian, Ryan Jeffrey (Inventor)

2007-01-01

The invented insulation is a ceramic fiber insulation wherein the ceramic fibers are treated with a coating which contains transition metal oxides. The invented process for coating the insulation is a process of applying the transition metal oxide coating to the fibers of the insulation after the fibers have been formed into a tile or other porous body. The coating of transition metal oxide lowers the transmittance of radiation through the insulation thereby lowering the temperature of the backface of the insulation and better protecting the structure that underlies the insulation.

Should symptomatic menopausal women be offered hormone therapy?

PubMed

Lobo, Rogerio A; Bélisle, Serge; Creasman, William T; Frankel, Nancy R; Goodman, Neil F; Hall, Janet E; Ivey, Susan Lee; Kingsberg, Sheryl; Langer, Robert; Lehman, Rebecca; McArthur, Donna Behler; Montgomery-Rice, Valerie; Notelovitz, Morris; Packin, Gary S; Rebar, Robert W; Rousseau, MaryEllen; Schenken, Robert S; Schneider, Diane L; Sherif, Katherine; Wysocki, Susan

2006-01-01

Many physicians remain uncertain about prescribing hormone therapy for symptomatic women at the onset of menopause. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) convened a multidisciplinary group of healthcare providers to discuss the efficacy and risks of hormone therapy for symptomatic women, and to determine whether it would be appropriate to treat women at the onset of menopause who were complaining of menopausal symptoms. Numerous controlled clinical trials consistently demonstrate that hormone therapy, administered via oral, transdermal, or vaginal routes, is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms. Topical vaginal formulations of hormone therapy should be preferred when prescribing solely for the treatment of symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy. Data from the Women's Health Initiative indicate that the overall attributable risk of invasive breast cancer in women receiving estrogen plus progestin was 8 more cases per 10,000 women-years. No increased risk for invasive breast cancer was detected for women who never used hormone therapy in the past or for those receiving estrogen only. Hormone therapy is not effective for the treatment of cardiovascular disease and that the risk of cardiovascular disease with hormone therapy is principally in older women who are considerably postmenopause. Healthy symptomatic women should be offered the option of hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms. Symptom relief with hormone therapy for many younger women (at the onset of menopause) with menopausal symptoms outweighs the risks and may provide an overall improvement in quality of life. Hormone therapy should be individualized for symptomatic women. This involves tailoring the regimen and dose to individual needs.

Evaluation of European District Heating Systems for Application to Army Installations in the United States

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

pipes in hooded channels, and the steel insulated pipes are insulated with mineral wool . In the thermo- concrete laying system the insulation...depends on the type foam insulation used. • Class “A” steel carrier pipe with a mineral wool , foam glass, fiber glass, or calcium silicate insulation...with a mineral wool , foam glass, fiber glass, or calcium silicate insulation covered by a steel con- duit, which has a polyurethane foam insulation

Thermal Performance of Composite Flexible Blanket Insulations for Hypersonic Aerospace Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A.

1993-01-01

This paper describes the thermal performance of a Composite Flexible Blanket Insulation (C.F.B.I.) considered for potential use as a thermal protection system or thermal insulation for future hypersonic vehicles such as the National Aerospace Plane (N.A.S.P.). Thermophysical properties for these insulations were also measured including the thermal conductivity at various temperatures and pressures and the emissivity of the fabrics used in the flexible insulations. The thermal response of these materials subjected to aeroconvective heating from a plasma arc is also described. Materials tested included two surface variations of the insulations, and similar insulations coated with a Protective Ceramic Coating (P.C.C.). Surface and backface temperatures were measured in the flexible insulations and on Fibrous Refractory Composite Insulation (F.R.C.I.) used as a calibration model. The uncoated flexible insulations exhibited good thermal performance up to 35 W/sq cm. The use of a P.C.C. to protect these insulations at higher heating rates is described. The results from a computerized thermal analysis model describing thermal response of those materials subjected to the plasma arc conditions are included. Thermal and optical properties were determined including thermal conductivity for the rigid and flexible insulations and emissivity for the insulation fabrics. These properties were utilized to calculate the thermal performance of the rigid and flexible insulations at the maximum heating rate.

Magnetic End States in a Strongly Interacting One-Dimensional Topological Kondo Insulator

DOE PAGES

Lobos, Alejandro M.; Dobry, Ariel O.; Galitski, Victor

2015-05-22

Topological Kondo insulators are strongly correlated materials where itinerant electrons hybridize with localized spins, giving rise to a topologically nontrivial band structure. Here, we use nonperturbative bosonization and renormalization-group techniques to study theoretically a one-dimensional topological Kondo insulator, described as a Kondo-Heisenberg model, where the Heisenberg spin-1/2 chain is coupled to a Hubbard chain through a Kondo exchange interaction in the p-wave channel (i.e., a strongly correlated version of the prototypical Tamm-Schockley model).We derive and solve renormalization-group equations at two-loop order in the Kondo parameter, and find that, at half filling, the charge degrees of freedom in the Hubbard chainmore » acquire a Mott gap, even in the case of a noninteracting conduction band (Hubbard parameter U = 0). Furthermore, at low enough temperatures, the system maps onto a spin-1/2 ladder with local ferromagnetic interactions along the rungs, effectively locking the spin degrees of freedom into a spin-1 chain with frozen charge degrees of freedom. This structure behaves as a spin-1 Haldane chain, a prototypical interacting topological spin model, and features two magnetic spin-1/2 end states for chains with open boundary conditions. In conclusion, our analysis allows us to derive an insightful connection between topological Kondo insulators in one spatial dimension and the well-known physics of the Haldane chain, showing that the ground state of the former is qualitatively different from the predictions of the naive mean-field theory.« less

Thermal conductivity and Kapitza resistance of epoxy resin fiberglass tape at superfluid helium temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baudouy, B.; Polinski, J.

2009-03-01

The system of materials composed of fiberglass epoxy resin impregnated tape constitutes in many cases the electrical insulation for "dry"-type superconducting accelerator magnet such as Nb 3Sn magnets. Nb 3Sn magnet technology is still under development in a few programs to reach higher magnetic fields than what NbTi magnets can produce. The European program, Next European Dipole (NED), is one of such programs and it aims to develop and construct a 15 T class Nb 3Sn magnet mainly for upgrading the Large Hardron Collider. Superfluid helium is considered as one possible coolant and since the magnet has been designed with a "dry" insulation, the thermal conductivity and the Kapitza resistance of the electrical insulation are the key properties that must be know for the thermal design of such a magnet. Accordingly, property measurements of the epoxy resin fiberglass tape insulation system developed for the NED project was carried out in superfluid helium. Four sheets with thicknesses varying from 40 to 300 μm have been tested in a steady-state condition. The determined thermal conductivity, k, is [(25.8 ± 2.8) · T - (12.2 ± 4.9)] × 10 -3 W m -1 K -1 and the Kapitza resistance is given by R K = (1462 ± 345) · T(-1.86 ± 0.41) × 10 -6 Km 2 W -1 in the temperature range of 1.55-2.05 K.

Electrically insulating films deposited on V-4%Cr-4%Ti by reactive CVD

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

Park, J.H.

1998-04-01

In the design of liquid-metal blankets for magnetic fusion reactors, corrosion resistance of structural materials and the magnetohydrodynamic forces and their influence on thermal hydraulics and corrosion are major concerns. Electrically insulating CaO films deposited on V-4%Cr-4%Ti exhibit high-ohmic insulator behavior even though a small amount of vanadium from the alloy become incorporated into the film. However, when vanadium concentration in the film is > 15 wt.%, the film becomes conductive. When the vanadium concentration is high in localized areas, a calcium vanadate phase that exhibits semiconductor behavior can form. The objective of this study is to evaluate electrically insulatingmore » films that were deposited on V-4%Cr-4%Ti by a reactive chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. To this end, CaO and Ca-V-O coatings were produced on vanadium alloys by CVD and by a metallic-vapor process to investigate the electrical resistance of the coatings. The authors found that the Ca-V-O films exhibited insulator behavior when the ratio of calcium concentration to vanadium concentration R in the film > 0.9, and semiconductor or conductor behavior when R < 0.8. However, in some cases, semiconductor behavior was observed when CaO-coated samples with R > 0.98 were exposed in liquid lithium. Based on these studies, they conclude that semiconductor behavior occurs if a conductive calcium vanadate phase is present in localized regions in the CaO coating.« less

Deep Charging Evaluation of Satellite Power and Communication System Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, T. A.; Vaughn, J. A.; Chu, B.; Wong, F.; Gardiner, G.; Wright, K. H.; Phillips, B.

