Fuel system design concepts for broad property fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Versaw, E. F.

1984-01-01

The results of a study assessing the impact of using jet fuel with relaxed specification properties on an aircraft fuel system are given. The study objectives were to identify credible values for specific fuel properties which might be relaxed, to evolve advanced fuel system designs for airframe and engines which would permit use of the specified relaxed properties fuels, and to evaluate performance of the candidate advanced fuel systems and the relaxed property fuels in a typical transport aircraft. The study used, as a baseline, the fuel system incorporated in the Lockheed Tristar. This aircraft is powered by three RB.211-524 Rolls-Royce engines and incorporates a Pratt and Whitney ST6C-421 auxiliary power unit for engine starting and inflight emergency electrical power. The fuel property limits examined are compared with commercial Jet A kerosene and the NASA RFP fuel properties. A screening of these properties established that a higher freezing point and a lower thermal stability would impact fuel system design more significantly than any of the other property changes. Three candidate fuel systems which combine the ability to operate with fuels having both a high freeze point and a low thermal stability are described. All candidates employ bleed air to melt fuel freeze-out prior to starting the APU or an inoperable engine. The effects of incorporating these systems on aircraft weight and engine specific fuel consumption are given.

Assessment of Silicon Carbide Composites for Advanced Salt-Cooled Reactors

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

Katoh, Yutai; Wilson, Dane F; Forsberg, Charles W

2007-09-01

The Advanced High-Temperature Reactor (AHTR) is a new reactor concept that uses a liquid fluoride salt coolant and a solid high-temperature fuel. Several alternative fuel types are being considered for this reactor. One set of fuel options is the use of pin-type fuel assemblies with silicon carbide (SiC) cladding. This report provides (1) an initial viability assessment of using SiC as fuel cladding and other in-core components of the AHTR, (2) the current status of SiC technology, and (3) recommendations on the path forward. Based on the analysis of requirements, continuous SiC fiber-reinforced, chemically vapor-infiltrated SiC matrix (CVI SiC/SiC) compositesmore » are recommended as the primary option for further study on AHTR fuel cladding among various industrially available forms of SiC. Critical feasibility issues for the SiC-based AHTR fuel cladding are identified to be (1) corrosion of SiC in the candidate liquid salts, (2) high dose neutron radiation effects, (3) static fatigue failure of SiC/SiC, (4) long-term radiation effects including irradiation creep and radiation-enhanced static fatigue, and (5) fabrication technology of hermetic wall and sealing end caps. Considering the results of the issues analysis and the prospects of ongoing SiC research and development in other nuclear programs, recommendations on the path forward is provided in the order or priority as: (1) thermodynamic analysis and experimental examination of SiC corrosion in the candidate liquid salts, (2) assessment of long-term mechanical integrity issues using prototypical component sections, and (3) assessment of high dose radiation effects relevant to the anticipated operating condition.« less

Status of advanced fuel candidates for Sodium Fast Reactor within the Generation IV International Forum

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

F. Delage; J. Carmack; C. B. Lee

2013-10-01

The main challenge for fuels for future Sodium Fast Reactor systems is the development and qualification of a nuclear fuel sub-assembly which meets the Generation IV International Forum goals. The Advanced Fuel project investigates high burn-up minor actinide bearing fuels as well as claddings and wrappers to withstand high neutron doses and temperatures. The R&D outcome of national and collaborative programs has been collected and shared between the AF project members in order to review the capability of sub-assembly material and fuel candidates, to identify the issues and select the viable options. Based on historical experience and knowledge, both oxidemore » and metal fuels emerge as primary options to meet the performance and the reliability goals of Generation IV SFR systems. There is a significant positive experience on carbide fuels but major issues remain to be overcome: strong in-pile swelling, atmosphere required for fabrication as well as Pu and Am losses. The irradiation performance database for nitride fuels is limited with longer term R&D activities still required. The promising core material candidates are Ferritic/Martensitic (F/M) and Oxide Dispersed Strengthened (ODS) steels.« less

Severe Accident Test Station Activity Report

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

Pint, Bruce A.; Terrani, Kurt A.

2015-06-01

Enhancing safety margins in light water reactor (LWR) severe accidents is currently the focus of a number of international R&D programs. The current UO2/Zr-based alloy fuel system is particularly susceptible since the Zr-based cladding experiences rapid oxidation kinetics in steam at elevated temperatures. Therefore, alternative cladding materials that offer slower oxidation kinetics and a smaller enthalpy of oxidation can significantly reduce the rate of heat and hydrogen generation in the core during a coolant-limited severe accident. In the U.S. program, the high temperature steam oxidation performance of accident tolerant fuel (ATF) cladding solutions has been evaluated in the Severe Accidentmore » Test Station (SATS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) since 2012. This report summarizes the capabilities of the SATS and provides an overview of the oxidation kinetics of several candidate cladding materials. A suggested baseline for evaluating ATF candidates is a two order of magnitude reduction in the steam oxidation resistance above 1000ºC compared to Zr-based alloys. The ATF candidates are categorized based on the protective external oxide or scale that forms during exposure to steam at high temperature: chromia, alumina, and silica. Comparisons are made to literature and SATS data for Zr-based alloys and other less-protective materials.« less

AC impedance and conductivity study of alkali salt form [of] perfluorosulfonate ionomer membranes

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

Zaluski, C.S.; Xu, G.

1994-02-01

AC impedance studies were performed on Na+ and K+ alkali salt forms of the short sidechain perfluorosulfonate ionomer (PFSI) membrane films. With impressive performances of 4 A/cm[sup 2] current density and power densities near 2.5 W/cm[sup 2], the acid forms of these short sidechain PFSI are very promising candidates for use in fuel cells for future electric vehicles. Since, at present, little is known about the exact transport mechanisms for the ionic species within PFSIs, an ac impedance study of the Na+ and K+ forms has been performed. It is hoped that this will provide some insight and understanding ofmore » the transport mechanisms in the PFSI and thus will aid in the development and optimization of fuel cells. Results suggest that there are marked differences with respect to host environments within the Dow membrane as compared to Nafion[reg sign] long sidechain PFSI membrane films. Impedance spectra of the Dow salt form membranes displaying two distinct relaxation peaks while the spectra for all forms of Nafion reveal only a single peak. This second low temperature peak in the Dow membrane has been attributed to a much larger [OH[sup [minus

A nuclear driven metallic vapor MHD coupled with MPD thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anghaie, Samim; Kumar, Ratan

1991-01-01

Nuclear energy as a source of power for space missions, represents an enabling technology for advanced and ambitious space applications. Nuclear fuel in a gaseous or liquid form has been configured as a promising and practical candidate in this regard. The present study investigates and performs a feasibility analysis of an innovative concept for space power generation and propulsion. The system embodies a conceptual nuclear reactor with an MHD generator and coupled to MPD thrusters. The reactor utilizes liquid uranium in droplet form as fuel and superheated metallic vapor as the working fluid. This ultrahigh temperature vapor core reactor brings forward varied and challenging technical issues, and it has been addressed to in this paper. A parametric study of the conceived system has been performed in a qualitative and quantitative manner. Preliminary results show enough promise for further indepth analysis of this novel system.

Fuel cell electrocatalyst using polybenzimidazole-modified carbon nanotubes as support materials.

PubMed

Fujigaya, Tsuyohiko; Nakashima, Naotoshi

2013-03-25

Toward the next generation fuel cell systems, the development of a novel electrocatalyst for the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is crucial to overcome the drawbacks of the present electrocatalyst. As a conductive supporting material for the catalyst, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as a promising candidate, and many attempts have been carried out to introduce CNT, in place of carbon black. On the other hand, as a polymer electrolyte, polybenzimidazoles (PBIs) have been recognized as a powerful candidate due to the high proton conductivity above 100 °C under non-humid conditions. In 2008, we found that these two materials have a strong physical interaction and form a stable hybrid material, in which the PBIs uniformly wrap the surfaces of the CNTs. Furthermore, PBIs serve as effective binding sites for the formation of platinum (Pt) nanoparticles to fabricate a ternary composite (CNT/PBIs/Pt). In this review article, we summarize the fundamental properties of the CNT/PBIs/Pt and discuss their potential as a new electrocatalyst for the PEFC in comparison with the conventional ones. Furthermore, potential applications of CNT/PBIs including use of the materials for oxygen reduction catalysts and reinforcement of PBI films are summarized. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

I-NERI Annual Technical Progress Report 2007-004-K Development and Characterization of New High-Level Waste Forms for Achieving Waste Minimization from Pyroprocessing

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

S. Frank

The current method for the immobilization of fission products that accumulate in electrorefiner salt during the electrochemical processing of used metallic nuclear fuel is to encapsulate the electrorefiner salt in a glass-bonded sodalite ceramic waste form. This process was developed by Argonne National Laboratory in the USA and is currently performed at the Idaho National Laboratory for the treatment of Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II) used fuel. This process utilizes a “once-through” option for the disposal of spent electrorefiner salt; where, after the treatment of the EBR-II fuel, the electrorefiner salt containing the active fission products will be disposed of inmore » the ceramic waste form (CWF). The CWF produced will have low fission product loading of approximately 2 to 5 weight percent due to the limited fuel inventory currently being processed. However; the design and implementation of advanced electrochemical processing facilities to treat used fuel would process much greater quantities fuel. With an advanced processing facility, it would be necessary to selectively remove fission products from the electrorefiner salt for salt recycle and to concentrate the fission products to reduce the volume of high-level waste from the treatment facility. The Korean Atomic Energy Research Institute and the Idaho National Laboratory have been collaborating on I-NERI research projects for a number of years to investigate both aspects of selective fission product separation from electrorefiner salt, and to develop advanced waste forms for the immobilization of the collected fission products. The first joint KAERI/INL I-NERI project titled: 2006-002-K, Separation of Fission Products from Molten LiCl-KCl Salt Used for Electrorefining of Metal Fuels, was successfully completed in 2009 by concentrating and isolating fission products from actual electrorefiner salt used for the treated used EBR-II fuel. Two separation methods were tested and from these tests were produced concentrated salt products that acted as the feed material for development of advanced waste forms investigated in this proposal. Accomplishments from the first year activities associated with this I-NERI project included the down selection of candidate waste forms to immobilize fission products separated from electrorefiner salt, and the design of equipment to fabricate actual waste forms in the Hot Fuels Examination Facility (HFEF) at the INL. Reported in this document are accomplishments from the second year (FY10) work performed at the INL, and includes the testing of waste form fabrication equipment, repeating the fission product precipitation experiment, and initial waste form fabrication efforts.« less

Optimisation of composite metallic fuel for minor actinide transmutation in an accelerator-driven system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uyttenhove, W.; Sobolev, V.; Maschek, W.

2011-09-01

A potential option for neutralization of minor actinides (MA) accumulated in spent nuclear fuel of light water reactors (LWRs) is their transmutation in dedicated accelerator-driven systems (ADS). A promising fuel candidate dedicated to MA transmutation is a CERMET composite with Mo metal matrix and (Pu, Np, Am, Cm)O 2-x fuel particles. Results of optimisation studies of the CERMET fuel targeting to increasing the MA transmutation efficiency of the EFIT (European Facility for Industrial Transmutation) core are presented. In the adopted strategy of MA burning the plutonium (Pu) balance of the core is minimized, allowing a reduction in the reactivity swing and the peak power form-factor deviation and an extension of the cycle duration. The MA/Pu ratio is used as a variable for the fuel optimisation studies. The efficiency of MA transmutation is close to the foreseen theoretical value of 42 kg TW -1 h -1 when level of Pu in the actinide mixture is about 40 wt.%. The obtained results are compared with the reference case of the EFIT core loaded with the composite CERCER fuel, where fuel particles are incorporated in a ceramic magnesia matrix. The results of this study offer additional information for the EFIT fuel selection.

Studies of Scale Formation and Kinetics of Crofer 22 APU and Haynes 230 in Carbon Oxide-Containing Environment for SOFC Applications

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

Ziomek-Moroz, M.; Covino, B.S., Jr.; Holcomb, G.R.

2006-01-01

Significant progress in reducing the operating temperature of SOFCs below 800oC may allow the use of chromia-forming metallic interconnects at a substantial cost savings. Hydrogen is the main fuel for all types of fuel cells except direct methanol fuel cells. Hydrogen can be generated from fossil fuels, including coal, natural gas, diesel, gasoline, other hydrocarbons, and oxygenates (e.g., methanol, ethanol, butanol, etc.). Carbon oxides present in the hydrogen fuel can cause significant performance problems due to carbon formation (coking). Also, literature data indicate that in CO/CO2 gaseous environments, metallic materials that gain their corrosion resistance due to formation of Cr2O3,more » could form stable chromium carbides. The chromium carbide formation causes depletion of chromium in these alloys. If the carbides oxidize, they form non-protective scales. Considering a potential detrimental effect of carbon oxides on iron- and nickel-base alloy stability, determining corrosion performance of metallic interconnect candidates in carbon oxide-containing environments at SOFC operating temperatures is a must. In this research, the corrosion behavior of Crofer 22 APU and Haynes 230 was studied in a CO-rich atmosphere at 750°C. Chemical composition of the gaseous environment at the outlet was determined using gas chromatography (GC). After 800 h of exposure to the gaseous environment the surfaces of the corroded samples were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with microanalytical capabilities. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was also used in this study.« less

Global models for synthetic fuels planning

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

Lamontagne, J.

1983-10-01

This study was performed to identify the set of existing global models with the best potential for use in the US Synthetic Fuels Corporation's strategic planning process, and to recommend the most appropriate model. The study was limited to global models with representations that encompass time horizons beyond the year 2000, multiple fuel forms, and significant regional detail. Potential accessibility to the Synthetic Fuels Corporation and adequate documentation were also required. Four existing models (LORENDAS, WIM, IIASA, and IEA/ORAU) were judged to be the best candidates for the SFC's use at this time; none of the models appears to bemore » ideal for the SFC's purposes. On the basis of currently available information, the most promising short-term option open to the SFC is the use of LORENDAS, with careful attention to definition of alternative energy demand scenarios. Longer-term options which deserve further study are coupling LORENDAS with an explicit model of energy demand, and modification of the IEA/ORAU model to include finer time-period definition and additional technological detail.« less

Metroplex Optimization Model Expansion and Analysis: The Airline Fleet, Route, and Schedule Optimization Model (AFRS-OM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherry, Lance; Ferguson, John; Hoffman, Karla; Donohue, George; Beradino, Frank

2012-01-01

This report describes the Airline Fleet, Route, and Schedule Optimization Model (AFRS-OM) that is designed to provide insights into airline decision-making with regards to markets served, schedule of flights on these markets, the type of aircraft assigned to each scheduled flight, load factors, airfares, and airline profits. The main inputs to the model are hedged fuel prices, airport capacity limits, and candidate markets. Embedded in the model are aircraft performance and associated cost factors, and willingness-to-pay (i.e. demand vs. airfare curves). Case studies demonstrate the application of the model for analysis of the effects of increased capacity and changes in operating costs (e.g. fuel prices). Although there are differences between airports (due to differences in the magnitude of travel demand and sensitivity to airfare), the system is more sensitive to changes in fuel prices than capacity. Further, the benefits of modernization in the form of increased capacity could be undermined by increases in hedged fuel prices

On the Use of Thermal NF3 as the Fluorination and Oxidation Agent in Treatment of Used Nuclear Fuels

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

Scheele, Randall D.; McNamara, Bruce K.; Casella, Andrew M.

2012-05-01

This paper presents results of our investigation on the use of nitrogen trifluoride as the fluorination or fluorination/oxidation agent for use in a process for separating valuable constituents from used nuclear fuels by employing the volatility of many transition metal and actinide fluorides. Nitrogen trifluoride is less chemically and reactively hazardous than the hazardous and aggressive fluorinating agents used to prepare uranium hexafluoride and considered for fluoride volatility based nuclear fuels reprocessing. In addition, nitrogen trifluoride’s less aggressive character may be used to separate the volatile fluorides from used fuel and from themselves based on the fluorination reaction’s temperature sensitivitymore » (thermal tunability) rather than relying on differences in sublimation/boiling temperature and sorbents. Our thermodynamic calculations found that nitrogen trifluoride has the potential to produce volatile fission product and actinide fluorides from candidate oxides and metals. Our simultaneous thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses found that the oxides of lanthanum, cerium, rhodium, and plutonium fluorinated but did not form volatile fluorides and that depending on temperature volatile fluorides formed from the oxides of niobium, molybdenum, ruthenium, tellurium, uranium, and neptunium. We also demonstrated near-quantitative removal of uranium from plutonium in a mixed oxide.« less

Fuel Cells: Power System Option for Space Research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaneeth, M.; Mohanty, Surajeet

2012-07-01

Fuel Cells are direct energy conversion devices and, thereby, they deliver electrical energy at very high efficiency levels. Hydrogen and Oxygen gases are electrochemically processed, producing clean electric power with water as the only by product. A typical, Fuel Cell based power system involve a Electrochemical power converter, gas storage and management systems, thermal management systems and relevant control units. While there exists different types of Fuel cells, Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells are considered as the most suitable one for portable applications. Generally, Fuel Cells are considered as the primary power system option in space missions requiring high power ( > 5kW) and long durations and also where water is a consumable, such as manned missions. This is primarily due to the advantage that fuel cell based power systems offer, in terms of specific energy. Fuel cells have the potential to attain specific energy > 500Wh/kg, specific power >500W/kg, energy density > 400Whr/L and also power density > 200 W/L. This apart, a fuel cell system operate totally independent of sun light, whereas as battery based system is fully dependent on the same. This uniqueness provides added flexibility and capabilities to the missions and modularity for power system. High power requiring missions involving reusable launch vehicles, manned missions etc are expected to be richly benefited from this. Another potential application of Fuel Cell would be interplanetary exploration. Unpredictable and dusty atmospheres of heavenly bodies limits sun light significantly and there fuel cells of different types, eg, Bio-Fuel Cells, PEMFC, DMFCs would be able to work effectively. Manned or unmanned lunar out post would require continuous power even during extra long lunar nights and high power levels are expected. Regenerative Fuel Cells, a combination of Fuel Cells and Electrolysers, are identified as strong candidate. While application of Fuel Cells in high power requiring missions is well established, as exemplified in Apollo and Space Shuttles, use in low power missions for science probes/rovers form a relatively newer area. Low power small fuel cells of this class are expected to bring in lot of operational convenience and freedom on onboard / extra terrestrial environment. Technological improvisations in the area, especially with regard to miniaturisation, and extra capabilities that the system offers, make it a strong candidate. The paper outlines features of fuel cells power systems, different types and their potential application scenarios, in the present context. It elucidates the extra capabilities and advantages, due to fuel cells, for different missions. Specific case analyses are also included.

Candidate waste forms for immobilisation of waste chloride salt from pyroprocessing of spent nuclear fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vance, E. R.; Davis, J.; Olufson, K.; Chironi, I.; Karatchevtseva, I.; Farnan, I.

2012-01-01

Sodalite/glass bodies prepared by hot isostatic pressing (HIPing) at ˜850 °C/100 MPa are candidates for immobilising fission product-bearing waste KCl-LiCl pyroprocessing salts. To study the capacity of sodalite to structurally incorporate such pyroprocessing salts, K, Li, Cs, Sr, Ba and La were individually targeted for substitution in a Na site in sodalite (Na vacancies targeted as charge compensators for alkaline and rare earths) and studied by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy after sintering in the range of 800-1000 °C. K and Li appeared to enter the sodalite, but Cs, Sr and Ba formed aluminosilicate phases and La formed an oxyapatite phase. However these non-sodalite phases have reasonable resistance to water leaching. Pure chlorapatite gives superior leach resistance to sodalite, and alkalis, alkaline and rare earth ions are generally known to enter chlorapatite, but attempts to incorporate simulated waste salt formulations into HIPed chlorapatite-based preparations or to substitute Cs alone into the structure of Ca-based chlorapatite were not successful on the basis of scanning electron microscopy. The materials exhibited severe water leachability, mainly in regard to Cs release. Attempts to substitute Cs into Ba- and Sr-based chlorapatites also did not look encouraging. Consequently the use of apatite alone to retain fission product-bearing waste pyroprocessing salts from electrolytic nuclear fuel reprocessing is problematical, but chlorapatite glass-ceramics may be feasible, albeit with reduced waste loadings. Spodiosite, Ca 2(PO 4)Cl, does not appear to be suitable for incorporation of Cl-bearing waste containing fission products.

Oxygen electrodes for rechargeable alkaline fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swette, L.; Kackley, N.

1989-01-01

Electrocatalysts and supports for the positive electrode of moderate temperature single-unit rechargeable alkaline fuel cells are being investigated and developed. Candidate support materials were drawn from transition metal carbides, borides, nitrides and oxides which have high conductivity (greater than 1 ohm/cm). Candidate catalyst materials were selected largely from metal oxides of the form ABO sub x (where A = Pb, Cd, Mn, Ti, Zr, La, Sr, Na, and B = Pt, Pd, Ir, Ru, Ni (Co) which were investigated and/or developed for one function only, O2 reduction or O2 evolution. The electrical conductivity requirement for catalysts may be lower, especially if integrated with a higher conductivity support. All candidate materials of acceptable conductivity are subjected to corrosion testing. Materials that survive chemical testing are examined for electrochemical corrosion activity. For more stringent corrosion testing, and for further evaluation of electrocatalysts (which generally show significant O2 evolution at at 1.4 V), samples are held at 1.6 V or 0.6 V for about 100 hours. The surviving materials are then physically and chemically analyzed for signs of degradation. To evaluate the bifunctional oxygen activity of candidate catalysts, Teflon-bonded electrodes are fabricated and tested in a floating electrode configuration. Many of the experimental materials being studied have required development of a customized electrode fabrication procedure. In advanced development, the goal is to reduce the polarization to about 300 to 350 mV. Approximately six support materials and five catalyst materials were identified to date for further development. The test results will be described.

Nuclear waste forms for actinides

PubMed Central

Ewing, Rodney C.

1999-01-01

The disposition of actinides, most recently 239Pu from dismantled nuclear weapons, requires effective containment of waste generated by the nuclear fuel cycle. Because actinides (e.g., 239Pu and 237Np) are long-lived, they have a major impact on risk assessments of geologic repositories. Thus, demonstrable, long-term chemical and mechanical durability are essential properties of waste forms for the immobilization of actinides. Mineralogic and geologic studies provide excellent candidate phases for immobilization and a unique database that cannot be duplicated by a purely materials science approach. The “mineralogic approach” is illustrated by a discussion of zircon as a phase for the immobilization of excess weapons plutonium. PMID:10097054

Seawater/Saline Agriculture for Energy, Warming, Water, Rainfall, Land, Food and Minerals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bushnell, Dennis

2006-01-01

The combination of the incipient demise of cheap oil and increasing evidence of Global Warming due to anthropogenic fossil carbon release has reinvigorated the need for and efforts on Renewable energy sources, especially for transportation applications. Biomass/Bio-diesel appears to have many benefits compared to Hydrogen, the only other major renewable transportation fuel candidate. Biomass Production is currently limited by available arable land and fresh water. Halophyte Plants and seawater irrigation proffer a wholly new biomass production mantra using wastelands and very plentiful seawater. Such an approach addresses many-to-most of the major emerging Societal Problems including Land, Water, Food, Warming and Energy. For many reasons, including seawater agriculture, portions of the Sahara appear to be viable candidates for future Biomass Production. The apparent nonlinearity between vegetation cover and atmospheric conditions over North Africa necessitates serious coupled boundary layer Meteorology and Global Circulation Modeling to ensure that this form of Terra Forming is Favorable and to avoid adverse Unintended Consequences.

Performance Evaluation of a High Bandwidth Liquid Fuel Modulation Valve for Active Combustion Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saus, Joseph R.; DeLaat, John C.; Chang, Clarence T.; Vrnak, Daniel R.

2012-01-01

At the NASA Glenn Research Center, a characterization rig was designed and constructed for the purpose of evaluating high bandwidth liquid fuel modulation devices to determine their suitability for active combustion control research. Incorporated into the rig s design are features that approximate conditions similar to those that would be encountered by a candidate device if it were installed on an actual combustion research rig. The characterized dynamic performance measures obtained through testing in the rig are planned to be accurate indicators of expected performance in an actual combustion testing environment. To evaluate how well the characterization rig predicts fuel modulator dynamic performance, characterization rig data was compared with performance data for a fuel modulator candidate when the candidate was in operation during combustion testing. Specifically, the nominal and off-nominal performance data for a magnetostrictive-actuated proportional fuel modulation valve is described. Valve performance data were collected with the characterization rig configured to emulate two different combustion rig fuel feed systems. Fuel mass flows and pressures, fuel feed line lengths, and fuel injector orifice size was approximated in the characterization rig. Valve performance data were also collected with the valve modulating the fuel into the two combustor rigs. Comparison of the predicted and actual valve performance data show that when the valve is operated near its design condition the characterization rig can appropriately predict the installed performance of the valve. Improvements to the characterization rig and accompanying modeling activities are underway to more accurately predict performance, especially for the devices under development to modulate fuel into the much smaller fuel injectors anticipated in future lean-burning low-emissions aircraft engine combustors.

High speed commercial transport fuels considerations and research needs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, C. M.; Niedzwiecki, R. W.

1989-01-01

NASA is currently evaluating the potential of incorporating High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) aircraft in the commercial fleet in the beginning of the 21st century. NASA sponsored HSCT enabling studies currently underway with airframers and engine manufacturers, are addressing a broad range of technical, environmental, economic, and related issues. Supersonic cruise speeds for these aircraft were originally focused in the Mach 2 to 5 range. At these flight speeds, both jet fuels and liquid methane were considered potential fuel candidates. For the year 2000 to 2010, cruise Mach numbers of 2 to 3+ are projected for aircraft fuel with thermally stable liquid jet fuels. For 2015 and beyond, liquid methane fueled aircraft cruising at Mach numbers of 4+ may be viable candidates. Operation at supersonic speeds will be much more severe than those encountered at subsonic flight. One of the most critical problems is the potential deterioration of the fuel due to the high temperature environment. HSCT fuels will not only be required to provide the energy necessary for flight, but will also be subject to aerodynamic heating and, will be required to serve as the primary heat sink for cooling the engine and airframe. To define fuel problems for high speed flight, a fuels workshop was conducted at NASA Lewis Research Center. The purpose of the workshop was to gather experts on aviation fuels, airframe fuel systems, airport infrastructure, and combustion systems to discuss high speed fuel alternatives, fuel supply scenarios, increased thermal stability approaches and measurements, safety considerations, and to provide directional guidance for future R and D efforts. Subsequent follow-up studies defined airport infrastructure impacts of high speed fuel candidates. The results of these activities are summarized. In addition, an initial case study using modified in-house refinery simulation model Gordian code (1) is briefly discussed. This code can be used to simulate different types of refineries, emphasizing jet fuel production and relative cost factors.

Releasing metal catalysts via phase transition: (NiO)0.05-(SrTi0.8Nb0.2O3)0.95 as a redox stable anode material for solid oxide fuel cells.

PubMed

Xiao, Guoliang; Wang, Siwei; Lin, Ye; Zhang, Yanxiang; An, Ke; Chen, Fanglin

2014-11-26

Donor-doped perovskite-type SrTiO3 experiences stoichiometric changes at high temperatures in different Po2 involving the formation of Sr or Ti-rich impurities. NiO is incorporated into the stoichiometric strontium titanate, SrTi0.8Nb0.2O3-δ (STN), to form an A-site deficient perovskite material, (NiO)0.05-(SrTi0.8Nb0.2O3)0.95 (Ni-STN), for balancing the phase transition. Metallic Ni nanoparticles can be released upon reduction instead of forming undesired secondary phases. This material design introduces a simple catalytic modification method with good compositional control of the ceramic backbones, by which transport property and durability of solid oxide fuel cell anodes are largely determined. Using Ni-STN as anodes for solid oxide fuel cells, enhanced catalytic activity and remarkable stability in redox cycling have been achieved. Electrolyte-supported cells with the cell configuration of Ni-STN-SDC anode, La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.87Mg0.13O3 (LSGM) electrolyte, and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF) cathode produce peak power densities of 612, 794, and 922 mW cm(-2) at 800, 850, and 900 °C, respectively, using H2 as the fuel and air as the oxidant. Minor degradation in fuel cell performance resulted from redox cycling can be recovered upon operating the fuel cells in H2. Such property makes Ni-STN a promising regenerative anode candidate for solid oxide fuel cells.

I-NERI-2007-004-K, DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NEW HIGH-LEVEL WASTE FORMS FOR ACHIEVING WASTE MINIMIZATION FROM PYROPROCESSING

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

S.M. Frank

Work describe in this report represents the final year activities for the 3-year International Nuclear Energy Research Initiative (I-NERI) project: Development and Characterization of New High-Level Waste Forms for Achieving Waste Minimization from Pyroprocessing. Used electrorefiner salt that contained actinide chlorides and was highly loaded with surrogate fission products was processed into three candidate waste forms. The first waste form, a high-loaded ceramic waste form is a variant to the CWF produced during the treatment of Experimental Breeder Reactor-II used fuel at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The two other waste forms were developed by researchers at the Korean Atomicmore » Energy Research Institute (KAERI). These materials are based on a silica-alumina-phosphate matrix and a zinc/titanium oxide matrix. The proposed waste forms, and the processes to fabricate them, were designed to immobilize spent electrorefiner chloride salts containing alkali, alkaline earth, lanthanide, and halide fission products that accumulate in the salt during the processing of used nuclear fuel. This aspect of the I-NERI project was to demonstrate 'hot cell' fabrication and characterization of the proposed waste forms. The outline of the report includes the processing of the spent electrorefiner salt and the fabrication of each of the three waste forms. Also described is the characterization of the waste forms, and chemical durability testing of the material. While waste form fabrication and sample preparation for characterization must be accomplished in a radiological hot cell facility due to hazardous radioactivity levels, smaller quantities of each waste form were removed from the hot cell to perform various analyses. Characterization included density measurement, elemental analysis, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and the Product Consistency Test, which is a leaching method to measure chemical durability. Favorable results from this demonstration project will provide additional options for fission product immobilization and waste management associated the electrochemical/pyrometallurgical processing of used nuclear fuel.« less

Thorium-based mixed oxide fuel in a pressurized water reactor: A feasibility analysis with MCNP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucker, Lucas Powelson

This dissertation investigates techniques for spent fuel monitoring, and assesses the feasibility of using a thorium-based mixed oxide fuel in a conventional pressurized water reactor for plutonium disposition. Both non-paralyzing and paralyzing dead-time calculations were performed for the Portable Spectroscopic Fast Neutron Probe (N-Probe), which can be used for spent fuel interrogation. Also, a Canberra 3He neutron detector's dead-time was estimated using a combination of subcritical assembly measurements and MCNP simulations. Next, a multitude of fission products were identified as candidates for burnup and spent fuel analysis of irradiated mixed oxide fuel. The best isotopes for these applications were identified by investigating half-life, photon energy, fission yield, branching ratios, production modes, thermal neutron absorption cross section and fuel matrix diffusivity. 132I and 97Nb were identified as good candidates for MOX fuel on-line burnup analysis. In the second, and most important, part of this work, the feasibility of utilizing ThMOX fuel in a pressurized water reactor (PWR) was first examined under steady-state, beginning of life conditions. Using a three-dimensional MCNP model of a Westinghouse-type 17x17 PWR, several fuel compositions and configurations of a one-third ThMOX core were compared to a 100% UO2 core. A blanket-type arrangement of 5.5 wt% PuO2 was determined to be the best candidate for further analysis. Next, the safety of the ThMOX configuration was evaluated through three cycles of burnup at several using the following metrics: axial and radial nuclear hot channel factors, moderator and fuel temperature coefficients, delayed neutron fraction, and shutdown margin. Additionally, the performance of the ThMOX configuration was assessed by tracking cycle length, plutonium destroyed, and fission product poison concentration.

Evaluation of on-board hydrogen storage methods for hypersonic vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akyurtlu, Ates; Akyurtlu, J. F.; Adeyiga, A. A.; Perdue, Samara; Northam, G. B.

1989-01-01

Hydrogen is the foremost candidate as a fuel for use in high speed transport. Since any aircraft moving at hypersonic speeds must have a very slender body, means of decreasing the storage volume requirements below that for liquid hydrogen are needed. The total performance of the hypersonic plane needs to be considered for the evaluation of candidate fuel and storage systems. To accomplish this, a simple model for the performance of a hypersonic plane is presented. To allow for the use of different engines and fuels during different phases of flight, the total trajectory is divided into three phases: subsonic-supersonic, hypersonic and rocket propulsion phase. The fuel fraction for the first phase is found be a simple energy balance using an average thrust to drag ratio for this phase. The hypersonic flight phase is investigated in more detail by taking small altitude increments. This approach allowed the use of flight profiles other than the constant dynamic pressure flight. The effect of fuel volume on drag, structural mass and tankage mass was introduced through simplified equations involving the characteristic dimension of the plane. The propellant requirement for the last phase is found by employing the basic rocket equations. The candidate fuel systems such as the cryogenic fuel combinations and solid and liquid endothermic hydrogen generators are first screened thermodynamically with respect to their energy densities and cooling capacities and then evaluated using the above model.

Neutronics calculations on the impact of burnable poisons to safety and non-proliferation aspects of inert matrix fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pistner, C.; Liebert, W.; Fujara, F.

2006-06-01

Inert matrix fuels (IMF) with plutonium may play a significant role to dispose of stockpiles of separated plutonium from military or civilian origin. For reasons of reactivity control of such fuels, burnable poisons (BP) will have to be used. The impact of different possible BP candidates (B, Eu, Er and Gd) on the achievable burnup as well as on safety and non-proliferation aspects of IMF are analyzed. To this end, cell burnup calculations have been performed and burnup dependent reactivity coefficients (boron worth, fuel temperature and moderator void coefficient) were calculated. All BP candidates were analyzed for one initial BP concentration and a range of different initial plutonium-concentrations (0.4-1.0 g cm-3) for reactor-grade plutonium isotopic composition as well as for weapon-grade plutonium. For the two most promising BP candidates (Er and Gd), a range of different BP concentrations was investigated to study the impact of BP concentration on fuel burnup. A set of reference fuels was identified to compare the performance of uranium-fuels, MOX and IMF with respect to (1) the fraction of initial plutonium being burned, (2) the remaining absolute plutonium concentration in the spent fuel and (3) the shift in the isotopic composition of the remaining plutonium leading to differences in the heat and neutron rate produced. In the case of IMF, the remaining Pu in spent fuel is unattractive for a would be proliferator. This underlines the attractiveness of an IMF approach for disposal of Pu from a non-proliferation perspective.

Compatibility Assessment of Fuel System Thermoplastics with Bio-Blendstock Fuel Candidates Using Hansen Solubility Analysis

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

Kass, Michael D.; West, Brian H.

The compatibility of key fuel system infrastructure plastics with 39 bio-blendstock fuel candidates was examined using Hansen solubility analysis. Fuel types included multiple alcohols, esters, ethers, ketones, alkenes and one alkane. These compounds were evaluated as neat molecules and as blends with the gasoline surrogate, dodecane, and a mix of dodecane and 10% ethanol (E10D). The plastics included polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyoxymethylene (POM), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), along with several nylon grades. These materials have been rigorously studied with other fuel types, and their volume change resultsmore » were found to correspond well with their predicted solubility levels.The compatibility was assessed using Hansen solubility parameters and in many instances peak solubility occurred for blends rather than the neat fuel components. The results showed that good compatibilities can be expected for PPS, PVDF, PET, nylons, acetal, PEI, PVC, HDPE and PBT. PTFE showed potential incompatibilities at low blend concentrations, especially when E10D was used as the base fuel blend. Although, the nylons show good overall compatibility, the results do indicate that mid-range and high alcohol contents may not be suitable for Nylon 6 and Nylon 11 in applications requiring low volume swell. Poor potential compatibility was limited to two plastic types; PETG exposed to mid and high blend levels of the ethers and PP exposed to sabinene and the aromatics. In general, the data showed good compatibility for the majority of the candidate fuels and plastics.« less

Compatibility Assessment of Fuel System Thermoplastics with Bio-Blendstock Fuel Candidates Using Hansen Solubility Analysis

DOE PAGES

Kass, Michael D.; West, Brian H.

2018-01-03

The compatibility of key fuel system infrastructure plastics with 39 bio-blendstock fuel candidates was examined using Hansen solubility analysis. Fuel types included multiple alcohols, esters, ethers, ketones, alkenes and one alkane. These compounds were evaluated as neat molecules and as blends with the gasoline surrogate, dodecane, and a mix of dodecane and 10% ethanol (E10D). The plastics included polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyoxymethylene (POM), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), along with several nylon grades. These materials have been rigorously studied with other fuel types, and their volume change resultsmore » were found to correspond well with their predicted solubility levels.The compatibility was assessed using Hansen solubility parameters and in many instances peak solubility occurred for blends rather than the neat fuel components. The results showed that good compatibilities can be expected for PPS, PVDF, PET, nylons, acetal, PEI, PVC, HDPE and PBT. PTFE showed potential incompatibilities at low blend concentrations, especially when E10D was used as the base fuel blend. Although, the nylons show good overall compatibility, the results do indicate that mid-range and high alcohol contents may not be suitable for Nylon 6 and Nylon 11 in applications requiring low volume swell. Poor potential compatibility was limited to two plastic types; PETG exposed to mid and high blend levels of the ethers and PP exposed to sabinene and the aromatics. In general, the data showed good compatibility for the majority of the candidate fuels and plastics.« less

Oxidation behavior of U-Si compounds in air from 25 to 1000 C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sooby Wood, E.; White, J. T.; Nelson, A. T.

2017-02-01

The air oxidation behavior of U3Si2, USi, and U3Si5 is studied from room temperature to 1000 C. The onsets of breakaway oxidation for each compound are identified during synthetic air ramps to 1000 C using thermogravimetric analysis. Isothermal air oxidation tests are performed below and above the breakaway oxidation onset to discern the oxidation kinetic behavior of these candidate accident tolerant fuel forms. Uranium metal is tested in the same manner to provide a reference for the oxidation behavior. Thermogravimetric, x-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy analysis are presented here along with a discussion of the oxidation behavior of these materials and the impact of the lack of oxidation resistance to their deployment as accident tolerant nuclear fuels.

Military utility of very large airplanes and alternative fuels

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

Mikolowsky, W.T.; Noggle, L.W.; Stanley, W.L.

1977-09-01

Synthetic chemical fuels and nuclear fuels were evaluated for use in very large airplanes (VLA's). Candidate fuels included synthetic jet fuel, liquid hydrogen, liquid methane, methanol, ethanol, ammonia, and gasoline. Airplane life-cycle costs and life-cycle energy consumption are estimated, and energy and cost effectiveness are evaluated. It is concluded that a synthetic conventional hydrocarbon jet fuel remains the most attractive for military aircraft. (PMA)

On controllability and system constraints of the linear models of proton exchange membrane and solid oxide fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radisavljevic, Verica

2011-10-01

In this paper we first show that the linear models of proton exchange membrane (polymer electrolyte membrane, PEM) and solid oxide (SO) fuel cells, commonly used in power and energy literature, are not controllable. The source of uncontrollability is the equation for pressure of the water vapor that is only affected by the fuel cell current, which in fact is a disturbance in this system and cannot be controlled by the given model inputs: inlet molar flow rates of hydrogen and oxygen. Being uncontrollable these models are not good candidates for studying control of dynamic processes in PEM and SO fuel cells. However, due to their simplicity, they can be used in hybrid configurations with other energy producing devices such as photovoltaic (solar) cells, wind turbine, micro gas turbine, battery (ultra capacitor) to demonstrate some other phenomena, but not for control purposes unless the hybrid models formed in such hybrid configurations are controllable. Testing controllability of such hybrid models is mandatory. Secondly, we introduce some algebraic constraints that follow from the model dynamics and the Nernst open-loop fuel cell voltage formula. These constraints must be satisfied in simulation of considered fuel cell modes, for example, via MATLAB/Simulink or any other computer software package.