2016-01-01

Deep charging, in contrast to surface charging, focuses on electron penetration deep into insulating materials applied over conductors. A classic example of this scenario is an insulated wire. Deep charging can pose a threat to material integrity, and to sensitive electronics, when it gives rise to an electrostatic discharge or arc. With the advent of Electric Orbit Raising, which requires spiraling through Earth's radiation belts, satellites are subjected to high energy electron environments which they normally would not encounter. Beyond Earth orbit, missions to Jupiter and Saturn face deep charging concerns due to the high energy radiation environments. While predictions can be made about charging in insulating materials, it is difficult to extend those predictions to complicated geometries, such as the case of an insulating coating around a small wire, or a non-uniform silicone grouting on a bus bar. Therefore, to conclusively determine the susceptibility of a system to arcs from deep charging, experimental investigations must be carried out. This paper will describe the evaluation carried out by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center on subscale flight-like samples developed by Space Systems/Loral, LLC. Specifically, deep charging evaluations of solar array wire coupons, a photovoltaic cell coupon, and a coaxial microwave transmission cable, will be discussed. The results of each evaluation will be benchmarked against control sample tests, as well as typical power system levels, to show no significant deep charging threat existed for this set of samples under the conditions tested.

16 CFR 460.2 - What is home insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... INSULATION § 460.2 What is home insulation. Insulation is any material mainly used to slow down heat flow. It... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false What is home insulation. 460.2 Section 460.2..., semirigid, flexible, or loose-fill form. Home insulation is for use in old or new homes, condominiums...

16 CFR 460.2 - What is home insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... INSULATION § 460.2 What is home insulation. Insulation is any material mainly used to slow down heat flow. It... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false What is home insulation. 460.2 Section 460.2..., semirigid, flexible, or loose-fill form. Home insulation is for use in old or new homes, condominiums...

16 CFR 460.2 - What is home insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... INSULATION § 460.2 What is home insulation. Insulation is any material mainly used to slow down heat flow. It... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false What is home insulation. 460.2 Section 460.2..., semirigid, flexible, or loose-fill form. Home insulation is for use in old or new homes, condominiums...

16 CFR 460.2 - What is home insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... INSULATION § 460.2 What is home insulation. Insulation is any material mainly used to slow down heat flow. It... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false What is home insulation. 460.2 Section 460.2..., semirigid, flexible, or loose-fill form. Home insulation is for use in old or new homes, condominiums...

16 CFR 460.2 - What is home insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... INSULATION § 460.2 What is home insulation. Insulation is any material mainly used to slow down heat flow. It... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false What is home insulation. 460.2 Section 460.2..., semirigid, flexible, or loose-fill form. Home insulation is for use in old or new homes, condominiums...

Energy Conservation in the Home.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-01-01

inch of properly applied mineral wool insulation would provide. See Figure 2.1 (2:11...fiber. Mineral wool insulation is available in several different types, including blankets, blown insulation, poured insulation, and batts. Blankets...sidewalls can be insulated by a contractor who will blow in one ot several loose fill materials (National Mineral Wool Insulation Assn. Inc.). Figure 2.2

16 CFR 460.18 - Insulation ads.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Insulation ads. 460.18 Section 460.18... INSULATION § 460.18 Insulation ads. (a) If your ad gives an R-value, you must give the type of insulation and... the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Ask your seller for the fact sheet on R-values.” (b) If...

16 CFR 460.18 - Insulation ads.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Insulation ads. 460.18 Section 460.18... INSULATION § 460.18 Insulation ads. (a) If your ad gives an R-value, you must give the type of insulation and... the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Ask your seller for the fact sheet on R-values.” (b) If...

16 CFR 460.18 - Insulation ads.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Insulation ads. 460.18 Section 460.18... INSULATION § 460.18 Insulation ads. (a) If your ad gives an R-value, you must give the type of insulation and... the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Ask your seller for the fact sheet on R-values.” (b) If...

16 CFR 460.18 - Insulation ads.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Insulation ads. 460.18 Section 460.18... INSULATION § 460.18 Insulation ads. (a) If your ad gives an R-value, you must give the type of insulation and... the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Ask your seller for the fact sheet on R-values.” (b) If...

16 CFR 460.18 - Insulation ads.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Insulation ads. 460.18 Section 460.18... INSULATION § 460.18 Insulation ads. (a) If your ad gives an R-value, you must give the type of insulation and... the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Ask your seller for the fact sheet on R-values.” (b) If...

Basalt fiber and nanoclay compositions, articles incorporating the same, and methods of insulating a rocket motor with the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gajiwala, Himansu M. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

An insulation composition that comprises at least one nitrile butadiene rubber, basalt fibers, and nanoclay is disclosed. Further disclosed is an insulation composition that comprises polybenzimidazole fibers, basalt fibers, and nanoclay. The basalt fibers may be present in the insulation compositions in a range of from approximately 1% by weight to approximately 6% by weight of the total weight of the insulation composition. The nanoclay may be present in the insulation compositions in a range of from approximately 5% by weight to approximately 10% by weight of the total weight of the insulation composition. Rocket motors including the insulation compositions and methods of insulating a rocket motor are also disclosed.

Rocket motors incorporating basalt fiber and nanoclay compositions and methods of insulating a rocket motor with the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gajiwala, Himansu M. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

An insulation composition that comprises at least one nitrile butadiene rubber, basalt fibers, and nanoclay is disclosed. Further disclosed is an insulation composition that comprises polybenzimidazole fibers, basalt fibers, and nanoclay. The basalt fibers may be present in the insulation compositions in a range of from approximately 1% by weight to approximately 6% by weight of the total weight of the insulation composition. The nanoclay may be present in the insulation compositions in a range of from approximately 5% by weight to approximately 10% by weight of the total weight of the insulation composition. Rocket motors including the insulation compositions and methods of insulating a rocket motor are also disclosed.

Insulated laser tube structure and method of making same

DOEpatents

Dittbenner, Gerald R.

1999-01-01

An insulated high temperature ceramic laser tube having substantially uniform insulation along the length of the tube is disclosed having particulate ceramic insulation positioned between the outer wall of the ceramic laser tube and the inner surface of tubular ceramic fiber insulation which surrounds the ceramic laser tube. The particulate ceramic insulation is preferably a ceramic capable of sintering to the outer surface of the ceramic laser tube and to the inner surface of the tubular ceramic fiber insulation. The addition of the particulate ceramic insulation to fill all the voids between the ceramic laser tube and the fibrous ceramic insulation permits the laser tube to be operated at a substantially uniform temperature throughout the length of the laser tube.

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County, Lake Worth, Florida

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

none,

2012-03-01

PNNL and Florida Solar Energy Center worked with Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County to upgrade an empty 1996 home with a 14.5 SEER AC, heat pump water heater, CFLs, more attic insulation, and air sealing to cut utility bills $872 annually.

Evaluation of Biomass Residual Substrate Blends for Eco-Friendly Packaging and Insulation Sheets/Panels

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Polystyrene is one of the most widely used plastics and is commonly produced in three forms: 1) Extruded polystyrene – disposable utensils, CD/DVD cases, yogurt containers, smoke alarm housing, etc.; 2) Expanded polystyrene foam – molded packaging materials and packaging "peanuts"; and 3) Extruded p...

Small Group Dynamics and the Watergate Coverup: A Case Study of Groupthink.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cline, Rebecca J.

The decisions President Richard Nixon and his closest advisors made in the Watergate coverup were products of what Irving Janis calls "groupthink." Groupthink, a type of decision-making emphasizing unanimity over objective evaluation, develops when the decision makers (1) form a group of marked cohesiveness, (2) insulate themselves from…

47 CFR 73.160 - Vertical plane radiation characteristics, f(θ).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., f(θ). (a) The vertical plane radiation characteristics show the relative field being radiated at a... the electrical height of the tower, not including the base insulator and pier. (In the case of a folded unipole tower, the entire radiating structure's electrical height is used.) (2) For a top-loaded...

Education Pipeline. Forum Focus. Volume 2, Issue 4, September-October 2004

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yohalem, Nicole; Joselowsky, Francine; Allen, Lili

2004-01-01

While the nation's public systems continue to fall short of delivering equitable educational supports to children and youth, youth workers have spent the last several decades insulating and, in some cases, patching the leaks in the "education pipeline"--a term describing the route students follow from early childhood through…

A Simple Demonstration of the High-Temperature Electrical Conductivity of Glass

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chiaverina, Chris

2014-01-01

We usually think of glass as a good electrical insulator; this, however, is not always the case. There are several ways to show that glass becomes conducting at high temperatures, but the following approach, devised by Brown University demonstration manager Gerald Zani, may be one of the simplest to perform.

A case study of application of guided waves for detecting corrosion in pipelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rostami, Javad; Safizadeh, Mir Saeed

2012-05-01

Every year noticeable amount of money is spent on fixing and replacing the damaged pipes which carry gas and fuel. Since there is a possibility for a catastrophic failure, knowing the proper time of this repair is of great importance. Because significant proportion of failures is due to wall thinning of pipes because of the corrosion, detecting the wall thinning has been a main part of nondestructive testing of pipes. There are wide variety of NDT techniques to detect this kind of defect such as conventional ultrasonic, eddy current, radiography etc. but some of these techniques, for example conventional ultrasonic needs the insulation of pipes removed and in some other cases such as radiography the test is not done at a reasonable speed. A new method of nondestructive testing of pipes which has the potential to test a long distance in a short period of time and does not need the whole insulation removed, has drawn a lot of attention. In this paper, the ability of ultrasonic guided waves for detecting corrosion in gas pipelines is experimentally investigated.

Various topological Mott insulators and topological bulk charge pumping in strongly-interacting boson system in one-dimensional superlattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuno, Yoshihito; Shimizu, Keita; Ichinose, Ikuo

2017-12-01

In this paper, we study a one-dimensional boson system in a superlattice potential. This system is experimentally feasible by using ultracold atomic gases, and attracts much attention these days. It is expected that the system has a topological phase called a topological Mott insulator (TMI). We show that in strongly-interacting cases, the competition between the superlattice potential and the on-site interaction leads to various TMIs with a non-vanishing integer Chern number. Compared to the hard-core case, the soft-core boson system exhibits rich phase diagrams including various non-trivial TMIs. By using the exact diagonalization, we obtain detailed bulk-global phase diagrams including the TMIs with high Chern numbers and also various non-topological phases. We also show that in adiabatic experimental setups, the strongly-interacting bosonic TMIs exhibit the topological particle transfer, i.e., the topological charge pumping phenomenon, similarly to weakly-interacting systems. The various TMIs are characterized by topological charge pumping as it is closely related to the Chern number, and therefore the Chern number is to be observed in feasible experiments.

Improved Method of Locating Defects in Wiring Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greulich, Owen R.

2004-01-01

An improved method of locating small breaches in insulation on electrical wires combines aspects of the prior dielectric withstand voltage (DWV) and time-domain reflectometry (TDR) methods. The method was invented to satisfy a need for reliably and quickly locating insulation defects in spacecraft, aircraft, ships, and other complex systems that contain large amounts of wiring, much of it enclosed in structures that make it difficult to inspect. In the DWV method, one applies a predetermined potential (usually 1.5 kV DC) to the wiring and notes whether the voltage causes any arcing between the wiring and ground. The DWV method does not provide an indication of the location of the defect (unless, in an exceptional case, the arc happens to be visible). In addition, if there is no electrically conductive component at ground potential within about 0.010 in. (approximately equal to 0.254 mm) of the wire at the location of an insulation defect, then the DWV method does not provide an indication of the defect. Moreover, one does not have the option to raise the potential in an effort to increase the detectability of such a defect because doing so can harm previously undamaged insulation. In the TDR method as practiced heretofore, one applies a pulse of electricity having an amplitude of less than 25 V to a wire and measures the round-trip travel time for the reflection of the pulse from a defect. The distance along the wire from the point of application of the pulse to the defect is then calculated as the product of half the round-trip travel time and the characteristic speed of a propagation of an electromagnetic signal in the wire. While the TDR method as practiced heretofore can be used to locate a short or open circuit, it does not ordinarily enable one to locate a small breach in insulation because the pulse voltage is too low to cause arcing and thus too low to induce an impedance discontinuity large enough to generate a measurable reflection. The present improved method overcomes the weaknesses of both the prior DWV and the prior TDR method.

BSA Delta Qualification 2, volume 3, book 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

This report, presented in three volumes, provides the results of a two-motor Delta Qualification 2 program conducted in 1993 to certify the following enhancements for incorporation into booster separation motor (BSM) flight hardware: vulcanized-in-place nozzle aft closure insulation; new iso-static ATJ bulk graphite throat insert material; adhesive EA 9394 for bonding the nozzle throat, igniter grain rod/centering insert/igniter case; deletion of the igniter adapter insulator ring; deletion of the igniter adapter/igniter case interface RTV; and deletion of Loctite from igniter retainer plate threads. The enhancements above directly resulted from (1) the BSM total quality management (TQM) team initiatives to enhance the BSM producibility, and (2) the necessity to qualify new throat insert and adhesive systems to replace existing materials that will not be available. Testing was completed at both the component and motor levels. Component testing was accomplished to screen candidate materials (e.g., throat materials, adhesive systems) and to optimize processes (e.g., aft closure insulator vulcanization approach) prior to their incorporation into the test motors. Motor tests -- consisting of two motors, randomly selected by USBI's on-site quality personnel from production lot AAY, which were modified to accept the enhancements -- were completed to provide the final qualification of the enhancements for incorporation into flight hardware. Volume 3 book 1 provides supporting documentation to the analyses and plans of testing the two Delta Qualification units including thermal cycling planning/data acceptance records, environmental test procedures and pretest temperature conditioning history, Delta Qualification test plan, and specification SE0837 -- mix acceptance test specification.

High-Performance Slab-on-Grade Foundation Insulation Retrofits

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

Goldberg, Louise F.; Mosiman, Garrett E.

A more accurate assessment of slab-on-grade foundation insulation energy savings than traditionally possible is now feasible. This has been enabled by advances in whole building energy simulation with 3-dimensional foundation modelling integration at each time step together with an experimental measurement of the site energy savings of SOG foundation insulation. Ten SOG insulation strategies were evaluated on a test building to identify an optimum retrofit insulation strategy in a zone 6 climate (Minneapolis, MN). The optimum insulation strategy in terms of energy savings and cost effectiveness consisted of two components: (a) R-20 XPS insulation above grade, and, (b) R-20 insulationmore » at grade (comprising an outer layer of R-10 insulation and an interior layer of R-12 poured polyurethane insulation) tapering to R-10 XPS insulation at half the below-grade wall height (the lower half of the stem wall was uninsulated).« less

Insulators form gene loops by interacting with promoters in Drosophila.

PubMed

Erokhin, Maksim; Davydova, Anna; Kyrchanova, Olga; Parshikov, Alexander; Georgiev, Pavel; Chetverina, Darya

2011-09-01

Chromatin insulators are regulatory elements involved in the modulation of enhancer-promoter communication. The 1A2 and Wari insulators are located immediately downstream of the Drosophila yellow and white genes, respectively. Using an assay based on the yeast GAL4 activator, we have found that both insulators are able to interact with their target promoters in transgenic lines, forming gene loops. The existence of an insulator-promoter loop is confirmed by the fact that insulator proteins could be detected on the promoter only in the presence of an insulator in the transgene. The upstream promoter regions, which are required for long-distance stimulation by enhancers, are not essential for promoter-insulator interactions. Both insulators support basal activity of the yellow and white promoters in eyes. Thus, the ability of insulators to interact with promoters might play an important role in the regulation of basal gene transcription.