Vaporisation of candidate nuclear fuels and targets for transmutation of minor actinides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gotcu-Freis, P.; Hiernaut, J.-P.; Colle, J.-Y.; Nästrén, C.; Carretero, A. Fernandez; Konings, R. J. M.

2011-04-01

The thermal stability and high temperature behaviour of candidate fuels and targets for transmutation of minor actinides has been investigated. Zirconia-based solid solution, MgO-based CERCER and molybdenum-based CERMET fuels containing Am and/or Pu in various concentrations were heated up to 2700 K in a Knudsen cell coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer, to measure their vapour pressure and vapour composition. The results reveal that the vaporisation of the actinides from the samples is not only determined by the thermodynamics of the system but is also related to the dynamic evolution of multi-component mixtures with complex composition or microstructure.

CHARACTERIZATION OF EMISSIONS FROM A VARIABLE GASOLINE/METHANOL FUELED CAR

EPA Science Inventory

In response to the occurrence of the increasingly severe ambient ozone exceedances, regional environmental managers are examining the possibility of a cleaner fuel for automobiles. t this time the leading candidate is methanol. n anticipation of a shift to methanol, variable-fuel...

Oxidation behavior of U-Si compounds in air from 25 to 1000 C

DOE PAGES

Wood, E. Sooby; White, J. T.; Nelson, A. T.

2016-12-18

The air oxidation behavior of U 3Si 2, USi, and U 3Si 5 is studied from room temperature to 1000 C. Moreover, the onsets of breakaway oxidation for each compound are identified during synthetic air ramps to 1000 C using thermogravimetric analysis. Isothermal air oxidation tests are performed below and above the breakaway oxidation onset to discern the oxidation kinetic behavior of these candidate accident tolerant fuel forms. Uranium metal is tested in the same manner to provide a reference for the oxidation behavior. We present thermogravimetric, x-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy analysis here along with a discussion ofmore » the oxidation behavior of these materials and the impact of the lack of oxidation resistance to their deployment as accident tolerant nuclear fuels.« less

Energy storage considerations for a robotic Mars surface sampler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

O'Donnell, P. M.; Cataldo, R. L.; Gonzalez-Sanabria, O. D.

1988-01-01

The characteristics of various energy storage systems (including Ni-Cd, Ni-H2, Ag-Zn, Li-XS, Na-S, PbSO4, and regenerative fuel cell systems) considered for a robotic Mars surface sampler are reviewed. It is concluded that the bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery and the sodium-sulfur battery are both viable candidates as storage systems for the rover's Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator. For a photovoltaic storage system, the regenerative fuel cell and the bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery are the primary candidates.

Teledyne Energy Systems, Inc., Proton Exchange Member (PEM) Fuel Cell Engineering Model Powerplant. Test Report: Initial Benchmark Tests in the Original Orientation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loyselle, Patricia; Prokopius, Kevin

2011-01-01

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology is the leading candidate to replace the alkaline fuel cell technology, currently used on the Shuttle, for future space missions. During a 5-yr development program, a PEM fuel cell powerplant was developed. This report details the initial performance evaluation test results of the powerplant.

Design and Implementation of a Characterization Test Rig for Evaluating High Bandwidth Liquid Fuel Flow Modulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saus, Joseph R.; Chang, Clarence T.; DeLaat, John C.; Vrnak, Daniel R.

2010-01-01

A test rig was designed and developed at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) for the purpose of characterizing high bandwidth liquid fuel flow modulator candidates to determine their suitability for combustion instability control research. The test rig is capable of testing flow modulators at up to 600 psia supply pressure and flows of up to 2 gpm. The rig is designed to provide a quiescent flow into the test section in order to isolate the dynamic flow modulations produced by the test article. Both the fuel injector orifice downstream of the test article and the combustor are emulated. The effect of fuel delivery line lengths on modulator dynamic performance can be observed and modified to replicate actual fuel delivery systems. For simplicity, water is currently used as the working fluid, although future plans are to use jet fuel. The rig is instrumented for dynamic pressures and flows and a high-speed data system is used for dynamic data acquisition. Preliminary results have been obtained for one candidate flow modulator.

A physical description of fission product behavior fuels for advanced power reactors.

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

Kaganas, G.; Rest, J.; Nuclear Engineering Division

2007-10-18

The Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) is considering a list of reactors and nuclear fuels as part of its chartered initiative. Because many of the candidate materials have not been explored experimentally under the conditions of interest, and in order to economize on program costs, analytical support in the form of combined first principle and mechanistic modeling is highly desirable. The present work is a compilation of mechanistic models developed in order to describe the fission product behavior of irradiated nuclear fuel. The mechanistic nature of the model development allows for the possibility of describing a range of nuclear fuelsmore » under varying operating conditions. Key sources include the FASTGRASS code with an application to UO{sub 2} power reactor fuel and the Dispersion Analysis Research Tool (DART ) with an application to uranium-silicide and uranium-molybdenum research reactor fuel. Described behavior mechanisms are divided into subdivisions treating fundamental materials processes under normal operation as well as the effect of transient heating conditions on these processes. Model topics discussed include intra- and intergranular gas-atom and bubble diffusion, bubble nucleation and growth, gas-atom re-solution, fuel swelling and ?scion gas release. In addition, the effect of an evolving microstructure on these processes (e.g., irradiation-induced recrystallization) is considered. The uranium-alloy fuel, U-xPu-Zr, is investigated and behavior mechanisms are proposed for swelling in the {alpha}-, intermediate- and {gamma}-uranium zones of this fuel. The work reviews the FASTGRASS kinetic/mechanistic description of volatile ?scion products and, separately, the basis for the DART calculation of bubble behavior in amorphous fuels. Development areas and applications for physical nuclear fuel models are identified.« less

Hot Hydrogen Testing of Tungsten-Uranium Dioxide (W-UO2) CERMET Fuel Materials for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hickman, Robert; Broadway, Jeramie

2014-01-01

CERMET fuel materials are being developed at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center for a Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage. Recent work has resulted in the development and demonstration of a Compact Fuel Element Environmental Test (CFEET) System that is capable of subjecting depleted uranium fuel material samples to hot hydrogen. A critical obstacle to the development of an NCPS engine is the high-cost and safety concerns associated with developmental testing in nuclear environments. The purpose of this testing capability is to enable low-cost screening of candidate materials, fabrication processes, and further validation of concepts. The CERMET samples consist of depleted uranium dioxide (UO2) fuel particles in a tungsten metal matrix, which has been demonstrated on previous programs to provide improved performance and retention of fission products1. Numerous past programs have utilized hot hydrogen furnace testing to develop and evaluate fuel materials. The testing provides a reasonable simulation of temperature and thermal stress effects in a flowing hydrogen environment. Though no information is gained about radiation damage, the furnace testing is extremely valuable for development and verification of fuel element materials and processes. The current work includes testing of subscale W-UO2 slugs to evaluate fuel loss and stability. The materials are then fabricated into samples with seven cooling channels to test a more representative section of a fuel element. Several iterations of testing are being performed to evaluate fuel mass loss impacts from density, microstructure, fuel particle size and shape, chemistry, claddings, particle coatings, and stabilizers. The fuel materials and forms being evaluated on this effort have all been demonstrated to control fuel migration and loss. The objective is to verify performance improvements of the various materials and process options prior to expensive full scale fabrication and testing. Post test analysis will include weight percent fuel loss, microscopy, dimensional tolerance, and fuel stability.

The On-line Waste Library (OWL): Usage and Inventory Status Report

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

Sassani, David; Jang, Je-Hun; Mariner, Paul

The Waste Form Disposal Options Evaluation Report (SNL 2014) evaluated disposal of both Commercial Spent Nuclear Fuel (CSNF) and DOE-managed HLW and Spent Nuclear Fuel (DHLW and DSNF) in the variety of disposal concepts being evaluated within the Used Fuel Disposition Campaign. That work covered a comprehensive inventory and a wide range of disposal concepts. The primary goal of this work is to evaluate the information needs for analyzing disposal solely of a subset of those wastes in a Defense Repository (DRep; i.e., those wastes that are either defense related, or managed by DOE but are not commercial in origin).more » A potential DRep also appears to be safe in the range of geologic mined repository concepts, but may have different concepts and features because of the very different inventory of waste that would be included. The focus of this status report is to cover the progress made in FY16 toward: (1) developing a preliminary DRep included inventory for engineering/design analyses; (2) assessing the major differences of this included inventory relative to that in other analyzed repository systems and the potential impacts to disposal concepts; (3) designing and developing an on-line waste library (OWL) to manage the information of all those wastes and their waste forms (including CSNF if needed); and (4) constraining post-closure waste form degradation performance for safety assessments of a DRep. In addition, some continuing work is reported on identifying potential candidate waste types/forms to be added to the full list from SNL (2014 – see Table C-1) which also may be added to the OWL in the future. The status for each of these aspects is reported herein.« less

Report On Design And Preliminary Data Of Halden In-Pile Creep Rig

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

Terrani, Kurt A; Karlsen, T. M.; Yamamoto, Yukinori

2015-09-01

A set of in-pile creep tests is ongoing in the Halden reactor on ORNL’s candidate accident tolerant fuel cladding materials. These tests are meant to provide essential material property information that is needed for an informed analysis of these fuel concepts under normal operating conditions. These tests provide detailed information regarding swelling, thermal creep, and irradiation creep rates of these materials. The results to date have been compared with the limited set of information available in literature that is form irradiation tests in other reactors or out-of-pile tests. Most of the results are in good agreement with prior literature, exceptmore » for irradiation creep rate of SiC. To elucidate the difference between the HFIR and Halden test results continued testing is necessary. The tests describe in this progress report are ongoing and will continue for at least another year.« less

Compatibility studies on Mo-coating systems for nuclear fuel cladding applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koh, Huan Chin; Hosemann, Peter; Glaeser, Andreas M.; Cionea, Cristian

2017-12-01

To improve the safety factor of nuclear power plants in accident scenarios, molybdenum (Mo), with its high-temperature strength, is proposed as a potential fuel-cladding candidate. However, Mo undergoes rapid oxidation and sublimation at elevated temperatures in oxygen-rich environments. Thus, it is necessary to coat Mo with a protective layer. The diffusional interactions in two systems, namely, Zircaloy-2 (Zr2) on a Mo tube, and iron-chromium-aluminum (FeCrAl) on a Mo rod, were studied by aging coated Mo substrates in high vacuum at temperatures ranging from 650 °C to 1000° for 1000 h. The specimens were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and nanoindentation. In both systems, pores in the coating increased in size and number with increasing temperature over time, and cracks were also observed; intermetallic phases formed between the Mo and its coatings.

75 FR 1831 - Seeks Qualified Candidates for the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-13

... renewal, power uprates, and the use of mixed oxide and high burnup fuels. An increased emphasis is being... race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disabilities. Candidates must be citizens of the...

Comparison of alternate fuels for aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Witcofski, R. D.

1979-01-01

A comparison of candidate alternate fuels for aircraft is presented. The fuels discussed include liquid hydrogen, liquid methane, and synthetic aviation kerosene. Each fuel is evaluated from the standpoint of production, transmission, airport storage and distribution facilities, and use in aircraft. Technology deficient areas for cryogenic fuels, which should be advanced prior to the introduction of the fuels into the aviation industry, are identified, as are the cost and energy penalties associated with not achieving those advances. Environmental emissions and safety aspects of fuel selection are discussed. A detailed description of the various fuel production and liquefaction processes and their efficiencies and economics is given.

Rapid Aggregation of Biofuel-Producing Algae by the Bacterium Bacillus sp. Strain RP1137

PubMed Central

Powell, Ryan J.

2013-01-01

Algal biofuels represent one of the most promising means of sustainably replacing liquid fuels. However, significant challenges remain before alga-based fuels become competitive with fossil fuels. One of the largest challenges is the ability to harvest the algae in an economical and low-energy manner. In this article, we describe the isolation of a bacterial strain, Bacillus sp. strain RP1137, which can rapidly aggregate several algae that are candidates for biofuel production, including a Nannochloropsis sp. This bacterium aggregates algae in a pH-dependent and reversible manner and retains its aggregation ability after paraformaldehyde fixation, opening the possibility for reuse of the cells. The optimal ratio of bacteria to algae is described, as is the robustness of aggregation at different salinities and temperatures. Aggregation is dependent on the presence of calcium or magnesium ions. The efficiency of aggregation of Nannochloropsis oceanica IMET1 is between 70 and 95% and is comparable to that obtained by other means of harvest; however, the rate of harvest is fast, with aggregates forming in 30 s. PMID:23892750

Effect of fuel stratification on detonation wave propagation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masselot, Damien; Fievet, Romain; Raman, Venkat

2016-11-01

Rotating detonation engines (RDEs) form a class of pressure-gain combustion systems of higher efficiency compared to conventional gas turbine engines. One of the key features of the design is the injection system, as reactants need to be continuously provided to the detonation wave to sustain its propagation speed. As inhomogeneities in the reactant mixture can perturb the detonation wave front, premixed fuel jet injectors might seem like the most stable solution. However, this introduces the risk of the detonation wave propagating through the injector, causing catastrophic failure. On the other hand, non-premixed fuel injection will tend to quench the detonation wave near the injectors, reducing the likelihood of such failure. Still, the effects of such non-premixing and flow inhomogeneities ahead of a detonation wave have yet to be fully understood and are the object of this study. A 3D channel filled with O2 diluted in an inert gas with circular H2 injectors is simulated as a detonation wave propagates through the system. The impact of key parameters such as injector spacing, injector size, mixture composition and time variations will be discussed. PhD Candidate.

LOX/hydrocarbon auxiliary propulsion system study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orton, G. F.; Mark, T. D.; Weber, D. D.

1982-01-01

Liquid oxygen (LOX)/hydrocarbon propulsion concepts for a "second generation' orbiter auxiliary propulsion system was evaluated. The most attractive fuel and system design approach identified, and the technology advancements that are needed to provide high confidence for a subsequent system development were determined. The fuel candidates were ethanol, methane, propane, and ammonia. Even though ammonia is not a hydrocarbon, it was included for evaluation because it is clean burning and has a good technology base. The major system design options were pump versus pressure feed, cryogenic versus ambient temperature RCS propellant feed, and the degree of OMS-RCS integration. Ethanol was determined to be the best fuel candidate. It is an earth-storable fuel with a vapor pressure slightly higher than monomethyl hydrazine. A pump-fed OMS was recommended because of its high specific impulse, enabling greater velocity change and greater payload capability than a pressure fed system.

Analysis and design of insulation systems for LH2-fueled aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cunnington, G. R., Jr.

1979-01-01

An analytical program was conducted to evaluate the performance of 15 potential insulations for the fuel tanks of a subsonic LH2-fueled transport aircraft intended for airline service in the 1990-1995 time period. As a result, two candidate insulation systems are proposed for subsonic transport aircraft applications. Both candidates are judged to be the optimum available and should meet the design requirements. However, because of the long-life cyclic nature of the application and the cost sensitivity of airline operations, an experimental tank/insulation development or proof-of-concept program is recommended. This program should be carried out with a nearly full-scale system which would be subjected to the cyclic thermal and mechanical inputs anticipated in aircraft service.

Spent fuel canister for geological repository: Inner material requirements and candidates evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puig, Francesc; Dies, Javier; Pablo, Joan de; Martínez-Esparza, Aurora

2008-05-01

One of the key aspects in designing Spanish spent nuclear fuel canister for geological repository is selecting the inner material to be placed between the steel walls and the fuel assemblies. This material has to primarily avoid the possibility of a criticality event once the canister gets breached by corrosion and flooded by groundwater. A detailed set of requirements for a material to fulfil this role in that environment have been devised and presented in this paper. With these requirements in view, eight potentially interesting candidates were evaluated: cast iron or steel, borosilicate glass, spinel, depleted uranium, dehydrated zeolites, haematite, phosphates, and olivine. Among these, the first four materials or their families are found promising for this application.

Study of methane fuel for subsonic transport aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carson, L. K.; Davis, G. W.; Versaw, E. F.; Cunnington, G. R., Jr.; Daniels, E. J.

1980-01-01

The cost and performance were defined for commercial transport using liquid methane including its fuel system and the ground facility complex required for the processing and storage of methane. A cost and performance comparison was made with Jet A and hydrogen powered aircraft of the same payload and range capability. Extensive design work was done on cryogenic fuel tanks, insulation systems as well as the fuel system itself. Three candidate fuel tank locations were evaluated, i.e., fuselage tanks, wing tanks or external pylon tanks.

Alkaline RFC Space Station prototype - 'Next step Space Station'. [Regenerative Fuel Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hackler, I. M.

1986-01-01

The regenerative fuel cell, a candidate technology for the Space Station's energy storage system, is described. An advanced development program was initiated to design, manufacture, and integrate a regenerative fuel cell Space Station prototype (RFC SSP). The RFC SSP incorporates long-life fuel cell technology, increased cell area for the fuel cells, and high voltage cell stacks for both units. The RFC SSP's potential for integration with the Space Station's life support and propulsion systems is discussed.

Air Force electrochemical power research and technology program for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Douglas

1987-01-01

An overview is presented of the existing Air Force electrochemical power, battery, and fuel cell programs for space application. Present thrusts are described along with anticipated technology availability dates. Critical problems to be solved before system applications occur are highlighted. Areas of needed performance improvement of batteries and fuel cells presently used are outlined including target dates for key demonstrations of advanced technology. Anticipated performance and current schedules for present technology programs are reviewed. Programs that support conventional military satellite power systems and special high power applications are reviewed. Battery types include bipolar lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, silver-zinc, nickel-hydrogen, sodium-sulfur, and some candidate advanced couples. Fuel cells for pulsed and transportation power applications are discussed as are some candidate advanced regenerative concepts.

Development of new ferritic steels as cladding material for metallic fuel fast breeder reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tokiwai, Moriyasu; Horie, Masaaki; Kako, Kenji; Fujiwara, Masayuki

1993-09-01

The excellent thermal, chemical and neutronic properties of metallic fuel (U-Pu-Zr alloy) will lead to drastic improvements in fast reactor safety and the related fuel cycle economy. Some new high molybdenum 12Cr ferritic stainless steel candidate cladding alloys have been designed to achieve the mechanical properties required for high performance metallic fuel elements. These candidate claddings were irradiated by ion bombardment and tested to determine their strength and creep rupture properties. A 12Cr-8Mo and a 12Cr-8Mo-0.1Y 2O 3 steel were fabricated into cladding via a powder metallurgy process and by a mechanical alloying process, respectively. These claddings had two and three times the creep rupture strength (pressurized at 650°C for 10000 h) of a conventional 12Cr ferritic steel (HT-9). These two steels also showed no void formation up to 350 dpa by Ni 3+ irradiation. A zircaloy-2 lined steel cladding tube has also been fabricated for the purpose of reducing fuel-cladding interdiffusion and chemical interaction.

Survey of degradation modes of candidate materials for high-level radioactive-waste disposal containers

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

Farmer, J.C.; Van Konynenburg, R.A.; McCright, R.D.

1988-04-01

Three iron- to nickel-based austenitic alloys (Types 304L and 316L stainless steels and Alloy 825) are being considered as candidate materials for the fabrication of high-level radioactive-waste containers. Waste will include fuel assemblies from reactors as well as high-level waste in borosilicate glass forms, and will be sent to the prospective repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. The decay of radionuclides in the repository will result in the generation of substantial heat and in fluences of gamma radiation. Container materials may undergo any of several modes of degradation in this environment, including atmospheric oxidation; uniform aqueous phase corrosion; pitting; crevice corrosion;more » sensitization and intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC); and transgranular stress corrosion cracking (TGSCC). This report is an analysis of data relevant to the pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of the three austenitic candidate alloys. The candidates are compared in terms of their susceptibilities to these forms of corrosion. Although all three candidates have demonstrated pitting and crevice corrosion in chloride-containing environments, Alloy 825 has the greatest resistance to these types of localized corrosion (LC); such resistance is important because pits can penetrate the metal and serve as crack initiation sites. Both Types 304L and 316L stainless steels are susceptible to SCC in acidic chloride media. In contrast, SCC has not been documented in Alloy 825 under comparable conditions. Gamma radiation has been found to enhance SCC in Types 304 and 304L stainless steels, but it has no detectable effect on the resistance of Alloy 825 to SCC. Furthermore, while the effects of microbiologically induced corrosion have been observed for 300-series stainless steels, nickel-based alloys such as Alloy 825 seem to be immune to such problems. 211 refs., 49 figs., 10 tabs.« less

Characterization of Ceramic Plasma-Sprayed Coatings, and Interaction Studies Between U-Zr Fuel and Ceramic Coated Interface at an Elevated Temperature

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

Ki Hwan Kim; Chong Tak Lee; R. S. Fielding

2011-08-01

Candidate coating materials for re-usable metallic nuclear fuel crucibles, HfN, TiC, ZrC, and Y2O3, were plasma-sprayed onto niobium substrates. The coating microstructure and the thermal cycling behavior were characterized, and U-Zr melt interaction studies carried out. The Y2O3 coating layer had a uniform thickness and was well consolidated with a few small pores scattered throughout. While the HfN coating was not well consolidated with a considerable amount of porosity, but showed somewhat uniform thickness. Thermal cycling tests on the HfN, TiC, ZrC, and Y2O3 coatings showed good cycling characteristics with no interconnected cracks forming even after 20 cycles. Interaction studiesmore » done on the coated samples by dipping into a U-20wt.%Zr melt indicated that HfN and Y2O3 did not form significant reaction layers between the melt and the coating while the TiC and the ZrC coatings were significantly degraded. Y2O3 exhibited the most promising performance among HfN, TiC, ZrC, and Y2O3 coatings.« less

Evaluation of Methods for Decladding LWR Fuel for a Pyroprocessing-Based Reprocessing Plant

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-10-01

oAD-A275 326 ORN.rFM-1121o04 OAK RIDGE NATIONAL LABORATORY Evaluation of Methods for Decladding _LWR Fuel for a Pyroprocessing -Based Reprocessing...Dist. Category UC-526 EVALUATION OF METHODS FOR DECLADDING LWR FUEL FOR A PYROPROCESSING -BASED REPROCESSING PLANT W. D. Bond J. C. Mailen G. E...decladding technologies has been performed to identify candidate decladding processes suitable for LWR fuel and compatible with downstream pyroprocesses

Fuel Consumption and Emissions from Airport Taxi Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jung, Yoon

2010-01-01

Developed a method to calculate fuel consumption and emissions of phases of taxi operations. Results at DFW showed that up to 18% of fuel can be saved by eliminating stop-and-go situations. Developed an energy efficient and environmentally friendly surface concept: Spot and Runway Departure Advisory (SARDA) tool. The SARDA tool has been identified as a potential candidate for a technology transfer to the FAA.

Evaluation of a single cell and candidate materials with high water content hydrogen in a generic solid oxide fuel cell stack test fixture, Part II: materials and interface characterization

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

Chou, Y. S.; Stevenson, Jeffry W.; Choi, Jung-Pyung

2013-01-01

A generic solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) test fixture was developed to evaluate candidate materials under realistic conditions. A commerical 50 mm x 50 mm NiO-YSZ anode supported thin YSZ electrolyte cell with lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM) cathode was tested to evaluate the stability of candidate materials. The cell was tested in two stages at 800oC: stage I of low (~3% H2O) humidity and stage II of high (~30% H2O) humidity hydrogen fuel at constant voltage or constant current mode. Part I of the work was published earlier with information of the generic test fixture design, materials, cell performance, andmore » optical post-mortem analysis. In part II, detailed microstructure and interfacial characterizations are reported regarding the SOFC candidate materials: (Mn,Co)-spinel conductive coating, alumina coating for sealing area, ferritic stainless steel interconnect, refractory sealing glass, and their interactions with each other. Overall, the (Mn,Co)-spinel coating was very effective in minimizing Cr migration. No Cr was identified in the cathode after 1720h at 800oC. Aluminization of metallic interconnect also proved to be chemically compatible with alkaline-earth silicate sealing glass. The details of interfacial reaction and microstructure development are discussed.« less

A Study on New Composite Thermoplastic Propellant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kahara, Takehiro; Nakayama, Masanobu; Hasegawa, Hiroshi; Katoh, Kazushige; Miyazaki, Shigehumi; Maruizumi, Haruki; Hori, Keiichi; Morita, Yasuhiro; Akiba, Ryojiro

Efforts have been paid to realize a new composite propellant using thermoplastics as a fuel binder and lithium as a metallic fuel. Thermoplastics binder makes it possible the storage of solid propellant in small blocks and to provide propellants blocks into rocket motor case at a quantity needed just before use, which enables the production facility of solid propellant at a minimum level, thus, production cost significantly lower. Lithium has been a candidate for a metallic fuel for the ammonium perchlorate based composite propellants owing to its capability to reduce the hydrogen chloride in the exhaust gas, however, never been used because lithium is not stable at room conditions and complex reaction products between oxygen, nitrogen, and water are formed at the surface of particles and even in the core. However, lithium particles whose surface shell structure is well controlled are rather stable and can be stored in thermoplastics for a long period. Evaluation of several organic thermoplastics whose melting temperatures are easily tractable was made from the standpoint of combustion characteristics, and it is shown that thermoplastics propellants can cover wide range of burning rate spectrum. Formation of well-defined surface shell of lithium particles and its kinetics are also discussed.

Development of a Microchannel High Temperature Recuperator for Fuel Cell Systems

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

Lukas, Michael

This report summarizes the progress made in development of microchannel recuperators for high temperature fuel cell/turbine hybrid systems for generation of clean power at very high efficiencies. Both Solid Oxide Fuel Cell/Turbine (SOFC/T) and Direct FuelCell/Turbine (DFC/T) systems employ an indirectly heated Turbine Generator to supplement fuel cell generated power. The concept extends the high efficiency of the fuel cell by utilizing the fuel cell’s byproduct heat in a Brayton cycle. Features of the SOFC/T and DFC/T systems include: electrical efficiencies of up to 65% on natural gas, minimal emissions, reduced carbon dioxide release to the environment, simplicity in design,more » and potential cost competitiveness with existing combined cycle power plants. Project work consisted of candidate material selection from FuelCell Energy (FCE) and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) institutional databases as well as from industrial and academic literature. Candidate materials were then downselected and actual samples were tested under representative environmental conditions resulting in further downselection. A microchannel thermal-mechanical model was developed to calculate overall device cost to be later used in developing a final Tier 1 material candidate list. Specifications and operating conditions were developed for both SOFC/T and DFC/T systems. This development included system conceptualization and progression to process flow diagrams (PFD’s) including all major equipment. Material and energy balances were then developed for the two types of systems which were then used for extensive sensitivity studies that used high temperature recuperator (HTR) design parameters (e.g., operating temperature) as inputs and calculated overall system parameters (e.g., system efficiency). The results of the sensitivity studies determined the final HTR design temperatures, pressure drops, and gas compositions. The results also established operating conditions and specifications for all equipment in the SOFC/T and DFC/T systems. Capital cost and Cost of Electricity (COE) sensitivity analyses have been completed for MW-scale SOFC/T and DFC/T systems. Environmental testing consisted of 1000-hour and 2000-hour dry air oxidation testing on leading candidate materials, used to rank order and, in part, develop a final Tier 1 material candidate list. A thermal-mechanical model was subsequently used to provide material and manufacturing cost estimations for microchannel HTR’s to further refine the Tier 1 candidates. A capital cost and 20-year levelized cost of electricity (COE) was developed for a MW-scale version of the SOFC/T system concept as well as for a MW-scale version of the DFC/T system concept. Test frameworks were established for subsequent long-term materials stability testing, including oxidation resistance and mechanical strength. Mechanical strength testing was then carried out by a third-party test laboratory. Technology demonstration vehicles (TDV’s) were designed and fabricated. Several iterations of TDV’s were fabricated, each improved over the previous build as far as fabrication techniques. Two of three fabricated TDV’s were integrated with the TDV Test Facility for hot-testing at simulated operating conditions. The second of these two was successfully hot-tested for over 1000 hours at simulated temperature and pressure. Post-test leakdown assessment showed negligible leakage at benchtop conditions of 30 psig, a considerable improvement over the previous TDV’s.« less

Design and fabrication of miniaturized PEM fuel cell combined microreactor with self-regulated hydrogen mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balakrishnan, A.; Frei, M.; Kerzenmacher, S.; Reinecke, H.; Mueller, C.

2015-12-01

In this work we present the design and fabrication of the miniaturized PEM fuel cell combined microreactor system with hydrogen regulation mechanism and testing of prototype microreactor. The system consists of two components (i) fuel cell component and (ii) microreactor component. The fuel cell component represents the miniaturized PEM fuel cell system (combination of screen printed fuel cell assembly and an on-board hydrogen storage medium). Hydrogen production based on catalytic hydrolysis of chemical hydride takes place in the microreactor component. The self-regulated hydrogen mechanism based on the gaseous hydrogen produced from the catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) gets accumulated as bubbles at the vicinity of the hydrophobic coated hydrogen exhaust holes. When the built up hydrogen bubbles pressure exceeds the burst pressure at the hydrogen exhaust holes the bubble collapses. This collapse causes a surge of fresh NaBH4 solution onto the catalyst surface leading to the removal of the reaction by-products formed at the active sites of the catalyst. The catalyst used in the system is platinum deposited on a base substrate. Nickel foam, carbon porous medium (CPM) and ceramic plate were selected as candidates for base substrate for developing a robust catalyst surface. For the first time the platinum layer fabricated by pulsed electrodeposition and dealloying (EPDD) technique is used for hydrolysis of NaBH4. The major advantages of such platinum catalyst layers are its high surface area and their mechanical stability. Prototype microreactor system with self-regulated hydrogen mechanism is demonstrated.

Shuttle cryogenic supply system optimization study. Volume 3: Technical report, section 10, 11 and 12

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The evaluation of candidate cryogenic fuel systems for space shuttle vehicles is discussed. A set of guidelines was used to establish a matrix of possible combinations for the integration of potential cryogenic systems. The various concepts and combinations which resulted from the integration efforts are described. The parameters which were considered in developing the matrix are: (1) storage of cryogenic materials, (2) fuel lines, (3) tank pressure control, (4) thermal control, (5) fluid control, and (6) fluid conditioning. Block diagrams and drawings of the candidate systems are provided. Performance predictions for the systems are outlined in tables of data.

Assessment of radioisotope heaters for remote terrestrial applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uherka, Kenneth L.

This paper examines the feasibility of using radioisotope byproducts for special heating applications at remote sites in Alaska and other cold regions. The investigation included assessment of candidate radioisotope materials for heater applications, identification of the most promising cold-region applications, evaluation of key technical issues and implementation constraints, and development of conceptual heater designs for candidate applications. Strontium-90 (Sr-90) was selected as the most viable fuel for radioisotopic heaters used in terrestrial applications. Opportunities for the application of radioisotopic heaters were determined through site visits to representative Alaskan installations. Candidate heater applications included water storage tanks, sludge digesters, sewage lagoons, water piping systems, well-head pumping stations, emergency shelters, and fuel storage tank deicers. Radio-isotopic heaters for freeze-up protection of water storage tanks and for enhancement of biological waste treatment processes at remote sites were selected as the most promising applications.

Preformulation considerations for controlled release dosage forms. Part III. Candidate form selection using numerical weighting and scoring.

PubMed

Chrzanowski, Frank

2008-01-01

Two numerical methods, Decision Analysis (DA) and Potential Problem Analysis (PPA) are presented as alternative selection methods to the logical method presented in Part I. In DA properties are weighted and outcomes are scored. The weighted scores for each candidate are totaled and final selection is based on the totals. Higher scores indicate better candidates. In PPA potential problems are assigned a seriousness factor and test outcomes are used to define the probability of occurrence. The seriousness-probability products are totaled and forms with minimal scores are preferred. DA and PPA have never been compared to the logical-elimination method. Additional data were available for two forms of McN-5707 to provide complete preformulation data for five candidate forms. Weight and seriousness factors (independent variables) were obtained from a survey of experienced formulators. Scores and probabilities (dependent variables) were provided independently by Preformulation. The rankings of the five candidate forms, best to worst, were similar for all three methods. These results validate the applicability of DA and PPA for candidate form selection. DA and PPA are particularly applicable in cases where there are many candidate forms and where each form has some degree of unfavorable properties.

PEM fuel cell bipolar plate material requirements for transportation applications

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

Borup, R.L.; Stroh, K.R.; Vanderborgh, N.E.

1996-04-01

Cost effective bipolar plates are currently under development to help make proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells commercially viable. Bipolar plates separate individual cells of the fuel cell stack, and thus must supply strength, be electrically conductive, provide for thermal control of the fuel stack, be a non-porous materials separating hydrogen and oxygen feed streams, be corrosion resistant, provide gas distribution for the feed streams and meet fuel stack cost targets. Candidate materials include conductive polymers and metal plates with corrosion resistant coatings. Possible metals include aluminium, titanium, iron/stainless steel and nickel.

Modeling of indirect carbon fuel cell systems with steam and dry gasification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Katherine M.; Ghoniem, Ahmed F.

2016-05-01

An indirect carbon fuel cell (ICFC) system that couples coal gasification to a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a promising candidate for high efficiency stationary power. This study couples an equilibrium gasifier model to a detailed 1D MEA model to study the theoretical performance of an ICFC system run on steam or carbon dioxide. Results show that the fuel cell in the ICFC system is capable of power densities greater than 1.0 W cm-2 with H2O recycle, and power densities ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 W cm-2 with CO2 recycle. This result indicates that the ICFC system performs better with steam than with CO2 gasification as a result of the faster electro-oxidation kinetics of H2 relative to CO. The ICFC system is then shown to reach higher current densities and efficiencies than a thermally decoupled gasifier + fuel cell (G + FC) system because it does not include combustion losses associated with autothermal gasification. 55-60% efficiency is predicted for the ICFC system coupled to a bottoming cycle, making this technology competitive with other state-of-the-art stationary power candidates.

Sensing of NO2 with Zirconium Hydroxide via Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, Coleman; Soliz, Jennifer; Klevitch, Andrew; Rossin, Joseph; Fountain, Augustus, III; Peterson, Gregory; Hauser, Adam

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) is a brown gas mainly produced as a byproduct of burning fossil fuels, such as automobiles and power plants. Nitrogen oxides can form acid rain and smog by reacting with air, can form toxic organic nitrates by reacting with soil, and can react with oxygen in water, destroying marine life due to a lack of breathable oxygen. Any concentration beyond 53 ppb (air quality standard) can cause irritation to the lungs and respiratory infections, and higher dosages can be fatal. As such, research in NO2 detection is incredibly important to human welfare. Zirconium hydroxide (Zr(OH)4) has been investigated as a candidate NO2 dielectric sensor using impedance spectroscopy analysis. Impedance changes of several orders of magnitude are seen down to our dosage minimum of 50 ppmhr. Changes in impedance correlate with nitrogen and oxygen atomic ratio increases observed via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicate that Zr(OH)4 may be a strong candidate for use in impedance-based NO2 detection devices. A.J.H., J.R.S., A.W.F. and G.W. P. acknowledge funding under Army Research Office STIR Award #W911F-15-1-0104. J.R.S. acknowledges funding under a NRC fellowship and is advised by Dr. Christopher Karwacki, ECBC.

Fundamental Studies of the Durability of Materials for Interconnects in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

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

Frederick S. Pettit; Gerald H. Meier

2006-06-30

Ferritic stainless steels are a leading candidate material for use as an SOFC interconnect, but have the problem of forming volatile chromia species that lead to cathode poisoning. This project has focused both on optimization of ferritic alloys for SOFC applications and evaluating the possibility of using alternative materials. The initial efforts involved studying the oxidation behavior of a variety of chromia-forming ferritic stainless steels in the temperature range 700-900 C in atmospheres relevant to solid oxide fuel cell operation. The alloys exhibited a wide variety of oxidation behavior based on composition. A method for reducing the vaporization is tomore » add alloying elements that lead to the formation of a thermally grown oxide layer over the protective chromia. Several commercial steels form manganese chromate on the surface. This same approach, combined with observations of TiO{sub 2} overlayer formation on the chromia forming, Ni-based superalloy IN 738, has resulted in the development of a series of Fe-22 Cr-X Ti alloys (X=0-4 wt%). Oxidation testing has indicated that this approach results in significant reduction in chromia evaporation. Unfortunately, the Ti also results in accelerated chromia scale growth. Fundamental thermo-mechanical aspects of the durability of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) interconnect alloys have also been investigated. A key failure mechanism for interconnects is the spallation of the chromia scale that forms on the alloy, as it is exposed to fuel cell environments. Indentation testing methods to measure the critical energy release rate (Gc) associated with the spallation of chromia scale/alloy systems have been evaluated. This approach has been used to evaluate the thermomechanical stability of chromia films as a function of oxidation exposure. The oxidation of pure nickel in SOFC environments was evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to determine the NiO scaling kinetics and a four-point probe was used to measure the area-specific resistance (ASR) to estimate the electrical degradation of the interconnect. In addition to the baseline study of pure nickel, steps were taken to decrease the ASR through alloying and surface modifications. Finally, high conductivity composite systems, consisting of nickel and silver, were studied. These systems utilize high conductivity silver pathways through nickel while maintaining the mechanical stability that a nickel matrix provides.« less

ALD coating of nuclear fuel actinides materials

DOEpatents

Yacout, A. M.; Pellin, Michael J.; Yun, Di; Billone, Mike

2017-09-05

The invention provides a method of forming a nuclear fuel pellet of a uranium containing fuel alternative to UO.sub.2, with the steps of obtaining a fuel form in a powdered state; coating the fuel form in a powdered state with at least one layer of a material; and sintering the powdered fuel form into a fuel pellet. Also provided is a sintered nuclear fuel pellet of a uranium containing fuel alternative to UO.sub.2, wherein the pellet is made from particles of fuel, wherein the particles of fuel are particles of a uranium containing moiety, and wherein the fuel particles are coated with at least one layer between about 1 nm to about 4 nm thick of a material using atomic layer deposition, and wherein the at least one layer of the material substantially surrounds each interfacial grain barrier after the powdered fuel form has been sintered.

Comparative thermodynamic performance of some Rankine/Brayton cycle configurations for a low-temperature energy application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lansing, F. L.

1977-01-01

Various configurations combining solar-Rankine and fuel-Brayton cycles were analyzed in order to find the arrangement which has the highest thermal efficiency and the smallest fuel share. A numerical example is given to evaluate both the thermodynamic performance and the economic feasibility of each configuration. The solar-assisted regenerative Rankine cycle was found to be leading the candidates from both points of energy utilization and fuel conservation.

Engine for the next-generation launcher

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beichel, Rudi; Grey, Jerry

1995-05-01

The proposed dual-fuel/dual-expansion engine for the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) could solve the vehicle's need for a high-performance, lightweight, low-cost, maintainable engine. The features that make dual-fuel/dual-expansion engine a prime candidate for RLV include oxygen-rich combustion, high-pressure staged-combustion cycle and dual-fuel operation. Cost-reducing, reliability-enhancing innovations such as the elimination of regenerative cooling, elimination of gimbaling and replacement of kerosene-based hydrocarbon fuel by subcooled propane have also made the this type of engine an attractive option.