Preparation and properties of the multi-layer aerogel thermal insulation composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Miao; Feng, Junzong; Jiang, Yonggang; Zhang, Zhongming; Feng, Jian

2018-03-01

Multi-layer insulation materials possess low radiation thermal conductivity, and excellent thermal insulation property in a vacuum environment. However, the spacers of the traditional multi-layer insulation materials are mostly loose fibers, which lead to more sensitive to the vacuum environmental of serviced. With the vacuum degree declining, gas phases thermal convection increase obviously, and the reflective screen will be severe oxidation, all of these make the thermal insulation property of traditional multi-layer insulation deteriorate, thus limits its application scope. In this paper, traditional multi-layer insulation material is combined with aerogel and obtain a new multi-layer aerogel thermal insulation composite, and the effects of the number, thickness and type of the reflective screens on the thermal insulation properties of the multi-layer composites are also studied. The result is that the thermal insulation property of the new type multi-layer aerogel composites is better than the pure aerogel composites and the traditional multi-layer insulation composites. When the 0.01 mm stainless steel foil as the reflective screen, and the aluminum silicate fiber and silica aerogel as the spacer layer, the layer density of composite with the best thermal insulation property is one layer per millimeter at 1000 °C.

Design and calculation of low infrared transmittance and low emissivity coatings for heat radiative applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guang-Hai; Zhang, Yue; Zhang, Da-Hai; Fan, Jin-Peng

2012-02-01

The infrared transmittance and emissivity of heat-insulating coatings pigmented with various structural particles were studied using Kubelka-Munk theory and Mie theory. The primary design purpose was to obtain the low transmittance and low emissivity coatings to reduce the heat transfer by thermal radiation for high-temperature applications. In the case of silica coating layers constituted with various structural titania particles (solid, hollow, and core-shell spherical), the dependence of transmittance and emissivity of the coating layer on the particle structure and the layer thickness was investigated and optimized. The results indicate that the coating pigmented with core-shell titania particles exhibits a lower infrared transmittance and a lower emissivity value than that with other structural particles and is suitable to radiative heat-insulating applications.

Importance of counter-rotating coupling in the superfluid-to-Mott-insulator quantum phase transition of light in the Jaynes-Cummings lattice

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

Zheng Hang; Takada, Yasutami

2011-10-15

The quantum phase transition between Mott insulator and superfluid is studied in the two-dimensional Jaynes-Cummings square lattice in which the counter-rotating coupling (CRC) is included. Both the ground state and the spectra of low-lying excitations are obtained with use of a sophisticated unitary transformation. This CRC is shown not only to induce a long-range interaction between cavities, favoring the long-range superfluid order, but also to break the conservation of local polariton number at each site, leading to the absence of the Mott lobes in the phase diagram, in sharp contrast with the case without the CRC as well as thatmore » of the Bose-Hubbard model.« less

Aeroelastic Analysis Of Versatile Thermal Insulation Panels For Launchers Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrera, E.; Zappino, E.; Augello, G.; Ferrarese, A.; Montabone, M.

2011-05-01

The aeroelastic behavior of a Versatile Thermal Insulation (VTI) has been investigated. Among the various loadings acting on the panels in this work the attention is payed to fluid structure interaction. e.g. panel flutter phenomena. Known available results from open literature, related to similar problems, permit to analyze the effect of various Mach regimes, including boundary layers thickness effects, in-plane mechanical and thermal loadings, nonlinear effect and amplitude of so called limit cycle oscillations. Dedicated finite element model is developed for the supersonic regime. The model used for coupling orthotropic layered structural model with to Piston Theory aerodynamic models allows the calculations of flutter conditions in case of curved panels supported in a dis- crete number of points. Through this approach the flutter boundaries of the VTI-panel have been investigated.

Suppression of shunting current in a magnetically insulated coaxial vacuum diode

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

Yalandin, M. I.; Sharypov, K. A.; Shpak, V. G.

2015-06-08

Real-time investigations of the dynamics of explosive electron emission from a high-voltage cathode holder made of nonmagnetic stainless steel in a magnetically insulated coaxial vacuum diode have been performed. It has been shown that aging the cathode with several tens of voltage pulses at a field of 1–2 MV/cm provides a stray emission delay ranging from hundreds of picoseconds to a nanosecond or more. In addition, the magnetic field must be configured so that the magnetic lines would not cross the vacuum gap between the diode case and the cathode holder in the region behind the emitting edge of themore » cathode. These efforts provide conditions for stable emission of the working beam from a graphite cathode with a sharp emitting edge.« less

40 CFR 763.163 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... asbestos-containing product which is made of paper intended for use as general insulation paper or muffler paper. Major applications of commercial papers are insulation against fire, heat transfer, and corrosion... include: thermal insulation for pipe coverings; block insulation; panel insulation in elevators...

40 CFR 763.163 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... asbestos-containing product which is made of paper intended for use as general insulation paper or muffler paper. Major applications of commercial papers are insulation against fire, heat transfer, and corrosion... include: thermal insulation for pipe coverings; block insulation; panel insulation in elevators...

40 CFR 763.163 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... asbestos-containing product which is made of paper intended for use as general insulation paper or muffler paper. Major applications of commercial papers are insulation against fire, heat transfer, and corrosion... include: thermal insulation for pipe coverings; block insulation; panel insulation in elevators...

40 CFR 763.163 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... asbestos-containing product which is made of paper intended for use as general insulation paper or muffler paper. Major applications of commercial papers are insulation against fire, heat transfer, and corrosion... include: thermal insulation for pipe coverings; block insulation; panel insulation in elevators...

40 CFR 763.163 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... asbestos-containing product which is made of paper intended for use as general insulation paper or muffler paper. Major applications of commercial papers are insulation against fire, heat transfer, and corrosion... include: thermal insulation for pipe coverings; block insulation; panel insulation in elevators...

Chromatin insulator bodies are nuclear structures that form in response to osmotic stress and cell death

PubMed Central

Schoborg, Todd; Rickels, Ryan; Barrios, Josh

2013-01-01

Chromatin insulators assist in the formation of higher-order chromatin structures by mediating long-range contacts between distant genomic sites. It has been suggested that insulators accomplish this task by forming dense nuclear foci termed insulator bodies that result from the coalescence of multiple protein-bound insulators. However, these structures remain poorly understood, particularly the mechanisms triggering body formation and their role in nuclear function. In this paper, we show that insulator proteins undergo a dramatic and dynamic spatial reorganization into insulator bodies during osmostress and cell death in a high osmolarity glycerol–p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase–independent manner, leading to a large reduction in DNA-bound insulator proteins that rapidly repopulate chromatin as the bodies disassemble upon return to isotonicity. These bodies occupy distinct nuclear territories and contain a defined structural arrangement of insulator proteins. Our findings suggest insulator bodies are novel nuclear stress foci that can be used as a proxy to monitor the chromatin-bound state of insulator proteins and provide new insights into the effects of osmostress on nuclear and genome organization. PMID:23878275

Multiple density layered insulator

DOEpatents

Alger, Terry W.

1994-01-01

A multiple density layered insulator for use with a laser is disclosed wh provides at least two different insulation materials for a laser discharge tube, where the two insulation materials have different thermoconductivities. The multiple layer insulation materials provide for improved thermoconductivity capability for improved laser operation.

Method and apparatus for fabrication of high gradient insulators with parallel surface conductors spaced less than one millimeter apart

DOEpatents

Sanders, David M.; Decker, Derek E.

1999-01-01

Optical patterns and lithographic techniques are used as part of a process to embed parallel and evenly spaced conductors in the non-planar surfaces of an insulator to produce high gradient insulators. The approach extends the size that high gradient insulating structures can be fabricated as well as improves the performance of those insulators by reducing the scale of the alternating parallel lines of insulator and conductor along the surface. This fabrication approach also substantially decreases the cost required to produce high gradient insulators.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Application of Spray Foam Insulation Under Plywood and OSB Roof Sheathing

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

None

2013-11-01

Spray polyurethane foams (SPFs) have advantages over alternative insulation methods because they provide air sealing in complex assemblies, particularly roofs. Spray foam can provide the thermal, air, and vapor control layers in both new and retrofit construction. Unvented roof strategies with open cell and closed cell SPF insulation sprayed to the underside of roof sheathing have been used since the mid-1990s to provide durable and efficient building enclosures. However, there have been isolated incidents of failures (either sheathing rot or SPF delamination) that raise some general concerns about the hygrothermal performance and durability of these systems. The primary risks formore » roof systems are rainwater leaks, condensation from diffusion and air leakage, and built-in construction moisture. In this project, Building Science Corporation investigated rain and built-in construction moisture and vapor drives. Research involved both hygrothermal modeling of a range of rain water leakage scenarios and field evaluations of in-service residential roofs. Other variables considered were climate zone, orientation, interior relative humidity, and the vapor permeance of the coating applied to the interior face of open cell SPF.« less

Combustion of PTFE: The Effects of Gravity and Pigmentation on Ultrafine Particle Generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKinnon, J. Thomas; Srivastava, Rajiv; Todd, Paul

1997-01-01

Ultrafine particles generated during polymer thermodegradation are a major health hazard, owing to their unique pathway of processing in the lung. This hazard in manned spacecraft is poorly understood, because the particulate products of polymer thermodegradation are generated under low gravity conditions. Particulate generated from the degradation of PolyTetraFluoroEthylene (PTFE), insulation coating for 20 AWG copper wire (representative of spacecraft application) under intense ohmic heating were studied in terrestrial gravity and microgravity. Microgravity tests were done in a 1.2-second drop tower at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM). Thermophoretic sampling was used for particulate collection. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) were used to examine the smoke particulates. Image software was used to calculate particle size distribution. In addition to gravity, the color of PTFE insulation has an overwhelming effect on size, shape and morphology of the particulate. Nanometer-sized primary particles were found in all cases, and aggregation and size distribution was dependent on both color and gravity; higher aggregation occurred in low gravity. Particulates from white, black, red and yellow colored PTFE insulations were studied. Elemental analysis of the particulates shows the presence of inorganic pigments.

Investigation of the fabrication processes of AlGaN/AlN/GaN HEMTs with in situ Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} passivation

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

Tomosh, K. N., E-mail: sky77781@mail.ru; Pavlov, A. Yu.; Pavlov, V. Yu.

2016-10-15

The optimum mode of the in situ plasma-chemical etching of a Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} passivating layer in C{sub 3}F{sub 8}/O{sub 2} medium is chosen for the case of fabricating AlGaN/AlN/GaN HEMTs. It is found that a bias of 40–50 V at a high-frequency electrode provides anisotropic etching of the insulator through a resist mask and introduces no appreciable radiation-induced defects upon overetching of the insulator films in the region of gate-metallization formation. To estimate the effect of in situ Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} growth together with the heterostructure in one process on the AlGaN/AlN/GaN HEMT characteristics, transistors with gates without themore » insulator and with gates through Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} slits are fabricated. The highest drain current of the AlGaN/AlN/GaN HEMT at 0 V at the gate is shown to be 1.5 times higher in the presence of Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} than without it.« less

Reducing Heat Gains and Cooling Loads Through Roof Structure Configurations of A House in Medan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handayani Lubis, Irma; Donny Koerniawan, Mochamad

2018-05-01

Heat gains and heat losses through building surfaces are the main factors that determine the building’s cooling and heating loads. Roof as a building surface that has the most exposed area to the sun, contribute most of heat gains in the building. Therefore, the amount of solar heat gains on the roofs need to be minimized by roof structure configurations. This research aims to discover the optimization of roof structure configurations (coating material, structure material, inclination, overhang, and insulation) as one of passive design strategies that reduce heat gains and cooling loads of a house in Medan. The result showed that case four, white-painted metal roof combined with 45° roof pitched, 1.5m overhang, and addition of insulation, indicates the minimum heat gains production and the less cooling loads during clear sky day but not in the overcast sky condition. In conclusion, heat gains and cooling loads of a house in Medan could be diminished during clear sky day by the addition of roof coating with high reflectance low solar absorbtance, the slope roof, the extension of wider veranda, and the addition of insulation in the roof structure.

Experimental study of moisture uptake of polyurethane foam subjected to a heat sink below 30 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, X. B.; Chen, J. Y.; Gan, Z. H.; Qiu, L. M.; Zhang, K. H.; Yang, R. P.; Ma, X. J.; Liu, Z. H.

2014-01-01

Rigid closed-cell foam is widely used to thermally insulate liquid hydrogen and oxygen tanks of space launch vehicles due to its lightweight, mechanical strength and thermal-insulating performance. Up to now, little information is available on the intrusion of moisture into the foam that subjects one side to liquid hydrogen temperatures and the other side to room temperatures and high relative humidity. A novel cryogenic moisture uptake apparatus has been designed and fabricated to measure the moisture uptake into the polyurethane foam. For safety and convenience, two identical single-stage pulse tube cryocoolers instead of liquid hydrogen are used to cool one side of the foam specimen to the lowest temperature of 26 K. Total of eight specimens in three groups, according to whether there is a butt-joint or weathering period, are tested respectively for both 5 h and 9 h. The additional weight due to moisture uptake of the foam for the 26 K cases is compared to previous measurements at 79 K. The results are instructive for the applications of foam to the insulation of liquid hydrogen tanks in space launch vehicles.

Low-Temperature-Processed Zinc Oxide Thin-Film Transistors Fabricated by Plasma-Assisted Atomic Layer Deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kawamura, Yumi; Tani, Mai; Hattori, Nozomu; Miyatake, Naomasa; Horita, Masahiro; Ishikawa, Yasuaki; Uraoka, Yukiharu

2012-02-01

We investigated zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films prepared by plasma assisted atomic layer deposition (PA-ALD), and thin-film transistors (TFTs) with the ALD ZnO channel layer for application to next-generation displays. We deposited the ZnO channel layer by PA-ALD at 100 or 300 °C, and fabricated TFTs. The transfer characteristic of the 300 °C-deposited ZnO TFT exhibited high mobility (5.7 cm2 V-1 s-1), although the threshold voltage largely shifted toward the negative (-16 V). Furthermore, we deposited Al2O3 thin film as a gate insulator by PA-ALD at 100 °C for the low-temperature TFT fabrication process. In the case of ZnO TFTs with the Al2O3 gate insulator, the shift of the threshold voltage improved (-0.1 V). This improvement of the negative shift seems to be due to the negative charges of the Al2O3 film deposited by PA-ALD. On the basis of the experimental results, we confirmed that the threshold voltage of ZnO TFTs is controlled by PA-ALD for the deposition of the gate insulator.

Omnidirectional ventilated acoustic barrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hai-long; Zhu, Yi-fan; Liang, Bin; Yang, Jing; Yang, Jun; Cheng, Jian-chun

2017-11-01

As an important problem in acoustics, sound insulation finds applications in a great variety of situations. In the existing schemes, however, there has always been a trade-off between the thinness of sound-insulating devices and their ventilating capabilities, limiting their potentials in the control of low-frequency sound in high ventilation environments. Here, we design and experimentally implement an omnidirectional acoustic barrier with a planar profile, subwavelength thickness ( 0.18 λ ), yet high ventilation. The proposed mechanism is based on the interference between the resonant scattering of discrete states and the background scattering of continuous states which induces a Fano-like asymmetric transmission profile. Benefitting from the binary-structured design of the coiled unit and hollow pipe, it maximally simplifies the design and fabrication while ensuring the ventilation for all the non-resonant units with open tubes. The simulated and measured results agree well, showing the effectiveness of our proposed mechanism to block low frequency sound coming from various directions while allowing 63% of the air flow to pass. We anticipate our design to open routes to design sound insulators and to enable applications in traditionally unattainable cases such as those calling for noise reduction and cooling simultaneously.