Ion irradiation testing and characterization of FeCrAl candidate alloys

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

Anderoglu, Osman; Aydogan, Eda; Maloy, Stuart Andrew

2014-10-29

The Fuel Cycle Research and Development program’s Advanced Fuels Campaign has initiated a multifold effort aimed at facilitating development of accident tolerant fuels. This effort involves development of fuel cladding materials that will be resistant to oxidizing environments for extended period of time such as loss of coolant accident. Ferritic FeCrAl alloys are among the promising candidates due to formation of a stable Al₂O₃ oxide scale. In addition to being oxidation resistant, these promising alloys need to be radiation tolerant under LWR conditions (maximum dose of 10-15 dpa at 250 – 350°C). Thus, in addition to a number of commerciallymore » available alloys, nuclear grade FeCrAl alloys developed at ORNL were tested using high energy proton irradiations and subsequent characterization of irradiation hardening and damage microstructure. This report summarizes ion irradiation testing and characterization of three nuclear grade FeCrAl cladding materials developed at ORNL and four commercially available Kanthal series FeCrAl alloys in FY14 toward satisfying FCRD campaign goals.« less

Study of fuel systems for LH2-fueled subsonic transport aircraft, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brewer, G. D.; Morris, R. E.; Davis, G. W.; Versaw, E. F.; Cunnington, G. R., Jr.; Riple, J. C.; Baerst, C. F.; Garmong, G.

1978-01-01

Several engine concepts examined to determine a preferred design which most effectively exploits the characteristics of hydrogen fuel in aircraft tanks received major emphasis. Many candidate designs of tank structure and cryogenic insulation systems were evaluated. Designs of all major elements of the aircraft fuel system including pumps, lines, valves, regulators, and heat exchangers received attention. Selected designs of boost pumps to be mounted in the LH2 tanks, and of a high pressure pump to be mounted on the engine were defined. A final design of LH2-fueled transport aircraft was established which incorporates a preferred design of fuel system. That aircraft was then compared with a conventionally fueled counterpart designed to equivalent technology standards.

TESTING AND ACCEPTANCE OF FUEL PLATES FOR RERTR FUEL DEVELOPMENT EXPERIMENTS

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

J.M. Wight; G.A. Moore; S.C. Taylor

2008-10-01

This paper discusses how candidate fuel plates for RERTR Fuel Development experiments are examined and tested for acceptance prior to reactor insertion. These tests include destructive and nondestructive examinations (DE and NDE). The DE includes blister annealing for dispersion fuel plates, bend testing of adjacent cladding, and microscopic examination of archive fuel plates. The NDE includes Ultrasonic (UT) scanning and radiography. UT tests include an ultrasonic scan for areas of “debonds” and a high frequency ultrasonic scan to determine the "minimum cladding" over the fuel. Radiography inspections include identifying fuel outside of the maximum fuel zone and measurements and calculationsmore » for fuel density. Details of each test are provided and acceptance criteria are defined. These tests help to provide a high level of confidence the fuel plate will perform in the reactor without a breach in the cladding.« less

Performance evaluation of several commercial alloys in a reducing environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Y.

Several commercial alloys including Ebrite, Crofer 22 APU, Haynes 230 and Haynes 242, which are candidates for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) interconnect materials, were isothermally and cyclically oxidized at 900 °C in the reducing atmosphere of Ar + 5 vol.% H 2 + 3 vol.% H 2O corresponding to the SOFC anode environment. Results indicate that these alloys exhibited good scale spallation resistance with the Ni-base alloys possessing better oxidation resistance over the Fe-base alloys. Both Mn-Cr spinel and Cr 2O 3 were formed in the oxide scales of these alloys. For Crofer 22 APU and Haynes 242, a continuous protective MnO and Mn-Cr spinel layer formed outside on the inner layer of Cr 2O 3. The increase in scale ASR after longer-term thermal exposure in the reducing environment was relatively slower for the Ni-base alloys than for the Fe-base alloys.

Engineering-Scale Demonstration of DuraLith and Ceramicrete Waste Forms

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

Josephson, Gary B.; Westsik, Joseph H.; Pires, Richard P.

2011-09-23

To support the selection of a waste form for the liquid secondary wastes from the Hanford Waste Immobilization and Treatment Plant, Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS) has initiated secondary waste form testing on four candidate waste forms. Two of the candidate waste forms have not been developed to scale as the more mature waste forms. This work describes engineering-scale demonstrations conducted on Ceramicrete and DuraLith candidate waste forms. Both candidate waste forms were successfully demonstrated at an engineering scale. A preliminary conceptual design could be prepared for full-scale production of the candidate waste forms. However, both waste forms are stillmore » too immature to support a detailed design. Formulations for each candidate waste form need to be developed so that the material has a longer working time after mixing the liquid and solid constituents together. Formulations optimized based on previous lab studies did not have sufficient working time to support large-scale testing. The engineering-scale testing was successfully completed using modified formulations. Further lab development and parametric studies are needed to optimize formulations with adequate working time and assess the effects of changes in raw materials and process parameters on the final product performance. Studies on effects of mixing intensity on the initial set time of the waste forms are also needed.« less

Engineered Materials for Cesium and Strontium Storage Final Technical Report

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

Sean M. McDeavitt

2010-04-14

Closing the nuclear fuel cycle requires reprocessing spent fuel to recover the long-lived components that still have useful energy content while immobilizing the remnant waste fission products in stable forms. At the genesis of this project, next generation spent fuel reprocessing methods were being developed as part of the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Fuel Cycle Initiative. One of these processes was focused on solvent extraction schemes to isolate cesium (Cs) and strontium (Sr) from spent nuclear fuel. Isolating these isotopes for short-term decay storage eases the design requirements for long-term repository disposal; a significant amount of the radiation andmore » decay heat in fission product waste comes from Cs-137 and Sr-90. For the purposes of this project, the Fission Product Extraction (FPEX) process is being considered to be the baseline extraction method. The objective of this project was to evaluate the nature and behavior of candidate materials for cesium and strontium immobilization; this will include assessments with minor additions of yttrium, barium, and rubidium in these materials. More specifically, the proposed research achieved the following objectives (as stated in the original proposal): (1) Synthesize simulated storage ceramics for Cs and Sr using an existing labscale steam reformer at Purdue University. The simulated storage materials will include aluminosilicates, zirconates and other stable ceramics with the potential for high Cs and Sr loading. (2) Characterize the immobilization performance, phase structure, thermal properties and stability of the simulated storage ceramics. The ceramic products will be stable oxide powders and will be characterized to quantify their leach resistance, phase structure, and thermophysical properties. The research progressed in two stages. First, a steam reforming process was used to generate candidate Cs/Sr storage materials for characterization. This portion of the research was carried out at Purdue University and is detailed in Appendix A. Steam reforming proved to be too rigorous for efficient The second stage of this project was carried out at Texas A&M University and is Detailed in Appendix B. In this stage, a gentler ceramic synthesis process using Cs and Sr loaded kaolinite and bentonite clays was developed in collaboration with Dr. M. Kaminski at Argonne National Laboratory.« less

Alternative Fuels and Their Potential Impact on Aviation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daggett, D.; Hendricks, R.; Walther, R.

2006-01-01

With a growing gap between the growth rate of petroleum production and demand, and with mounting environmental needs, the aircraft industry is investigating issues related to fuel availability, candidates for alternative fuels, and improved aircraft fuel efficiency. Bio-derived fuels, methanol, ethanol, liquid natural gas, liquid hydrogen, and synthetic fuels are considered in this study for their potential to replace or supplement conventional jet fuels. Most of these fuels present the airplane designers with safety, logistical, and performance challenges. Synthetic fuel made from coal, natural gas, or other hydrocarbon feedstock shows significant promise as a fuel that could be easily integrated into present and future aircraft with little or no modification to current aircraft designs. Alternatives, such as biofuel, and in the longer term hydrogen, have good potential but presently appear to be better suited for use in ground transportation. With the increased use of these fuels, a greater portion of a barrel of crude oil can be used for producing jet fuel because aircraft are not as fuel-flexible as ground vehicles.

Utilization of alternative fuels in diesel engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lestz, S. A.

1984-01-01

Performance and emission data are collected for various candidate alternate fuels and compare these data to that for a certified petroleum based number two Diesel fuel oil. Results for methanol, ethanol, four vegetable oils, two shale derived oils, and two coal derived oils are reported. Alcohol fumigation does not appear to be a practical method for utilizing low combustion quality fuels in a Diesel engine. Alcohol fumigation enhances the bioactivity of the emitted exhaust particles. While it is possible to inject many synthetic fuels using the engine stock injection system, wholly acceptable performance is only obtained from a fuel whose specifications closely approach those of a finished petroleum based Diesel oil. This is illustrated by the contrast between the poor performance of the unupgraded coal derived fuel blends and the very good performance of the fully refined shale derived fuel.

Corrosion testing of candidates for the alkaline fuel cell cathode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singer, Joseph; Fielder, William L.

1989-01-01

It is desirable to employ a corrosion screening test for catalyst or support candidates for the fuel cell cathode before entering upon optimization of the candidate or of the catalytic electrode. To this end, corrosion test electrodes, intended for complete immersion and maximum wetting, have been made with 30 to 40 vol. pct Teflon; with perovskites this is about 10 to 15 pct. The candidates were synthesized by methods intended for single-phase product without special emphasis on high surface area, although the substances tested were no coarser than 2 m squared/g. A typical loading was 25 mg/cm sq of the pure substance, usually on gold screen, a few mm squared of which were left bare for contacting. Contact to the gold lead wire was made by welding with a micro-torch or a spot-welder. Corrosion testing consisted of obtaining current-voltage data under flowing inert gas in the potential region for reduction of O2. The electrode was immersed in 30 pct KOH. Observations were made at 20 C and 80 C, and the results compared with data from gold standards. Results with some perovskites, pyrochlores, spinels, and interstitial compounds will be discussed.

Tripropellant engine study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, D. B.; Kirby, F. M.

1978-01-01

The potential for converting the space shuttle main engine (SSME) to a dual-fuel, dual-mode engine using LOX/hydrocarbon propellants in mode 1 and LOX/H2 in mode 2 was examined. Various engine system concepts were formulated that included staged combustion and gas generator turbine power cycles, and LOX/RP-1, LOX/CH4, and LOX/C3H8 mode 1 propellants. Both oxidizer and fuel regenerative cooling were considered. All of the SSME major components were examined to determine their adaptability to the candidate dual-fuel engines.

Potential improvements in turbofan engine fuel economy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hines, R. W.; Gaffin, W. O.

1976-01-01

The method developed for initial evaluation of possible performance improvements in the NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency Program, directed toward improving the fuel economy of turbofan engines, is outlined, and results of the evaluation of 100 candidate engine modifications are presented. The study indicates that fuel consumption improvements of as much as 5% may be possible in current JT3D, JT8D, and JT9D turbofan engines. Aerodynamic, thermodynamic, material, and structural advances are expected to yield fuel consumption improvements on the order of 10 to 15% in advanced turbofan engines, with the greatest improvement stemming from significantly higher cycle pressure ratios. Higher turbine temperature and fan bypass ratios are also expected to contribute to fuel conservation.

Development of Alternative Technetium Waste Forms

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

Czerwinski, Kenneth

2013-09-13

The UREX+1 process is under consideration for the separation of transuranic elements from spent nuclear fuel. The first steps of this process extract the fission product technicium-99 ({sup 99}Tc) into an organic phase containing tributylphosphate together with uranium. Treatment of this stream requires the separation of Tc from U and placement into a suitable waste storage form. A potential candidate waste form involves immobilizing the Tc as an alloy with either excess metallic zirconium or stainless steel. Although Tc-Zr alloys seem to be promising waste forms, alternative materials must be investigated. Innovative studies related to the synthesis and behavior ofmore » a different class of Tc materials will increase the scientific knowledge related to development of Tc waste forms. These studies will also provide a better understanding of the behavior of {sup 99}Tc in repository conditions. A literature survey has selected promising alternative waste forms for further study: technetium metallic alloys, nitrides, oxides, sulfides, and pertechnetate salts. The goals of this project are to 1) synthesize and structurally characterize relevant technetium materials that may be considered as waste forms, 2) investigate material behavior in solution under different conditions of temperature, electrochemical potential, and radiation, and 3) predict the long-term behavior of these materials.« less

Microstructure Instability of Candidate Fuel Cladding Alloys: Corrosion and Stress Corrosion Cracking Implications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiao, Yinan; Zheng, Wenyue; Guzonas, David; Kish, Joseph

2016-02-01

This paper addresses some of the overarching aspects of microstructure instability expected from both high temperature and radiation exposure that could affect the corrosion and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) resistance of the candidate austenitic Fe-Cr-Ni alloys being considered for the fuel cladding of the Canadian supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR) concept. An overview of the microstructure instability expected by both exposures is presented prior to turning the focus onto the implications of such instability on the corrosion and SCC resistance. Results from testing conducted using pre-treated (thermally-aged) Type 310S stainless steel to shed some light on this important issue are included to help identify the outstanding corrosion resistance assessment needs.

Solution of hydrogen in accident tolerant fuel candidate material: U3Si2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Middleburgh, S. C.; Claisse, A.; Andersson, D. A.; Grimes, R. W.; Olsson, P.; Mašková, S.

2018-04-01

Hydrogen uptake and accommodation into U3Si2, a candidate accident-tolerant fuel system, has been modelled on the atomic scale using the density functional theory. The solution energy of multiple H atoms is computed, reaching a stoichiometry of U3Si2H2 which has been experimentally observed in previous work (reported as U3Si2H1.8). The absorption of hydrogen is found to be favourable up to U3Si2H2 and the associated volume change is computed, closely matching experimental data. Entropic effects are considered to assess the dissociation temperature of H2, estimated to be at ∼800 K - again in good agreement with the experimentally observed transition temperature.

Corrosion testing of candidates for the alkaline fuel cell cathode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singer, Joseph; Fielder, William L.

1989-01-01

Current/voltage data was obtained for specially made corrosion electrodes of some oxides and of gold materials for the purpose of developing a screening test of catalysts and supports for use at the cathode of the alkaline fuel cell. The data consists of measurements of current at fixed potentials and cyclic voltammograms. These data will have to be correlated with longtime performance data in order to fully evaluate this approach to corrosion screening. Corrosion test screening of candidates for the oxygen reduction electrode of the alkaline fuel cell was applied to two substances, the pyrochlore Pb2Ru2O6.5 and the spinel NiCo2O4. The substrate gold screen and a sample of the IFC Orbiter Pt-Au performance electrode were included as blanks. The pyrochlore data indicate relative stability, although nothing yet can be said about long term stability. The spinel was plainly unstable. For this type of testing to be validated, comparisons will have to be made with long term performance tests.

An evaluation of very large airplanes and alternative fuels: executive summary. Interim report

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

Mikolowsky, W.T.

1976-12-01

Candidate applications for very large airplanes include strategic airlifter, tanker, missile launchers, tactical battle platforms, maritime air cruisers, and C3 platforms. This report summarizes AD-A040 532 which explored the military utility of very large airplanes (over 1 million pounds gross weight) and examined several alternative fuels that could be used by such airplanes.

Wood Energy Potential in Northwestern South Carolina

Treesearch

James W. McMinn

1986-01-01

The quantity of unused wood in an Ill-county area in northwestern South Carolina was projected to be more than 16 million tons annually. Wood that is unsuitable for products other than fuel amounts to nearly 9 million tons annually.The most likely energy demand by industrial plants that are good candidates for wood fuel systems is 1.5 million tons annually.Maximum...

Progress on coal-derived fuels for aviation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Witcofski, R. D.

1978-01-01

Synthetic aviation kerosene (Syn. Jet-A), liquid methane (LCH4), and liquid hydrogen (LH2) appear to be the most promising coal-derived fuels. Liquid hydrogen aircraft configurations, their fuel systems, and their ground requirements at the airport are identified. These aircraft appear viable, particularly for long haul use, where aircraft fueled with coal derived LH2 would consume 9 percent less coal resources than would aircraft fueled with coal derived Syn. Jet-A. Distribution of hydrogen from the point of manufacture to airports may pose problems. Synthetic JET-A would appear to cause fewer concerns to the air transportation industry. Of the three candidate fuels, LCH4 is the most energy efficient to produce, and an aircraft fueled with coal derived LCH4 may provide both the most efficient utilization of coal resources and the least expensive ticket as well.

Overview of reductants utilized in nuclear fuel reprocessing/recycling

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

Paviet-Hartmann, P.; Riddle, C.; Campbell, K.

2013-07-01

The most widely used reductant to partition plutonium from uranium in the Purex process was ferrous sulfamate, other alternates were proposed such as hydrazine-stabilized ferrous nitrate or uranous nitrate, platinum catalyzed hydrogen, and hydrazine, hydroxylamine salts. New candidates to replace hydrazine or hydroxylamine nitrate (HAN) are pursued worldwide. They may improve the performance of the industrial Purex process towards different operations such as de-extraction of plutonium and reduction of the amount of hydrazine which will limit the formation of hydrazoic acid. When looking at future recycling technologies using hydroxamic ligands, neither acetohydroxamic acid (AHA) nor formohydroxamic acid (FHA) seem promisingmore » because they hydrolyze to give hydroxylamine and the parent carboxylic acid. Hydroxyethylhydrazine, HOC{sub 2}H{sub 4}N{sub 2}H{sub 3} (HEH) is a promising non-salt-forming reductant of Np and Pu ions because it is selective to neptunium and plutonium ions at room temperature and at relatively low acidity, it could serve as a replacement of HAN or AHA for the development of a novel used nuclear fuel recycling process.« less

Accelerating the design of solar thermal fuel materials through high throughput simulations.

PubMed

Liu, Yun; Grossman, Jeffrey C

2014-12-10

Solar thermal fuels (STF) store the energy of sunlight, which can then be released later in the form of heat, offering an emission-free and renewable solution for both solar energy conversion and storage. However, this approach is currently limited by the lack of low-cost materials with high energy density and high stability. In this Letter, we present an ab initio high-throughput computational approach to accelerate the design process and allow for searches over a broad class of materials. The high-throughput screening platform we have developed can run through large numbers of molecules composed of earth-abundant elements and identifies possible metastable structures of a given material. Corresponding isomerization enthalpies associated with the metastable structures are then computed. Using this high-throughput simulation approach, we have discovered molecular structures with high isomerization enthalpies that have the potential to be new candidates for high-energy density STF. We have also discovered physical principles to guide further STF materials design through structural analysis. More broadly, our results illustrate the potential of using high-throughput ab initio simulations to design materials that undergo targeted structural transitions.

A high pressure ratio DC compressor for tactical cryocoolers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Weibo; Cameron, Benjamin H.; Zagarola, Mark V.; Narayanan, Sri R.

2016-05-01

A high pressure ratio DC compressor is a critical component for many cryocooler cycles. Prior research has focused on the adaptation of commercial compressor technology (scroll, screw, linear with rectification valves, and regenerative) for use in cryogenic applications where long-life and oil-free (i.e., volatile contamination free) are unique requirements. In addition, many cryocooler applications are for cooling imaging instruments making low vibration an additional requirement. Another candidate compressor technology has emerged from the fuel cell industry. Proton Exchange Membranes (PEMs) are used in fuel cells to separate reactants and transport protons, and these capabilities may be used in cryocoolers to compress hydrogen from low to high pressure. A particular type of PEM utilizing an anhydrous membrane forms the basis of a solid-state cryocooler. Creare has been investigating the use of PEM compressors for low temperature Joule-Thomson and dilution cryocoolers. These cryocoolers have no moving parts, can operate at temperatures down to nominally 23 K, produce no vibration, and are low cost. Our work on the cycle optimization, cryocooler design, and development and demonstration of the compressor technology is the subject of this paper.

Study of fuel cell powerplant with heat recovery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, J. M.; Grasso, A. P.; Clausi, J. V.

1975-01-01

It was shown that heat can be recovered from fuel cell power plants by replacing the air-cooled heat exchangers in present designs with units which transfer the heat to the integrated utility system. Energy availability for a 40-kW power plant was studied and showed that the total usable energy at rated power represents 84 percent of the fuel lower heating value. The effects of design variables on heat availability proved to be small. Design requirements were established for the heat recovery heat exchangers, including measurement of the characteristics of two candidate fuel cell coolants after exposure to fuel cell operating conditions. A heat exchanger test program was defined to assess fouling and other characteristics of fuel cell heat exchangers needed to confirm heat exchanger designs for heat recovery.

Thermofluid Modeling of Fuel Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, John B.

2007-01-01

Fuel cells offer the prospect of silent electrical power generation at high efficiency with near-zero pollutant emission. Many materials and fabrication problems have now been solved and attention has shifted toward system modeling, including the fluid flows that supply the cells with hydrogen and oxygen. This review describes the current thermofluid modeling capabilities for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), the most promising candidates for commercial exploitation. Topics covered include basic operating principles and stack design, convective-diffusive flow in porous solids, special modeling issues for PEMFCs and SOFCs, and the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods.

Materials technology for an advanced space power nuclear reactor concept: Program summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gluyas, R. E.; Watson, G. K.

1975-01-01

The results of a materials technology program for a long-life (50,000 hr), high-temperature (950 C coolant outlet), lithium-cooled, nuclear space power reactor concept are reviewed and discussed. Fabrication methods and compatibility and property data were developed for candidate materials for fuel pins and, to a lesser extent, for potential control systems, reflectors, reactor vessel and piping, and other reactor structural materials. The effects of selected materials variables on fuel pin irradiation performance were determined. The most promising materials for fuel pins were found to be 85 percent dense uranium mononitride (UN) fuel clad with tungsten-lined T-111 (Ta-8W-2Hf).

Gas turbine engine control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Idelchik, Michael S. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A control system and method of controlling a gas turbine engine. The control system receives an error signal and processes the error signal to form a primary fuel control signal. The control system also receives at least one anticipatory demand signal and processes the signal to form an anticipatory fuel control signal. The control system adjusts the value of the anticipatory fuel control signal based on the value of the error signal to form an adjusted anticipatory signal and then the adjusted anticipatory fuel control signal and the primary fuel control signal are combined to form a fuel command signal.

Maximized exoEarth candidate yields for starshades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stark, Christopher C.; Shaklan, Stuart; Lisman, Doug; Cady, Eric; Savransky, Dmitry; Roberge, Aki; Mandell, Avi M.

2016-10-01

The design and scale of a future mission to directly image and characterize potentially Earth-like planets will be impacted, to some degree, by the expected yield of such planets. Recent efforts to increase the estimated yields, by creating observation plans optimized for the detection and characterization of Earth-twins, have focused solely on coronagraphic instruments; starshade-based missions could benefit from a similar analysis. Here we explore how to prioritize observations for a starshade given the limiting resources of both fuel and time, present analytic expressions to estimate fuel use, and provide efficient numerical techniques for maximizing the yield of starshades. We implemented these techniques to create an approximate design reference mission code for starshades and used this code to investigate how exoEarth candidate yield responds to changes in mission, instrument, and astrophysical parameters for missions with a single starshade. We find that a starshade mission operates most efficiently somewhere between the fuel- and exposuretime-limited regimes and, as a result, is less sensitive to photometric noise sources as well as parameters controlling the photon collection rate in comparison to a coronagraph. We produced optimistic yield curves for starshades, assuming our optimized observation plans are schedulable and future starshades are not thrust-limited. Given these yield curves, detecting and characterizing several dozen exoEarth candidates requires either multiple starshades or an η≳0.3.

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

Kristo, Michael Joseph; Keegan, Elizabeth; Colella, Michael

Nuclear forensic analysis was conducted on two uranium samples confiscated during a police investigation in Victoria, Australia. The first sample, designated NSR-F-270409-1, was a depleted uranium powder of moderate purity (~1000 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was a compound similar to K 2(UO 2) 3O 4·4H 2O. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-1 for analysis, the body and head of a Tineid moth was discovered in the sample. The second sample, designated NSR-F-270409-2, was also a depleted uranium powder. It was of reasonably high purity (~380 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was primarilymore » UO 3·2H 2O, with minor phases of U 3O 8 and UO 2. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-2 for analysis, a metal staple of unknown origin was discovered in the sample. The presence of 236U and 232U in both samples indicates that the uranium feed stocks for these samples experienced a neutron flux at some point in their history. The reactor burn-up calculated from the isotopic composition of the uranium is consistent with that of spent fuel from natural uranium (NU) fueled Pu production. These nuclear forensic conclusions allow us to categorically exclude Australia as the origin of the material and greatly reduce the number of candidate sources.« less

THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE AND UNIAXIAL PRESSURE ON THE DENSIFICATION BEHAVIOR OF SILICA AEROGEL GRANULES

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

Matyas, Josef; Robinson, Matthew J.; Fryxell, Glen E.

Materials are being developed in U.S. for the removal and immobilization of iodine from gaseous products of nuclear fuel reprocessing in support of the Fuel Cycle Technology Separations and Waste Forms Campaign. The silver-functionalized silica aerogel proved to be an excellent candidate for this treatment because of its high selectivity and sorption capacity for radioiodine and its possible conversion to a durable silica-based waste form. The present study investigated with nitrogen sorption and helium pycnometry the effect of pressureless isothermal sintering at temperatures of 900-1400°C for 2.5-90 min or isothermal hot-pressing at 1200°C for 2.5 min on densification of rawmore » and silver-functionalized silica aerogel granules. Rapid sintering was observed at 1050 and 1200°C. Only 15 min of pressureless sintering at 1200°C resulted in almost complete densification. The macropores disappeared, surface area decreased from 1114 m2/g to 25 m2/g, pore volume from 7.41 cm3/g to 0.09 cm3/g, and adsorption pore size from 18.7 to 7 nm. The skeletal density of sintered granules was similar to the bulk density of amorphous silica (2.2 g/cm3). The hot-pressing accelerated the sintering process, decreasing significantly the pore size and volume.« less

Professional Advanced Research and Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coulman, George A.

1996-01-01

Reported here is a summary of studies examining some problems in an energy conversion system. Regenerative fuel cell systems have been suggested for future manned space missions, but to meet the needed specific power requirements substantial improvements in the state-of-the-art technologies are needed. Similar improvements are needed, with emphasis on cost reduction in addition to higher conversion efficiency, for fuel cell systems that have potential for terrestrial applications. Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cells have been identified as promising candidates for development that would lead to the desired cost reduction and increased efficiency.

Preliminary assessment of accident-tolerant fuels on LWR performance during normal operation and under DB and BDB accident conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ott, L. J.; Robb, K. R.; Wang, D.

2014-05-01

Following the severe accidents at the Japanese Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in 2011, the US Department of Energy initiated research and development on the enhancement of the accident tolerance of light water reactors by the development of fuels/cladding that, in comparison with the standard UO2/Zircaloy (Zr) system, can tolerate loss of active cooling in the core for a considerably longer time period while maintaining or improving the fuel performance during normal operations. Analyses are presented that illustrate the impact of these new candidate fuel/cladding materials on the fuel performance at normal operating conditions and on the reactor system under DB and BDB accident conditions.

Mixing enhancement of reacting parallel fuel jets in a supersonic combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drummond, J. P.

1991-01-01

Pursuant to a NASA-Langley development program for a scramjet HST propulsion system entailing the optimization of the scramjet combustor's fuel-air mixing and reaction characteristics, a numerical study has been conducted of the candidate parallel fuel injectors. Attention is given to a method for flow mixing-process and combustion-efficiency enhancement in which a supersonic circular hydrogen jet coflows with a supersonic air stream. When enhanced by a planar oblique shock, the injector configuration exhibited a substantial degree of induced vorticity in the fuel stream which increased mixing and chemical reaction rates, relative to the unshocked configuration. The resulting heat release was effective in breaking down the stable hydrogen vortex pair that had inhibited more extensive fuel-air mixing.

Advanced Vehicle system concepts. [nonpetroleum passenger transportation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hardy, K. S.; Langendoen, J. M.

1983-01-01

Various nonpetroleum vehicle system concepts for passenger vehicles in the 1990's are being considered as part of the Advanced Vehicle (AV) Assessment at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The vehicle system and subsystem performance requirements, the projected characteristics of mature subsystem candidates, and promising systems are presented. The system candidates include electric and hybrid vehicles powered by electricity with or without a nonpetroleum power source. The subsystem candidates include batteries (aqueous-mobile, flow, high-temperature, and metal-air), fuel cells (phosphoric acid, advanced acids, and solid polymer electrolyte), nonpetroleum heat engines, advanced dc and ac propulsion components, power-peaking devices, and transmissions.

77 FR 64849 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Form 6478

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-23

... 6478, Alcohol and Cellulosic Biofuel Fuels Credit. DATES: Written comments should be received on or... . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Alcohol and Cellulosic Biofuel Fuels Credit. OMB Number: 1545-0231. Form Number: Form 6478. Abstract: Use Form 6478 to figure your alcohol and cellulosic biofuel fuels credit...

Cohesive Relations for Surface Atoms in the Iron-Technetium Binary System

DOE PAGES

Taylor, Christopher D.

2011-01-01

Iron-technetium alloys are of relevance to the development of waste forms for disposition of radioactive technetium-99 obtained from spent nuclear fuel. Corrosion of candidate waste forms is a function of the local cohesive energy () of surface atoms. A theoretical model for calculating is developed. Density functional theory was used to construct a modified embedded atom (MEAM) potential for iron-technetium. Materials properties determined for the iron-technetium system were in good agreement with the literature. To explore the relationship between local structure and corrosion, MEAM simulations were performed on representative iron-technetium alloys and intermetallics. Technetium-rich phases have lower , suggesting thatmore » these phases will be more noble than iron-rich ones. Quantitative estimates of based on numbers of nearest neighbors alone can lead to errors up to 0.5 eV. Consequently, atomistic corrosion simulations for alloy systems should utilize physics-based models that consider not only neighbor counts, but also local compositions and atomic arrangements.« less

18 CFR Appendix A 1 to Part 281 - Comparison of Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976-January 1980 A Appendix A 1 to... Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976—January 1980 Type of fuel FPC form No. 423 price data 1 1976 1977 1978 1979 January 1980 Monthly energy review price data 2 1976 1977...

18 CFR Appendix A 1 to Part 281 - Comparison of Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976-January 1980 A Appendix A 1 to... Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976—January 1980 Type of fuel FPC form No. 423 price data 1 1976 1977 1978 1979 January 1980 Monthly energy review price data 2 1976 1977...

18 CFR Appendix A 1 to Part 281 - Comparison of Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976-January 1980 A Appendix A 1 to... Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976—January 1980 Type of fuel FPC form No. 423 price data 1 1976 1977 1978 1979 January 1980 Monthly energy review price data 2 1976 1977...

18 CFR Appendix A 1 to Part 281 - Comparison of Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976-January 1980 A Appendix A 1 to... Selected Fuel Price Data, FPC Form No. 423 Versus Monthly Energy Review, 1976—January 1980 Type of fuel FPC form No. 423 price data 1 1976 1977 1978 1979 January 1980 Monthly energy review price data 2 1976 1977...

Reactivity Initiated Accident Simulation to Inform Transient Testing of Candidate Advanced Cladding

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

Brown, Nicholas R; Wysocki, Aaron J; Terrani, Kurt A

2016-01-01

Abstract. Advanced cladding materials with potentially enhanced accident tolerance will yield different light water reactor performance and safety characteristics than the present zirconium-based cladding alloys. These differences are due to different cladding material properties and responses to the transient, and to some extent, reactor physics, thermal, and hydraulic characteristics. Some of the differences in reactors physics characteristics will be driven by the fundamental properties (e.g., absorption in iron for an iron-based cladding) and others will be driven by design modifications necessitated by the candidate cladding materials (e.g., a larger fuel pellet to compensate for parasitic absorption). Potential changes in thermalmore » hydraulic limits after transition from the current zirconium-based cladding to the advanced materials will also affect the transient response of the integral fuel. This paper leverages three-dimensional reactor core simulation capabilities to inform on appropriate experimental test conditions for candidate advanced cladding materials in a control rod ejection event. These test conditions are using three-dimensional nodal kinetics simulations of a reactivity initiated accident (RIA) in a representative state-of-the-art pressurized water reactor with both nuclear-grade iron-chromium-aluminum (FeCrAl) and silicon carbide based (SiC-SiC) cladding materials. The effort yields boundary conditions for experimental mechanical tests, specifically peak cladding strain during the power pulse following the rod ejection. The impact of candidate cladding materials on the reactor kinetics behavior of RIA progression versus reference zirconium cladding is predominantly due to differences in: (1) fuel mass/volume/specific power density, (2) spectral effects due to parasitic neutron absorption, (3) control rod worth due to hardened (or softened) spectrum, and (4) initial conditions due to power peaking and neutron transport cross sections in the equilibrium cycle cores due to hardened (or softened) spectrum. This study shows minimal impact of SiC-based cladding configurations on the transient response versus reference zirconium-based cladding. However, the FeCrAl cladding response indicates similar energy deposition, but with significantly shorter pulses of higher magnitude. Therefore the FeCrAl-based cases have a more rapid fuel thermal expansion rate and the resultant pellet-cladding interaction occurs more rapidly.« less

A study of the efficiency of hydrogen liquefaction. [jet aircraft applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baker, C. R.; Shaner, R. L.

1976-01-01

The search for an environmentally acceptable fuel to eventually replace petroleum-based fuels for long-range jet aircraft has singled out liquid hydrogen as an outstanding candidate. Hydrogen liquefaction is discussed, along with the effect of several operating parameters on process efficiency. A feasible large-scale commercial hydrogen liquefaction facility based on the results of the efficiency study is described. Potential future improvements in hydrogen liquefaction are noted.

Components for digitally controlled aircraft engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meador, J. D.

1981-01-01

Control system components suitable for use in digital electronic control systems are defined. Compressor geometry actuation concepts and fuel handling system concepts suitable for use in large high performance turbofan/turbojet engines are included. Eight conceptual system designs were formulated for the actuation of the compressor geometry. Six conceptual system designs were formulated for the engine fuel handling system. Assessment criteria and weighting factors were established and trade studies performed on their candidate systems to establish the relative merits of the various concepts. Fuel pumping and metering systems for small turboshaft engines were also studied. Seven conceptual designs were formulated, and trade studies performed. A simplified bypassing fuel metering scheme was selected and a preliminary design defined.

Fuel conservation possibilities for terminal area compatible aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

Design features and operational procedures are identified, which would reduce fuel consumption of future transport aircraft. The fuel-saving potential can be realized during the last decade of this century only if the necessary research and technology programs are implemented in the areas of composite primary structure, airfoil/wing design, and stability augmentation systems. The necessary individual R and T programs are defined. The sensitivity to fuel usage of several design parameters (wing geometry, cruise speed, propulsion) is investigated, and the results applied to a candidate 18, 140-kg (40,000-lb) payload, 5556-km (3000-nmi) transport design. Technical and economic comparisons are made with current commercial aircraft and other advanced designs.

A numerical study of candidate transverse fuel injector configurations in the Langley scramjet engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drummond, J. P.

1980-01-01

A computer program has been developed that numerically solves the two-dimensional Navier-Stokes and species equations near one or more transverse hydrogen fuel injectors in a scramjet engine. The program currently computes the turbulent mixing and reaction of hydrogen fuel and air, and allows the study of separated regions of the flow immediately preceding and following the injectors. The complex shock-expansion structure produced by the injectors in this region of the engine can also be represented. Results are presented that describe the flow field near two opposing transverse fuel injectors and two opposing staged (multiple) injectors, and comparisons between the two configurations are made to assess their mixing and flameholding qualities.

Sol-Gel Synthesis, Electrochemical Characterization, and Stability Testing of Ti0.7W0.3O2 Nanoparticles for Catalyst Support Applications in Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

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

Subban, Chinmayee V.; Zhou, Qin; Hu, Anthony

2010-11-19

The materials currently used in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) require complex control of operating conditions to make them sufficiently durable to permit commercial deployment. One of the major materials challenges to allow simplification of fuel cell operating strategies is the discovery of catalyst supports that are much more stable to oxidative decomposition than currently used carbon blacks. Here we report the synthesis and characterization of Ti 0.7W 0.3O 2 nanoparticles (approximately 50 nm diameter), a promising doped metal oxide that is a candidate for such a durable catalyst support. The synthesized nanoparticles were platinized, characterized by electrochemical testing, andmore » evaluated for stability under PEMFC and other oxidizing acidic conditions. Ti 0.7W 0.3O 2 nanoparticles show no evidence of decomposition when heated in a Nafion solution for 3 weeks at 80 °C. In contrast, when heated in sulfuric, nitric, perchloric, or hydrochloric acid, the oxide reacts to form salts such as titanylsulfatehydrate from sulfuric acid. Electrochemical tests show that rates of hydrogen oxidation and oxygen reduction by platinum nanoparticles supported on Ti 0.7W 0.3O 2 are comparable to those of commercial Pt on carbon black.« less

Candidate molten salt investigation for an accelerator driven subcritical core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sooby, E.; Baty, A.; Beneš, O.; McIntyre, P.; Pogue, N.; Salanne, M.; Sattarov, A.

2013-09-01

We report a design for accelerator-driven subcritical fission in a molten salt core (ADSMS) that utilizes a fuel salt composed of NaCl and transuranic (TRU) chlorides. The ADSMS core is designed for fast neutronics (28% of neutrons >1 MeV) to optimize TRU destruction. The choice of a NaCl-based salt offers benefits for corrosion, operating temperature, and actinide solubility as compared with LiF-based fuel salts. A molecular dynamics (MD) code has been used to estimate properties of the molten salt system which are important for ADSMS design but have never been measured experimentally. Results from the MD studies are reported. Experimental measurements of fuel salt properties and studies of corrosion and radiation damage on candidate metals for the core vessel are anticipated. A special thanks is due to Prof. Paul Madden for introducing the ADSMS group to the concept of using the molten salt as the spallation target, rather than a conventional heavy metal spallation target. This feature helps to optimize this core as a Pu/TRU burner.

Production of JP-8-Based Hydrogen and Advanced Tactical Fuels for the U.S. Military

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-24

system in pilot plant gasifier. Table 14. Summary of the Gravimetric Analysis of Tar (heavier than benzene) and PM Sampled from Hot and Cold Side...thorough technoeconomic assessment and analysis of available feedstocks prior to a candidate biomass being selected for energy generation or product...application will also require a thorough technoeconomic assessment and analysis of available feedstocks prior to a candidate biomass being selected

High power density fuel cell comprising an array of microchannels

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D.; Upadhye, Ravindra S.; Spadaccini, Christopher M.; Park, Hyung Gyu

2013-10-15

A fuel cell according to one embodiment includes a porous electrolyte support structure defining an array of microchannels, the microchannels including fuel and oxidant microchannels; fuel electrodes formed along some of the microchannels; and oxidant electrodes formed along other of the microchannels. A method of making a fuel cell according to one embodiment includes forming an array of walls defining microchannels therebetween using at least one of molding, stamping, extrusion, injection and electrodeposition; processing the walls to make the walls porous, thereby creating a porous electrolyte support structure; forming anode electrodes along some of the microchannels; and forming cathode electrodes along other of the microchannels. Additional embodiments are also disclosed.

Spent fuel treatment and mineral waste form development at Argonne National Laboratory-West

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

Goff, K.M.; Benedict, R.W.; Bateman, K.