Urban area thermal monitoring: Liepaja case study using satellite and aerial thermal data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gulbe, Linda; Caune, Vairis; Korats, Gundars

2017-12-01

The aim of this study is to explore large (60 m/pixel) and small scale (individual building level) temperature distribution patterns from thermal remote sensing data and to conclude what kind of information could be extracted from thermal remote sensing on regular basis. Landsat program provides frequent large scale thermal images useful for analysis of city temperature patterns. During the study correlation between temperature patterns and vegetation content based on NDVI and building coverage based on OpenStreetMap data was studied. Landsat based temperature patterns were independent from the season, negatively correlated with vegetation content and positively correlated with building coverage. Small scale analysis included spatial and raster descriptor analysis for polygons corresponding to roofs of individual buildings for evaluating insulation of roofs. Remote sensing and spatial descriptors are poorly related to heat consumption data, however, thermal aerial data median and entropy can help to identify poorly insulated roofs. Automated quantitative roof analysis has high potential for acquiring city wide information about roof insulation, but quality is limited by reference data quality and information on building types, and roof materials would be crucial for further studies.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Lowering Permissible Noise Levels Around U.S. Airports

PubMed Central

Jiao, Boshen; Zafari, Zafar; Will, Brian; Ruggeri, Kai

2017-01-01

Aircraft noise increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mental illness. The allowable limit for sound in the vicinity of an airport is 65 decibels (dB) averaged over a 24-h ‘day and night’ period (DNL) in the United States. We evaluate the trade-off between the cost and the health benefits of changing the regulatory DNL level from 65 dB to 55 dB using a Markov model. The study used LaGuardia Airport (LGA) as a case study. In compliance with 55 dB allowable limit of aircraft noise, sound insulation would be required for residential homes within the 55 dB to 65 dB DNL. A Markov model was built to assess the cost-effectiveness of installing sound insulation. One-way sensitivity analyses and Monte Carlo simulation were conducted to test uncertainty of the model. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of installing sound insulation for residents exposed to airplane noise from LGA was $11,163/QALY gained (95% credible interval: cost-saving and life-saving to $93,054/QALY gained). Changing the regulatory standard for noise exposure around airports from 65 dB to 55 dB comes at a very good value. PMID:29207473

The Cost-Effectiveness of Lowering Permissible Noise Levels Around U.S. Airports.

PubMed

Jiao, Boshen; Zafari, Zafar; Will, Brian; Ruggeri, Kai; Li, Shukai; Muennig, Peter

2017-12-02

Aircraft noise increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mental illness. The allowable limit for sound in the vicinity of an airport is 65 decibels (dB) averaged over a 24-h 'day and night' period (DNL) in the United States. We evaluate the trade-off between the cost and the health benefits of changing the regulatory DNL level from 65 dB to 55 dB using a Markov model. The study used LaGuardia Airport (LGA) as a case study. In compliance with 55 dB allowable limit of aircraft noise, sound insulation would be required for residential homes within the 55 dB to 65 dB DNL. A Markov model was built to assess the cost-effectiveness of installing sound insulation. One-way sensitivity analyses and Monte Carlo simulation were conducted to test uncertainty of the model. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of installing sound insulation for residents exposed to airplane noise from LGA was $11,163/QALY gained (95% credible interval: cost-saving and life-saving to $93,054/QALY gained). Changing the regulatory standard for noise exposure around airports from 65 dB to 55 dB comes at a very good value.

Enhancement of electrical transport modulation in epitaxial VO2 nanowire field-effect transistor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Hidekazu; Chikanari, Masashi; Kanki, Teruo

Strongly correlated system vanadium dioxide VO2 has attracted widespread concerns from researchers as an exciting electronic material, due to the many intriguing features, especially metal-insulator transition (MIT) in vicinity of room temperature. In this work, we report a diverse geometry for high sensitivity in the transport modulation. By taking advantage of nanometer scale channel, instead of thin film channels, we demonstrated the enhancement of resistance modulation by applying gate voltage. Also we designed the insulating gate, consisting of high-k material Ta2O5/organic polymer parylene-C hybrid insulator. Such as this hybrid gate dielectric would effectively reduce interface deterioration of active channel oxide and provide sufficient carrier density. Moreover, benefited from the nanometer scale channel, the VO2 nanowire-based transistor could deliver a resistance modulation ratio over 8.5%, which are about 10 folds higher than that of the film case. Furthermore, this result is explained that in spite of the stronger field distribution in the edge parts of VO2 nanowire channel yielded little carrier density, the generated mobility modulation would biquadratic increase according to Brinkman-Rice picture as new finding.

Ultrahigh sensitivity of anomalous Hall effect sensor based on Cr-doped Bi 2Te 3 topological insulator thin films

DOE PAGES

Ni, Y.; Zhang, Z.; Nlebedim, I. C.; ...

2016-07-01

Anomalous Hall effect (AHE) was recently discovered in magnetic element-doped topological insulators (TIs), which promises low power consumption and high efficiency spintronics and electronics. This discovery broadens the family of Hall sensors. In this paper, AHE sensors based on Cr-doped Bi 2Te 3 topological insulator thin films are studied with two thicknesses (15 and 65 nm). It is found, in both cases, that ultrahigh Hall sensitivity can be obtained in Cr-doped Bi 2Te 3. Hall sensitivity reaches 1666 Ω/T in the sensor with the 15 nm TI thin film, which is higher than that of the conventional semiconductor HE sensor.more » The AHE of 65 nm sensors is even stronger, which causes the sensitivity increasing to 2620 Ω/T. Furthermore, after comparing Cr-doped Bi 2Te 3 with the previously studied Mn-doped Bi 2Te 3 TI Hall sensor, the sensitivity of the present AHE sensor shows about 60 times higher in 65 nm sensors. Furthermore, the implementation of AHE sensors based on a magnetic-doped TI thin film indicates that the TIs are good candidates for ultrasensitive AHE sensors.« less

Detection of topological phase transitions through entropy measurements: The case of germanene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grassano, D.; Pulci, O.; Shubnyi, V. O.; Sharapov, S. G.; Gusynin, V. P.; Kavokin, A. V.; Varlamov, A. A.

2018-05-01

We propose a characterization tool for studies of the band structure of new materials promising for the observation of topological phase transitions. We show that a specific resonant feature in the entropy per electron dependence on the chemical potential may be considered as a fingerprint of the transition between topological and trivial insulator phases. The entropy per electron in a honeycomb two-dimensional crystal of germanene subjected to the external electric field is obtained from the first-principles calculation of the density of electronic states and the Maxwell relation. We demonstrate that, in agreement with the recent prediction of the analytical model, strong spikes in the entropy per particle dependence on the chemical potential appear at low temperatures. They are observed at the values of the applied bias both below and above the critical value that corresponds to the transition between the topological insulator and trivial insulator phases, whereas the giant resonant feature in the vicinity of the zero chemical potential is strongly suppressed at the topological transition point, in the low-temperature limit. In a wide energy range, the van Hove singularities in the electronic density of states manifest themselves as zeros in the entropy per particle dependence on the chemical potential.

Technology Solutions Case Study: Cladding Attachment Over Thick Exterior Insulating Sheathing

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

None

The addition of insulation to the exterior of buildings is an effective means of increasing the thermal resistance of wood-framed walls and mass masonry wall assemblies. Insulation on the exterior of the structure has many direct benefits, including better effective R-value from reduced thermal bridging, better condensation resistance, reduced thermal stress on the structure, as well as other commonly associated improvements such as increased airtightness and improved water management. Although the approach has proven effective, there is resistance to its widespread implementation due to a lack of research and understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development of the verticalmore » displacement resistance capacity. In addition, the long-term in-service performance of the system has been questioned due to potential creep effects of the assembly under the sustained dead load of the cladding and effects of varying environmental conditions. In addition, the current International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) do not have a provision that specifically allows this assembly. In this project, researchers from Building Science Corporation, a Building America team, investigated these issues to better understand the mechanics behind this method of cladding attachment« less

Occupational characteristics of cases with asbestos-related diseases in The Netherlands.

PubMed

Burdorf, Alex; Dahhan, Mohssine; Swuste, Paul

2003-08-01

To describe the occupational background of cases with an asbestos-related disease and to present overall mesothelioma risks across industries with historical exposure to asbestos. For the period 1990-2000, cases were collected from records held by two law firms. Information on jobs held, previous employers, activities performed and specific products used were obtained from patients themselves or next of kin. Branches of industry and occupations were coded and the likelihood of asbestos exposure was assessed. For each branch of industry, the overall risk of mesothelioma was calculated from the ratio of the observed number of mesothelioma cases and the cumulative population-at-risk in the period 1947-1960. In order to compare mesothelioma risks across different industries, risk ratios were calculated for the primary asbestos industry and asbestos user industries relative to all other branches of industry. In total, 710 mesotheliomas and 86 asbestosis cases were available. The average latency period was approximately 40 yr and the average duration of exposure was 22 yr. Ship building and maintenance contributed the largest number of cases (27%), followed by the construction industry (14%), the insulation industry (12%), and the navy and army, primarily related to ship building and maintenance (5%). In the insulation industry, the overall risk of mesothelioma was 5 out of 100 workers, and in the ship building industry, 1 out of 100 workers. The construction industry had an overall risk comparable with many other asbestos-using industries (7 per 10,000 workers), but due to its size claimed many mesothelioma cases. The majority of cases with asbestos-related diseases had experienced their first asbestos exposure prior to 1960. For cases with first asbestos exposure after 1960, a shift was observed from the primary asbestos industry towards asbestos-using industries, such as construction, petroleum refining, and train building and maintenance. Due to the long latency period, asbestos exposure from 1960 to 1980 will cause a considerable number of mesothelioma cases in the next two decades.

Development of High Performance Composite Foam Insulation with Vacuum Insulation Cores

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

Biswas, Kaushik; Desjarlais, Andre Omer; SmithPhD, Douglas

Development of a high performance thermal insulation (thermal resistance or R-value per inch of R-12 hr-ft2- F/Btu-in or greater), with twice the thermal resistance of state-of-the-art commercial insulation materials ( R6/inch for foam insulation), promises a transformational impact in the area of building insulation. In 2010, in the US, the building envelope-related primary energy consumption was 15.6 quads, of which 5.75 quads were due to opaque wall and roof sections; the total US consumption (building, industrial and transportation) was 98 quads. In other words, the wall and roof contribution was almost 6% of the entire US primary energy consumption. Buildingmore » energy modeling analyses have shown that adding insulation to increase the R-value of the external walls of residential buildings by R10-20 (hr-ft2- F/Btu) can yield savings of 38-50% in wall-generated heating and cooling loads. Adding R20 will require substantial thicknesses of current commercial insulation materials, often requiring significant (and sometimes cost-prohibitive) alterations to existing buildings. This article describes the development of a next-generation composite insulation with a target thermal resistance of R25 for a 2 inch thick board (R12/inch or higher). The composite insulation will contain vacuum insulation cores, which are nominally R35-40/inch, encapsulated in polyisocyanurate foam. A recently-developed variant of vacuum insulation, called modified atmosphere insulation (MAI), was used in this research. Some background information on the thermal performance and distinguishing features of MAI has been provided. Technical details of the composite insulation development and manufacturing as well as laboratory evaluation of prototype insulation boards are presented.« less

Design of Chern insulating phases in honeycomb lattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pickett, Warren E.; Lee, Kwan-Woo; Pentcheva, Rossitza

2018-06-01

The search for robust examples of the magnetic version of topological insulators, referred to as quantum anomalous Hall insulators or simply Chern insulators, so far lacks success. Our groups have explored two distinct possibilities based on multiorbital 3d oxide honeycomb lattices. Each has a Chern insulating phase near the ground state, but materials parameters were not appropriate to produce a viable Chern insulator. Further exploration of one of these classes, by substituting open shell 3d with 4d and 5d counterparts, has led to realistic prediction of Chern insulating ground states. Here we recount the design process, discussing the many energy scales that are active in participating (or resisting) the desired Chern insulator phase.

Reflective Coating on Fibrous Insulation for Reduced Heat Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hass, Derek D.; Prasad, B. Durga; Glass, David E.; Wiedemann, Karl E.

1997-01-01

Radiative heat transfer through fibrous insulation used in thermal protection systems (TPS) is significant at high temperatures (1200 C). Decreasing the radiative heat transfer through the fibrous insulation can thus have a major impact on the insulating ability of the TPS. Reflective coatings applied directly to the individual fibers in fibrous insulation should decrease the radiative heat transfer leading to an insulation with decreased effective thermal conductivity. Coatings with high infrared reflectance have been developed using sol-gel techniques. Using this technique, uniform coatings can be applied to fibrous insulation without an appreciable increase in insulation weight or density. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy, and ellipsometry have been performed to evaluate coating performance.

Conductivity Variation Observed by Polarization and Depolarization Current Measurements of High-Voltage Equipment Insulation System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamail, Nor Akmal Mohd; Piah, Mohamed Afendi Mohamed; Muhamad, Nor Asiah

2012-09-01

Nondestructive and time domain dielectric measurement techniques such as polarization and depolarization current (PDC) measurements have recently been widely used as a potential tool for determining high-voltage insulation conditions by analyzing the insulation conductivity. The variation in the conductivity of an insulator was found to depend on several parameters: the difference between the polarization and depolarization currents, geometric capacitance, and the relative permittivity of the insulation material. In this paper the conductivities of different types of oil-paper insulation material are presented. The insulation conductivities of several types of electrical apparatus were simulated using MATLAB. Conductivity insulation was found to be high at high polarizations and at the lowest depolarization current. It was also found to increase with increasing relative permittivity as well as with decreasing geometric capacitance of the insulating material.

Multiple density layered insulator

DOEpatents

Alger, T.W.

1994-09-06

A multiple density layered insulator for use with a laser is disclosed which provides at least two different insulation materials for a laser discharge tube, where the two insulation materials have different thermoconductivities. The multiple layer insulation materials provide for improved thermoconductivity capability for improved laser operation. 4 figs.

14 CFR 25.856 - Thermal/Acoustic insulation materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Thermal/Acoustic insulation materials. 25....856 Thermal/Acoustic insulation materials. (a) Thermal/acoustic insulation material installed in the.../acoustic insulation materials (including the means of fastening the materials to the fuselage) installed in...

Use of Several Thermal Analysis Techniques to Study the Cracking of an Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) Insulator on the Booster Separation Motor (BSM) of the Space Shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wingard, Charles D.; Whitaker, Ann F. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Two different vendor rubber formulations have been used to produce the silica-filled NBR insulators for the BSM used on both of the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) of the Space Shuttle. A number of lots of the BSM insulator in 1998-99 exhibited surface cracks and/or crazing. Each insulator is bonded to the BSM aluminum aft closure with an epoxy adhesive. Induced insulator stresses from adhesive cure are likely greatest where the insulator/adhesive contour is the greatest, thus showing increased insulator surface cracking in this area. Thermal analysis testing by Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) and Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA) was performed on one each of the two vendor BSM insulators previously bonded that exhibited the surface cracking. The TMA data from the film/fiber technique yielded the most meaningful results, with thin insulator surface samples containing cracks having roughly the same modulus (stiffness) as thin insulator bulk samples just underneath.

Self-potential response to periodic pumping test: a numerical study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konosavsky, Pavel; Maineult, Alexis; Narbut, Mikhail; Titov, Konstantin

2017-09-01

We numerically model self-potential responses associated with periodic pumping test experiments by sequential calculation of the hydraulic response and the coupled electrical potential. We assume the pumping test experiments with a fully saturated confined aquifer. Application of different excitation functions leads to quasi-linear trends in electrical records whose direction and intensity depend on the form of the excitation function. The hydraulic response is phase shifted compared to the excitation function; the phase shift increases quasi-linearly with the distance from the pumping well. For the electrical signals, we investigated separately the cases of conducting and insulating casings of the pumping well. For the conducting casing the electrical signals are larger in magnitude than that for the insulating casing; they reproduce the drawdown signals in the pumping well at any distance from the well and exhibit any phase shift with the increased distance. For the insulating casing, the electrical signals are phase shifted and their shape depends on the distance from the pumping well. Three characteristic regimes were found for the phase shift, φ, with the increased distance and for various hydraulic diffusivity values. At small distances φ increases quasi-linearly; at intermediate distances φ attends the value of π/2 and stay about this value (for relatively small diffusivity values); and at large distances φ attends the value of π and, stay about this value at larger distances. This behaviour of the electrical signals can be explained by two electrical sources of reverse polarity. They are (i) linear, time independent, and located at the pumping interval of the well; and (ii) volumetric, time dependent, with maximum value located in the aquifer at the distance corresponding to maximum variation of the hydraulic head magnitude with time. We also model the variation of the amplitude and phase of the hydraulic and electrical signals with increased excitation function period, and we show the characteristic periods corresponding to transition of the periodic pumping test regime to the classical pumping test regime, when the excitation function is considered as the step-function. This transition depends on the distance from the pumping well and the hydraulic diffusivity value of aquifer. Finally, with this modelling of saturated flow we reproduced in sufficient details the field data previously obtained by Maineult et al.

16 CFR 1505.8 - Maximum acceptable material temperatures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... heat-resistant properties, or if the insulation meets the thermal requirements. 4 40 less than melting... 105 insulation on windings or relays, solenoids, etc.: Thermocouple method 2 90 194 Resistance method 110 230 Class 130 insulation system 110 230 Insulation: Varnished-cloth insulation 85 185 Fiber used...