1996-07-01

At Argonne National Laboratory-West (ANL-West) there are several thousand kilograms of metallic spent nuclear fuel containing bond sodium. This fuel will be treated in the Fuel Conditioning Facility (FCF) at ANL-West to produce stable waste forms for storage and disposal. Both mineral and metal high-level waste forms will be produced. The mineral waste form will contain the active metal fission products and the transuranics. Cold small-scale waste form testing has been on-going at Argonne in Illinois. Large-scale testing is commencing at ANL-West.

Formate production through biocatalysis

PubMed Central

Alissandratos, Apostolos; Kim, Hye-Kyung; Easton, Christopher J

2013-01-01

The generation of formate from CO2 provides a method for sequestration of this greenhouse gas as well as the production of a valuable commodity chemical and stabilized form of hydrogen fuel. Formate dehydrogenases are enzymes with the potential to catalyze this reaction; however they generally favor the reverse process, i.e., formate oxidation. By contrast, the formate dehydrogenase of the acetogen Clostridium carboxidivorans has been found to preferentially catalyze the reduction of CO2. This is in accord with its natural role to introduce CO2 as a carbon source in the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. The direction of catalysis derives from the enzyme’s low affinity for formate. This enzyme is therefore an excellent candidate for biotechnological applications aimed at producing formic acid and derivative chemicals from CO2. PMID:23841981

A ``NEW'' Solid-Core Reactor Fuel Form that Maximizes the Performance of Nuclear Thermal and Electric Rockets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rom, Frank E.; Finnegan, Patrick M.

1994-07-01

The ``NEW'' solid-core fuel form is the old Vapor Transport (VT) fuel pin investigated at NASA about 30 years ago. It is simply a tube sealed at both ends partially filled with UO2. During operation the UO2 forms an annular layer on the inside of the tube by vaporization and condensation. This form is an ideal structure for overall strength and retention of fission products. All of the structural material lies between the fuel (including fission products) and the reactor coolant. The isothermal inside fuel surface temperature that results from the vaporization and condensation of fuel during operation eliminates hotspots, significantly increasing the design fuel pin surface temperature. For NTP, W-UO2 fuel pins yield higher operating temperatures than for other fuel forms, because W has about a ten-fold lower vaporization rate compared to any other known material. The use of perigee propulsion using W-UO2 fuel pins can result in a more than ten-fold reduction in reactor power. Lower reactor power, together with zero fission product release potential, and the simplicity of fabrication of VT fuel pins should greatly simplify and reduce the cost of development of NTP. For NEP, VT fuel pins can increase fast neutron spectrum reactor life with no fission product release. Thermal spectrum NEP reactors using W184 or Mo VT fuel pins, with only small amounts of high neutron absorbing additives, offer benefits because of much lower fissionable fuel requirements. The VT fuel pin has application to commercial power reactors with similar benefits.

Method of forming a package for MEMS-based fuel cell

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D; Jankowski, Alan F

2013-05-21

A MEMS-based fuel cell package and method thereof is disclosed. The fuel cell package comprises seven layers: (1) a sub-package fuel reservoir interface layer, (2) an anode manifold support layer, (3) a fuel/anode manifold and resistive heater layer, (4) a Thick Film Microporous Flow Host Structure layer containing a fuel cell, (5) an air manifold layer, (6) a cathode manifold support structure layer, and (7) a cap. Fuel cell packages with more than one fuel cell are formed by positioning stacks of these layers in series and/or parallel. The fuel cell package materials such as a molded plastic or a ceramic green tape material can be patterned, aligned and stacked to form three dimensional microfluidic channels that provide electrical feedthroughs from various layers which are bonded together and mechanically support a MEMS-based miniature fuel cell. The package incorporates resistive heating elements to control the temperature of the fuel cell stack. The package is fired to form a bond between the layers and one or more microporous flow host structures containing fuel cells are inserted within the Thick Film Microporous Flow Host Structure layer of the package.

Method of forming a package for mems-based fuel cell

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D.; Jankowski, Alan F.

2004-11-23

A MEMS-based fuel cell package and method thereof is disclosed. The fuel cell package comprises seven layers: (1) a sub-package fuel reservoir interface layer, (2) an anode manifold support layer, (3) a fuel/anode manifold and resistive heater layer, (4) a Thick Film Microporous Flow Host Structure layer containing a fuel cell, (5) an air manifold layer, (6) a cathode manifold support structure layer, and (7) a cap. Fuel cell packages with more than one fuel cell are formed by positioning stacks of these layers in series and/or parallel. The fuel cell package materials such as a molded plastic or a ceramic green tape material can be patterned, aligned and stacked to form three dimensional microfluidic channels that provide electrical feedthroughs from various layers which are bonded together and mechanically support a MEMOS-based miniature fuel cell. The package incorporates resistive heating elements to control the temperature of the fuel cell stack. The package is fired to form a bond between the layers and one or more microporous flow host structures containing fuel cells are inserted within the Thick Film Microporous Flow Host Structure layer of the package.

Comparison of PM emissions from a commercial jet engine burning conventional, biomass, and Fischer-Tropsch fuels.

PubMed

Lobo, Prem; Hagen, Donald E; Whitefield, Philip D

2011-12-15

Rising fuel costs, an increasing desire to enhance security of energy supply, and potential environmental benefits have driven research into alternative renewable fuels for commercial aviation applications. This paper reports the results of the first measurements of particulate matter (PM) emissions from a CFM56-7B commercial jet engine burning conventional and alternative biomass- and, Fischer-Tropsch (F-T)-based fuels. PM emissions reductions are observed with all fuels and blends when compared to the emissions from a reference conventional fuel, Jet A1, and are attributed to fuel properties associated with the fuels and blends studied. Although the alternative fuel candidates studied in this campaign offer the potential for large PM emissions reductions, with the exception of the 50% blend of F-T fuel, they do not meet current standards for aviation fuel and thus cannot be considered as certified replacement fuels. Over the ICAO Landing Takeoff Cycle, which is intended to simulate aircraft engine operations that affect local air quality, the overall PM number-based emissions for the 50% blend of F-T fuel were reduced by 34 ± 7%, and the mass-based emissions were reduced by 39 ± 7%.

High power density fuel cell comprising an array of microchannels

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

Sopchak, David A; Morse, Jeffrey D; Upadhye, Ravindra S

2014-05-06

A phosphoric acid fuel cell according to one embodiment includes an array of microchannels defined by a porous electrolyte support structure extending between bottom and upper support layers, the microchannels including fuel and oxidant microchannels; fuel electrodes formed along some of the microchannels; and air electrodes formed along other of the microchannels. A method of making a phosphoric acid fuel cell according to one embodiment includes etching an array of microchannels in a substrate, thereby forming walls between the microchannels; processing the walls to make the walls porous, thereby forming a porous electrolyte support structure; forming anode electrodes along somemore » of the walls; forming cathode electrodes along other of the walls; and filling the porous electrolyte support structure with a phosphoric acid electrolyte. Additional embodiments are also disclosed.« less

The fuel cell in space: Yesterday, today and tomorrow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warshay, Marvin; Prokopius, Paul R.

1989-01-01

The past, present, and future of space fuel cell power systems is reviewed, starting with the first practical fuel cell by F.T. Bacon which led to the 1.5 kW Apollo alkaline fuel cell. However, the first fuel cell to be used for space power was the Gemini 1.0 kW Acid IEM fuel cell. The successor to the Apollo fuel cell is today's 12 kW Orbiter alkaline fuel cell whose technology is considerably different and considerably better than that of its ancestor, the Bacon cell. And in terms of specific weight there has been a steady improvement from the past to the present, from the close to 200 lb/kW of Apollo to the 20 lb/kW of the orbiter. For NASA future Lunar and Martian surface power requirements the regenerative fuel cell (RFC) energy storage system is enabling technology, with the alkaline and the PEM the leading RFC candidate systems. The U.S. Air Force continues to support fuel cell high power density technology development for its future short duration applications.

Development of advanced fuel cell system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grevstad, P. E.

1972-01-01

Weight, life and performance characteristics optimization of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell power systems were considered. A promising gold alloy cathode catalyst was identified and tested in a cell for 5,000 hours. The compatibility characteristics of candidate polymer structural materials were measured after exposure to electrolyte and water vapor for 8,000 hours. Lightweight cell designs were prepared and fabrication techniques to produce them were developed. Testing demonstrated that predicted performance was achieved. Lightweight components for passive product water removal and evaporative cooling of cells were demonstrated. Systems studies identified fuel cell powerplant concepts for meeting the requirements of advanced spacecraft.

Organized energetic composites based on micro and nanostructures and methods thereof

DOEpatents

Gash, Alexander E.; Han, Thomas Yong-Jin; Sirbuly, Donald J.

2012-09-04

An ordered energetic composite structure according to one embodiment includes an ordered array of metal fuel portions; and an oxidizer in gaps located between the metal fuel portions. An ordered energetic composite structure according to another embodiment includes at least one metal fuel portion having an ordered array of nanopores; and an oxidizer in the nanopores. A method for forming an ordered energetic composite structure according to one embodiment includes forming an ordered array of metal fuel portions; and depositing an oxidizer in gaps located between the metal fuel portions. A method for forming an ordered energetic composite structure according to another embodiment includes forming an ordered array of nanopores in at least one metal fuel portion; and depositing an oxidizer in the nanopores.

Application of the monolithic solid oxide fuel cell to space power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myles, Kevin M.; Bhattacharyya, Samit K.

1991-01-01

The monolithic solid-oxide fuel cell (MSOFC) is a promising electrochemical power generation device that is currently under development at Argonne National Laboratory. The extremely high power density of the MSOFC leads to MSOFC systems that have sufficiently high energy densities that they are excellent candidates for a number of space missions. The fuel cell can also be operated in reverse, if it can be coupled to an external power source, to regenerate the fuel and oxidant from the water product. This feature further enhances the potential mission applications of the MSOFC. In this paper, the current status of the fuel cell development is presented—the focus being on fabrication and currently achievable performance. In addition, a specific example of a space power system, featuring a liquid metal cooled fast spectrum nuclear reactor and a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell, is presented to demonstrate the features of an integrated system.

Plutonium: Advancing our Understanding to Support Sustainable Nuclear Fuel Cycles

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

Lines, Amanda M.; Adami, Susan R.; Casella, Amanda

With Global energy needs increasing, real energy solutions to meet demands now, are needed. Fossil fuels are not an ideal candidate to meet these needs because of their negative impact on the environment. Renewables such as wind and solar have huge potential, but still need major technological advancements (particularly in the area of battery storage) before they can effectively meet growing world needs. The best option for meeting large energy needs without a large carbon footprint is nuclear energy. Of course, nuclear energy can face a fair amount of opposition and concern. However, through modern engineering and science many ofmore » these concerns can now be addressed. Many safety concerns can be met by engineering advancements, but perhaps the biggest area of concern is what to do with the used nuclear fuel after it is removed from the reactor. Currently the United States (and several other countries) utilize an open fuel cycle, meaning fuel is only used once and then discarded. It should be noted that fuel coming out of a reactor has utilized approximately 1% of the total energy that could be produced by the uranium in the fuel rod. The answer here is to close the fuel cycle and recycle the nuclear materials. By reprocessing used nuclear fuel, all the U can be repurposed without requiring disposal. The various fission products can be removed and either discarded (hugely reduced waste volume) or more reasonably, utilized in specialty reactors to make more energy or needed research/medical isotopes. While reprocessing technology is currently advanced enough to meet energy needs, completing research to improve and better understand these techniques is still needed. Better understanding behavior of fission products is one area of important research. Despite it being discovered over 75 years ago, plutonium is still an exciting element to study because of the complex solution chemistry it exhibits. In aqueous solutions Pu can exist simultaneously in multiple oxidation states, including 3+, 4+, and 6+. It also readily forms a variety of metal-ligand complexes depending on solution pH and available ligands. Understanding of the behavior of Pu in solution remains an important area of research today, with relevance to developing sustainable nuclear fuel cycles, minimizing its impact on the environment, and detecting and preventing the spread of nuclear weapons technology.« less

Dimethyl ether (DME) as an alternative fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Semelsberger, Troy A.; Borup, Rodney L.; Greene, Howard L.

With ever growing concerns on environmental pollution, energy security, and future oil supplies, the global community is seeking non-petroleum based alternative fuels, along with more advanced energy technologies (e.g., fuel cells) to increase the efficiency of energy use. The most promising alternative fuel will be the fuel that has the greatest impact on society. The major impact areas include well-to-wheel greenhouse gas emissions, non-petroleum feed stocks, well-to-wheel efficiencies, fuel versatility, infrastructure, availability, economics, and safety. Compared to some of the other leading alternative fuel candidates (i.e., methane, methanol, ethanol, and Fischer-Tropsch fuels), dimethyl ether appears to have the largest potential impact on society, and should be considered as the fuel of choice for eliminating the dependency on petroleum. DME can be used as a clean high-efficiency compression ignition fuel with reduced NO x, SO x, and particulate matter, it can be efficiently reformed to hydrogen at low temperatures, and does not have large issues with toxicity, production, infrastructure, and transportation as do various other fuels. The literature relevant to DME use is reviewed and summarized to demonstrate the viability of DME as an alternative fuel.

Predicting thermo-mechanical behaviour of high minor actinide content composite oxide fuel in a dedicated transmutation facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemehov, S. E.; Sobolev, V. P.; Verwerft, M.

2011-09-01

The European Facility for Industrial Transmutation (EFIT) of the minor actinides (MA), from LWR spent fuel is being developed in the integrated project EUROTRANS within the 6th Framework Program of EURATOM. Two composite uranium-free fuel systems, containing a large fraction of MA, are proposed as the main candidates: a CERCER with magnesia matrix hosting (Pu,MA)O 2-x particles, and a CERMET with metallic molybdenum matrix. The long-term thermal and mechanical behaviour of the fuel under the expected EFIT operating conditions is one of the critical issues in the core design. To make a reliable prediction of long-term thermo-mechanical behaviour of the hottest fuel rods in the lead-cooled version of EFIT with thermal power of 400 MW, different fuel performance codes have been used. This study describes the main results of modelling the thermo-mechanical behaviour of the hottest CERCER fuel rods with the fuel performance code MACROS which indicate that the CERCER fuel residence time can safely reach at least 4-5 effective full power years.

Dry syngas purification process for coal gas produced in oxy-fuel type integrated gasification combined cycle power generation with carbon dioxide capturing feature.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Makoto; Akiho, Hiroyuki

2017-12-01

Electricity production from coal fuel with minimizing efficiency penalty for the carbon dioxide abatement will bring us sustainable and compatible energy utilization. One of the promising options is oxy-fuel type Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (oxy-fuel IGCC) power generation that is estimated to achieve thermal efficiency of 44% at lower heating value (LHV) base and provide compressed carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) with concentration of 93 vol%. The proper operation of the plant is established by introducing dry syngas cleaning processes to control halide and sulfur compounds satisfying tolerate contaminants level of gas turbine. To realize the dry process, the bench scale test facility was planned to demonstrate the first-ever halide and sulfur removal with fixed bed reactor using actual syngas from O 2 -CO 2 blown gasifier for the oxy-fuel IGCC power generation. Design parameter for the test facility was required for the candidate sorbents for halide removal and sulfur removal. Breakthrough test was performed on two kinds of halide sorbents at accelerated condition and on honeycomb desulfurization sorbent at varied space velocity condition. The results for the both sorbents for halide and sulfur exhibited sufficient removal within the satisfactory short depth of sorbent bed, as well as superior bed conversion of the impurity removal reaction. These performance evaluation of the candidate sorbents of halide and sulfur removal provided rational and affordable design parameters for the bench scale test facility to demonstrate the dry syngas cleaning process for oxy-fuel IGCC system as the scaled up step of process development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diatoms: a fossil fuel of the future.

PubMed

Levitan, Orly; Dinamarca, Jorge; Hochman, Gal; Falkowski, Paul G

2014-03-01

Long-term global climate change, caused by burning petroleum and other fossil fuels, has motivated an urgent need to develop renewable, carbon-neutral, economically viable alternatives to displace petroleum using existing infrastructure. Algal feedstocks are promising candidate replacements as a 'drop-in' fuel. Here, we focus on a specific algal taxon, diatoms, to become the fossil fuel of the future. We summarize past attempts to obtain suitable diatom strains, propose future directions for their genetic manipulation, and offer biotechnological pathways to improve yield. We calculate that the yields obtained by using diatoms as a production platform are theoretically sufficient to satisfy the total oil consumption of the US, using between 3 and 5% of its land area. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

U-PuO2, U-PuC, U-PuN cermet fuel for fast reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Sudhir; Kaity, Santu; Banerjee, Joydipta; Nandi, Chiranjeet; Dey, G. K.; Khan, K. B.

2018-02-01

Cermet fuel combines beneficial properties of both ceramic and metal and attracts global interest for research as a candidate fuel for nuclear reactors. In the present study, U matrix PuC/PuN/PuO2 cermet for fast reactor have been fabricated on laboratory scale by the powder metallurgy route. Characterization of the fuel has been carried out using Dilatometer, Differential Thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffractometer and Optical microscope. X ray diffraction study of the fuel reveals presence of different phases. The PuN dispersed cermet was observed to have high solidus temperature as compared to PuC and PuO2 dispersed cermet. Swelling was observed in U matrix PuO2 cermet which also showed higher thermal expansion. Among the three cermets studied, U matrix PuC cermet showed maximum thermal conductivity.

Tuning Nb–Pt Interactions To Facilitate Fuel Cell Electrocatalysis

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

Ghoshal, Shraboni; Jia, Qingying; Bates, Michael K.

High stability, availability of multiple oxidation states, and accessibility within a wide electrochemical window are the prime features of Nb that make it a favorable candidate for electrocatalysis, especially when it is combined with Pt. However, Nb has been used as a support in the form of oxides in all previously reported Pt–Nb electrocatalysts, and no Pt–Nb alloying phase has been demonstrated hitherto. Herein, we report a multifunctional Pt–Nb composite (PtNb/NbOx-C) where Nb exists both as an alloying component with Pt and as an oxide support and is synthesized by means of a simple wet chemical method. In this work,more » the Pt–Nb alloy phase has been firmly verified with the help of multiple spectroscopic methods. This allows for the experimental evidence of the theoretical prediction that Pt–Nb alloy interactions improve the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of Pt. In addition, such a combination of multiphase Nb brings up myriad features encompassing increased ORR durability, immunity to phosphate anion poisoning, enhanced hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) activity, and oxidative carbon monoxide (CO) stripping, making this electrocatalyst useful in multiple fuel cell systems.« less

Accelerating the Design of Solar Thermal Fuel Materials through High Throughput Simulations

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

Liu, Y; Grossman, JC

2014-12-01

Solar thermal fuels (STF) store the energy of sunlight, which can then be released later in the form of heat, offering an emission-free and renewable solution for both solar energy conversion and storage. However, this approach is currently limited by the lack of low-cost materials with high energy density and high stability. In this Letter, we present an ab initio high-throughput computational approach to accelerate the design process and allow for searches over a broad class of materials. The high-throughput screening platform we have developed can run through large numbers of molecules composed of earth-abundant elements and identifies possible metastablemore » structures of a given material. Corresponding isomerization enthalpies associated with the metastable structures are then computed. Using this high-throughput simulation approach, we have discovered molecular structures with high isomerization enthalpies that have the potential to be new candidates for high-energy density STF. We have also discovered physical principles to guide further STF materials design through structural analysis. More broadly, our results illustrate the potential of using high-throughput ab initio simulations to design materials that undergo targeted structural transitions.« less

Preparation and performances of Co-Mn spinel coating on a ferritic stainless steel interconnect material for solid oxide fuel cell application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H. H.; Zeng, C. L.

2014-04-01

Ferritic stainless steels have become the candidate materials for interconnects of intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The present issues to be solved urgently for the application of ferritic stainless steel interconnects are their rapid increase in contact resistance and Cr poisoning. In the present study, a chloride electrolyte suspension has been developed to electro-deposit a Co-Mn alloy on a type 430 stainless steel, followed by heat treatment at 750 °C in argon and at 800 °C in air to obtain Co-Mn spinel coatings. The experimental results indicate that an adhesive and compact Co-Mn alloy layer can be deposited in the chloride solution. After heat treatment, a complex coating composed of an external MnCo2O4 layer and an inner Cr-rich oxide layer has been formed on 430SS. The coating improves the oxidation resistance of the steel at 800 °C in air, especially in wet air, and inhibits the outward diffusion of Cr from the Cr-rich scale. Moreover, a low contact resistance has been achieved with the application of the spinel coatings.

Characteristics of potential repository wastes. Volume 2

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

Not Available

1992-07-01

The LWR spent fuels discussed in Volume 1 of this report comprise about 99% of all domestic non-reprocessed spent fuel. In this report we discuss other types of spent fuels which, although small in relative quantity, consist of a number of diverse types, sizes, and compositions. Many of these fuels are candidates for repository disposal. Some non-LWR spent fuels are currently reprocessed or are scheduled for reprocessing in DOE facilities at the Savannah River Site, Hanford Site, and the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory. It appears likely that the reprocessing of fuels that have been reprocessed in the past will continuemore » and that the resulting high-level wastes will become part of defense HLW. However, it is not entirely clear in some cases whether a given fuel will be reprocessed, especially in cases where pretreatment may be needed before reprocessing, or where the enrichment is not high enough to make reprocessing attractive. Some fuels may be canistered, while others may require special means of disposal. The major categories covered in this chapter include HTGR spent fuel from the Fort St. Vrain and Peach Bottom-1 reactors, research and test reactor fuels, and miscellaneous fuels, and wastes generated from the decommissioning of facilities.« less

Nuclear forensic analysis of uranium oxide powders interdicted in Victoria, Australia

DOE PAGES

Kristo, Michael Joseph; Keegan, Elizabeth; Colella, Michael; ...

2015-04-13

Nuclear forensic analysis was conducted on two uranium samples confiscated during a police investigation in Victoria, Australia. The first sample, designated NSR-F-270409-1, was a depleted uranium powder of moderate purity (~1000 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was a compound similar to K 2(UO 2) 3O 4·4H 2O. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-1 for analysis, the body and head of a Tineid moth was discovered in the sample. The second sample, designated NSR-F-270409-2, was also a depleted uranium powder. It was of reasonably high purity (~380 μg/g total elemental impurities). The chemical form of the uranium was primarilymore » UO 3·2H 2O, with minor phases of U 3O 8 and UO 2. While aliquoting NSR-F-270409-2 for analysis, a metal staple of unknown origin was discovered in the sample. The presence of 236U and 232U in both samples indicates that the uranium feed stocks for these samples experienced a neutron flux at some point in their history. The reactor burn-up calculated from the isotopic composition of the uranium is consistent with that of spent fuel from natural uranium (NU) fueled Pu production. These nuclear forensic conclusions allow us to categorically exclude Australia as the origin of the material and greatly reduce the number of candidate sources.« less

76 FR 82313 - Intent To Request Renewal From OMB of One Current Public Collection of Information...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-30

... Security Officer (TSO) to ensure their qualifications to perform TSO duties pursuant to 49 U.S.C 44965. In certain cases, TSO candidates' health care providers may be asked to complete supplemental forms. DATES... candidates and, in certain cases, supplemental forms completed by TSO candidates' health care providers. The...

Applying design principles to fusion reactor configurations for propulsion in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carpenter, Scott A.; Deveny, Marc E.; Schulze, Norman R.

1993-01-01

The application of fusion power to space propulsion requires rethinking the engineering-design solution to controlled-fusion energy. Whereas the unit cost of electricity (COE) drives the engineering-design solution for utility-based fusion reactor configurations; initial mass to low earth orbit (IMLEO), specific jet power (kW(thrust)/kg(engine)), and reusability drive the engineering-design solution for successful application of fusion power to space propulsion. We applied three design principles (DP's) to adapt and optimize three candidate-terrestrial-fusion-reactor configurations for propulsion in space. The three design principles are: provide maximum direct access to space for waste radiation, operate components as passive radiators to minimize cooling-system mass, and optimize the plasma fuel, fuel mix, and temperature for best specific jet power. The three candidate terrestrial fusion reactor configurations are: the thermal barrier tandem mirror (TBTM), field reversed mirror (FRM), and levitated dipole field (LDF). The resulting three candidate space fusion propulsion systems have their IMLEO minimized and their specific jet power and reusability maximized. We performed a preliminary rating of these configurations and concluded that the leading engineering-design solution to space fusion propulsion is a modified TBTM that we call the Mirror Fusion Propulsion System (MFPS).

Corrosion testing of candidates for the alkaline fuel cell cathode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singer, Joseph; Fielder, William L.

1990-01-01

Current/voltage data have been obtained for specially made corrosion electrodes of some oxides and of gold materials for the purpose of developing a screening test of catalysts and supports for use at the cathode of the alkaline fuel cell. The data consist of measurements of current at fixed potentials and cyclic voltammograms. These data will have to be correlated with longtime performance data in order to evaluate fully this approach to corrosion screening.

Reestablishing Open Rotor as an Option for Significant Fuel Burn Improvements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Van Zante, Dale

2011-01-01

A low-noise open rotor system is being tested in collaboration with General Electric and CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma and GE. Candidate technologies for lower noise will be investigated as well as installation effects such as pylon integration. Current test status is presented as well as future scheduled testing which includes the FAA/CLEEN test entry. Pre-test predictions show that Open Rotors have the potential for revolutionary fuel burn savings.

Synthesis of zeolite from rice husk ash waste of brick industries as hydrophobic adsorbent for fuel grade ethanol purification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purnomo, A.; Alhanif, M.; Khotimah, C.; Zuhra, UA; Putri, BR; Kumoro, AC

2017-11-01

A lot of researchers have devoted on ethanol utilization as renewable energy to substitute petroleum based gasoline. When ethanol is being used as a new fuel candidate, it should have at least of 99.5% purity. Usually produced via sugar fermentation process, further purification of ethanol from other components in fermentation broth to obtain its fuel grade is a crucial step. The purpose of this research is to produce synthetic zeolite as hydrophobic adsorbent from rice husk ash for ethanol-water separation and to investigate the influence of weight, adsorption time and initial ethanol concentration on zeolite adsorption capacity. This research consisted of rice husk silica extraction, preparation of hydrophobic zeolite adsorbent, physical characterization using SEM, EDX and adsorption test for an ethanol-water solution. Zeolite with highest adsorption capacity was obtained with 15: 1 alumina silica composition. The best adsorption condition was achieved when 4-gram hydrophobic zeolite applied for adsorption of 100 mL of 10% (v/v) ethanol-water solution for 120 minutes, which resulted in ethanol with 98.93% (v/v) purity. The hydrophobic zeolite from rice husk ash is a potential candidate as an efficient adsorbent to purify raw ethanol into fuel grade ethanol. Implementation of this new adsorbent for ethanol production in commercial scale may reduce the energy consumption of that usually used for the distillation processes.

Grain growth in uranium nitride prepared by spark plasma sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Kyle D.; Lopes, Denise Adorno

2018-05-01

Uranium mononitride (UN) has long been considered a potential high density, high performance fuel candidate for light water reactor (LWR) and fast reactor (FR) applications. However, deployability of this fuel has been limited by the notable resistance to sintering and subsequent difficulty in producing a desirable microstructure, the high costs associated with 15N enrichment, as well as the known proclivity to oxidation and interaction with steam. In this study, the stimulation of grain growth in UN pellets sintered using SPS has been investigated. The results reveal that by using SPS and controlling temperature, time, and holding pressure, grain growth can be stimulated and controlled to produce a material featuring both a desired porosity and grain size, at least within the range of interest for nuclear fuel candidates. Grain sizes up to 31 μm were obtained using temperatures of 1650 °C and hold times of 15 min. Evaluation by EBSD reveal grain rotation and coalescence as the dominant mechanism in grain growth, which is suppressed by the application of higher external pressure. Moreover, complete closure of the porosity of the material was observed at relative densities of 96% TD, resulting in a material with sufficient porosity to accommodate LWR burnup. These results indicate that a method exists for the economic fabrication of an 15N-bearing uranium mononitride fuel with favorable microstructural characteristics compatible with use in a light water-cooled nuclear reactor.

Optimum Strategies for Selecting Descent Flight-Path Angles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, Minghong G. (Inventor); Green, Steven M. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

An information processing system and method for adaptively selecting an aircraft descent flight path for an aircraft, are provided. The system receives flight adaptation parameters, including aircraft flight descent time period, aircraft flight descent airspace region, and aircraft flight descent flyability constraints. The system queries a plurality of flight data sources and retrieves flight information including any of winds and temperatures aloft data, airspace/navigation constraints, airspace traffic demand, and airspace arrival delay model. The system calculates a set of candidate descent profiles, each defined by at least one of a flight path angle and a descent rate, and each including an aggregated total fuel consumption value for the aircraft following a calculated trajectory, and a flyability constraints metric for the calculated trajectory. The system selects a best candidate descent profile having the least fuel consumption value while the fly ability constraints metric remains within aircraft flight descent flyability constraints.

Minimization of Roll Firings for Optimal Propellant Maneuvers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leach, Parker C.

Attitude control of the International Space Station (ISS) is critical for operations, impacting power, communications, and thermal systems. The station uses gyroscopes and thrusters for attitude control, and reorientations are normally assisted by thrusters on docked vehicles. When the docked vehicles are unavailable, the reduction in control authority in the roll axis results in frequent jet firings and massive fuel consumption. To improve this situation, new guidance and control schemes are desired that provide control with fewer roll firings. Optimal control software was utilized to solve for potential candidates that satisfied desired conditions with the goal of minimizing total propellant. An ISS simulation too was then used to test these solutions for feasibility. After several problem reformulations, multiple candidate solutions minimizing or completely eliminating roll firings were found. Flight implementation would not only save massive amounts of fuel and thus money, but also reduce ISS wear and tear, thereby extending its lifetime.

The Development of Boiler Pipes Used for 700°C A-USC-PP in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhengdong; Bao, Hansheng; Xu, Songqian; Wang, Qijiang; Yang, Yujun; Zhang, Peng; Lei, Bingwang

This paper introduces the progress of boiler pipes used for the manufacturing of 700°C advanced ultra-super-critical (A-USC) fossil fuel power plants (PP) in China, with the emphasis on the detailed advancements of G115 and CN617 pipes, including technical exploration, industrial production and microstructure-property investigation. G115 is a novel ferritic heat resistant steels developed by CISRI, which is an impressive candidate material to make pipes for the temperature up to 650°C. CN617 is a recent modification of Inconel617B and the CN617 pipe with the dimension of Φ 460 × 80 mm was successfully manufactured in China. Some newly available data associated with above materials will be released. G115 and CN617 are imposing candidate materials for the manufacturing of 700°C advanced ultra-super-critical (A-USC) fossil fuel power plants (PP) in China.

Choosing An Alloy For Automotive Stirling Engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stephens, Joseph R.

1988-01-01

Report describes study of chemical compositions and microstructures of alloys for automotive Stirling engines. Engines offer advantages of high efficiency, low pollution, low noise, and ability to use variety of fuels. Twenty alloys evaluated for resistance to corrosion permeation by hydrogen, and high temperature. Iron-based alloys considered primary candidates because of low cost. Nickel-based alloys second choice in case suitable iron-based alloy could not be found. Cobalt-based alloy included for comparison but not candidate, because it is expensive strategic material.

Use of bacteriophage to prevent Pseudomonas aeruginosa contamination and fouling in Jet A aviation fuel.

PubMed

Bojanowski, Caitlin L; Crookes-Goodson, Wendy J; Robinson, Jayne B

2016-11-01

In the present study, the use of bacteriophages to prevent growth and/or biofouling by Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 was investigated in microcosms containing Jet A aviation fuel as the carbon source. Bacteriophages were found to be effective at preventing biofilm formation but did not always prevent planktonic growth in the microcosms. This result was at odds with experiments conducted in nutrient-rich medium, demonstrating the necessity to test antimicrobial and antifouling strategies under conditions as near as possible to the 'real world'. The success of the bacteriophages at preventing biofilm formation makes them potential candidates as antifouling agents for fuel systems.

A two-dimensional, finite-difference model of the oxidation of a uranium carbide fuel pellet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shepherd, James; Fairweather, Michael; Hanson, Bruce C.; Heggs, Peter J.

2015-12-01

The oxidation of spent uranium carbide fuel, a candidate fuel for Generation IV nuclear reactors, is an important process in its potential reprocessing cycle. However, the oxidation of uranium carbide in air is highly exothermic. A model has therefore been developed to predict the temperature rise, as well as other useful information such as reaction completion times, under different reaction conditions in order to help in deriving safe oxidation conditions. Finite difference-methods are used to model the heat and mass transfer processes occurring during the reaction in two dimensions and are coupled to kinetics found in the literature.

76 FR 32404 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Form 8864

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-06

... 8864, Biodiesel Fuels Credit. DATES: Written comments should be received on or before August 5, 2011 to...: Biodiesel Fuels Credit. OMB Number: 1545-1924. Form Number: 8864. Abstract: The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, section 302, added new code section 40A, credit for biodiesel used as a fuel. Form 8864 has...

Support grid for fuel elements in a nuclear reactor

DOEpatents

Finch, Lester M.

1977-01-01

A support grid is provided for holding nuclear fuel rods in a rectangular array. Intersecting sheet metal strips are interconnected using opposing slots in the strips to form a rectangular cellular grid structure for engaging the sides of a multiplicity of fuel rods. Spring and dimple supports for engaging fuel and guide rods extending through each cell in the support grid are formed in the metal strips with the springs thus formed being characterized by nonlinear spring rates.

Cermet-fueled reactors for advanced space applications

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

Cowan, C.L.; Palmer, R.S.; Taylor, I.N.

Cermet-fueled nuclear reactors are attractive candidates for high-performance advanced space power systems. The cermet consists of a hexagonal matrix of a refractory metal and a ceramic fuel, with multiple tubular flow channels. The high performance characteristics of the fuel matrix come from its high strength at elevated temperatures and its high thermal conductivity. The cermet fuel concept evolved in the 1960s with the objective of developing a reactor design that could be used for a wide range of mobile power generating sytems, including both Brayton and Rankine power conversion cycles. High temperature thermal cycling tests for the cermet fuel weremore » carried out by General Electric as part of the 710 Project (General Electric 1966), and by Argonne National Laboratory in the Direct Nuclear Rocket Program (1965). Development programs for cermet fuel are currently under way at Argonne National Laboratory and Pacific Northwest Laboratory. The high temperature qualification tests from the 1960s have provided a base for the incorporation of cermet fuel in advanced space applications. The status of the cermet fuel development activities and descriptions of the key features of the cermet-fueled reactor design are summarized in this paper.« less

Micro-structural study and Rietveld analysis of fast reactor fuels: U-Mo fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, S.; Choudhuri, G.; Banerjee, J.; Agarwal, Renu; Khan, K. B.; Kumar, Arun

2015-12-01

U-Mo alloys are the candidate fuels for both research reactors and fast breeder reactors. In-reactor performance of the fuel depends on the microstructural stability and thermal properties of the fuel. To improve the fuel performance, alloying elements viz. Zr, Mo, Nb, Ti and fissium are added in the fuel. The first reactor fuels are normally prepared by injection casting. The objective of this work is to compare microstructure, phase-fields and hardness of as-cast four different U-Mo alloy (2, 5, 10 and 33 at.% Mo) fuels with the equilibrium microstructure of the alloys. Scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectrometer and optical microscope have been used to characterize the morphology of the as-cast and annealed alloys. The monoclinic α'' phase in as-cast U-10 at.% Mo alloy has been characterized through Rietveld analysis. A comparison of metallographic and Rietveld analysis of as-cast (dendritic microstructure) and annealed U-33 at.% Mo alloy, corresponding to intermetallic compound, has been reported here for the first time. This study will provide in depth understanding of microstructural and phase evolution of U-Mo alloys as fast reactor fuel.

Three-Dimensional Measurements of Fuel Distribution in High-Pressure, High- Temperature, Next-Generation Aviation Gas Turbine Combustors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hicks, Yolanda R.; Locke, Randy J.; Anderson, Robert C.; Zaller, Michelle M.

1998-01-01

In our world-class, optically accessible combustion facility at the NASA Lewis Research Center, we have developed the unique capability of making three-dimensional fuel distribution measurements of aviation gas turbine fuel injectors at actual operating conditions. These measurements are made in situ at the actual operating temperatures and pressures using the JP-grade fuels of candidate next-generation advanced aircraft engines for the High Speed Research (HSR) and Advanced Subsonics Technology (AST) programs. The inlet temperature and pressure ranges used thus far are 300 to 1100 F and 80 to 250 psia. With these data, we can obtain the injector spray angles, the fuel mass distributions of liquid and vapor, the degree of fuel vaporization, and the degree to which fuel has been consumed. The data have been used to diagnose the performance of injectors designed both in-house and by major U.S. engine manufacturers and to design new fuel injectors with overall engine performance goals of increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Mie scattering is used to visualize the liquid fuel, and laser-induced fluorescence is used to visualize both liquid and fuel vapor.

Laser-fusion targets for reactors

DOEpatents

Nuckolls, John H.; Thiessen, Albert R.

1987-01-01

A laser target comprising a thermonuclear fuel capsule composed of a centrally located quantity of fuel surrounded by at least one or more layers or shells of material for forming an atmosphere around the capsule by a low energy laser prepulse. The fuel may be formed as a solid core or hollow shell, and, under certain applications, a pusher-layer or shell is located intermediate the fuel and the atmosphere forming material. The fuel is ignited by symmetrical implosion via energy produced by a laser, or other energy sources such as an electron beam machine or ion beam machine, whereby thermonuclear burn of the fuel capsule creates energy for applications such as generation of electricity via a laser fusion reactor.

Photoelectrochemical hydrogen production from biomass derivatives and water.

PubMed

Lu, Xihong; Xie, Shilei; Yang, Hao; Tong, Yexiang; Ji, Hongbing

2014-11-21

Hydrogen, a clean energy carrier with high energy capacity, is a very promising candidate as a primary energy source for the future. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen production from renewable biomass derivatives and water is one of the most promising approaches to producing green chemical fuel. Compared to water splitting, hydrogen production from renewable biomass derivatives and water through a PEC process is more efficient from the viewpoint of thermodynamics. Additionally, the carbon dioxide formed can be re-transformed into carbohydrates via photosynthesis in plants. In this review, we focus on the development of photoanodes and systems for PEC hydrogen production from water and renewable biomass derivatives, such as methanol, ethanol, glycerol and sugars. We also discuss the future challenges and opportunities for the design of the state-of-the-art photoanodes and PEC systems for hydrogen production from biomass derivatives and water.

From Evaluation to Collaborative Reflection: Teacher Candidate Perceptions of a Digital Learner-Centered Classroom Observation Form

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flores, Raymond; Krutka, Daniel G.; Mason, Katherine; Bergman, Daniel J.

2014-01-01

In efforts to promote a more learner-centered approach to supervision, faculty members at a Midwestern U.S. university piloted a new digital classroom observation form. Participants included middle/secondary teacher candidates (N = 28) in their final semester of their programs. The overall goal of this study was to gather teacher candidates'…

Performance of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) on Large-Scale Hydroprocessed Renewable Jet (HRJ) Fuel Fires

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

aqueous film forming foam ( AFFF ) firefighting agents and equipment are capable of...AFRL-RX-TY-TR-2012-0012 PERFORMANCE OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM ( AFFF ) ON LARGE-SCALE HYDROPROCESSED RENEWABLE JET (HRJ) FUEL FIRES...Performance of Aqueous Film Forming Foam ( AFFF ) on Large-Scale Hydroprocessed Renewable Jet (HRJ) Fuel Fires FA4819-09-C-0030 0602102F 4915 D0

Reforming of fuel inside fuel cell generator

DOEpatents

Grimble, Ralph E.

1988-01-01

Disclosed is an improved method of reforming a gaseous reformable fuel within a solid oxide fuel cell generator, wherein the solid oxide fuel cell generator has a plurality of individual fuel cells in a refractory container, the fuel cells generating a partially spent fuel stream and a partially spent oxidant stream. The partially spent fuel stream is divided into two streams, spent fuel stream I and spent fuel stream II. Spent fuel stream I is burned with the partially spent oxidant stream inside the refractory container to produce an exhaust stream. The exhaust stream is divided into two streams, exhaust stream I and exhaust stream II, and exhaust stream I is vented. Exhaust stream II is mixed with spent fuel stream II to form a recycle stream. The recycle stream is mixed with the gaseous reformable fuel within the refractory container to form a fuel stream which is supplied to the fuel cells. Also disclosed is an improved apparatus which permits the reforming of a reformable gaseous fuel within such a solid oxide fuel cell generator. The apparatus comprises a mixing chamber within the refractory container, means for diverting a portion of the partially spent fuel stream to the mixing chamber, means for diverting a portion of exhaust gas to the mixing chamber where it is mixed with the portion of the partially spent fuel stream to form a recycle stream, means for injecting the reformable gaseous fuel into the recycle stream, and means for circulating the recycle stream back to the fuel cells.

Reforming of fuel inside fuel cell generator

DOEpatents

Grimble, R.E.

1988-03-08

Disclosed is an improved method of reforming a gaseous reformable fuel within a solid oxide fuel cell generator, wherein the solid oxide fuel cell generator has a plurality of individual fuel cells in a refractory container, the fuel cells generating a partially spent fuel stream and a partially spent oxidant stream. The partially spent fuel stream is divided into two streams, spent fuel stream 1 and spent fuel stream 2. Spent fuel stream 1 is burned with the partially spent oxidant stream inside the refractory container to produce an exhaust stream. The exhaust stream is divided into two streams, exhaust stream 1 and exhaust stream 2, and exhaust stream 1 is vented. Exhaust stream 2 is mixed with spent fuel stream 2 to form a recycle stream. The recycle stream is mixed with the gaseous reformable fuel within the refractory container to form a fuel stream which is supplied to the fuel cells. Also disclosed is an improved apparatus which permits the reforming of a reformable gaseous fuel within such a solid oxide fuel cell generator. The apparatus comprises a mixing chamber within the refractory container, means for diverting a portion of the partially spent fuel stream to the mixing chamber, means for diverting a portion of exhaust gas to the mixing chamber where it is mixed with the portion of the partially spent fuel stream to form a recycle stream, means for injecting the reformable gaseous fuel into the recycle stream, and means for circulating the recycle stream back to the fuel cells. 1 fig.

Certification of biological candidates reference materials by neutron activation analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabanov, Denis V.; Nesterova, Yulia V.; Merkulov, Viktor G.

2018-03-01

The paper gives the results of interlaboratory certification of new biological candidate reference materials by neutron activation analysis recommended by the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology (Warsaw, Poland). The correctness and accuracy of the applied method was statistically estimated for the determination of trace elements in candidate reference materials. The procedure of irradiation in the reactor thermal fuel assembly without formation of fast neutrons was carried out. It excluded formation of interfering isotopes leading to false results. The concentration of more than 20 elements (e.g., Ba, Br, Ca, Co, Ce, Cr, Cs, Eu, Fe, Hf, La, Lu, Rb, Sb, Sc, Ta, Th, Tb, Yb, U, Zn) in candidate references of tobacco leaves and bottom sediment compared to certified reference materials were determined. It was shown that the average error of the applied method did not exceed 10%.

Liquid-fueled SOFC power sources for transportation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myles, K. M.; Doshi, R.; Kumar, R.; Krumpelt, M.

Traditionally, fuel cells have been developed for space or stationary terrestrial applications. As the first commercial 200-kW systems were being introduced by ONSI and Fuji Electric, the potentially much larger, but also more challenging, application in transportation was beginning to be addressed. As a result, fuel cell-powered buses have been designed and built, and R&D programs for fuel cell-powered passenger cars have been initiated. The engineering challenge of eventually replacing the internal combustion engine in buses, trucks, and passenger cars with fuel cell systems is to achieve much higher power densities and much lower costs than obtainable in systems designed for stationary applications. At present, the leading fuel cell candidate for transportation applications is, without question, the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). Offering ambient temperature start-up and the potential for a relatively high power density, the polymer technology has attracted the interest of automotive manufacturers worldwide. But the difficulties of fuel handling for the PEFC have led to a growing interest in exploring the prospects for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) operating on liquid fuels for transportation applications. Solid oxide fuel cells are much more compatible with liquid fuels (methanol or other hydrocarbons) and are potentially capable of power densities high enough for vehicular use. Two SOFC options for such use are discussed in this report.

Analysis and Experimental Qualification of an Irradiation Capsule Design for Testing Pressurized Water Reactor Fuel Cladding in the High Flux Isotope Reactor

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

Smith, Kurt R.; Howard, Richard H.; Daily, Charles R.

The Advanced Fuels Campaign within the Fuel Cycle Research and Development program of the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy is currently investigating a number of advanced nuclear fuel cladding concepts to improve the accident tolerance of light water reactors. Alumina-forming ferritic alloys (e.g., FeCrAl) are some of the leading candidates to replace traditional zirconium alloys due to their superior oxidation resistance, provided no prohibitive irradiation-induced embrittlement occurs. Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed experimental designs to irradiate thin-walled cladding tubes with representative pressurized water reactor geometry in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) under relevant temperatures. These designsmore » allow for post-irradiation examination (PIE) of cladding that closely resembles expected commercially viable geometries and microstructures. The experiments were designed using relatively inexpensive rabbit capsules for the irradiation vehicle. The simplistic designs combined with the extremely high neutron flux in the HFIR allow for rapid testing of a large test matrix, thus reducing the time and cost needed to advanced cladding materials closer to commercialization. The designs are flexible in that they allow for testing FeCrAl alloys, stainless steels, Inconel alloys, and zirconium alloys (as a reference material) both with and without hydrides. This will allow a direct comparison of the irradiation performance of advanced cladding materials with traditional zirconium alloys. PIE will include studies of dimensional change, microstructure variation, mechanical performance, etc. This work describes the capsule design, neutronic and thermal analyses, and flow testing that were performed to support the qualification of this new irradiation vehicle.« less

Natural Silica Sand/Alumina Ceramic Composites: Promising Candidates for Fuel-Cell Sealants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hidayat, N.; Istiqomah; Widianto, M. Y. H.; Taufiq, A.; Sunaryono; Triwikantoro; Zainuri, M.; Baqiya, M. A.; Aristia, G.; Pratapa, S.

2017-05-01

An attempt has been developed to establish the prospect of the useful application of Indonesian natural silica sand, instead of commercially expensive materials, as a future fuel-cell sealant. The sand was initially washed and ball-milled at 150 rpm for 60 minutes and then heated at 1000 °C for the same duration. The resulting powder was then mixed with alumina powder at various amounts and shaped into discs before sintering at 1150 °C and 1250 °C to produce compact ceramics. The diameter shrinkage, porosity, and density of the ceramics were evaluated by Archimedes method. Their crystalline phase composition was quantified by Rietveld refinement analysis on the X-ray diffraction (XRD) data and the phase weight fraction was then used for coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) evaluation. It was observed that the bulk density increased while the porosity decreased with alumina addition. The XRD data analysis revealed that the prepared silica sand contains a very high purity of quartz-SiO2, i.e. 97.8(18)%. The sintering temperatures of 1150 °C and 1250 °C transformed some quartz-SiO2 to crystobalite-SiO2. All the calcite-CaCO3 exhibited reaction sintering with SiO2 forming wollastonite-CaSiO3. Therefore, the ceramic composites contained SiO2/Al2O3/CaSiO3. Regarding CTE, all of the composites meet the criteria for fuel-cell sealants, in the range of 9-12 ppm/°C.

High volumetric power density, non-enzymatic, glucose fuel cells.

PubMed

Oncescu, Vlad; Erickson, David

2013-01-01

The development of new implantable medical devices has been limited in the past by slow advances in lithium battery technology. Non-enzymatic glucose fuel cells are promising replacement candidates for lithium batteries because of good long-term stability and adequate power density. The devices developed to date however use an "oxygen depletion design" whereby the electrodes are stacked on top of each other leading to low volumetric power density and complicated fabrication protocols. Here we have developed a novel single-layer fuel cell with good performance (2 μW cm⁻²) and stability that can be integrated directly as a coating layer on large implantable devices, or stacked to obtain a high volumetric power density (over 16 μW cm⁻³). This represents the first demonstration of a low volume non-enzymatic fuel cell stack with high power density, greatly increasing the range of applications for non-enzymatic glucose fuel cells.

High volumetric power density, non-enzymatic, glucose fuel cells

PubMed Central

Oncescu, Vlad; Erickson, David

2013-01-01

The development of new implantable medical devices has been limited in the past by slow advances in lithium battery technology. Non-enzymatic glucose fuel cells are promising replacement candidates for lithium batteries because of good long-term stability and adequate power density. The devices developed to date however use an “oxygen depletion design” whereby the electrodes are stacked on top of each other leading to low volumetric power density and complicated fabrication protocols. Here we have developed a novel single-layer fuel cell with good performance (2 μW cm−2) and stability that can be integrated directly as a coating layer on large implantable devices, or stacked to obtain a high volumetric power density (over 16 μW cm−3). This represents the first demonstration of a low volume non-enzymatic fuel cell stack with high power density, greatly increasing the range of applications for non-enzymatic glucose fuel cells. PMID:23390576

10. Fuel tanks concrete form plans, elevations and details, sheet ...

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

10. Fuel tanks concrete form plans, elevations and details, sheet 95 of 130 - Naval Air Station Fallon, Fuel Tanks, 800 Complex, off Carson Road near intersection of Pasture & Berney Roads, Fallon, Churchill County, NV

METHOD OF OPERATING NUCLEAR REACTORS

DOEpatents

Untermyer, S.

1958-10-14

A method is presented for obtaining enhanced utilization of natural uranium in heavy water moderated nuclear reactors by charging the reactor with an equal number of fuel elements formed of natural uranium and of fuel elements formed of uranium depleted in U/sup 235/ to the extent that the combination will just support a chain reaction. The reactor is operated until the rate of burnup of plutonium equals its rate of production, the fuel elements are processed to recover plutonium, the depleted uranium is discarded, and the remaining uranium is formed into fuel elements. These fuel elements are charged into a reactor along with an equal number of fuel elements formed of uranium depleted in U/sup 235/ to the extent that the combination will just support a chain reaction, and reuse of the uranium is continued as aforesaid until it wlll no longer support a chain reaction when combined with an equal quantity of natural uranium.

Uranium-molybdenum nuclear fuel plates behaviour under heavy ion irradiation: An X-ray diffraction analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palancher, H.; Wieschalla, N.; Martin, P.; Tucoulou, R.; Sabathier, C.; Petry, W.; Berar, J.-F.; Valot, C.; Dubois, S.

2009-03-01

Heavy ion irradiation has been proposed for discriminating UMo/Al specimens which are good candidates for research reactor fuels. Two UMo/Al dispersed fuels (U-7 wt%Mo/Al and U-10 wt%Mo/Al) have been irradiated with a 80 MeV 127I beam up to an ion fluence of 2 × 1017 cm-2. Microscopy and mainly X-ray diffraction using large and micrometer sized beams have enabled to characterize the grown interaction layer: UAl3 appears to be the only produced crystallized phase. The presence of an amorphous additional phase can however not be excluded. These results are in good agreement with characterizations performed on in-pile irradiated fuels and encourage new studies with heavy ion irradiation.

Space reactor fuel element testing in upgraded TREAT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todosow, M.; Bezler, P.; Ludewig, H.; Kato, W. Y.

The testing of candidate fuel elements at prototypic operating conditions with respect to temperature, power density, hydrogen coolant flow rate, etc.; a crucial component in the development and qualification of nuclear rocket engines based on the Particle Bed Reactor (PBR); NERVA-derivative; and other concepts are discussed. Such testing may be performed at existing reactors, or at new facilities. A scoping study has been performed to assess the feasibility of testing PBR based fuel elements at the TREAT reactor. Initial results suggest that full-scale PBR elements could be tested at an average energy deposition of approximately 60-80 MW-s/L in the current TREAT reactor. If the TREAT reactor was upgraded to include fuel elements with a higher temperature limit, average energy deposition of approximately 100 MW/L may be achievable.

Space reactor fuel element testing in upgraded TREAT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todosow, Michael; Bezler, Paul; Ludewig, Hans; Kato, Walter Y.

1993-01-01

The testing of candidate fuel elements at prototypic operating conditions with respect to temperature, power density, hydrogen coolant flow rate, etc., is a crucial component in the development and qualification of nuclear rocket engines based on the Particle Bed Reactor (PBR), NERVA-derivative, and other concepts. Such testing may be performed at existing reactors, or at new facilities. A scoping study has been performed to assess the feasibility of testing PBR based fuel elements at the TREAT reactor. Initial results suggests that full-scale PBR elements could be tested at an average energy deposition of ˜60-80 MW-s/L in the current TREAT reactor. If the TREAT reactor was upgraded to include fuel elements with a higher temperture limit, average energy deposition of ˜100 MW/L may be achievable.

Low hydrostatic head electrolyte addition to fuel cell stacks

DOEpatents

Kothmann, Richard E.

1983-01-01

A fuel cell and system for supply electrolyte, as well as fuel and an oxidant to a fuel cell stack having at least two fuel cells, each of the cells having a pair of spaced electrodes and a matrix sandwiched therebetween, fuel and oxidant paths associated with a bipolar plate separating each pair of adjacent fuel cells and an electrolyte fill path for adding electrolyte to the cells and wetting said matrices. Electrolyte is flowed through the fuel cell stack in a back and forth fashion in a path in each cell substantially parallel to one face of opposite faces of the bipolar plate exposed to one of the electrodes and the matrices to produce an overall head uniformly between cells due to frictional pressure drop in the path for each cell free of a large hydrostatic head to thereby avoid flooding of the electrodes. The bipolar plate is provided with channels forming paths for the flow of the fuel and oxidant on opposite faces thereof, and the fuel and the oxidant are flowed along a first side of the bipolar plate and a second side of the bipolar plate through channels formed into the opposite faces of the bipolar plate, the fuel flowing through channels formed into one of the opposite faces and the oxidant flowing through channels formed into the other of the opposite faces.

New applications for phosphoric acid fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stickles, R. P.; Breuer, C. T.

1983-11-01

New applications for phosphoric acid fuel cells were identified and evaluated. Candidates considered included all possibilities except grid connected electric utility applications, on site total energy systems, industrial cogeneration, opportunistic use of waste hydrogen, space and military applications, and applications smaller than 10 kW. Applications identified were screened, with the most promising subjected to technical and economic evaluation using a fuel cell and conventional power system data base developed in the study. The most promising applications appear to be the underground mine locomotive and the railroad locomotive. Also interesting are power for robotic submersibles and Arctic villages. The mine locomotive is particularly attractive since it is expected that the fuel cell could command a very high price and still be competitive with the conventionally used battery system. The railroad locomotive's attractiveness results from the (smaller) premium price which the fuel cell could command over the conventional diesel electric system based on its superior fuel efficiency, and on the large size of this market and the accompanying opportunities for manufacturing economy.

Study of ceria-carbonate nanocomposite electrolytes for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells.

PubMed

Fan, L; Wang, C; Di, J; Chen, M; Zheng, J; Zhu, B

2012-06-01

Composite and nanocomposite samarium doped ceria-carbonates powders were prepared by solid-state reaction, citric acid-nitrate combustion and modified nanocomposite approaches and used as electrolytes for low temperature solid oxide fuel cells. X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscope, low-temperature Nitrogen Adsorption/desorption Experiments, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and fuel cell performance test were employed in characterization of these materials. All powders are nano-size particles with slight aggregation and carbonates are amorphous in composites. Nanocomposite electrolyte exhibits much lower impedance resistance and higher ionic conductivity than those of the other electrolytes at lower temperature. Fuel cell using the electrolyte prepared by modified nanocomposite approach exhibits the best performance in the whole operation temperature range and achieves a maximum power density of 839 mW cm(-2) at 600 degrees C with H2 as fuel. The excellent physical and electrochemical performances of nanocomposite electrolyte make it a promising candidate for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells.

New applications for phosphoric acid fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stickles, R. P.; Breuer, C. T.

1983-01-01

New applications for phosphoric acid fuel cells were identified and evaluated. Candidates considered included all possibilities except grid connected electric utility applications, on site total energy systems, industrial cogeneration, opportunistic use of waste hydrogen, space and military applications, and applications smaller than 10 kW. Applications identified were screened, with the most promising subjected to technical and economic evaluation using a fuel cell and conventional power system data base developed in the study. The most promising applications appear to be the underground mine locomotive and the railroad locomotive. Also interesting are power for robotic submersibles and Arctic villages. The mine locomotive is particularly attractive since it is expected that the fuel cell could command a very high price and still be competitive with the conventionally used battery system. The railroad locomotive's attractiveness results from the (smaller) premium price which the fuel cell could command over the conventional diesel electric system based on its superior fuel efficiency, and on the large size of this market and the accompanying opportunities for manufacturing economy.

Means for supporting fuel elements in a nuclear reactor

DOEpatents

Andrews, Harry N.; Keller, Herbert W.

1980-01-01

A grid structure for a nuclear reactor fuel assembly comprising a plurality of connecting members forming at least one longitudinally extending opening peripheral and inner fuel element openings through each of which openings at least one nuclear fuel element extends, said connecting members forming wall means surrounding said each peripheral and inner fuel element opening, a pair of rigid projections longitudinally spaced from one another extending from a portion of said wall means into said each peripheral and inner opening for rigidly engaging said each fuel element, respectively, yet permit individual longitudinal slippage thereof, and resilient means formed integrally on and from said wall means and positioned in said each peripheral and inner opening in opposed relationship with said projections and located to engage said fuel element to bias the latter into engagement with said rigid projections, respectively

The US Army Foreign Comparative Test fuel cell program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bostic, Elizabeth; Sifer, Nicholas; Bolton, Christopher; Ritter, Uli; Dubois, Terry

The US Army RDECOM initiated a Foreign Comparative Test (FCT) Program to acquire lightweight, high-energy dense fuel cell systems from across the globe for evaluation as portable power sources in military applications. Five foreign companies, including NovArs, Smart Fuel Cell, Intelligent Energy, Ballard Power Systems, and Hydrogenics, Inc., were awarded competitive contracts under the RDECOM effort. This paper will report on the status of the program as well as the experimental results obtained from one of the units. The US Army has interests in evaluating and deploying a variety of fuel cell systems, where these systems show added value when compared to current power sources in use. For low-power applications, fuel cells utilizing high-energy dense fuels offer significant weight savings over current battery technologies. This helps reduce the load a solider must carry for longer missions. For high-power applications, the low operating signatures (acoustic and thermal) of fuel cell systems make them ideal power generators in stealth operations. Recent testing has been completed on the Smart Fuel Cell A25 system that was procured through the FCT program. The "A-25" is a direct methanol fuel cell hybrid and was evaluated as a potential candidate for soldier and sensor power applications.

Effects of Polymer Structure and Relaxations on Ionic Conductivity in Anion Exchange Membranes with Quaternary Ammonium Functional Groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maes, Ashley M.

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are of considerable interest to developers and researchers of electrochemical conversion and storage devices such as anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AAEMFCs), alkaline polymer electrolyte electrolysers, redox flow batteries and bioelectrochemical devices. AEMs are generally in competition with more established proton exchange membranes (PEMs), but offer the potential for reduction of materials costs and greater fuel flexibility across these applications. This work includes an introduction to AEMs in the context of fuel cell technologies and some key techniques for AEM characterization. There are many synthetic strategies to incorporate cationic functional groups, which promote anion transport, into a polymer matrix. Two membrane chemistries are investigated in the following chapters. The first is based on a simple synthesis procedure that produced a membrane consisting of random, crosslinked polypropylene- ran-polyethyleneimine with quaternary ammonium functional groups. This membrane had moderate chloride ionic conductivity of 0.03 S cm -1 at 95 °C and high water uptake with minimal dimensional swelling. However, the lack of control of crosslink location and density during synthesis produced a material with a very random nature, making it a poor candidate for more fundamental transport studies. The second membrane chemistry is a block copolymer with a hydrophobic and hydrophilic block. The hydrophobic block was selected to provide favorable mechanical and barrier characteristics while a hydrophilic block was selected to provide water uptake and anion conducting functionalities. Poly(vinyl benzyl trimethyl ammonium bromide)-b-poly(methylbutylene) ([PVBTMA][Br]- b-PMB) was synthesized by partners at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with varied degrees of functionalization (DF) along the hydrophilic block, resulting in ion exchange capacities ranging from 0.77 to 2.20 mmol g -1. Water uptake, in-plane ionic conductivity and membrane morphology were measured across a series of membranes with the original bromide (Br -) counter-ion. These bulk materials characterization experiments demonstrated that this polymer structure produces well-ordered lamellar morphology with moderate water uptake and competitive ionic conductivity (ca. 40 mS cm-1 at 90 °C and 95% relative humidity). These characteristics make it an appropriate candidate for the following more fundamental investigations of ionic conductivity mechanisms. Broadband electrical spectroscopy (BES) was conducted on one [PVBTMA][Br]- b-PMB sample in the Br- form and analyzed in conjunction with thermal stability and relaxation experiments in Chapter 4. We were able to propose two separate ionic conductivity mechanisms and relate each to physical attributes of the polymer structure. A significant thermal transition was observed at Tdelta , which resulted in a dramatic drop in conductivity. In a continued effort to characterize the ionic conductivity of these block-copolymer membranes, another BES study was conducted on three samples with varying DFs. Samples were converted to hydroxide (OH- ) form so we could contrast the Br- conductivity mechanisms to those in a more relevant counter-ion form. After analysis of the electric response of the material, combined with the thermal analysis by TGA, MDSC and DMA, conductivity mechanisms were described. As in the Br- study, conductivity involves two distinct conduction pathways, sigmaEP and sigmaIP,1. Importantly, we again observed a drop in conductivity at Tdelta in each of these samples, with Tdelta decreasing as the density of functional groups along the hydrophilic block increased. It is undesirable for this transition to occur during operation in a fuel cell or other electrochemical device, so future work to investigate strategies for inhibition are recommended.

Progress in the Assessment of Waste-forms for the Immobilisation of UK Civil Plutonium

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

Harrison, M.T.; Scales, C.R.; Maddrell, E.R.

The alternatives for the disposition of the UK's civil plutonium stocks are currently being investigated by Nexia Solutions Ltd. on behalf of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). A number of scenarios are currently being considered depending on the strategic requirements of the UK. The two main disposition options are: re-use as MOX (Mixed Oxide) fuel in reactors, or immobilisation in the event of any material being declared surplus to requirements. The amount of Pu which will require immobilisation will depend on future UK nuclear strategy, along with the extent of any stocks deemed unsuitable for re-use. However, it is likelymore » that some portion will have to be immobilised and therefore three credible waste-forms are under consideration; ceramic, glass and 'immobilisation' MOX. These are currently being developed and assessed in a systematic programme that involves periodic evaluation against a range of criteria. In this way, by down-selecting on the basis of robust and technical review, the most appropriate option for immobilising surplus civil plutonium in the UK can be recommended. The latest results from the immobilisation experimental programme are presented following the de-selection of the least favourable glass and ceramic candidates. The main criteria for this decision were waste loading, durability, processability, criticality and proliferation resistance. In addition, the durability of unirradiated MOX fuel is being examined to determine its potential as a wasteform for Pu, and recent leach test data is discussed. The current evaluation comprises not only a comparison of the relevant physical properties of the various waste-forms, but also key processing parameters, e.g. glass viscosity and melter technology, ceramic fabrication routes, and criticality issues. Other important aspects of the long-term behaviour of the waste-forms under consideration in a potential repository environment, such as radiation damage, criticality control and the properties of any neutron poisons present, are also included. (authors)« less

NUCLEAR REACTOR FUEL ELEMENT

DOEpatents

Wheelock, C.W.; Baumeister, E.B.

1961-09-01

A reactor fuel element utilizing fissionable fuel materials in plate form is described. This fuel element consists of bundles of fuel-bearing plates. The bundles are stacked inside of a tube which forms the shell of the fuel element. The plates each have longitudinal fins running parallel to the direction of coolant flow, and interspersed among and parallel to the fins are ribs which position the plates relative to each other and to the fuel element shell. The plate bundles are held together by thin bands or wires. The ex tended surface increases the heat transfer capabilities of a fuel element by a factor of 3 or more over those of a simple flat plate.

N-butanol and isobutanol as alternatives to gasoline: Comparison of port fuel injector characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fenkl, Michael; Pechout, Martin; Vojtisek, Michal

2016-03-01

The paper reports on an experimental investigation of the relationship between the pulse width of a gasoline engine port fuel injector and the quantity of the fuel injected when butanol is used as a fuel. Two isomers of butanol, n-butanol and isobutanol, are considered as potential candidates for renewable, locally produced fuels capable of serving as a drop-in replacement fuel for gasoline, as an alternative to ethanol which poses material compatibility and other drawbacks. While the injected quantity of fuel is typically a linear function of the time the injector coil is energized, the flow through the port fuel injector is complex, non ideal, and not necessarily laminar, and considering that butanol has much higher viscosity than gasoline, an experimental investigation was conducted. A production injector, coupled to a production fueling system, and driven by a pulse width generator was operated at various pulse lengths and frequencies, covering the range of engine rpm and loads on a car engine. The results suggest that at least at room temperature, the fueling rate remains to be a linear function of the pulse width for both n-butanol and isobutanol, and the volumes of fuel injected are comparable for gasoline and both butanol isomers.

Advanced coal-fueled industrial cogeneration gas turbine system particle removal system development

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

Stephenson, M.

1994-03-01

Solar Turbines developed a direct coal-fueled turbine system (DCFT) and tested each component in subscale facilities and the combustion system was tested at full-scale. The combustion system was comprised of a two-stage slagging combustor with an impact separator between the two combustors. Greater than 90 percent of the native ash in the coal was removed as liquid slag with this system. In the first combustor, coal water slurry mixture (CWM) was injected into a combustion chamber which was operated loan to suppress NO{sub x} formation. The slurry was introduced through four fuel injectors that created a toroidal vortex because ofmore » the combustor geometry and angle of orientation of the injectors. The liquid slag that was formed was directed downward toward an impaction plate made of a refractory material. Sixty to seventy percent of the coal-borne ash was collected in this fashion. An impact separator was used to remove additional slag that had escaped the primary combustor. The combined particulate collection efficiency from both combustors was above 95 percent. Unfortunately, a great deal of the original sulfur from the coal still remained in the gas stream and needed to be separated. To accomplish this, dolomite or hydrated lime were injected in the secondary combustor to react with the sulfur dioxide and form calcium sulfite and sulfates. This solution for the sulfur problem increased the dust concentrations to as much as 6000 ppmw. A downstream particulate control system was required, and one that could operate at 150 psia, 1850-1900{degrees}F and with low pressure drop. Solar designed and tested a particulate rejection system to remove essentially all particulate from the high temperature, high pressure gas stream. A thorough research and development program was aimed at identifying candidate technologies and testing them with Solar`s coal-fired system. This topical report summarizes these activities over a period beginning in 1987 and ending in 1992.« less

75 FR 69221 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native Species That Are Candidates for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-10

...In this Candidate Notice of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), present an updated list of plant and animal species native to the United States that we regard as candidates for or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Identification of candidate species can assist environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential listings, allowing landowners and resource managers to alleviate threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as endangered or threatened. Even if we subsequently list a candidate species, the early notice provided here could result in more options for species management and recovery by prompting candidate conservation measures to alleviate threats to the species. The CNOR summarizes the status and threats that we evaluated in order to determine that species qualify as candidates and to assign a listing priority number (LPN) to each species or to determine that species should be removed from candidate status. Additional material that we relied on is available in the Species Assessment and Listing Priority Assignment Forms (species assessment forms, previously called candidate forms) for each candidate species. Overall, this CNOR recognizes five new candidates, changes the LPN for four candidates, and removes one species from candidate status. Combined with other decisions for individual species that were published separately from this CNOR in the past year, the current number of species that are candidates for listing is 251. This document also includes our findings on resubmitted petitions and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants during the period October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010. We request additional status information that may be available for the 251 candidate species identified in this CNOR.

Development of Innovative Accident Tolerant High Thermal Conductivity UO 2-Diamond Composite Fuel Pellets

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

Tulenko, James; Subhash, Ghatu

2016-01-01

The University of Florida (UF) evaluated a composite fuel consisting of UO 2 powder mixed with diamond micro particles as a candidate as an accident-tolerant fuel (ATF). The research group had previous extensive experience researching with diamond micro particles as an addition to reactor coolant for improved plant thermal performance. The purpose of this research work was to utilize diamond micro particles to develop UO 2-Diamond composite fuel pellets with significantly enhanced thermal properties, beyond that already being measured in the previous UF research projects of UO 2 – SiC and UO 2 – Carbon Nanotube fuel pins. UF ismore » proving with the current research results that the addition of diamond micro particles to UO 2 may greatly enhanced the thermal conductivity of the UO 2 pellets producing an accident-tolerant fuel. The Beginning of life benefits have been proven and fuel samples are being irradiated in the ATR reactor to confirm that the thermal conductivity improvements are still present under irradiation.« less

Status Report on the Fabrication of Fuel Cladding Chemical Interaction Test Articles for ATR Irradiations

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

Field, Kevin G.; Howard, Richard H.

FeCrAl alloys are a promising new class of alloys for light water reactor (LWR) applications due to their superior oxidation and corrosion resistance in high temperature environments. The current R&D efforts have focused on the alloy composition and processing routes to generate nuclear grade FeCrAl alloys with optimized properties for enhanced accident tolerance while maintaining properties needed for normal operation conditions. Therefore, the composition and processing routes must be optimized to maintain the high temperature steam oxidation (typically achieved by increasing the Cr and Al content) while still exhibiting properties conducive to normal operation in a LWR (such as radiationmore » tolerance where reducing Cr content is favorable). Within this balancing act is the addition of understanding the influence on composition and processing routes on the FeCrAl alloys for fuel-cladding chemical interactions (FCCI). Currently, limited knowledge exists on FCCI for the FeCrAl-UO 2 clad-fuel system. To overcome the knowledge gaps on the FCCI for the FeCrAl-UO2 clad-fuel system a series of fueled irradiation tests have been developed for irradiation in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) housed at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The first series of tests has already been reported. These tests used miniaturized 17x17 PWR fuel geometry rodlets of second-generation FeCrAl alloys fueled with industrial Westinghouse UO 2 fuel. These rodlets were encapsulated within a stainless steel housing.To provide high fidelity experiments and more robust testing, a new series of rodlets have been developed deemed the Accident Tolerant Fuel Experiment #1 Oak Ridge National Laboratory FCCI test (ATF-1 ORNL FCCI). The main driving factor, which is discussed in detail, was to provide a radiation environment where prototypical fuel-clad interface temperatures are met while still maintaining constant contact between industrial fuel and the candidate cladding alloys, hence promoting FCCI between the fuel-clad systems. The other factor was to develop a test bed where multiple candidate alloys could be evaluated within a single irradiation test train, thereby reducing overall costs and increasing efficiency in alloy screening efforts. A collaboration between ORNL and INL was developed to facilitate the completion of the test bed for FCCI testing. The report highlights the activities related to the development of the ATF-1 ORNL FCCI rodlets for irradiation in INL’s ATR as part of the on-going ATF-1 experiments.« less

Gas turbine premixing systems

DOEpatents

Kraemer, Gilbert Otto; Varatharajan, Balachandar; Evulet, Andrei Tristan; Yilmaz, Ertan; Lacy, Benjamin Paul

2013-12-31

Methods and systems are provided for premixing combustion fuel and air within gas turbines. In one embodiment, a combustor includes an upstream mixing panel configured to direct compressed air and combustion fuel through premixing zone to form a fuel-air mixture. The combustor includes a downstream mixing panel configured to mix additional combustion fuel with the fule-air mixture to form a combustion mixture.

Electric Power Quarterly, July-September 1984

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

Not Available

1985-01-01

The Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ) provides electric utilities' plant-level information about the cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts, net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks. The EPQ contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. In this report, data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electric utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis.

Electric Power Quarterly, October-December 1984

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

Not Available

1985-04-01

The Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ) provides electric utilities' plant-level information about the cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts, net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks. The EPQ contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. In this report, data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electric utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis.

Nonhumidified intermediate temperature fuel cells using protic ionic liquids.

PubMed

Lee, Seung-Yul; Ogawa, Atsushi; Kanno, Michihiro; Nakamoto, Hirofumi; Yasuda, Tomohiro; Watanabe, Masayoshi

2010-07-21

In this paper, the characterization of a protic ionic liquid, diethylmethylammonium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([dema][TfO]), as a proton conductor for a fuel cell and the fabrication of a membrane-type fuel cell system using [dema][TfO] under nonhumidified conditions at intermediate temperatures are described in detail. In terms of physicochemical and electrochemical properties, [dema][TfO] exhibits high activity for fuel cell electrode reactions (i.e., the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)) at a Pt electrode, and the open circuit voltage (OCV) of a liquid fuel cell is 1.03 V at 150 degrees C, as has reported in ref 27. However, diethylmethylammonium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)amide ([dema][NTf(2)]) has relatively low HOR and ORR activity, and thus, the OCV is ca. 0.7 V, although [dema][NTf(2)] and [dema][TfO] have an identical cation ([dema]) and similar thermal and bulk-transport properties. Proton conduction occurs mainly via the vehicle mechanism in [dema][TfO] and the proton transference number (t(+)) is 0.5-0.6. This relatively low t(+) appears to be more disadvantageous for a proton conductor than for other electrolytes such as hydrated sulfonated polymer electrolyte membranes (t(+) = 1.0). However, fast proton-exchange reactions occur between ammonium cations and amines in a model compound. This indicates that the proton-exchange mechanism contributes to the fuel cell system under operation, where deprotonated amines are continuously generated by the cathodic reaction, and that polarization of the cell is avoided. Six-membered sulfonated polyimides in the diethylmethylammonium form exhibit excellent compatibility with [dema][TfO]. The composite membranes can be obtained up to a [dema][TfO] content of 80 wt % and exhibit good thermal stability, high ionic conductivity, and mechanical strength and gas permeation comparable to those of hydrated Nafion. H(2)/O(2) fuel cells prepared using the composite membranes can successfully operate at temperatures from 30 to 140 degrees C under nonhumidified conditions, and a current density of 250 mA cm(-2) is achieved at 120 degrees C. The protic ionic liquid and its composite membrane are a possible candidate for an electrolyte of a H(2)/O(2) fuel cell that operates under nonhumidified conditions.

Jet engine exhaust emissions of high altitude commercial aircraft projected to 1990

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grobman, J.; Ingebo, R. D.

1974-01-01

Projected minimum levels of engine exhaust emissions that may be practicably achievable for future commercial aircraft operating at high-altitude cruise conditions are presented. The forecasts are based on:(1) current knowledge of emission characteristics of combustors and augmentors; (2) the status of combustion research in emission reduction technology; and (3) predictable trends in combustion systems and operating conditions as required for projected engine designs that are candidates for advanced subsonic or supersonic commercial aircraft fueled by either JP fuel, liquefied natural gas, or hydrogen. Results are presented for cruise conditions in terms of both an emission index (g constituent/kg fuel) and an emission rate (g constituent/hr).

Hydrogen turbine power conversion system assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, D. E.; Lucci, A. D.; Campbell, J.; Lee, J. C.

1978-01-01

A three part technical study was conducted whereby parametric technical and economic feasibility data were developed on several power conversion systems suitable for the generation of central station electric power through the combustion of hydrogen and the use of the resulting heat energy in turbogenerator equipment. The study assessed potential applications of hydrogen-fueled power conversion systems and identified the three most promising candidates: (1) Ericsson Cycle, (2) gas turbine, and (3) direct steam injection system for fossil fuel as well as nuclear powerplants. A technical and economic evaluation was performed on the three systems from which the direct injection system (fossil fuel only) was selected for a preliminary conceptual design of an integrated hydrogen-fired power conversion system.

Presidential Search: Selecting the Top Candidates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stead, Ronald S.

1988-01-01

The winnowing of a large number of presidential candidates to a smaller, more manageable group is discussed. Initial screening, candidate information, evaluation form, reference checking, and selecting interviewees are described. (MLW)

77 FR 71481 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Form 8911

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-30

... 8911, Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. DATES: Written comments should be received [email protected] . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. OMB... vehicle refueling property. Form 8911, Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, will be used by...

Project Icarus: Analysis of Plasma jet driven Magneto-Inertial Fusion as potential primary propulsion driver for the Icarus probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanic, M.; Cassibry, J. T.; Adams, R. B.

2013-05-01

Hopes of sending probes to another star other than the Sun are currently limited by the maturity of advanced propulsion technologies. One of the few candidate propulsion systems for providing interstellar flight capabilities is nuclear fusion. In the past many fusion propulsion concepts have been proposed and some of them have even been explored in detail, Project Daedalus for example. However, as scientific progress in this field has advanced, new fusion concepts have emerged that merit evaluation as potential drivers for interstellar missions. Plasma jet driven Magneto-Inertial Fusion (PJMIF) is one of those concepts. PJMIF involves a salvo of converging plasma jets that form a uniform liner, which compresses a magnetized target to fusion conditions. It is an Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF)-Magnetic Confinement Fusion (MCF) hybrid approach that has the potential for a multitude of benefits over both ICF and MCF, such as lower system mass and significantly lower cost. This paper concentrates on a thermodynamic assessment of basic performance parameters necessary for utilization of PJMIF as a candidate propulsion system for the Project Icarus mission. These parameters include: specific impulse, thrust, exhaust velocity, mass of the engine system, mass of the fuel required etc. This is a submission of the Project Icarus Study Group.

The effect of functional forms of nitrogen on fuel-NOx emissions.

PubMed

Zhang, Linghui; Su, Dagen; Zhong, Mingfeng

2015-01-01

This work explores the effects of different nitrogen functional forms on fuel-NOx emissions at 900 °C. The majority of tests are performed with an excess air coefficient of 1.4. Fuel-NOx is detected by measuring N-(1-naphthyl) ethylenediamine dihydrochloride (C₁₂H₁₆Cl₂N₂) via spectrophotometry. The different functional forms of nitrogen in the raw materials are identified by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). A reliable density functional theory (DFT) method at the B3LYP/6-311++G** level is employed to investigate the reaction pathways of all functional forms of nitrogen during combustion. The results indicate that the functional forms of nitrogen influence the formation of nitrogen oxides. While under the same experimental conditions, fuel-NOx emissions increase by using less activation energy and nitrogen-containing groups with poor thermal stability. It is determined that fuel-NOx emissions vary in the following order: glycine > pyrrole > pyridine > methylenedi-p-phenylene diisocyanate (MDI). Glycine is the chain structure of amino acids in waste-leather and has low activation energy and poor thermal stability. With these properties, it is noted that glycine produces the most fuel-NOx in all of the raw materials studied. More pyrrole than pyridine in coal lead to high yields of fuel-NOx. The lowest yields of fuel-NO x are obtained using polyurethanes in waste-PU.