16 CFR 1505.8 - Maximum acceptable material temperatures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... heat-resistant properties, or if the insulation meets the thermal requirements. 4 40 less than melting... 105 insulation on windings or relays, solenoids, etc.: Thermocouple method 2 90 194 Resistance method 110 230 Class 130 insulation system 110 230 Insulation: Varnished-cloth insulation 85 185 Fiber used...

16 CFR 1505.8 - Maximum acceptable material temperatures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... heat-resistant properties, or if the insulation meets the thermal requirements. 4 40 less than melting... 105 insulation on windings or relays, solenoids, etc.: Thermocouple method 2 90 194 Resistance method 110 230 Class 130 insulation system 110 230 Insulation: Varnished-cloth insulation 85 185 Fiber used...

16 CFR 1505.8 - Maximum acceptable material temperatures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... heat-resistant properties, or if the insulation meets the thermal requirements. 4 40 less than melting... 105 insulation on windings or relays, solenoids, etc.: Thermocouple method 2 90 194 Resistance method 110 230 Class 130 insulation system 110 230 Insulation: Varnished-cloth insulation 85 185 Fiber used...

New insulation attachment method eliminates compatibility bondline stresses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, W. C.

1975-01-01

Auger-shaped single-point fastener attaches rigid surface insulation tiles to orbiter shuttle spacecraft. Method can be used to bond wide variety of materials, including insulation, elastomers, and fibrous materials. Since insulation is attached at only one point, insulation and structure are free to form without inducing bond separation.

16 CFR § 1505.8 - Maximum acceptable material temperatures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... heat-resistant properties, or if the insulation meets the thermal requirements. 4 40 less than melting... 105 insulation on windings or relays, solenoids, etc.: Thermocouple method 2 90 194 Resistance method 110 230 Class 130 insulation system 110 230 Insulation: Varnished-cloth insulation 85 185 Fiber used...

Composite multilayer insulations for thermal protection of aerospace vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A.; Pitts, William C.

1989-01-01

Composite flexible multilayer insulation systems (MLI), consisting of alternating layers of metal foil and scrim cloth or insulation quilted together using ceramic thread, were evaluated for thermal performance and compared with a silica fibrous (baseline) insulation system. The systems studied included: (1) alternating layers of aluminoborosilicate (ABS) scrim cloth and stainless steel foil, with silica, ABS, or alumina insulation; (2) alternating layers of scrim cloth and aluminum foil, with silica or ABS insulation; (3) alternating layers of aluminum foil and silica or ABS insulation; and (4) alternating layers of aluminum-coated polyimide placed on the bottom of the silica insulation. The MLIs containing aluminum were the most efficient, measuring as little as half the backface temperature increase of the baseline system.

Design and evaluation of thin metal surface insulation for hypersonic flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, R. C.; Petach, A. M.

1976-01-01

An all-metal insulation was studied as a thermal protection system for hypersonic vehicles. Key program goals included fabricating the insulation in thin packages which are optimized for high temperature insulation of an actively cooled aluminum structure, and the use of state-of-the-art alloys. The insulation was fabricated from 300 series stainless steel in thicknesses of 0.8 to 12 mm. The outer, 0.127 mm thick, skin was textured to accommodate thermal expansion and oxidized to increase emittance. The thin insulating package was achieved using an insulation concept consisting of foil radiation shields spaced within the package, and conical foil supports to carry loads from the skin and maintain package dimensions. Samples of the metal-insulation were tested to evaluate thermal insulation capability, rain and sand erosion resistance, high temperature oxidation resistance, applied load capability, and high temperature emittance.

Tissue-Specific Regulation of Chromatin Insulator Function

PubMed Central

Matzat, Leah H.; Dale, Ryan K.; Moshkovich, Nellie; Lei, Elissa P.

2012-01-01

Chromatin insulators organize the genome into distinct transcriptional domains and contribute to cell type–specific chromatin organization. However, factors regulating tissue-specific insulator function have not yet been discovered. Here we identify the RNA recognition motif-containing protein Shep as a direct interactor of two individual components of the gypsy insulator complex in Drosophila. Mutation of shep improves gypsy-dependent enhancer blocking, indicating a role as a negative regulator of insulator activity. Unlike ubiquitously expressed core gypsy insulator proteins, Shep is highly expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) with lower expression in other tissues. We developed a novel, quantitative tissue-specific barrier assay to demonstrate that Shep functions as a negative regulator of insulator activity in the CNS but not in muscle tissue. Additionally, mutation of shep alters insulator complex nuclear localization in the CNS but has no effect in other tissues. Consistent with negative regulatory activity, ChIP–seq analysis of Shep in a CNS-derived cell line indicates substantial genome-wide colocalization with a single gypsy insulator component but limited overlap with intact insulator complexes. Taken together, these data reveal a novel, tissue-specific mode of regulation of a chromatin insulator. PMID:23209434

High Performance Slab-on-Grade Foundation Insulation Retrofits

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

Goldberg, Louise F.; Mosiman, Garrett E.

?A more accurate assessment of SOG foundation insulation energy savings than traditionally possible is now feasible. This has been enabled by advances in whole building energy simulation with 3-dimensional foundation modelling integration at each time step together with an experimental measurement of the site energy savings of SOG foundation insulation. Ten SOG insulation strategies were evaluated on a test building to identify an optimum retrofit insulation strategy in a zone 6 climate (Minneapolis, MN). The optimum insulation strategy in terms of energy savings and cost effectiveness consisted of two components: (a) R-20 XPS insulation above grade, and, (b) R-20 insulationmore » at grade (comprising an outer layer of R-10 insulation and an interior layer of R-12 poured polyurethane insulation) tapering to R-10 XPS insulation at half the below-grade wall height (the lower half of the stem wall was uninsulated). The optimum insulation strategy was applied to single and multi-family residential buildings in climate zone 4 - 7. The highest site energy savings of 5% was realized for a single family home in Duluth, MN, and the lowest savings of 1.4 % for a 4-unit townhouse in Richmond, VA. SOG foundation insulation retrofit simple paybacks ranged from 18 to 47 years. There are other benefits of SOG foundation insulation resulting from the increase in the slab surface temperatures. These include increased occupant thermal comfort, and a decrease in slab surface condensation particularly around the slab perimeter.« less

National Grid Deep Energy Retrofit Pilot Program—Clark Residence

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

None

2010-03-30

In this case study, Building Science Corporation partnered with local utility company, National Grid, Massachusetts homes. This project involved the renovation of a 18th century Cape-style building and achieved a super-insulated enclosure (R-35 walls, R-50+ roof, R-20+ foundation), extensive water management improvements, high-efficiency water heater, and state-of-the-art ventilation.

From Isolation to Insulation: The Impact of Campus Culture on the Existence of Two Cultural Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinchback-Hines, Cynthia Juanesta

2013-01-01

This case study examined how the campus culture influences the existence of a Black cultural center and a multicultural center at a predominantly White university. A qualitative ethnography was conducted using focus group interviews, personal interviews, archival research, and anecdotal observation. The results of the study identified five themes:…

DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Case Study: Caldwell and Johnson, Exeter, Rhode Island

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

none,

This house, constructed by Caldwell and Johnson, should save its owners $600 per year over the 2009 IECC with the help of efficiency measures such as walls with OSB sheathing and R-13 open cell spray foam insulation. The home garnered a 2013 Housing Innovation Award in the custom builder category.

Measuring Thermal Performance of Building Envelopes: Nine Case Studies,

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-03-01

inch P/B = 11.36, present worth factor for an es- of expanded polystyrene insulation) to the build- calating series for a 15-year period ing exterior...inch of The one MCA building roof we measured was a expanded polystyrene at R-3.6 per inch. Where the cathedral system with a sloped built-up roofing

Existing Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Build San Antonio Green, San Antonio, Texas

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

none,

2013-06-01

PNNL, FSEC, and CalcsPlus provided technical assistance to Build San Antonio Green on three deep energy retrofits. For this gut rehab they replaced the old roof with a steeper roof and replaced drywall while adding insulation, new HVAC, sealed ducts, transfer grilles, outside air run-time ventilation, new lighting and water heater.