Electric power quarterly, July-September 1986

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

Not Available

1987-02-04

The Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ) provides information on electric utilities at the plant level. The information concerns the following: cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts; net generation; fuel consumption; and fuel stocks. The EPQ contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. In this report, data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electric utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. The EPQ presents a quarterly summary of disturbances andmore » unusual occurrences affecting the electric power industry collected by the Office of International Affairs and Energy Emergencies (IE) on Form IE-417.« less

High accuracy fuel flowmeter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

All three flowmeter concepts (vortex, dual turbine, and angular momentum) were subjected to experimental and analytical investigation to determine the potential portotype performance. The three concepts were subjected to a comprehensive rating. Eight parameters of performance were evaluated on a zero-to-ten scale, weighted, and summed. The relative ratings of the vortex, dual turbine, and angular momentum flowmeters are 0.71, 1.00, and 0.95, respectively. The dual turbine flowmeter concept was selected as the primary candidate and the angular momentum flowmeter as the secondary candidate for prototype development and evaluation.

Chemochromic Indicators for the Detection of Hypergolic Fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Santiago-Maldonado, E.; Captian, J.; Devor, R.

2010-01-01

The toxicity and hazard level associated with the use of hypergolic fuels necessitates the development of technology capable of detecting the presence of such fuels in a variety of different environments and conditions. The most commonly used sensors for the detection of hypergolic fuels are electrochemical in nature, which have serious limitations when used as area monitoring devices. Recent collaborative work between Kennedy Space Center and ASRC Aerospace has led to the development of indicators which exhibit a color change upon exposure to hydrazine under different conditions. The indicators under investigation on this developmental effort are para-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (PDAB), various formulations of universal pH indicators, and potassium tetrachloroaurate (KAuCl4). These chemochromic indicators have been tested for the detection of hydrazine under various conditions: pure liquid fuel, aqueous fuel solution, saline aqueous fuel solutions, vapor fuel, and 3-month shelf life study, which included UV protection, thermal extremes, and normal storage conditions. The hypergolic fuel indicator test was conducted with the indicator impregnated into a wipe material to test the applicability of the indicator to be used to capture (absorb) and indicate the presence of hypergolic fuels. Each of the indicators performed well, with the universal pH indicator being the best candidate because of the visible response color change and the indicator stability after the shelf life study.

Designing mixed metal halide ammines for ammonia storage using density functional theory and genetic algorithms.

PubMed

Jensen, Peter Bjerre; Lysgaard, Steen; Quaade, Ulrich J; Vegge, Tejs

2014-09-28

Metal halide ammines have great potential as a future, high-density energy carrier in vehicles. So far known materials, e.g. Mg(NH3)6Cl2 and Sr(NH3)8Cl2, are not suitable for automotive, fuel cell applications, because the release of ammonia is a multi-step reaction, requiring too much heat to be supplied, making the total efficiency lower. Here, we apply density functional theory (DFT) calculations to predict new mixed metal halide ammines with improved storage capacities and the ability to release the stored ammonia in one step, at temperatures suitable for system integration with polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). We use genetic algorithms (GAs) to search for materials containing up to three different metals (alkaline-earth, 3d and 4d) and two different halides (Cl, Br and I) - almost 27,000 combinations, and have identified novel mixtures, with significantly improved storage capacities. The size of the search space and the chosen fitness function make it possible to verify that the found candidates are the best possible candidates in the search space, proving that the GA implementation is ideal for this kind of computational materials design, requiring calculations on less than two percent of the candidates to identify the global optimum.

Application of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in the analysis of the fuel efficiency in the automobile industry with the utilization of Natural Fiber Polymer Composites (NFPC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayamani, E.; Perera, D. S.; Soon, K. H.; Bakri, M. K. B.

2017-04-01

A systematic method of material analysis aiming for fuel efficiency improvement with the utilization of natural fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites in the automobile industry is proposed. A multi-factor based decision criteria with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used and executed through MATLAB to achieve improved fuel efficiency through the weight reduction of vehicular components by effective comparison between two engine hood designs. The reduction was simulated by utilizing natural fiber polymer composites with thermoplastic polypropylene (PP) as the matrix polymer and benchmarked against a synthetic based composite component. Results showed that PP with 35% of flax fiber loading achieved a 0.4% improvement in fuel efficiency, and it was the highest among the 27 candidate fibers.

Power flattening on modified CANDLE small long life gas-cooled fast reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monado, Fiber; Su'ud, Zaki; Waris, Abdul; Basar, Khairul; Ariani, Menik; Sekimoto, Hiroshi

2014-09-01

Gas-cooled Fast Reactor (GFR) is one of the candidates of next generation Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) that expected to be operated commercially after 2030. In this research conceptual design study of long life 350 MWt GFR with natural uranium metallic fuel as fuel cycle input has been performed. Modified CANDLE burn-up strategy with first and second regions located near the last region (type B) has been applied. This reactor can be operated for 10 years without refuelling and fuel shuffling. Power peaking reduction is conducted by arranging the core radial direction into three regions with respectively uses fuel volume fraction 62.5%, 64% and 67.5%. The average power density in the modified core is about 82 Watt/cc and the power peaking factor decreased from 4.03 to 3.43.

Space reactor fuel element testing in upgraded TREAT

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

Todosow, M.; Bezler, P.; Ludewig, H.

1993-01-14

The testing of candidate fuel elements at prototypic operating conditions with respect to temperature, power density, hydrogen coolant flow rate, etc., a crucial component in the development and qualification of nuclear rocket engines based on the Particle Bed Reactor (PBR), NERVA-derivative, and other concepts. Such testing may be performed at existing reactors, or at new facilities. A scoping study has been performed to assess the feasibility of testing PBR based fuel elements at the TREAT reactor. initial results suggest that full-scale PBR, elements could be tested at an average energy deposition of {approximately}60--80 MW-s/L in the current TREAT reactor. Ifmore » the TREAT reactor was upgraded to include fuel elements with a higher temperature limit, average energy deposition of {approximately}100 MW/L may be achievable.« less

Space reactor fuel element testing in upgraded TREAT

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

Todosow, M.; Bezler, P.; Ludewig, H.

1993-05-01

The testing of candidate fuel elements at prototypic operating conditions with respect to temperature, power density, hydrogen coolant flow rate, etc., a crucial component in the development and qualification of nuclear rocket engines based on the Particle Bed Reactor (PBR), NERVA-derivative, and other concepts. Such testing may be performed at existing reactors, or at new facilities. A scoping study has been performed to assess the feasibility of testing PBR based fuel elements at the TREAT reactor. initial results suggest that full-scale PBR, elements could be tested at an average energy deposition of {approximately}60--80 MW-s/L in the current TREAT reactor. Ifmore » the TREAT reactor was upgraded to include fuel elements with a higher temperature limit, average energy deposition of {approximately}100 MW/L may be achievable.« less

Nursing leadership succession planning in Veterans Health Administration: creating a useful database.

PubMed

Weiss, Lizabeth M; Drake, Audrey

2007-01-01

An electronic database was developed for succession planning and placement of nursing leaders interested and ready, willing, and able to accept an assignment in a nursing leadership position. The tool is a 1-page form used to identify candidates for nursing leadership assignments. This tool has been deployed nationally, with access to the database restricted to nurse executives at every Veterans Health Administration facility for the purpose of entering the names of developed nurse leaders ready for a leadership assignment. The tool is easily accessed through the Veterans Health Administration Office of Nursing Service, and by limiting access to the nurse executive group, ensures candidates identified are qualified. Demographic information included on the survey tool includes the candidate's demographic information and other certifications/credentials. This completed information form is entered into a database from which a report can be generated, resulting in a listing of potential candidates to contact to supplement a local or Veterans Integrated Service Network wide position announcement. The data forms can be sorted by positions, areas of clinical or functional experience, training programs completed, and geographic preference. The forms can be edited or updated and/or added or deleted in the system as the need is identified. This tool allows facilities with limited internal candidates to have a resource with Department of Veterans Affairs prepared staff in which to seek additional candidates. It also provides a way for interested candidates to be considered for positions outside of their local geographic area.

Method and means of packaging nuclear fuel rods for handling

DOEpatents

Adam, Milton F.

1979-01-01

Nuclear fuel rods, especially spent nuclear fuel rods that may show physical distortion, are encased within a metallic enclosing structure by forming a tube about the fuel rod. The tube has previously been rolled to form an overlapping tubular structure and then unrolled and coiled about an axis perpendicular to the tube. The fuel rod is inserted into the tube as the rolled tube is removed from a coiled strip and allowed to reassume its tubular shape about the fuel rod. Rollers support the coiled strip in an open position as the coiled strip is uncoiled and allowed to roll about the fuel rod.

Selection and properties of alternative forming fluids for TRISO fuel kernel production

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

Baker, M. P.; King, J. C.; Gorman, B. P.

2013-01-01

Current Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) designs incorporate TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel, which consists of a spherical fissile fuel kernel surrounded by layers of pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide. An internal sol-gel process forms the fuel kernel using wet chemistry to produce uranium oxyhydroxide gel spheres by dropping a cold precursor solution into a hot column of trichloroethylene (TCE). Over time, gelation byproducts inhibit complete gelation, and the TCE must be purified or discarded. The resulting TCE waste stream contains both radioactive and hazardous materials and is thus considered a mixed hazardous waste. Changing the forming fluid to a non-hazardousmore » alternative could greatly improve the economics of TRISO fuel kernel production. Selection criteria for a replacement forming fluid narrowed a list of ~10,800 chemicals to yield ten potential replacement forming fluids: 1-bromododecane, 1- bromotetradecane, 1-bromoundecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, 1-chlorotetradecane, 1-iododecane, 1-iodododecane, 1-iodohexadecane, 1-iodooctadecane, and squalane. The density, viscosity, and surface tension for each potential replacement forming fluid were measured as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 80 °C. Calculated settling velocities and heat transfer rates give an overall column height approximation. 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane show the greatest promise as replacements, and future tests will verify their ability to form satisfactory fuel kernels.« less

Selection and properties of alternative forming fluids for TRISO fuel kernel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, M. P.; King, J. C.; Gorman, B. P.; Marshall, D. W.

2013-01-01

Current Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) designs incorporate TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel, which consists of a spherical fissile fuel kernel surrounded by layers of pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide. An internal sol-gel process forms the fuel kernel using wet chemistry to produce uranium oxyhydroxide gel spheres by dropping a cold precursor solution into a hot column of trichloroethylene (TCE). Over time, gelation byproducts inhibit complete gelation, and the TCE must be purified or discarded. The resulting TCE waste stream contains both radioactive and hazardous materials and is thus considered a mixed hazardous waste. Changing the forming fluid to a non-hazardous alternative could greatly improve the economics of TRISO fuel kernel production. Selection criteria for a replacement forming fluid narrowed a list of ˜10,800 chemicals to yield ten potential replacement forming fluids: 1-bromododecane, 1-bromotetradecane, 1-bromoundecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, 1-chlorotetradecane, 1-iododecane, 1-iodododecane, 1-iodohexadecane, 1-iodooctadecane, and squalane. The density, viscosity, and surface tension for each potential replacement forming fluid were measured as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 80 °C. Calculated settling velocities and heat transfer rates give an overall column height approximation. 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane show the greatest promise as replacements, and future tests will verify their ability to form satisfactory fuel kernels.

Biodegradable Hybrid Stomatocyte Nanomotors for Drug Delivery

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

We report the self-assembly of a biodegradable platinum nanoparticle-loaded stomatocyte nanomotor containing both PEG-b-PCL and PEG-b-PS as a potential candidate for anticancer drug delivery. Well-defined stomatocyte structures could be formed even after incorporation of 50% PEG-b-PCL polymer. Demixing of the two polymers was expected at high percentage of semicrystalline poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), resulting in PCL domain formation onto the membrane due to different properties of two polymers. The biodegradable motor system was further shown to move directionally with speeds up to 39 μm/s by converting chemical fuel, hydrogen peroxide, into mechanical motion as well as rapidly delivering the drug to the targeted cancer cell. Uptake by cancer cells and fast doxorubicin drug release was demonstrated during the degradation of the motor system. Such biodegradable nanomotors provide a convenient and efficient platform for the delivery and controlled release of therapeutic drugs. PMID:28187254

Corrosion behavior of Alloy 690 and Alloy 693 in simulated nuclear high level waste medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samantaroy, Pradeep Kumar; Suresh, Girija; Paul, Ranita; Kamachi Mudali, U.; Raj, Baldev

2011-11-01

Nickel based alloys are candidate materials for the storage of high level waste (HLW) generated from reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. In the present investigation Alloy 690 and Alloy 693 are assessed by potentiodynamic anodic polarization technique for their corrosion behavior in 3 M HNO 3, 3 M HNO 3 containing simulated HLW and in chloride medium. Both the alloys were found to possess good corrosion resistance in both the media at ambient condition. Microstructural examination was carried out by SEM for both the alloys after electrolytic etching. Compositional analysis of the passive film formed on the alloys in 3 M HNO 3 and 3 M HNO 3 with HLW was carried out by XPS. The surface of Alloy 690 and Alloy 693, both consists of a thin layer of oxide of Ni, Cr, and Fe under passivation in both the media. The results of investigation are presented in the paper.

Broadband Microwave Study of Reaction Intermediates and Products Through the Pyrolysis of Oxygenated Biofuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abeysekera, Chamara; Hernandez-Castillo, Alicia O.; Fritz, Sean; Zwier, Timothy S.

2017-06-01

The rapidly growing list of potential plant-derived biofuels creates a challenge for the scientific community to provide a molecular-scale understanding of their combustion. Development of accurate combustion models rests on a foundation of experimental data on the kinetics and product branching ratios of their individual reaction steps. Therefore, new spectroscopic tools are necessary to selectively detect and characterize fuel components and reactive intermediates generated by pyrolysis and combustion. Substituted furans, including furanic ethers, are considered second-generation biofuel candidates. Following the work of the Ellison group, an 8-18 GHz microwave study was carried out on the unimolecular and bimolecular decomposition of the smallest furanic ether, 2-methoxy furan, and it`s pyrolysis intermediate, the 2-furanyloxy radical, formed in a high-temperature pyrolysis source coupled to a supersonic expansion. Details of the experimental setup and analysis of the spectrum of the radical will be discussed.

Electric Power Quarterly, October-December 1985. [Glossary

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

Not Available

1986-05-05

The Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ) provides information on electric utilities at the plant level. The information concerns the following: cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts; net generation; fuel consumption; and fuel stocks. The EPQ contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. Data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electric utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis.

Electric Power Quarterly, January-March 1986

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

Not Available

1986-07-21

The ''Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ)'' provides information on electric utilities at the plant level. The information concerns the following: cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts; net generation; fuel consumption; and fuel stocks. The ''EPQ'' contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. In this report, data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electric utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis.

Combustion performance and heat transfer characterization of LOX/hydrocarbon type propellants, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoenman, L.

1983-01-01

A data base which relates candidate design variables, such as injector type, acoustic cavity configuration, chamber length, fuel film-cooling, etc., to operational characteristics such as combustion efficiency, combustion stability, carbon deposition, and chamber gas-side heat flux was generated.

PEM fuel cell stack heat and mass management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vanderborgh, Nicholas E.; Kimble, Michael C.; Huff, James R.; Hedstrom, James C.

1992-01-01

PEM stacks are under evaluation as candidates for future space power technology. Results of long-term operation on a set of contemporary stacks fitted with different proton exchange membrane materials are given. Data on water balances show effects of membrane materials on stack performance.

Development of COPVS for High pressure, In-Space, Cryogenic Fuel Storage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeLay, Tom; Schneider, Judy; Dyess, Mark; Hastings, Chad; Noorda, Ryan; Noorda, Jared; Patterson, James

2008-01-01

Polymeric composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) provide an attractive material system to support developing commercial launch business and alternate fuel ventures. However to be able to design with these materials, the mechanical behavior of the materials must be understood with regards to processing, performance, damage tolerance, and environment. For the storage of cryogenic propellants, it is important to evaluate the materials performance and impact damage resistance at cryogenic temperatures in order to minimize weight and to ensure safety and reliability. To evaluate the ultimate performance, various polymeric COPV's have been statically burst tested at cryogenic conditions before and after exposure to irradiation. Materials selected for these COPVs were based on the measured mechanical properties of candidate resin systems and fibers that were also tested at cryogenic conditions before and after exposure to irradiation. The correlation of COPV burst pressures with the constituent material properties has proven to be a valuable screening method for selection of suitable candidate materials with resistance to material degradation due to exposure to temperature and radiation.

Optimal design and dispatch of a system of diesel generators, photovoltaics and batteries for remote locations

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

Scioletti, Michael S.; Newman, Alexandra M.; Goodman, Johanna K.

Renewable energy technologies, specifically, solar photovoltaic cells, combined with battery storage and diesel generators, form a hybrid system capable of independently powering remote locations, i.e., those isolated from larger grids. If sized correctly, hybrid systems reduce fuel consumption compared to diesel generator-only alternatives. We present an optimization model for establishing a hybrid power design and dispatch strategy for remote locations, such as a military forward operating base, that models the acquisition of different power technologies as integer variables and their operation using nonlinear expressions. Our cost-minimizing, nonconvex, mixed-integer, nonlinear program contains a detailed battery model. Due to its complexities, wemore » present linearizations, which include exact and convex under-estimation techniques, and a heuristic, which determines an initial feasible solution to serve as a “warm start” for the solver. We determine, in a few hours at most, solutions within 5% of optimality for a candidate set of technologies; these solutions closely resemble those from the nonlinear model. Lastly, our instances contain real data spanning a yearly horizon at hour fidelity and demonstrate that a hybrid system could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 50% compared to a generator-only solution.« less

Optimal design and dispatch of a system of diesel generators, photovoltaics and batteries for remote locations

DOE PAGES

Scioletti, Michael S.; Newman, Alexandra M.; Goodman, Johanna K.; ...

2017-05-08

Renewable energy technologies, specifically, solar photovoltaic cells, combined with battery storage and diesel generators, form a hybrid system capable of independently powering remote locations, i.e., those isolated from larger grids. If sized correctly, hybrid systems reduce fuel consumption compared to diesel generator-only alternatives. We present an optimization model for establishing a hybrid power design and dispatch strategy for remote locations, such as a military forward operating base, that models the acquisition of different power technologies as integer variables and their operation using nonlinear expressions. Our cost-minimizing, nonconvex, mixed-integer, nonlinear program contains a detailed battery model. Due to its complexities, wemore » present linearizations, which include exact and convex under-estimation techniques, and a heuristic, which determines an initial feasible solution to serve as a “warm start” for the solver. We determine, in a few hours at most, solutions within 5% of optimality for a candidate set of technologies; these solutions closely resemble those from the nonlinear model. Lastly, our instances contain real data spanning a yearly horizon at hour fidelity and demonstrate that a hybrid system could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 50% compared to a generator-only solution.« less

Fuels Registration, Reporting, and Compliance Help

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Information about the requirements for registration and health effects testing of new fuels or fuel additives and mandatory registration for fuels reporting and about mandatory reporting forms for parties regulated under EPA fuel programs.

Pulverized fuel-oxygen burner

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

Taylor, Curtis; Patterson, Brad; Perdue, Jayson

A burner assembly combines oxygen and fuel to produce a flame. The burner assembly includes an oxygen supply tube adapted to receive a stream of oxygen and a solid fuel conduit arranged to extend through the oxygen tube to convey a stream of fluidized, pulverized, solid fuel into a flame chamber. Oxygen flowing through the oxygen supply tube passes generally tangentially through a first set of oxygen-injection holes formed in the solid fuel conduit and off-tangentially from a second set of oxygen-injection holes formed in the solid fuel conduit and then mixes with fluidized, pulverized, solid fuel passing through themore » solid fuel conduit to create an oxygen-fuel mixture in a downstream portion of the solid fuel conduit. This mixture is discharged into a flame chamber and ignited in the flame chamber to produce a flame.« less

40 CFR 98.6 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... hydrofluoropolyether. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel... maintenance shall not be considered an emergency generator. Emergency equipment means any auxiliary fossil... fed to the kiln. Feed does not include the fuels used in the kiln to produce heat to form the clinker...

Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (NCPS) Fuel Element Testing in the Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environmental Simulator (NTREES)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emrich, William J., Jr.

2017-01-01

To support the on-going nuclear thermal propulsion effort, a state-of-the-art non nuclear experimental test setup has been constructed to evaluate the performance characteristics of candidate fuel element materials and geometries in representative environments. The facility to perform this testing is referred to as the Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environment Simulator (NTREES). Last year NTREES was successfully used to satisfy a testing milestone for the Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (NCPS) project and met or exceeded all required objectives.

Environmental assessment of the 40 kilowatt fuel cell system field test operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bollenbacher, G.

1982-01-01

This environmental assessment examines the potential environmental consequences, both adverse and beneficial, of the 40 kW fuel cell system system field test operation. The assessment is of necessity generic in nature since actual test sites were not selected. This assessment provides the basis for determining the need for an environmental impact statement. In addition, this assessment provides siting criteria to avoid or minimize negative environmental impacts and standards for determining candidate test sites, if any, for which site specific assessments may be required.

Advanced materials for space nuclear power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Titran, Robert H.; Grobstein, Toni L.; Ellis, David L.

1991-01-01

The overall philosophy of the research was to develop and characterize new high temperature power conversion and radiator materials and to provide spacecraft designers with material selection options and design information. Research on three candidate materials (carbide strengthened niobium alloy PWC-11 for fuel cladding, graphite fiber reinforced copper matrix composites for heat rejection fins, and tungsten fiber reinforced niobium matrix composites for fuel containment and structural supports considered for space power system applications is discussed. Each of these types of materials offers unique advantages for space power applications.

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

Shepherd, James; Fairweather, Michael; Hanson, Bruce C.

The oxidation of spent uranium carbide fuel, a candidate fuel for Generation IV nuclear reactors, is an important process in its potential reprocessing cycle. However, the oxidation of uranium carbide in air is highly exothermic. A model has therefore been developed to predict the temperature rise, as well as other useful information such as reaction completion times, under different reaction conditions in order to help in deriving safe oxidation conditions. Finite difference-methods are used to model the heat and mass transfer processes occurring during the reaction in two dimensions and are coupled to kinetics found in the literature.

Steam Oxidation Testing in the Severe Accident Test Station

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

Pint, Bruce A.; McMurray, Jake W.

2016-08-01

Since 2011, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has been conducting high temperature steam oxidation testing of candidate alloys for accident tolerant fuel (ATF) cladding. These concepts are designed to enhance safety margins in light water reactors (LWR) during severe accident scenarios. In the US ATF community, the Severe Accident Test Station (SATS) has been evaluating candidate materials (including coatings) since 2012. Compared to the current UO 2/Zr-based alloy fuel system, alternative cladding materials need to offer slower oxidation kinetics and a smaller enthalpy of oxidation in order to significantly reduce the rate of heat and hydrogen generation in the coremore » during a coolant-limited severe accident. The steam oxidation behavior of candidate materials is a key metric in the evaluation of ATF concepts and also an important input into models. However, prior modeling work of FeCrAl cladding has used incomplete information on the physical properties of FeCrAl. Also, the steam oxidation data being collected at 1200°-1700°C is unique as no prior work has considered steam oxidation of alloys at such high temperatures. In some cases, the results have been difficult to interpret and more fundamental information is needed such as the stability of alumina in flowing steam at 1400°-1500°C. This report summarizes recent work to measure the steam oxidation kinetics of candidate alloys, the evaporation rate of alumina in steam and the development of integral data on FeCrAl compared to conventional Zr-based cladding.« less

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING PERFORMANCE OF A FAST REACTOR

DOEpatents

Koch, L.J.

1959-01-20

A specific arrangement of the fertile material and fissionable material in the active portion of a fast reactor to achieve improvement in performance and to effectively lower the operating temperatures in the center of the reactor is described. According to this invention a group of fuel elements containing fissionable material are assembled to form a hollow fuel core. Elements containing a fertile material, such as depleted uranium, are inserted into the interior of the fuel core to form a central blanket. Additional elemenis of fertile material are arranged about the fuel core to form outer blankets which in tunn are surrounded by a reflector. This arrangement of fuel core and blankets results in substantial flattening of the flux pattern.

Irradiation experiment on ZrC-coated fuel particles for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors

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

Minato, Kazuo; Ogawa, Toru; Sawa, Kazuhiro

2000-06-01

The ZrC coating layer is a candidate to replace the SiC coating layer of the Triso-coated fuel particle. To compare the irradiation performance of the ZrC Triso-coated fuel particles with that of the normal Triso-coated fuel particles at high temperatures, a capsule irradiation experiment was performed, where both types of the coated fuel particles were irradiated under identical conditions. The burnup was 4.5% FIMA and the irradiation temperature was 1,400 to 1,650 C. The postirradiation measurement of the through-coating failure fractions of both types of coated fuel particles revealed better irradiation performance of the ZrC Triso-coated fuel particles. The opticalmore » microscopy and electron probe microanalysis on the polished cross section of the ZrC Triso-coated fuel particles revealed no interaction of palladium with the ZrC coating layer nor accumulation of palladium at the inner surface of the ZrC coating layer, whereas severe corrosion of the SiC coating layer was observed in the normal Triso-coated fuel particles. Although no corrosion of the ZrC coating layer was observed, additional evaluations need to be made of this layer's ability to satisfactorily retain the fission product palladium.« less

Combustor nozzles in gas turbine engines

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

Johnson, Thomas Edward; Keener, Christopher Paul; Stewart, Jason Thurman

2017-09-12

A micro-mixer nozzle for use in a combustor of a combustion turbine engine, the micro-mixer nozzle including: a fuel plenum defined by a shroud wall connecting a periphery of a forward tube sheet to a periphery of an aft tubesheet; a plurality of mixing tubes extending across the fuel plenum for mixing a supply of compressed air and fuel, each of the mixing tubes forming a passageway between an inlet formed through the forward tubesheet and an outlet formed through the aft tubesheet; and a wall mixing tube formed in the shroud wall.

Advanced Near Net Shape Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vickers, John

2015-01-01

The objective of the Advanced Near Net Shape Technology (ANNST) project is to radically improve near net shape manufacturing methods from the current Technology/ Manufacturing Readiness Levels (TRL/MRL 3-4) to the point where they are viable candidates (TRL/ MRL-6) for shortening the time and cost for insertion of new aluminum alloys and revolutionary manufacturing methods into the development/improvement of space structures. Conventional cyrotank manufacturing processes require fabrication of multiple pieces welded together to form a complete tank. A variety of near net shape manufacturing processes has demonstrated excellent potential for enabling single-piece construction of components such as domes, barrels, and ring frames. Utilization of such processes can dramatically reduce the extent of welding and joining needed to construct cryogenic tanks and other aerospace structures. The specific focus of this project is to successfully mature the integrally stiffened cylinder (ISC) process in which a single-piece cylinder with integral stiffeners is formed in one spin/flow forming process. Structural launch vehicle components, like cryogenic fuel tanks (e.g., space shuttle external tank), are currently fabricated via multipiece assembly of parts produced through subtractive manufacturing techniques. Stiffened structural panels are heavily machined from thick plate, which results in excessive scrap rates. Multipiece construction requires welds to assemble the structure, which increases the risk for defects and catastrophic failures.

Effect of thermal treatment on the corrosion resistance of Type 316L stainless steel exposed in supercritical water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiao, Y.; Zheng, W.; Guzonas, D. A.; Cook, W. G.; Kish, J. R.

2015-09-01

There are still unknown aspects about the growth mechanism of oxide scales formed on candidate stainless steel fuel cladding materials during exposure in supercritical water (SCW) under the conditions relevant to the Canadian supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR). The tendency for intermetallic precipitates to form within the grains and on grain boundaries during prolonged exposure at high temperatures represents an unknown factor to corrosion resistance, since they tend to bind alloyed Cr. The objective of this study was to better understand the extent to which intermetallic precipitates affects the mode and extent of corrosion in SCW. Type 316L stainless steel, used as a model Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo alloy, was exposed to 25 MPa SCW at 550 °C for 500 h in a static autoclave for this purpose. Mechanically-abraded samples were tested in the mill-annealed (MA) and a thermally-treated (TT) condition. The thermal treatment was conducted at 815 °C for 1000 h to precipitate the carbide (M23C6), chi (χ), laves (η) and sigma (σ) phases. It was found that although relatively large intermetallic precipitates formed at the scale/alloy interface locally affected the oxide scale formation, their discontinuous formation did not affect the short-term overall apparent corrosion resistance.

Cogeneration Technology Alternatives Study (CTAS). Volume 6: Computer data. Part 2: Residual-fired nocogeneration process boiler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knightly, W. F.

1980-01-01

About fifty industrial processes from the largest energy consuming sectors were used as a basis for matching a similar number of energy conversion systems that are considered as candidate which can be made available by the 1985 to 2000 time period. The sectors considered included food, textiles, lumber, paper, chemicals, petroleum, glass, and primary metals. The energy conversion systems included steam and gas turbines, diesels, thermionics, stirling, closed cycle and steam injected gas turbines, and fuel cells. Fuels considered were coal, both coal and petroleum based residual and distillate liquid fuels, and low Btu gas obtained through the on site gasification of coal. Computer generated reports of the fuel consumption and savings, capital costs, economics and emissions of the cogeneration energy conversion systems (ECS's) heat and power matched to the individual industrial processes are presented. National fuel and emissions savings are also reported for each ECS assuming it alone is implemented. Two nocogeneration base cases are included: coal fired and residual fired process boilers.

Cogeneration Technology Alternatives Study (CTAS). Volume 6: Computer data. Part 1: Coal-fired nocogeneration process boiler, section A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knightly, W. F.

1980-01-01

About fifty industrial processes from the largest energy consuming sectors were used as a basis for matching a similar number of energy conversion systems that are considered as candidate which can be made available by the 1985 to 2000 time period. The sectors considered included food, textiles, lumber, paper, chemicals, petroleum, glass, and primary metals. The energy conversion systems included steam and gas turbines, diesels, thermionics, stirling, closed cycle and steam injected gas turbines, and fuel cells. Fuels considered were coal, both coal and petroleum based residual and distillate liquid fuels, and low Btu gas obtained through the on site gasification of coal. Computer generated reports of the fuels consumption and savings, capital costs, economics and emissions of the cogeneration energy conversion systems (ECS's) heat and power matched to the individual industrial processes are presented. National fuel and emissions savings are also reported for each ECS assuming it alone is implemented. Two nocogeneration base cases are included: coal fired and residual fired process boilers.

Cogeneration Technology Alternatives Study (CTAS). Volume 6: Computer data. Part 1: Coal-fired nocogeneration process boiler, section B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knightly, W. F.

1980-01-01

About fifty industrial processes from the largest energy consuming sectors were used as a basis for matching a similar number of energy conversion systems that are considered as candidate which can be made available by the 1985 to 2000 time period. The sectors considered included food, textiles, lumber, paper, chemicals, petroleum, glass, and primary metals. The energy conversion systems included steam and gas turbines, diesels, thermionics, stirling, closed cycle and steam injected gas turbines, and fuel cells. Fuels considered were coal, both coal and petroleum based residual and distillate liquid fuels, and low Btu gas obtained through the on site gasification of coal. Computer generated reports of the fuel consumption and savings, capital costs, economics and emissions of the cogeneration energy conversion systems (ECS's) heat and power matched to the individual industrial processes are presented. National fuel and emissions savings are also reported for each ECS assuming it alone is implemented. Two nocogeneration base cases are included: coal fired and residual fired process boilers.

Parametric scramjet analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Jongseong

The performance of a hypersonic flight vehicle will depend on existing materials and fuels; this work presents the performance of the ideal scramjet engine for three different combustion chamber materials and three different candidate fuels. Engine performance is explored by parametric cycle analysis for the ideal scramjet as a function of material maximum service temperature and the lower heating value of jet engine fuels. The thermodynamic analysis is based on the Brayton cycle as similarly employed in describing the performance of the ramjet, turbojet, and fanjet ideal engines. The objective of this work is to explore material operating temperatures and fuel possibilities for the combustion chamber of a scramjet propulsion system to show how they relate to scramjet performance and the seven scramjet engine parameters: specific thrust, fuel-to-air ratio, thrust-specific fuel consumption, thermal efficiency, propulsive efficiency, overall efficiency, and thrust flux. The information presented in this work has not been done by others in the scientific literature. This work yields simple algebraic equations for scramjet performance which are similar to that of the ideal ramjet, ideal turbojet and ideal turbofan engines.

Fuel-rich, catalytic reaction experimental results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rollbuhler, R. James

1991-01-01

Future aeropropulsion gas turbine combustion requirements call for operating at very high inlet temperatures, pressures, and large temperature rises. At the same time, the combustion process is to have minimum pollution effects on the environment. Aircraft gas turbine engines utilize liquid hydrocarbon fuels which are difficult to uniformly atomize and mix with combustion air. An approach for minimizing fuel related problems is to transform the liquid fuel into gaseous form prior to the completion of the combustion process. Experimentally obtained results are presented for vaporizing and partially oxidizing a liquid hydrocarbon fuel into burnable gaseous components. The presented experimental data show that 1200 to 1300 K reaction product gas, rich in hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and light-end hydrocarbons, is formed when flowing 0.3 to 0.6 fuel to air mixes through a catalyst reactor. The reaction temperatures are kept low enough that nitrogen oxides and carbon particles (soot) do not form. Results are reported for tests using different catalyst types and configurations, mass flowrates, input temperatures, and fuel to air ratios.

Method of depositing a catalyst on a fuel cell electrode

DOEpatents

Dearnaley, Geoffrey; Arps, James H.

2000-01-01

Fuel cell electrodes comprising a minimal load of catalyst having maximum catalytic activity and a method of forming such fuel cell electrodes. The method comprises vaporizing a catalyst, preferably platinum, in a vacuum to form a catalyst vapor. A catalytically effective amount of the catalyst vapor is deposited onto a carbon catalyst support on the fuel cell electrode. The electrode preferably is carbon cloth. The method reduces the amount of catalyst needed for a high performance fuel cell electrode to about 0.3 mg/cm.sup.2 or less.

NEUTRONIC REACTOR FUEL ELEMENT

DOEpatents

Shackleford, M.H.

1958-12-16

A fuel element possessing good stability and heat conducting properties is described. The fuel element comprises an outer tube formed of material selected from the group consisting of stainhess steel, V, Ti. Mo. or Zr, a fuel tube concentrically fitting within the outer tube and containing an oxide of an isotope selected from the group consisting of U/sup 235/, U/sup 233/, and Pu/sup 239/, and a hollow, porous core concentrically fitting within the fuel tube and formed of an oxide of an element selected from the group consisting of Mg, Be, and Zr.

76 FR 10669 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Form 8896

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-25

... 8896, Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel Production Credit. DATES: Written comments should be received on or before...: Title: Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel Production Credit. OMB Number: 1545-1914. Form Number: 8896. Abstract: IRC section 45H allows small business refiners to claim a credit for the production of low sulfur diesel fuel...

40 CFR 63.7575 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

.... Liquid fossil fuel means petroleum, distillate oil, residual oil and any form of liquid fuel derived from... primary purpose of recovering thermal energy in the form of steam or hot water. Waste heat boilers are... unit means a fossil fuel-fired combustion unit of more than 25 megawatts that serves a generator that...

40 CFR 63.7575 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... Liquid fossil fuel means petroleum, distillate oil, residual oil and any form of liquid fuel derived from... primary purpose of recovering thermal energy in the form of steam or hot water. Waste heat boilers are... unit means a fossil fuel-fired combustion unit of more than 25 megawatts that serves a generator that...

40 CFR 63.7575 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

.... Liquid fossil fuel means petroleum, distillate oil, residual oil and any form of liquid fuel derived from... primary purpose of recovering thermal energy in the form of steam or hot water. Waste heat boilers are... unit means a fossil fuel-fired combustion unit of more than 25 megawatts that serves a generator that...

DISSOLUTION OF ZIRCONIUM-CONTAINING FUEL ELEMENTS

DOEpatents

Horn, F.L.

1961-12-12

Uranium is recovered from spent uranium fuel elements containing or clad with zirconium. These fuel elements are placed in an anhydrous solution of hydrogen fluoride and nitrogen dioxide. Within this system uranium forms a soluble complex and zirconium forms an insoluble complex. The uranium can then be separated, treated, and removed from solution as uranium hexafluoride. (AEC)

78 FR 67223 - Proposed Guidance for Fuel Cycle Facility; Material Control and Accounting Plans and Completing...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-08

..., 72, et al. Proposed Guidance for Fuel Cycle Facility; Material Control and Accounting Plans and Completing NRC Form 327 and Amendments to Material Control and Accounting Regulations; Proposed Rules #0;#0... Guidance for Fuel Cycle Facility; Material Control and Accounting Plans and Completing NRC Form 327 AGENCY...

Space Electrochemical Research and Technology Conference, 2nd, Cleveland, OH, Apr. 11-13, 1989, Proceedings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

O'Donnell, Patricia M. (Editor)

1990-01-01

Attention is given to topics of advanced concepts, hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells and electrolyzers, nickel electrodes, and advanced rechargeable batteries. Papers are presented on human exploration mission studies, advanced rechargeable sodium batteries with novel cathodes, advanced double-layer capacitors, recent advances in solid-polymer electrolyte fuel cell technology with low platinum loading electrodes, electrocatalysts for oxygen electrodes in fuel cells and water electrolyzers for space applications, and the corrosion testing of candidates for the alkaline fuel cell cathode. Other papers are on a structural comparison of nickel electodes and precursor phases, the application of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for characterizing the degradation of Ni(OH)2/NiOOH electrodes, advances in lightweight nickel electrode technology, multimission nickel-hydrogen battery cell for the 1990s, a sodium-sulfur battery flight experiment definition study, and advances in ambient-temperature secondary lithium cells.

Advanced Biofuels and Beyond: Chemistry Solutions for Propulsion and Production.

PubMed

Leitner, Walter; Klankermayer, Jürgen; Pischinger, Stefan; Pitsch, Heinz; Kohse-Höinghaus, Katharina

2017-05-08

Sustainably produced biofuels, especially when they are derived from lignocellulosic biomass, are being discussed intensively for future ground transportation. Traditionally, research activities focus on the synthesis process, while leaving their combustion properties to be evaluated by a different community. This Review adopts an integrative view of engine combustion and fuel synthesis, focusing on chemical aspects as the common denominator. It will be demonstrated that a fundamental understanding of the combustion process can be instrumental to derive design criteria for the molecular structure of fuel candidates, which can then be targets for the analysis of synthetic pathways and the development of catalytic production routes. With such an integrative approach to fuel design, it will be possible to improve systematically the entire system, spanning biomass feedstock, conversion process, fuel, engine, and pollutants with a view to improve the carbon footprint, increase efficiency, and reduce emissions. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Low NOx heavy fuel combustor concept program. Phase 1: Combustion technology generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lew, H. G.; Carl, D. R.; Vermes, G.; Dezubay, E. A.; Schwab, J. A.; Prothroe, D.

1981-10-01

The viability of low emission nitrogen oxide (NOx) gas turbine combustors for industrial and utility application. Thirteen different concepts were evolved and most were tested. Acceptable performance was demonstrated for four of the combustors using ERBS fuel and ultralow NOx emissions were obtained for lean catalytic combustion. Residual oil and coal derived liquids containing fuel bound nitrogen (FBN) were also used at test fuels, and it was shown that staged rich/lean combustion was effective in minimizing the conversion of FBN to NOx. The rich/lean concept was tested with both modular and integral combustors. While the ceramic lined modular configuration produced the best results, the advantages of the all metal integral burners make them candidates for future development. An example of scaling the laboratory sized combustor to a 100 MW size engine is included in the report as are recommendations for future work.

Low NOx heavy fuel combustor concept program. Phase 1: Combustion technology generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lew, H. G.; Carl, D. R.; Vermes, G.; Dezubay, E. A.; Schwab, J. A.; Prothroe, D.

1981-01-01

The viability of low emission nitrogen oxide (NOx) gas turbine combustors for industrial and utility application. Thirteen different concepts were evolved and most were tested. Acceptable performance was demonstrated for four of the combustors using ERBS fuel and ultralow NOx emissions were obtained for lean catalytic combustion. Residual oil and coal derived liquids containing fuel bound nitrogen (FBN) were also used at test fuels, and it was shown that staged rich/lean combustion was effective in minimizing the conversion of FBN to NOx. The rich/lean concept was tested with both modular and integral combustors. While the ceramic lined modular configuration produced the best results, the advantages of the all metal integral burners make them candidates for future development. An example of scaling the laboratory sized combustor to a 100 MW size engine is included in the report as are recommendations for future work.

77 FR 36423 - Labeling Requirements for Alternative Fuels and Alternative Fueled Vehicles

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-19

...: Interested parties are invited to submit written comments electronically or in paper form by following the instructions in section V of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. Comments in electronic form should be... following the instructions on the web-based form). Comments filed in paper form should be mailed or...

78 FR 43871 - Commission Information Collection Activities (FERC-580); Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-22

... submitting the information collection, FERC Form No. 580 (Interrogatory on Fuel and Energy Purchase Practices.... SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Interrogatory on Fuel and Energy Purchase Practices (FERC Form No. 580), OMB...: Three-year approval of the FERC Form No. 580. Abstract: FERC Form No. 580 is collected in even numbered...

Apparatus for mixing fuel in a gas turbine nozzle

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

Barker, Carl Robert

A fuel nozzle in a combustion turbine engine that includes: a fuel plenum defined between an circumferentially extending shroud and axially by a forward tube-sheet and an aft tube-sheet; and a mixing-tube that extends across the fuel plenum that defines a passageway connecting an inlet formed through the forward tube-sheet and an outlet formed through the aft tube-sheet, the mixing-tube comprising one or more fuel ports that fluidly communicate with the fuel plenum. The mixing-tube may include grooves on an outer surface, and be attached to the forward tube-sheet by a connection having a fail-safe leakage path.

Locking support for nuclear fuel assemblies

DOEpatents

Ledin, Eric

1980-01-01

A locking device for supporting and locking a nuclear fuel assembly within a cylindrical bore formed by a support plate, the locking device including a support and locking sleeve having upwardly extending fingers forming wedge shaped contact portions arranged for interaction between an annular tapered surface on the fuel assembly and the support plate bore as well as downwardly extending fingers having wedge shaped contact portions arranged for interaction between an annularly tapered surface on the support plate bore and the fuel assembly whereby the sleeve tends to support and lock the fuel assembly in place within the bore by its own weight while facilitating removal and/or replacement of the fuel assembly.

Preformulation considerations for controlled release dosage forms. Part I. Selecting candidates.

PubMed

Chrzanowski, Frank

2008-01-01

The physical-chemical properties of interest for controlled release (CR) dosage form development presented are based on the author's experience. Part I addresses selection of the final form based on a logical progression of physical-chemical properties evaluation of candidate forms and elimination of forms with undesirable properties from further evaluation in order to simplify final form selection. Several candidate forms which could include salt, free base or acid, polymorphic and amorphic forms of a new chemical entity (NCE) or existing drug substance (DS) are prepared and evaluated for critical properties in a scheme relevant to manufacturing processes, predictive of problems, requiring small amounts of test materials and simple analytical tools. A stability indicating assay is not needed to initiate the evaluation. This process is applicable to CR and immediate release (IR) dosage form development. The critical properties evaluated are melting, crystallinity, solubilities in water, 0.1 N HCl, and SIF, hygrodymamics, i.e., moisture sorption and loss at extremes of RH, and LOD at typical wet granulation drying conditions, and processability, i.e., corrosivity, and filming and/or sticking upon compression.

Hydrogen permeation in FeCrAl alloys for LWR cladding application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Xunxiang; Terrani, Kurt A.; Wirth, Brian D.; Snead, Lance L.

2015-06-01

FeCrAl, an advanced oxidation-resistant iron-based alloy class, is a highly prevalent candidate as an accident-tolerant fuel cladding material. Compared with traditional zirconium alloy fuel cladding, increased tritium permeation through FeCrAl fuel cladding to the primary coolant is expected, raising potential safety concerns. In this study, the hydrogen permeability of several FeCrAl alloys was obtained using a static permeation test station, which was calibrated and validated using 304 stainless steel. The high hydrogen permeability of FeCrAl alloys leads to concerns with respect to potentially significant tritium release when used for fuel cladding in LWRs. The total tritium inventory inside the primary coolant of a light water reactor was quantified by applying a 1-dimensional steady state tritium diffusion model to demonstrate the dependence of tritium inventory on fuel cladding type. Furthermore, potential mitigation strategies for tritium release from FeCrAl fuel cladding were discussed and indicate the potential for application of an alumina layer on the inner clad surface to serve as a tritium barrier. More effort is required to develop a robust, economical mitigation strategy for tritium permeation in reactors using FeCrAl clad fuel assemblies.

Evaluation of on-board hydrogen storage methods f or high-speed aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akyurtlu, Ates; Akyurtlu, Jale F.

1991-01-01

Hydrogen is the fuel of choice for hypersonic vehicles. Its main disadvantage is its low liquid and solid density. This increases the vehicle volume and hence the drag losses during atmospheric flight. In addition, the dry mass of the vehicle is larger due to larger vehicle structure and fuel tankage. Therefore it is very desirable to find a fuel system with smaller fuel storage requirements without deteriorating the vehicle performance substantially. To evaluate various candidate fuel systems, they were first screened thermodynamically with respect to their energy content and cooling capacities. To evaluate the vehicle performance with different fuel systems, a simple computer model is developed to compute the vehicle parameters such as the vehicle volume, dry mass, effective specific impulse, and payload capacity. The results indicate that if the payload capacity (or the gross lift-off mass) is the most important criterion, only slush hydrogen and liquid hydrogen - liquid methane gel shows better performance than the liquid hydrogen vehicle. If all the advantages of a smaller vehicle are considered and a more accurate mass analysis can be performed, other systems using endothermic fuels such as cyclohexane, and some boranes may prove to be worthy of further consideration.

Design, fabrication, and operation of capsules for the irradiation testing of candidate advanced space reactor fuel pins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thoms, K. R.

1975-01-01

Fuel irradiation experiments were designed, built, and operated to test uranium mononitride (UN) fuel clad in tungsten-lined T-111 and uranium dioxide fuel clad in both tungsten-lined T-111 and tungsten-lined Nb-1% Zr. A total of nine fuel pins was irradiated at average cladding temperatures ranging from 931 to 1015 C. The UN experiments, capsules UN-4 and -5, operated for 10,480 and 10,037 hr, respectively, at an average linear heat generation rate of 10 kW/ft. The UO2 experiment, capsule UN-6, operated for 8333 hr at an average linear heat generation rate of approximately 5 kW/ft. Following irradiation, the nine fuel pins were removed from their capsules, externally examined, and sent to the NASA Plum Brook Facility for more detailed postirradiation examination. During visual examination, it was discovered that the cladding of the fuel pin containing dense UN in each of capsules UN-4 and -5 had failed, exposing the UN fuel to the NaK in which the pins were submerged and permitting the release of fission gas from the failed pins. A rough analysis of the fission gas seen in samples of the gas in the fuel pin region indicated fission gas release-to-birth rates from these fuel pins in the range of .00001.

Amorphization of the interaction products in U-Mo/Al dispersion fuel during irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Ho Jin; Kim, Yeon Soo; Hofman, G. L.

2009-04-01

The microstructures of the product resulting from interaction between U-Mo fuel particles and the Al matrix in U-Mo/Al dispersion fuel are discussed. We analyzed the available characterization results for the Al matrix dispersion fuels from both the out-of-pile and in-pile tests and examined the difference between these results. The morphology of pores that form in the interaction products during irradiation is similar to the porosity previously observed in irradiation-induced amorphized uranium compounds. The available diffraction studies for the interaction products formed in both the out-of-pile and in-pile tests are analyzed. We have concluded that the interaction products in the U-Mo/Al dispersion fuel are formed as an amorphous state or become amorphous during irradiation, depending on the irradiation conditions.

Catalytic Metal Free Production of Large Cage Structure Carbon Particles: A Candidate for Hydrogen Storage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kimura, Yuki; Nuth, Joseph A., III; Ferguson, Frank T.

2005-01-01

We will demonstrate that carbon particles consisting of large cages can be produced without catalytic metal. The carbon particles were produced in CO gas as well as by introduction of 5% methane gas into the CO gas. The gas-produced carbon particles were able to absorb approximately 16.2 wt% of hydrogen. This value is 2.5 times higher than the 6.5 wt% goal for the vehicular hydrogen storage proposed by the Department of Energy in the USA. Therefore, we believe that this carbon particle is an excellent candidate for hydrogen storage for fuel cells.

FUEL ELEMENT FOR NUCLEAR REACTORS

DOEpatents

Dickson, J.J.

1963-09-24

A method is described whereby fuel tubes or pins are cut, loaded with fuel pellets and a heat transfer medium, sealed at each end with slotted fittings, and assembled into a rectangular tube bundle to form a fuel element. The tubes comprising the fuel element are laterally connected between their ends by clips and tabs to form a linear group of spaced parallel tubes, which receive their vertical support by resting on a grid. The advantages of this method are that it permits elimination of structural material (e.g., fuel-element cans) within the reactor core, and removal of at least one fuel pin from an element and replacement thereof so that a burnable poison may be utilized during the core lifetime. (AEC)

The Federal Energy Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Novick, Sheldon

1976-01-01

There is no federal energy policy. There is a fuel use policy of sorts, but that policy is related as much to foreign policy as to domestic needs, with the United States public paying the large bill. Neither presidential candidate has yet offered a plan for a coherent energy policy. (Editor/BT)

Separation of the rare-earth fission product poisons from spent nuclear fuel

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

Christian, Jerry D.; Sterbentz, James W.

A method for the separation of the rare-earth fission product poisons comprising providing a spent nuclear fuel. The spent nuclear fuel comprises UO.sub.2 and rare-earth oxides, preferably Sm, Gd, Nd, Eu oxides, with other elements depending on the fuel composition. Preferably, the provided nuclear fuel is a powder, preferably formed by crushing the nuclear fuel or using one or more oxidation-reduction cycles. A compound comprising Th or Zr, preferably metal, is provided. The provided nuclear fuel is mixed with the Th or Zr, thereby creating a mixture. The mixture is then heated to a temperature sufficient to reduce the UO.sub.2more » in the nuclear fuel, preferably to at least to 850.degree. C. for Th and up to 600.degree. C. for Zr. Rare-earth metals are then extracted to form the heated mixture thereby producing a treated nuclear fuel. The treated nuclear fuel comprises the provided nuclear fuel having a significant reduction in rare-earths.« less

Annular feed air breathing fuel cell stack

DOEpatents

Wilson, Mahlon S.; Neutzler, Jay K.

1997-01-01

A stack of polymer electrolyte fuel cells is formed from a plurality of unit cells where each unit cell includes fuel cell components defining a periphery and distributed along a common axis, where the fuel cell components include a polymer electrolyte membrane, an anode and a cathode contacting opposite sides of the membrane, and fuel and oxygen flow fields contacting the anode and the cathode, respectively, wherein the components define an annular region therethrough along the axis. A fuel distribution manifold within the annular region is connected to deliver fuel to the fuel flow field in each of the unit cells. The fuel distribution manifold is formed from a hydrophilic-like material to redistribute water produced by fuel and oxygen reacting at the cathode. In a particular embodiment, a single bolt through the annular region clamps the unit cells together. In another embodiment, separator plates between individual unit cells have an extended radial dimension to function as cooling fins for maintaining the operating temperature of the fuel cell stack.

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

Wackett, LP

The current biofuels landscape is chaotic. It is controlled by the rules imposed by economic forces and driven by the necessity of finding new sources of energy, particularly motor fuels. The need is bringing forth great creativity in uncovering new candidate fuel molecules that can be made via metabolic engineering. These next generation fuels include long-chain alcohols, terpenoid hydrocarbons, and diesel-length alkanes. Renewable fuels contain carbon derived from carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is derived directly by a photosynthetic fuel-producing organism(s) or via intermediary biomass polymers that were previously derived from carbon dioxide. To use the latter economically, biomass depolymerizationmore » processes must improve and this is a very active area of research. There are competitive approaches with some groups using enzyme based methods and others using chemical catalysts. With the former, feedstock and end-product toxicity loom as major problems. Advances chiefly rest on the ability to manipulate biological systems. Computational and modular construction approaches are key. For example, novel metabolic networks have been constructed to make long-chain alcohols and hydrocarbons that have superior fuel properties over ethanol. A particularly exciting approach is to implement a direct utilization of solar energy to make a usable fuel. A number of approaches use the components of current biological systems, but re-engineer them for more direct, efficient production of fuels.« less

Monolithic fuel injector and related manufacturing method

DOEpatents

Ziminsky, Willy Steve [Greenville, SC; Johnson, Thomas Edward [Greenville, SC; Lacy, Benjamin [Greenville, SC; York, William David [Greenville, SC; Stevenson, Christian Xavier [Greenville, SC

2012-05-22

A monolithic fuel injection head for a fuel nozzle includes a substantially hollow vesicle body formed with an upstream end face, a downstream end face and a peripheral wall extending therebetween, an internal baffle plate extending radially outwardly from a downstream end of the bore, terminating short of the peripheral wall, thereby defining upstream and downstream fuel plenums in the vesicle body, in fluid communication by way of a radial gap between the baffle plate and the peripheral wall. A plurality of integral pre-mix tubes extend axially through the upstream and downstream fuel plenums in the vesicle body and through the baffle plate, with at least one fuel injection hole extending between each of the pre-mix tubes and the upstream fuel plenum, thereby enabling fuel in the upstream plenum to be injected into the plurality of pre-mix tubes. The fuel injection head is formed by direct metal laser sintering.

Closed Fuel Cycle Waste Treatment Strategy

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

Vienna, J. D.; Collins, E. D.; Crum, J. V.

This study is aimed at evaluating the existing waste management approaches for nuclear fuel cycle facilities in comparison to the objectives of implementing an advanced fuel cycle in the U.S. under current legal, regulatory, and logistical constructs. The study begins with the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) Integrated Waste Management Strategy (IWMS) (Gombert et al. 2008) as a general strategy and associated Waste Treatment Baseline Study (WTBS) (Gombert et al. 2007). The tenets of the IWMS are equally valid to the current waste management study. However, the flowsheet details have changed significantly from those considered under GNEP. In addition, significantmore » additional waste management technology development has occurred since the GNEP waste management studies were performed. This study updates the information found in the WTBS, summarizes the results of more recent technology development efforts, and describes waste management approaches as they apply to a representative full recycle reprocessing flowsheet. Many of the waste management technologies discussed also apply to other potential flowsheets that involve reprocessing. These applications are occasionally discussed where the data are more readily available. The report summarizes the waste arising from aqueous reprocessing of a typical light-water reactor (LWR) fuel to separate actinides for use in fabricating metal sodium fast reactor (SFR) fuel and from electrochemical reprocessing of the metal SFR fuel to separate actinides for recycle back into the SFR in the form of metal fuel. The primary streams considered and the recommended waste forms include; Tritium in low-water cement in high integrity containers (HICs); Iodine-129: As a reference case, a glass composite material (GCM) formed by the encapsulation of the silver Mordenite (AgZ) getter material in a low-temperature glass is assumed. A number of alternatives with distinct advantages are also considered including a fused silica waste form with encapsulated nano-sized AgI crystals; Carbon-14 immobilized as a CaCO3 in a cement waste form; Krypton-85 stored as a compressed gas; An aqueous reprocessing high-level waste (HLW) raffinate waste immobilized by the vitrification process; An undissolved solids (UDS) fraction from aqueous reprocessing of LWR fuel either included in the borosilicate HLW glass or immobilized in the form of a metal alloy or titanate ceramics; Zirconium-based LWR fuel cladding hulls and stainless steel (SS) fuel assembly hardware super-compacted for disposal or purified for reuse (or disposal as low-level waste, LLW) of Zr by reactive gas separations; Electrochemical process salt HLW incorporated into a glass bonded Sodalite waste form; and Electrochemical process UDS and SS cladding hulls melted into an iron based alloy waste form. Mass and volume estimates for each of the recommended waste forms based on the source terms from a representative flowsheet are reported. In addition to the above listed primary waste streams, a range of secondary process wastes are generated by aqueous reprocessing of LWR fuel, metal SFR fuel fabrication, and electrochemical reprocessing of SFR fuel. These secondary wastes have been summarized and volumes estimated by type and classification. The important waste management data gaps and research needs have been summarized for each primary waste stream and selected waste process.« less

FUEL ELEMENT CONSTRUCTION

DOEpatents

Zumwalt, L.R.

1961-08-01

Fuel elements having a solid core of fissionable material encased in a cladding material are described. A conversion material is provided within the cladding to react with the fission products to form stable, relatively non- volatile compounds thereby minimizing the migration of the fission products into the coolant. The conversion material is preferably a metallic fluoride, such as lead difluoride, and may be in the form of a coating on the fuel core or interior of the cladding, or dispersed within the fuel core. (AEC)

Catalytic partial oxidation reforming of hydrocarbon fuels.

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

Ahmed, S.

1998-09-21

The polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is the primary candidate as the power source for light-duty transportation systems. On-board conversion of fuels (reforming) to supply the required hydrogen has the potential to provide the driving range that is typical of today's automobiles. Petroleum-derived fuels, gasoline or some distillate similar to it, are attractive because of their existing production, distribution, and retailing infrastructure. The fuel may be either petroleum-derived or other alternative fuels such as methanol, ethanol, natural gas, etc. [1]. The ability to use a variety of fuels is also attractive for stationary distributed power generation [2], such as inmore » buildings, or for portable power in remote locations. Argonne National Laboratory has developed a catalytic reactor based on partial oxidation reforming that is suitable for use in light-duty vehicles powered by fuel cells. The reactor has shown the ability to convert a wide variety of fuels to a hydrogen-rich gas at less than 800 C, temperatures that are several hundreds of degrees lower than alternative noncatalytic processes. The fuel may be methanol, ethanol, natural gas, or petroleum-derived fuels that are blends of various hydrocarbons such as paraffins, olefins, aromatics, etc., as in gasoline. This paper will discuss the results obtained from a bench-scale (3-kWe) reactor., where the reforming of gasoline and natural gas generated a product gas that contained 38% and 42% hydrogen on a dry basis at the reformer exit, respectively.« less

Fuel cell anode configuration for CO tolerance

DOEpatents

Uribe, Francisco A.; Zawodzinski, Thomas A.

2004-11-16

A polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is designed to operate on a reformate fuel stream containing oxygen and diluted hydrogen fuel with CO impurities. A polymer electrolyte membrane has an electrocatalytic surface formed from an electrocatalyst mixed with the polymer and bonded on an anode side of the membrane. An anode backing is formed of a porous electrically conductive material and has a first surface abutting the electrocatalytic surface and a second surface facing away from the membrane. The second surface has an oxidation catalyst layer effective to catalyze the oxidation of CO by oxygen present in the fuel stream where at least the layer of oxidation catalyst is formed of a non-precious metal oxidation catalyst selected from the group consisting of Cu, Fe, Co, Tb, W, Mo, Sn, and oxides thereof, and other metals having at least two low oxidation states.

Electrochemical Characterization of Carbon Nanotubes for Fuel Cell MEA's

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panagaris, Jael; Loyselle, Patricia

2004-01-01

Single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotubes from different sources have been evaluated before and after sonication to identify structural differences and evaluate electrochemical performance. Raman spectral analysis and cyclic voltammetry in situ with QCM were the principle means of evaluating the tubes. The raman data indicates that sonication in toluene modifies the structural properties of the nanotubes. Sonication also affects the electrochemical performance of single-walled nanotubes and the multi-walled tubes differently. The characterization of different types of carbon nanotubes leads up to identifying a potential candidate for incorporating carbon nanotubes for fuel cell MEA structures.

77 FR 15362 - Proposed Agency Information Collection

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-15

....'' Schedule 2 of the Form EIA-923, ``Power Plant Operations Report,'' collects the cost and quality of fossil... primarily fueled by fossil fuels. The selection of respondents for Schedule 2 and its predecessors, the Form... EIA is soliciting comments on two proposed actions (1) revisions to the Form EIA-923, ``Power Plant...

Self-regulating fuel staging port for turbine combustor

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

Van Nieuwenhuizen, William F.; Fox, Timothy A.; Williams, Steven

2014-07-08

A port (60) for axially staging fuel and air into a combustion gas flow path 28 of a turbine combustor (10A). A port enclosure (63) forms an air path through a combustor wall (30). Fuel injectors (64) in the enclosure provide convergent fuel streams (72) that oppose each other, thus converting velocity pressure to static pressure. This forms a flow stagnation zone (74) that acts as a valve on airflow (40, 41) through the port, in which the air outflow (41) is inversely proportion to the fuel flow (25). The fuel flow rate is controlled (65) in proportion to enginemore » load. At high loads, more fuel and less air flow through the port, making more air available to the premixing assemblies (36).« less

Material selection for accident tolerant fuel cladding

DOE PAGES

Pint, B. A.; Terrani, K. A.; Yamamoto, Y.; ...

2015-09-14

Alternative cladding materials are being investigated for accident tolerance, which can be defined as >100X improvement (compared to current Zr-based alloys) in oxidation resistance in steam environments at ≥1200°C for short (≤4 h) times. After reviewing a wide range of candidates, current steam oxidation testing is being conducted on Mo, MAX phases and FeCrAl alloys. Recently reported low mass losses for Mo in steam at 800°C could not be reproduced. Both FeCrAl and MAX phase Ti 2AlC form a protective alumina scale in steam. Therefore, commercial Ti 2AlC that is not single phase, formed a much thicker oxide at 1200°Cmore » in steam and significant TiO 2, and therefore may be challenging to use as a cladding or a coating. Alloy development for FeCrAl is seeking to maintain its steam oxidation resistance to 1475°C, while reducing its Cr content to minimize susceptibility to irradiation assisted Cr-rich α’ formation. The composition effects and critical limits to retaining protective scale formation at >1400°C are still being evaluated.« less

Heating subsurface formations by oxidizing fuel on a fuel carrier

DOEpatents

Costello, Michael; Vinegar, Harold J.

2012-10-02

A method of heating a portion of a subsurface formation includes drawing fuel on a fuel carrier through an opening formed in the formation. Oxidant is supplied to the fuel at one or more locations in the opening. The fuel is combusted with the oxidant to provide heat to the formation.

Chlorine in solid fuels fired in pulverized fuel boilers sources, forms, reactions, and consequences: a literature review

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

David A. Tillman; Dao Duong; Bruce Miller

2009-07-15

Chlorine is a significant source of corrosion and deposition, both from coal and from biomass, and in PF boilers. This investigation was designed to highlight the potential for corrosion risks associated with once-through units and advanced cycles. The research took the form of a detailed literature investigation to evaluate chlorine in solid fuels: coals of various ranks and origins, biomass fuels of a variety of types, petroleum cokes, and blends of the above. The investigation focused upon an extensive literature review of documents dating back to 1991. The focus is strictly corrosion and deposition. To address the deposition and corrosionmore » issues, this review evaluates the following considerations: concentrations of chlorine in available solid fuels including various coals and biomass fuels, forms of chlorine in those fuels, and reactions - including reactivities - of chlorine in such fuels. The assessment includes consideration of alkali metals and alkali earth elements as they react with, and to, the chlorine and other elements (e.g., sulfur) in the fuel and in the gaseous products of combustion. The assessment also includes other factors of combustion: for example, combustion conditions including excess O{sub 2} and combustion temperatures. It also considers analyses conducted at all levels: theoretical calculations, bench scale laboratory data and experiments, pilot plant experiments, and full scale plant experience. Case studies and plant surveys form a significant consideration in this review. The result of this investigation focuses upon the concentrations of chlorine acceptable in coals burned exclusively, in coals burned with biomass, and in biomass cofired with coal. Values are posited based upon type of fuel and combustion technology. Values are also posited based upon both first principles and field experience. 86 refs., 8 figs., 7 tabs.« less

Final report of fuel dynamics Test E7

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

Doerner, R.C.; Murphy, W.F.; Stanford, G.S.

1977-04-01

Test data from an in-pile failure experiment of high-power LMFBR-type fuel pins in a simulated $3/s transient-overpower (TOP) accident are reported and analyzed. Major conclusions are that (1) a series of cladding ruptures during the 100-ms period preceding fuel release injected small bursts of fission gas into the flow stream; (2) gas release influenced subsequent cladding melting and fuel release (there were no measurable FCI's (fuel-coolant interactions), and all fuel motion observed by the hodoscope was very slow); (3) the predominant postfailure fuel motion appears to be radial swelling that left a spongy fuel crust on the holder wall; (4)more » less than 4 to 6 percent of the fuel moved axially out of the original fuel zone, and most of this froze within a 10-cm region above the original top of the fuel zone to form the outlet blockage. An inlet blockage approximately 1 cm long was formed and consisted of large interconnected void regions. Both blockages began just beyond the ends of the fuel pellets.« less

Molten carbonate fuel cell separator

DOEpatents

Nickols, Richard C.

1986-09-02

In a stacked array of molten carbonate fuel cells, a fuel cell separator is positioned between adjacent fuel cells to provide isolation as well as a conductive path therebetween. The center portion of the fuel cell separator includes a generally rectangular, flat, electrical conductor. Around the periphery of the flat portion of the separator are positioned a plurality of elongated resilient flanges which form a gas-tight seal around the edges of the fuel cell. With one elongated flange resiliently engaging a respective edge of the center portion of the separator, the sealing flanges, which are preferably comprised of a noncorrosive material such as an alloy of yttrium, iron, aluminum or chromium, form a tight-fitting wet seal for confining the corrosive elements of the fuel cell therein. This arrangement permits a good conductive material which may be highly subject to corrosion and dissolution to be used in combination with a corrosion-resistant material in the fuel cell separator of a molten carbonate fuel cell for improved fuel cell conductivity and a gas-tight wet seal.

Molten carbonate fuel cell separator

DOEpatents

Nickols, R.C.

1984-10-17

In a stacked array of molten carbonate fuel cells, a fuel cell separator is positioned between adjacent fuel cells to provide isolation as well as a conductive path therebetween. The center portion of the fuel cell separator includes a generally rectangular, flat, electrical conductor. Around the periphery of the flat portion of the separator are positioned a plurality of elongated resilient flanges which form a gas-tight seal around the edges of the fuel cell. With one elongated flange resiliently engaging a respective edge of the center portion of the separator, the sealing flanges, which are preferably comprised of a noncorrosive material such as an alloy of yttrium, iron, aluminum or chromium, form a tight-fitting wet seal for confining the corrosive elements of the fuel cell therein. This arrangement permits a good conductive material which may be highly subject to corrosion and dissolution to be used in combination with a corrosion-resistant material in the fuel cell separator of a molten carbonate fuel cell for improved fuel cell conductivity and a gas-tight wet seal.

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

Carmack, Jon; Hayes, Steven; Walters, L. C.

This document explores startup fuel options for a proposed test/demonstration fast reactor. The fuel options considered are the metallic fuels U-Zr and U-Pu-Zr and the ceramic fuels UO 2 and UO 2-PuO 2 (MOX). Attributes of the candidate fuel choices considered were feedstock availability, fabrication feasibility, rough order of magnitude cost and schedule, and the existing irradiation performance database. The reactor-grade plutonium bearing fuels (U-Pu-Zr and MOX) were eliminated from consideration as the initial startup fuels because the availability and isotopics of domestic plutonium feedstock is uncertain. There are international sources of reactor grade plutonium feedstock but isotopics and availabilitymore » are also uncertain. Weapons grade plutonium is the only possible source of Pu feedstock in sufficient quantities needed to fuel a startup core. Currently, the available U.S. source of (excess) weapons-grade plutonium is designated for irradiation in commercial light water reactors (LWR) to a level that would preclude diversion. Weapons-grade plutonium also contains a significant concentration of gallium. Gallium presents a potential issue for both the fabrication of MOX fuel as well as possible performance issues for metallic fuel. Also, the construction of a fuel fabrication line for plutonium fuels, with or without a line to remove gallium, is expected to be considerably more expensive than for uranium fuels. In the case of U-Pu-Zr, a relatively small number of fuel pins have been irradiated to high burnup, and in no case has a full assembly been irradiated to high burnup without disassembly and re-constitution. For MOX fuel, the irradiation database from the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) is extensive. If a significant source of either weapons-grade or reactor-grade Pu became available (i.e., from an international source), a startup core based on Pu could be reconsidered.« less

Power considerations for an early manned Mars mission utilizing the space station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valgora, Martin E.

1987-01-01

Power requirements and candidate electrical power sources were examined for the supporting space infrastructure for an early (2004) manned Mars mission. This two-year mission (60-day stay time) assumed a single six crew piloted vehicle with a Mars lander for four of the crew. The transportation vehicle was assumed to be a hydrogen/oxygen propulsion design with or without large aerobrakes and assembled and checked out on the LEO Space Station. The long transit time necessitated artificial gravity of the crew by rotating the crew compartments. This rotation complicates power source selection. Candidate power sources were examined for the Lander, Mars Orbiter, supporting Space Station, co-orbiting Propellant Storage Depot, and alternatively, a co-orbiting Propellant Generation (water electrolysis) Depot. Candidates considered were photovoltaics with regenerative fuel cells or batteries, solar dynamics, isotope dynamics, and nuclear power.

Improving reliability of a residency interview process.

PubMed

Peeters, Michael J; Serres, Michelle L; Gundrum, Todd E

2013-10-14

To improve the reliability and discrimination of a pharmacy resident interview evaluation form, and thereby improve the reliability of the interview process. In phase 1 of the study, authors used a Many-Facet Rasch Measurement model to optimize an existing evaluation form for reliability and discrimination. In phase 2, interviewer pairs used the modified evaluation form within 4 separate interview stations. In phase 3, 8 interviewers individually-evaluated each candidate in one-on-one interviews. In phase 1, the evaluation form had a reliability of 0.98 with person separation of 6.56; reproducibly, the form separated applicants into 6 distinct groups. Using that form in phase 2 and 3, our largest variation source was candidates, while content specificity was the next largest variation source. The phase 2 g-coefficient was 0.787, while confirmatory phase 3 was 0.922. Process reliability improved with more stations despite fewer interviewers per station-impact of content specificity was greatly reduced with more interview stations. A more reliable, discriminating evaluation form was developed to evaluate candidates during resident interviews, and a process was designed that reduced the impact from content specificity.

Metal organic chemical vapor deposition of environmental barrier coatings for the inhibition of solid deposit formation from heated jet fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohan, Arun Ram

Solid deposit formation from jet fuel compromises the fuel handling system of an aviation turbine engine and increases the maintenance downtime of an aircraft. The deposit formation process depends upon the composition of the fuel, the nature of metal surfaces that come in contact with the heated fuel and the operating conditions of the engine. The objective of the study is to investigate the effect of substrate surfaces on the amount and nature of solid deposits in the intermediate regime where both autoxidation and pyrolysis play an important role in deposit formation. A particular focus has been directed to examining the effectiveness of barrier coatings produced by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) on metal surfaces for inhibiting the solid deposit formation from jet fuel degradation. In the first part of the experimental study, a commercial Jet-A sample was stressed in a flow reactor on seven different metal surfaces: AISI316, AISI 321, AISI 304, AISI 347, Inconel 600, Inconel 718, Inconel 750X and FecrAlloy. Examination of deposits by thermal and microscopic analysis shows that the solid deposit formation is influenced by the interaction of organosulfur compounds and autoxidation products with the metal surfaces. The nature of metal sulfides was predicted by Fe-Ni-S ternary phase diagram. Thermal stressing on uncoated surfaces produced coke deposits with varying degree of structural order. They are hydrogen-rich and structurally disordered deposits, spherulitic deposits, small carbon particles with relatively ordered structures and large platelets of ordered carbon structures formed by metal catalysis. In the second part of the study, environmental barrier coatings were deposited on tube surfaces to inhibit solid deposit formation from the heated fuel. A new CVD system was configured by the proper choice of components for mass flow, pressure and temperature control in the reactor. A bubbler was designed to deliver the precursor into the reactor for the deposition of metal and metal oxide functional coatings by MOCVD. Alumina was chosen as a candidate for metal oxide coating because of its thermal and phase stability. Platinum was chosen as a candidate to utilize the oxygen spillover process to maintain a self-cleaning surface by oxidizing the deposits formed during thermal stressing. Two metal organic precursors, aluminum trisecondary butoxide and aluminum acetylacetonate, were used as precursors to coat tubes of varying diameters. The morphology and uniformity of the coatings were characterized by electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The coating was characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to obtain the surface chemical composition. This is the first study conducted to examine the application of MOCVD to coat internal surfaces of tubes with varying diameters. In the third part of the study, the metal oxide coatings, alumina from aluminum acetylacetonate, alumina from aluminum trisecondary butoxide, zirconia from zirconium acetylacetonate, tantalum oxide from tantalum pentaethoxide and the metal coating, platinum from platinum acetylacetonate were deposited by MOCVD on AISI304. The chemical composition and the surface acidity of the coatings were characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The morphology of the coatings was characterized by electron microscopy. The coated substrates were tested in the presence of heated Jet-A in a flow reactor to evaluate their effectiveness in inhibiting the solid deposit formation. All coatings inhibited the formation of metal sulfides and the carbonaceous solid deposits formed by metal catalysis. The coatings also delayed the accumulation of solid carbonaceous deposits. In particular, it has been confirmed that the surface acidity of the metal oxide coatings affects the formation of carbonaceous deposits. Bimolecular addition reactions promoted by the Bronsted acid sites appear to lead to the formation of carbonaceous solid deposits depending on the surface acidity of the coatings. In the last part of the study, the residual carbon was incorporated in the zirconia coating by deposition with and without oxygen. As carbon surface is less active towards coke deposition, presence of residual carbon in the coating was expected to reduce its activity towards carbon deposition. The residual carbon in the coating was characterized by Raman spectroscopy and thermal analysis. However, it has been observed that residual carbon in the coating beyond a certain concentration compromises the integrity of the coating during the process of cooling the substrate from deposition temperature to room temperature. It has been found that residual carbon in the zirconia coating does not appear to affect the activity of the surface towards carbon deposition.

Membranes for Food and Bioproduct Processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avram, Alexandru M.

Modified membranes for process intensification in biomass hydrolysis: Production of biofuels and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass is one of the leading candidates for replacement of petroleum based fuels and chemicals. However, conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and chemicals is not cost effective compared to the production of fuels and chemicals from crude oil reserves. Some novel and economically feasible approaches involve the use of ionic liquids as solvents or co-solvents, since these show improved solvation capability of cellulose over simple aqueous systems. Membranes offer unique opportunities for process intensification which involves fractionation of the resulting biomass hydrolysate leading to a more efficient and cheaper operation. This research attempts to develop membranes that would usher the economics of the biochemical conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and chemicals by recycling the expensive ionic liquid. The overall aim of this work is the development of novel membranes with unique surface properties that enable the selective separation of non-reacted cellulose and hydrolysis sugars from ionic liquids. Nanofiltration separation for application in food product engineering: With the advent of the modern, well-informed consumer who has high expectations from the nutritional value of consumed food products, novel approaches are being developed to produce nutrient-enhanced foods and drinks. As a response to the consumer needs, different techniques to recover, concentrate and retain as much as possible of bioactive compounds are being investigated. Membrane technology has the advantage of selective fractionation of food products (e.g. salt removal, removal of bitter-tasting compounds or removal of sugar for sweet taste adjustment), volume reduction, and product recovery at mild conditions. In this work, we use nanofiltration in dead-end and crossflow mode to concentrate polyphenols from blueberry pomace. Blueberry pomace is an overlooked waste product form the juice pressing of blueberries that contains high amounts of health-beneficial antioxidants. We aim at developing a simple, yet efficient membrane process that reduces the amount of water and thus concentrates the amount of polyphenols in the retentate.

40 CFR 97.202 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived... trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and... any other fuel. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil...

40 CFR 97.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil-or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and to transfer heat to... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 96.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used..., fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1) Having equipment used...

40 CFR 96.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used..., fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1) Having equipment used...

40 CFR 97.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and to transfer heat to... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 96.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used..., fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1) Having equipment used...

40 CFR 97.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and to transfer heat to... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil-or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil-or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 96.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used..., fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1) Having equipment used...

40 CFR 97.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and to transfer heat to... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 96.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used..., fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1) Having equipment used...

40 CFR 97.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil-or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil-or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.102 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil-fuel-fired... enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and to transfer heat to... means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil-fuel-fired combustion turbine: (1...

40 CFR 97.202 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived... trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and... any other fuel. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil...

40 CFR 97.202 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived... trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and... any other fuel. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil...

40 CFR 97.202 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived... trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and... any other fuel. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil...

40 CFR 97.202 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived... trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used to produce heat and... any other fuel. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired boiler or stationary, fossil...

Fuel cell sub-assembly

DOEpatents

Chi, Chang V.

1983-01-01

A fuel cell sub-assembly comprising a plurality of fuel cells, a first section of a cooling means disposed at an end of the assembly and means for connecting the fuel cells and first section together to form a unitary structure.

Fuel Fraction Analysis of 500 MWth Gas Cooled Fast Reactor with Nitride (UN-PuN) Fuel without Refueling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewi Syarifah, Ratna; Su'ud, Zaki; Basar, Khairul; Irwanto, Dwi

2017-01-01

Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) is one of candidates which can support electricity demand in the world. The Generation IV NPP has fourth main objective, i.e. sustainability, economics competitiveness, safety and reliability, and proliferation and physical protection. One of Gen-IV reactor type is Gas Cooled Fast Reactor (GFR). In this study, the analysis of fuel fraction in small GFR with nitride fuel has been done. The calculation was performed by SRAC code, both Pij and CITATION calculation. SRAC2002 system is a code system applicable to analyze the neutronics of variety reactor type. And for the data library used JENDL-3.2. The step of SRAC calculation is fuel pin calculated by Pij calculation until the data homogenized, after it homogenized we calculate core reactor. The variation of fuel fraction is 40% up to 65%. The optimum design of 500MWth GFR without refueling with 10 years burn up time reach when radius F1:F2:F3 = 50cm:30cm:30cm and height F1:F2:F3 = 50cm:40cm:30cm, variation percentage Plutonium in F1:F2:F3 = 7%:10%:13%. The optimum fuel fraction is 41% with addition 2% Plutonium weapon grade mix in the fuel. The excess reactivity value in this case 1.848% and the k-eff value is 1.01883. The high burn up reached when the fuel fraction is low. In this study 41% fuel fraction produce faster fissile fuel, so it has highest burn-up level than the other fuel fraction.

Clean Energy Technology Incubator Initiative Launched in Texas

Science.gov Websites

, fuel cells, energy conservation, clean energy-related information technology, end-use consumer products Technology Incubator Initiative Launched in Texas For more information contact: Kerry Masson, 303 information looks like it's a good fit for the clean energy initiative, ATI will help the candidate refine its

Ground Vehicle Power and Mobility Overview - Germany Visit

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-11-10

the current and future force Survivability Robotics – Intelligent Systems Vehicle Electronics & Architecture Fuel, Water, Bridging ...Test Cell • Engine Generator Test Lab • Full Vehicle Environmental Test Cell • Hybrid Electric Reconfigurable Moveable Integration Testbed (HERMIT...Converter Conducted competitive runoff evaluations on Bridging Boat engine candidates Completed independent durability assessment of OEM

Force Project Technology Presentation to the NRCC

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-04

Functional Bridge components Smart Odometer Adv Pretreatment Smart Bridge Multi-functional Gap Crossing Fuel Automated Tracking System Adv...comprehensive matrix of candidate composite material systems and textile reinforcement architectures via modeling/analyses and testing. Product(s...Validated Dynamic Modeling tool based on parametric study using material models to reliably predict the textile mechanics of the hose

Diffusion Bonding Technology of Tungsten and SiC/SiC Composites for Nuclear Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kishimoto, Hirotatsu; Shibayama, Tamaki; Abe, Takahiro; Shimoda, Kazuya; Kawamura, Satoshi; Kohyama, Akira

2011-10-01

Silicon carbide (SiC) is a candidate for the structural material in the next generation nuclear plants. Use of SiC/SiC composites is expected to increase the operation temperature of system over 1000 °C. For the high temperature system, refractory metals are planned to be used for several components. Tungsten is a candidate of armor on the divertor component in fusion, and is planned to be used for an upper-end plug of SiC/SiC fuel pin in a Gas cooled Fast Reactor (GFR). Joining technique of the SiC/SiC composites and tungsten is an important issue for nuclear systems in future. Nano-Infiltration and Transient Eutectoid (NITE) method is able to provide dense stable and high strength SiC/SiC composites having high resistance against pressure at elevated temperature, a diffusion bonding technique is usable to join the materials. Present research produces a NITE-SiC/SiC composite and tungsten as the similar dimension as a projected cladding tube of fuel pin for GFR using diffusion bonding, and investigated microstructure and mechanical properties.

Critical Thinking Tendencies among Teacher Candidates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Genc, Salih Zeki

2008-01-01

The study aims to determine critical thinking tendencies among teacher candidates. 720 students from primary school teaching department (Primary School Teaching Programme, Science Teaching Programme and Pre-School Teaching Programme) form the sample of the study. When the gender and age distributions were investigated, 253 candidates are males and…

Examining Variations in Programmatic Delivery on Teaching Candidates' Sense of Efficacy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Putman, S. Michael

2012-01-01

Researchers have recommended that teacher education candidates receive multiple opportunities for systematic implementation of practices within authentic contexts. These experiences form an important foundation for candidates' beliefs about their abilities in classrooms. Yet, few researchers have examined the relationship between the context for…

Cogeneration Technology Alternatives Study (CTAS). Volume 6: Computer data. Part 1: Coal-fired nocogeneration process boiler, section A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knightly, W. F.

1980-01-01

Various advanced energy conversion systems (ECS) are compared with each other and with current technology systems for their savings in fuel energy, costs, and emissions in individual plants and on a national level. About fifty industrial processes from the largest energy consuming sectors were used as a basis for matching a similar number of energy conversion systems that are considered as candidates which can be made available by the 1985 to 2000 time period. The sectors considered included food, textiles, lumber, paper, chemicals, petroleum, glass, and primary metals. The energy conversion systems included steam and gas turbines, diesels, thermionics, stirling, closed cycle and steam injected gas turbines, and fuel cells. Fuels considered were coal, both coal and petroleum based residual and distillate liquid fuels, and low Btu gas obtained through the on-site gasification of coal. Computer generated reports of the fuel consumption and savings, capital costs, economics and emissions of the cogeneration energy conversion systems (ECS's) heat and power matched to the individual industrial processes are presented for coal fired process boilers. National fuel and emissions savings are also reported for each ECS assuming it alone is implemented.

Characterizing model uncertainties in the life cycle of lignocellulose-based ethanol fuels.

PubMed

Spatari, Sabrina; MacLean, Heather L

2010-11-15

Renewable and low carbon fuel standards being developed at federal and state levels require an estimation of the life cycle carbon intensity (LCCI) of candidate fuels that can substitute for gasoline, such as second generation bioethanol. Estimating the LCCI of such fuels with a high degree of confidence requires the use of probabilistic methods to account for known sources of uncertainty. We construct life cycle models for the bioconversion of agricultural residue (corn stover) and energy crops (switchgrass) and explicitly examine uncertainty using Monte Carlo simulation. Using statistical methods to identify significant model variables from public data sets and Aspen Plus chemical process models,we estimate stochastic life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the two feedstocks combined with two promising fuel conversion technologies. The approach can be generalized to other biofuel systems. Our results show potentially high and uncertain GHG emissions for switchgrass-ethanol due to uncertain CO₂ flux from land use change and N₂O flux from N fertilizer. However, corn stover-ethanol,with its low-in-magnitude, tight-in-spread LCCI distribution, shows considerable promise for reducing life cycle GHG emissions relative to gasoline and corn-ethanol. Coproducts are important for reducing the LCCI of all ethanol fuels we examine.

Fuel cell technology for lunar surface operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deronck, Henry J.

1992-01-01

Hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells have been shown, in several NASA and contractor studies, to be an enabling technology for providing electrical power for lunar bases, outposts, and vehicles. The fuel cell, in conjunction with similar electrolysis cells, comprises a closed regenerative energy storage system, commonly referred to as a regenerative fuel cell (RFC). For stationary applications, energy densities of 1,000 watt-hours per kilograms an order of magnitude over the best rechargeable batteries, have been projected. In this RFC, the coupled fuel cell and electrolyzer act as an ultra-light battery. Electrical energy from solar arrays 'charges' the system by electrolyzing water into hydrogen and oxygen. When an electrical load is applied, the fuel cell reacts the hydrogen and oxygen to 'discharge' usable power. Several concepts for utilizing RFC's, with varying degrees of integration, have been proposed, including both primary and backup roles. For mobile power needs, such as rovers, an effective configuration may be to have only the fuel cell located on the vehicle, and to use a central electrolysis 'gas station'. Two fuel cell technologies are prime candidates for lunar power system concepts: alkaline electrolyte and proton exchange membrane. Alkaline fuel cells have been developed to a mature production power unit in NASA's Space Shuttle Orbiter. Recent advances in materials offer to significantly improve durability to the level needed for extended lunar operations. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are receiving considerable support for hydrospace and terrestrial transportation applications. This technology promises durability, simplicity, and flexibility.

Fuel cell technology for lunar surface operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deronck, Henry J.

1992-02-01

Hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells have been shown, in several NASA and contractor studies, to be an enabling technology for providing electrical power for lunar bases, outposts, and vehicles. The fuel cell, in conjunction with similar electrolysis cells, comprises a closed regenerative energy storage system, commonly referred to as a regenerative fuel cell (RFC). For stationary applications, energy densities of 1,000 watt-hours per kilograms an order of magnitude over the best rechargeable batteries, have been projected. In this RFC, the coupled fuel cell and electrolyzer act as an ultra-light battery. Electrical energy from solar arrays 'charges' the system by electrolyzing water into hydrogen and oxygen. When an electrical load is applied, the fuel cell reacts the hydrogen and oxygen to 'discharge' usable power. Several concepts for utilizing RFC's, with varying degrees of integration, have been proposed, including both primary and backup roles. For mobile power needs, such as rovers, an effective configuration may be to have only the fuel cell located on the vehicle, and to use a central electrolysis 'gas station'. Two fuel cell technologies are prime candidates for lunar power system concepts: alkaline electrolyte and proton exchange membrane. Alkaline fuel cells have been developed to a mature production power unit in NASA's Space Shuttle Orbiter. Recent advances in materials offer to significantly improve durability to the level needed for extended lunar operations. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are receiving considerable support for hydrospace and terrestrial transportation applications. This technology promises durability, simplicity, and flexibility.

ADVANCED NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE EFFECTS ON THE TREATMENT OF UNCERTAINTY IN THE LONG-TERM ASSESSMENT OF GEOLOGIC DISPOSAL SYSTEMS - EBS INPUT

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

Sutton, M; Blink, J A; Greenberg, H R

2012-04-25

The Used Fuel Disposition (UFD) Campaign within the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE-NE) Fuel Cycle Technology (FCT) program has been tasked with investigating the disposal of the nation's spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level nuclear waste (HLW) for a range of potential waste forms and geologic environments. The planning, construction, and operation of a nuclear disposal facility is a long-term process that involves engineered barriers that are tailored to both the geologic environment and the waste forms being emplaced. The UFD Campaign is considering a range of fuel cycles that in turn produce a range of wastemore » forms. The UFD Campaign is also considering a range of geologic media. These ranges could be thought of as adding uncertainty to what the disposal facility design will ultimately be; however, it may be preferable to thinking about the ranges as adding flexibility to design of a disposal facility. For example, as the overall DOE-NE program and industrial actions result in the fuel cycles that will produce waste to be disposed, and the characteristics of those wastes become clear, the disposal program retains flexibility in both the choice of geologic environment and the specific repository design. Of course, other factors also play a major role, including local and State-level acceptance of the specific site that provides the geologic environment. In contrast, the Yucca Mountain Project (YMP) repository license application (LA) is based on waste forms from an open fuel cycle (PWR and BWR assemblies from an open fuel cycle). These waste forms were about 90% of the total waste, and they were the determining waste form in developing the engineered barrier system (EBS) design for the Yucca Mountain Repository design. About 10% of the repository capacity was reserved for waste from a full recycle fuel cycle in which some actinides were extracted for weapons use, and the remaining fission products and some minor actinides were encapsulated in borosilicate glass. Because the heat load of the glass was much less than the PWR and BWR assemblies, the glass waste form was able to be co-disposed with the open cycle waste, by interspersing glass waste packages among the spent fuel assembly waste packages. In addition, the Yucca Mountain repository was designed to include some research reactor spent fuel and naval reactor spent fuel, within the envelope that was set using the commercial reactor assemblies as the design basis waste form. This milestone report supports Sandia National Laboratory milestone M2FT-12SN0814052, and is intended to be a chapter in that milestone report. The independent technical review of this LLNL milestone was performed at LLNL and is documented in the electronic Information Management (IM) system at LLNL. The objective of this work is to investigate what aspects of quantifying, characterizing, and representing the uncertainty associated with the engineered barrier are affected by implementing different advanced nuclear fuel cycles (e.g., partitioning and transmutation scenarios) together with corresponding designs and thermal constraints.« less

Thermal Stability of Jet Fuels: Kinetics of Forming Deposit Precursors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naegeli, David W.

1997-01-01

The focus of this study was on the autoxidation kinetics of deposit precursor formation in jet fuels. The objectives were: (1) to demonstrate that laser-induced fluorescence is a viable kinetic tool for measuring rates of deposit precursor formation in jet fuels; (2) to determine global rate expressions for the formation of thermal deposit precursors in jet fuels; and (3) to better understand the chemical mechanism of thermal stability. The fuels were isothermally stressed in small glass ampules in the 120 to 180 C range. Concentrations of deposit precursor, hydroperoxide and oxygen consumption were measured over time in the thermally stressed fuels. Deposit precursors were measured using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), hydroperoxides using a spectrophotometric technique, and oxygen consumption by the pressure loss in the ampule. The expressions, I.P. = 1.278 x 10(exp -11)exp(28,517.9/RT) and R(sub dp) = 2.382 x 10(exp 17)exp(-34,369.2/RT) for the induction period, I.P. and rate of deposit precursor formation R(sub dp), were determined for Jet A fuel. The results of the study support a new theory of deposit formation in jet fuels, which suggest that acid catalyzed ionic reactions compete with free radical reactions to form deposit precursors. The results indicate that deposit precursors form only when aromatics are present in the fuel. Traces of sulfur reduce the rate of autoxidation but increase the yield of deposit precursor. Free radical chemistry is responsible for hydroperoxide formation and the oxidation of sulfur compounds to sulfonic acids. Phenols are then formed by the acid catalyzed decomposition of benzylic hydroperoxides, and deposit precursors are produced by the reaction of phenols with aldehydes, which forms a polymer similar to Bakelite. Deposit precursors appear to have a phenolic resin-like structure because the LIF spectra of the deposit precursors were similar to that of phenolic resin dissolved in TAM.

Experimental investigation on fuel properties of biodiesel prepared from cottonseed oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Payl, Ashish Naha; Mashud, Mohammad

2017-06-01

In recent time's world's energy demands are satisfied by coal, natural gas as well as petroleum though the prices of these are escalating. If this continues, global recession is unavoidable and diminution of world reserve accelerates undoubtedly. Recently, Biodiesel is found to be more sustainable, non-toxic and energy efficient alternative which is also biodegradable. The use of biofuels in compression ignition engines is now a contemplation attention in place of petrochemicals. In view of this, cottonseed oil is quite a favorable candidate as an alternative fuel. The present study covers the various aspects of biodiesels fuel prepared from cottonseed oil. In this work Biodiesel was prepared from cottonseed oil through transesterification process with methanol, using sodium hydroxide as catalyst. The fuel properties of cottonseed oil methyl esters, kinematic viscosity, flash point, density, calorific value, boiling point etc. were evaluated and discussed in the light of Conventional Diesel Fuel. The properties of biodiesel produced from cotton seed oil are quite close to that of diesel except from flash point. And so the methyl esters of cottonseed oil can be used in existing diesel engines without any modifications.

Cogeneration Technology Alternatives Study (CTAS). Volume 5: Cogeneration systems results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gerlaugh, H. E.; Hall, E. W.; Brown, D. H.; Priestley, R. R.; Knightly, W. F.

1980-01-01

The use of various advanced energy conversion systems is examined and compared with each other and with current technology systems for savings in fuel energy, costs, and emissions in individual plants and on a national level. About fifty industrial processes from the largest energy consuming sectors were used as a basis for matching a similar number of energy conversion systems that are considered as candidate which can be made available by the 1985 to 2000 time period. The sectors considered included food, textiles, lumber, paper, chemicals, petroleum, glass, and primary metals. The energy conversion systems included steam and gas turbines, diesels, thermionics, stirling, closed cycle and steam injected gas turbines, and fuel cells. Fuels considered were coal, both coal and petroleum based residual and distillate liquid fuels, and low Btu gas obtained through the on site gasification of coal. The methodology and results of matching the cogeneration energy conversion systems to approximately 50 industrial processes are described. Results include fuel energy saved, levelized annual energy cost saved, return on investment, and operational factors relative to the noncogeneration base cases.

Architecture Study for a Fuel Depot Supplied from Lunar Assets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perrin, Thomas M.; Casler, James G.

2016-01-01

This architecture study sought to determine the optimum architecture for a fuel depot supplied from lunar assets. Four factors - the location of propellant processing (on the Moon or on the depot), the depot location (on the Moon, L1, GEO, or LEO), the propellant transfer location (L1, GEO, or LEO), and the propellant transfer method (bulk fuel or canister exchange) were combined to identify 18 candidate architectures. Two design reference missions (DRMs) - a commercial satellite servicing mission and a Government cargo mission to Mars - created demand for propellants, while a propellant delivery DRM examined supply issues. The study concluded Earth-Moon L1 is the best location for an orbiting depot. For all architectures, propellant boiloff was less than anticipated, and was far overshadowed by delta-v requirements and resulting fuel consumption. Bulk transfer is the most flexible for both the supplier and customer. However, since canister exchange bypasses the transfer of bulk cryogens and necessary chilldown losses, canister exchange shows promise and merits further investigation. Overall, this work indicates propellant consumption and loss is an essential factor in assessing fuel depot architectures.

40 CFR 80.1429 - Requirements for separating RINs from volumes of renewable fuel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... or fossil-based diesel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel. A party may... (ii) The neat renewable fuel or blend is used without further blending, in the designated form, as...

40 CFR 80.1429 - Requirements for separating RINs from volumes of renewable fuel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... or fossil-based diesel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel. A party may... (ii) The neat renewable fuel or blend is used without further blending, in the designated form, as...

78 FR 49793 - Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives: 2013 Renewable Fuel Standards

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-15

... produced in plants using waste materials to displace 90% or more of fossil fuel use under the then... made to our approach in evaluating the information that forms the basis for our projection of...

40 CFR 80.1429 - Requirements for separating RINs from volumes of renewable fuel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... or fossil-based diesel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel. A party may... (ii) The neat renewable fuel or blend is used without further blending, in the designated form, as...

Reducing Soot in Diesel Exhaust

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bellan, J.

1984-01-01

Electrically charged fuel improves oxidation. Fuel injection system reduces amount of soot formed in diesel engines. Spray injector electrically charges fuel droplets as they enter cylinder. Charged droplets repel each other, creating, dilute fuel mist easily penetrated by oxygen in cylinder.

40 CFR 80.1453 - What are the product transfer document (PTD) requirements for the RFS program?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... state “No assigned RINs transferred.”. (iv) If RINs have been separated from the renewable fuel or fuel... renewable fuel or fuel blend shall state “This volume of fuel must be used in the designated form, without... used to transfer ownership of the renewable fuel shall state “This volume of renewable fuel may not be...

Process for immobilizing plutonium into vitreous ceramic waste forms

DOEpatents

Feng, Xiangdong; Einziger, Robert E.

1997-01-01

Disclosed is a method for converting spent nuclear fuel and surplus plutonium into a vitreous ceramic final waste form wherein spent nuclear fuel is bound in a crystalline matrix which is in turn bound within glass.

Process for immobilizing plutonium into vitreous ceramic waste forms

DOEpatents

Feng, X.; Einziger, R.E.

1997-08-12

Disclosed is a method for converting spent nuclear fuel and surplus plutonium into a vitreous ceramic final waste form wherein spent nuclear fuel is bound in a crystalline matrix which is in turn bound within glass.

Process for immobilizing plutonium into vitreous ceramic waste forms

DOEpatents

Feng, X.; Einziger, R.E.

1997-01-28

Disclosed is a method for converting spent nuclear fuel and surplus plutonium into a vitreous ceramic final waste form wherein spent nuclear fuel is bound in a crystalline matrix which is in turn bound within glass.

Radiation and Thermal Effects on Used Nuclear Fuel and Nuclear Waste Forms

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

Weber, William J.; Zhang, Yanwen

This is the final report of the NEUP project “Radiation and Thermal Effects on Used Nuclear Fuel and Nuclear Waste Forms.” This project started on July 1, 2012 and was successfully completed on June 30, 2016. This report provides an overview of the main achievements, results and findings through the duration of the project. Additional details can be found in the main body of this report and in the individual Quarterly Reports and associated Deliverables of this project, which have been uploaded in PICS-NE. The objective of this research was to advance understanding and develop validated models on the effectsmore » of self-radiation from beta and alpha decay on the response of used nuclear fuel and nuclear waste forms during high-temperature interim storage and long-term permanent disposition. To achieve this objective, model used-fuel materials and model waste form materials were identified, fabricated, and studied.« less

Hydrogen permeation in FeCrAl alloys for LWR cladding application

DOE PAGES

Hu, Xunxiang; Terrani, Kurt A.; Wirth, Brian D.; ...

2015-03-19

FeCrAl is an advanced oxidation-resistant iron-based alloy class, is a highly prevalent candidate as an accident-tolerant fuel cladding material. Compared with traditional zirconium alloy fuel cladding, increased tritium permeation through FeCrAl fuel cladding to the primary coolant is expected, raising potential safety concerns. In our study, the hydrogen permeability of several FeCrAl alloys was obtained using a static permeation test station, which was calibrated and validated using 304 stainless steel. The high hydrogen permeability of FeCrAl alloys leads to concerns with respect to potentially significant tritium release when used for fuel cladding in LWRs. Also, the total tritium inventory insidemore » the primary coolant of a light water reactor was quantified by applying a 1-dimensional steady state tritium diffusion model to demonstrate the dependence of tritium inventory on fuel cladding type. Furthermore, potential mitigation strategies for tritium release from FeCrAl fuel cladding were discussed and indicate the potential for application of an alumina layer on the inner clad surface to serve as a tritium barrier. More effort is required to develop a robust, economical mitigation strategy for tritium permeation in reactors using FeCrAl clad fuel assemblies.« less

Simulated Fission Gas Behavior in Silicide Fuel at LWR Conditions

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

Miao, Yinbin; Mo, Kun; Yacout, Abdellatif

As a promising candidate for the accident tolerant fuel (ATF) used in light water reactors (LWRs), the fuel performance of uranium silicide (U 3Si 2) at LWR conditions needs to be well-understood. However, existing experimental post-irradiation examination (PIE) data are limited to the research reactor conditions, which involve lower fuel temperature compared to LWR conditions. This lack of appropriate experimental data significantly affects the development of fuel performance codes that can precisely predict the microstructure evolution and property degradation at LWR conditions, and therefore evaluate the qualification of U 3Si 2 as an AFT for LWRs. Considering the high cost,more » long timescale, and restrictive access of the in-pile irradiation experiments, this study aims to utilize ion irradiation to simulate the inpile behavior of the U 3Si 2 fuel. Both in situ TEM ion irradiation and ex situ high-energy ATLAS ion irradiation experiments were employed to simulate different types of microstructure modifications in U 3Si 2. Multiple PIE techniques were used or will be used to quantitatively analyze the microstructure evolution induced by ion irradiation so as to provide valuable reference for the development of fuel performance code prior to the availability of the in-pile irradiation data.« less

Galvanic cell for processing of used nuclear fuel

DOEpatents

Garcia-Diaz, Brenda L.; Martinez-Rodriguez, Michael J.; Gray, Joshua R.; Olson, Luke C.

2017-02-07

A galvanic cell and methods of using the galvanic cell is described for the recovery of uranium from used nuclear fuel according to an electrofluorination process. The galvanic cell requires no input energy and can utilize relatively benign gaseous fluorinating agents. Uranium can be recovered from used nuclear fuel in the form of gaseous uranium compound such as uranium hexafluoride, which can then be converted to metallic uranium or UO.sub.2 and processed according to known methodology to form a useful product, e.g., fuel pellets for use in a commercial energy production system.

Electrochemical fluorination for processing of used nuclear fuel

DOEpatents

Garcia-Diaz, Brenda L.; Martinez-Rodriguez, Michael J.; Gray, Joshua R.; Olson, Luke C.

2016-07-05

A galvanic cell and methods of using the galvanic cell is described for the recovery of uranium from used nuclear fuel according to an electrofluorination process. The galvanic cell requires no input energy and can utilize relatively benign gaseous fluorinating agents. Uranium can be recovered from used nuclear fuel in the form of gaseous uranium compound such as uranium hexafluoride, which can then be converted to metallic uranium or UO.sub.2 and processed according to known methodology to form a useful product, e.g., fuel pellets for use in a commercial energy production system.

THE ARMOUR DUST FUELED REACTOR (ADFR). Quarterly Progress Report No. 1 for the Period February 21, 1958 to May 21, 1958

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

Loewe, W.E.; Krucoff, D.

1958-10-31

Work has begun on the ADFR, a reactor using a new fuel form -- fissionable dust carried in an inent gas. Temperatures in the range 2,000 to 3,000 deg F appear feasible in an all-ceramic system. Experimental study of the fuel form was initiated, and a loop to circulate the fuel dust was constructed. Initial operation is encouraging. Theoretical studies were carried on in the areas of reactor physics, heat transfer, and safety. (auth)

THE MANUFACTURE OF FUEL ELEMENTS OF THE ARGONAUT TYPE

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

Kittl, J.; Machado, R.E.; Mazza, J.A.

1958-06-10

The conditions required for the manufacture of the RA-1 Argonant type fuel elements are investigated. The fuel elements are in the form of a plate which is manufactured by the extrusion of a presintered mass of U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ (20% enriched) in an aluminum matrix. Steps in the investigation were obtention and specification of U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ and Al in powder form for testing, filling, and extrusion tests, finishing of the fuel elements, and computation of U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ content. (W.D.M.)

Long-term evaluation of solid oxide fuel cell candidate materials in a 3-cell generic short stack fixture, Part II: sealing glass stability, microstructure and interfacial reactions.

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

Chou, Y. S.; Stevenson, Jeffry W.; Choi, Jung-Pyung

2014-03-15

A generic solid oxide fuel cell stack test fixture was developed to evaluate candidate materials and processing methods under realistic conditions. Part I of the work addressed the stack fixture, seal system and cell performance of a 3-cell short stack tested at 800oC for 6000h. Commercial NiO-YSZ anode-supported thin YSZ electrolyte cells with LSM cathodes were used for assessment and were tested in constant current mode with dilute (~50% H2) fuel versus air. Part II of the work examined the sealing glass stability, microstructure development, interfacial reactions, and volatility issues. Part III of the work investigated the stability of Ce-(Mn,Co)more » spinel coating, AISI441 metallic interconnect, alumina coating, and cell degradation. After 6000h of testing, the refractory sealing glass YSO77 (Ba-Sr-Y-B-Si) showed desirable chemical compatibility with YSZ electrolyte in that no discernable interfacial reaction was identified, consistent with thermodynamic calculations. In addition, no glass penetration into the thin electrolyte was observed. At the aluminized AISI441 interface, the protective alumina coating appeared to be corroded by the sealing glass. Air side interactions appeared to be more severe than fuel side interactions. Metal species such as Cr, Mn, and Fe were detected in the glass, but were limited to the vicinity of the interface. No alkaline earth chromates were found at the air side. Volatility was also studied in a similar glass and weight loss in a wet reducing environment was determined. Using the steady-state volatility data, the life time (40,000h) weight loss of refractory sealing glass YSO77 was estimated to be less than 0.1 wt%.« less

Metabolic fate of glucose and candidate signaling and excess-fuel detoxification pathways in pancreatic β-cells

PubMed Central

Mugabo, Yves; Zhao, Shangang; Lamontagne, Julien; Al-Mass, Anfal; Peyot, Marie-Line; Corkey, Barbara E.; Joly, Erik; Madiraju, S. R. Murthy; Prentki, Marc

2017-01-01

Glucose metabolism promotes insulin secretion in β-cells via metabolic coupling factors that are incompletely defined. Moreover, chronically elevated glucose causes β-cell dysfunction, but little is known about how cells handle excess fuels to avoid toxicity. Here we sought to determine which among the candidate pathways and coupling factors best correlates with glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), define the fate of glucose in the β-cell, and identify pathways possibly involved in excess-fuel detoxification. We exposed isolated rat islets for 1 h to increasing glucose concentrations and measured various pathways and metabolites. Glucose oxidation, oxygen consumption, and ATP production correlated well with GSIS and saturated at 16 mm glucose. However, glucose utilization, glycerol release, triglyceride and glycogen contents, free fatty acid (FFA) content and release, and cholesterol and cholesterol esters increased linearly up to 25 mm glucose. Besides being oxidized, glucose was mainly metabolized via glycerol production and release and lipid synthesis (particularly FFA, triglycerides, and cholesterol), whereas glycogen production was comparatively low. Using targeted metabolomics in INS-1(832/13) cells, we found that several metabolites correlated well with GSIS, in particular some Krebs cycle intermediates, malonyl-CoA, and lower ADP levels. Glucose dose-dependently increased the dihydroxyacetone phosphate/glycerol 3-phosphate ratio in INS-1(832/13) cells, indicating a more oxidized state of NAD in the cytosol upon glucose stimulation. Overall, the data support a role for accelerated oxidative mitochondrial metabolism, anaplerosis, and malonyl-CoA/lipid signaling in β-cell metabolic signaling and suggest that a decrease in ADP levels is important in GSIS. The results also suggest that excess-fuel detoxification pathways in β-cells possibly comprise glycerol and FFA formation and release extracellularly and the diversion of glucose carbons to triglycerides and cholesterol esters. PMID:28280244

Power system requirements and definition for lunar and Mars outposts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petri, D. A.; Cataldo, R. L.; Bozek, J. M.

1990-01-01

Candidate power systems being considered for outpost facilities (stationary power systems) and vehicles (mobile systems) are discussed, including solar, chemical, isotopic, and reactor. The current power strategy was an initial outpost power system composed of photovoltaic arrays for daytime energy needs and regenerative fuel cells for power during the long lunar night. As day and night power demands grow, the outpost transitions to nuclear-based power generation, using thermoelectric conversion initially and evolving to a dynamic conversion system. With this concept as a guideline, a set of requirements has been established, and a reference definition of candidate power systems meeting these requirements has been identified.

Development of CVD mullite coatings for Si-based ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auger, Michael Lawrence

1999-09-01

To raise fuel efficiencies, the next generation of engines and fuel systems must be lighter and operate at higher temperatures. Ceramic-based materials, which are considerably lighter than metals and can withstand working temperatures of up to 1400sp°C, have been targeted to replace traditional metal-based components. The materials used in combustion environments must also be capable of withstanding erosion and corrosion caused by combustion gases, particulates, and deposit-forming corrodants. With these demanding criteria, silicon-based ceramics are the leading candidate materials for high temperature engine and heat exchanger structural components. However, these materials are limited in gaseous environments and in the presence of molten salts since they form liquid silicates on exposed surfaces at temperatures as low as 800sp°C. Protective coatings that can withstand higher operating temperatures and corrosive atmospheres must be developed for silicon-based ceramics. Mullite (3Alsb2Osb3{*}2SiOsb2) was targeted as a potential coating material due to its unique ability to resist corrosion, retain its strength, resist creep, and avoid thermal shock failure at elevated temperatures. Several attempts to deposit mullite coatings by various processing methods have met with limited success and usually resulted in coatings that have had pores, cracks, poor adherence, and required thermal post-treatments. To overcome these deficiencies, the direct formation of chemically vapor deposited (CVD) mullite coatings has been developed. CVD is a high temperature atomistic deposition technique that results in dense, adherent crystalline coatings. The object of this dissertation was to further the understanding of the CVD mullite deposition process and resultant coating. The kinetics of CVD mullite deposition were investigated as a function of the following process parameters: temperature, pressure, and the deposition reactor system. An empirical kinetic model was developed indicating that an intermediate gaseous reaction is significant to the growth rate of mullite. CVD mullite coatings were deposited on SiC and Sisb3Nsb4 substrates and subjected to both simulated coal gasification and simulated jet fuel combustion conditions. Corrosion resistance of CVD mullite coated ceramics was superior to traditional refractory materials including alumina, solid mullite, Sisb3Nsb4, and silicon carbide.

Trend survey of the global environment adaptation type industry technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1992-03-01

A global CO2 recycling system which combines utilization of natural energy and CO2 recovered from combustion of fossil fuel is studied. In the model, CO2 recovered at the place of energy demand is transported to the place where energy is produced, and from the CO2 fuels are synthesized by use of solar energy and transported to the place of energy demand. Facilities worth a large amount of money are required to transmit electric power generated by the photovoltaic power generation in the desert to the fuel synthesizing plant. Therefore, production of electrolytic hydrogen by the on-site power generation and transport by pipe may be considered. As a synthetic fuel being sent back by ocean transport, methanol is considered, and synthetic methane (LNG) can also be a candidate. CO2 is recovered as liquid carbon dioxide. Possibility of CO2 recycling is dependent on development of the desert solar base, as well as depletion of fossil fuel and price increase, CO2 penalty. It has still been difficult to say which of the fuel synthesis, CO2 tanker or securing of the solar base becomes a bottleneck. Entry of recycling fuels to the market will be possible in proportion to restrictions on fossil fuels, and evaluation of the system depends almost on the rate of energy arriving from the energy-producing region.

Membrane electrode assembly for a fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prakash, Surya (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Atti, Anthony (Inventor); Olah, George (Inventor); Smart, Marshall C. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A catalyst ink for a fuel cell including a catalytic material and poly(vinylidene fluoride). The ink may be applied to a substrate to form an electrode, or bonded with other electrode layers to form a membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

Internal reforming fuel cell assembly with simplified fuel feed

DOEpatents

Farooque, Mohammad; Novacco, Lawrence J.; Allen, Jeffrey P.

2001-01-01

A fuel cell assembly in which fuel cells adapted to internally reform fuel and fuel reformers for reforming fuel are arranged in a fuel cell stack. The fuel inlet ports of the fuel cells and the fuel inlet ports and reformed fuel outlet ports of the fuel reformers are arranged on one face of the fuel cell stack. A manifold sealing encloses this face of the stack and a reformer fuel delivery system is arranged entirely within the region between the manifold and the one face of the stack. The fuel reformer has a foil wrapping and a cover member forming with the foil wrapping an enclosed structure.

75 FR 10696 - Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Services B.V. Model F.28 Mark 0070 and 0100 Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-09

... form on actuators P/N 9409122 installed on fuel crossfeed valves and fuel fire shut-off valves. Tests... fuel crossfeed valves and fuel fire shut-off valves. Tests revealed that the ice can prevent the... Tests for Fuel Crossfeed Valves and Fuel Fire Shut-Off Valves (g) For airplanes with an actuator having...

78 FR 76328 - Application for Renewal of Special Nuclear Material License SNM-2014 From Tennessee Valley...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... SNM in the form of fully-assembled fuel assemblies that would later form the initial reactor core of WBN2. The SNM in the fuel assemblies is enriched up to 5% in the isotope U-235. The fresh fuel... received the initial core for WBN2. The NRC has not yet issued the OL for the Unit 2 reactor. The...

Compound cycle engine for helicopter application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castor, Jere; Martin, John; Bradley, Curtiss

1987-01-01

The compound cycle engine (CCE) is a highly turbocharged, power-compounded, ultra-high-power-density, lightweight diesel engine. The turbomachinery is similar to a moderate-pressure-ratio, free-power-turbine gas turbine engine and the diesel core is high speed and a low compression ratio. This engine is considered a potential candidate for future military helicopter applications. Cycle thermodynamic specific fuel consumption (SFC) and engine weight analyses performed to establish general engine operating parameters and configurations are presented. An extensive performance and weight analysis based on a typical 2-hour helicopter (+30 minute reserve) mission determined final conceptual engine design. With this mission, CCE performance was compared to that of a contemporary gas turbine engine. The CCE had a 31 percent lower-fuel consumption and resulted in a 16 percent reduction in engine plus fuel and fuel tank weight. Design SFC of the CCE is 0.33 lb/hp-hr and installed wet weight is 0.43 lb/hp. The major technology development areas required for the CCE are identified and briefly discussed.

Initial Operation and Shakedown of the Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environmental Simulator (NTREES)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emrich, William J., Jr.

2014-01-01

To support the on-going nuclear thermal propulsion effort, a state-of-the-art non nuclear experimental test setup has been constructed to evaluate the performance characteristics of candidate fuel element materials and geometries in representative environments. The facility to perform this testing is referred to as the Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environment Simulator (NTREES). This device can simulate the environmental conditions (minus the radiation) to which nuclear rocket fuel components will be subjected during reactor operation. Prototypical fuel elements mounted in the simulator are inductively heated in such a manner so as to accurately reproduce the temperatures and heat fluxes which would normally occur as a result of nuclear fission in addition to being exposed to flowing hydrogen. Recent upgrades to NTREES now allow power levels 24 times greater than those achievable in the previous facility configuration. This higher power operation will allow near prototypical power densities and flows to finally be achieved in most prototypical fuel elements.

Particulate fuel bed tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horn, F. L.; Powell, J. R.; Savino, J. M.

Gas-cooled reactors using packed beds of small-diameter, coated fuel particles have been proposed for compact, high-power systems. To test the thermal-hydraulic performance of the particulate reactor fuel under simulated reactor conditions, a bed of 800-micrometer diameter particles was heated by its electrical resistance current and cooled by flowing helium gas. The specific resistance of the bed composed of pyrocarbon-coated particles was measured at several temperatures, and found to be 0.09 ohm-cm at 1273 K and 0.06 ohm-cm at 1600 K. The maximum bed power density reached was 1500 W/cu cm at 1500 K. The pressure drop followed the packed-bed correlation, typically 100,000 Pa/cm. The various frit materials used to contain the bed were also tested to 2000 K in helium and hydrogen to determine their properties and reactions with the fuel. Rhenium metal, zirconium carbide, and zirconium oxide appeared to be the best candidate materials, while tungsten and tungsten-rhenium lost mass and strength.

40 CFR 52.1881 - Control strategy: Sulfur oxides (sulfur dioxide).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... sulfur oxides. (iii) Fossil fuel means natural gas, refinery fuel gas, coke oven gas, petroleum, coal and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials. (iv) Fossil fuel-fired steam generating unit means a furnace or boiler used in the process of burning fossil fuel for the purpose of...

40 CFR 52.1881 - Control strategy: Sulfur oxides (sulfur dioxide).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... sulfur oxides. (iii) Fossil fuel means natural gas, refinery fuel gas, coke oven gas, petroleum, coal and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials. (iv) Fossil fuel-fired steam generating unit means a furnace or boiler used in the process of burning fossil fuel for the purpose of...

40 CFR 52.1881 - Control strategy: Sulfur oxides (sulfur dioxide).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... sulfur oxides. (iii) Fossil fuel means natural gas, refinery fuel gas, coke oven gas, petroleum, coal and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials. (iv) Fossil fuel-fired steam generating unit means a furnace or boiler used in the process of burning fossil fuel for the purpose of...

40 CFR 52.1881 - Control strategy: Sulfur oxides (sulfur dioxide).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... sulfur oxides. (iii) Fossil fuel means natural gas, refinery fuel gas, coke oven gas, petroleum, coal and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials. (iv) Fossil fuel-fired steam generating unit means a furnace or boiler used in the process of burning fossil fuel for the purpose of...

40 CFR 52.1881 - Control strategy: Sulfur oxides (sulfur dioxide).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... sulfur oxides. (iii) Fossil fuel means natural gas, refinery fuel gas, coke oven gas, petroleum, coal and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials. (iv) Fossil fuel-fired steam generating unit means a furnace or boiler used in the process of burning fossil fuel for the purpose of...

Fuel injection nozzle and method of manufacturing the same

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

Monaghan, James Christopher; Johnson, Thomas Edward; Ostebee, Heath Michael

A fuel injection head for use in a fuel injection nozzle comprises a monolithic body portion comprising an upstream face, an opposite downstream face, and a peripheral wall extending therebetween. A plurality of pre-mix tubes are integrally formed with and extend axially through the body portion. Each of the pre-mix tubes comprises an inlet adjacent the upstream face, an outlet adjacent the downstream face, and a channel extending between the inlet and the outlet. Each pre-mix tube also includes at least one fuel injector that at least partially extends outward from an exterior surface of the pre-mix tube, wherein themore » fuel injector is integrally formed with the pre-mix tube and is configured to facilitate fuel flow between the body portion and the channel.« less

Method of making MEA for PEM/SPE fuel cell

DOEpatents

Hulett, Jay S.

2000-01-01

A method of making a membrane-electrode-assembly (MEA) for a PEM/SPE fuel cell comprising applying a slurry of electrode-forming material directly onto a membrane-electrolyte film. The slurry comprises a liquid vehicle carrying catalyst particles and a binder for the catalyst particles. The membrane-electrolyte is preswollen by contact with the vehicle before the electrode-forming slurry is applied to the membrane-electrolyte. The swollen membrane-electrolyte is constrained against shrinking in the "x" and "y" directions during drying. Following assembly of the fuel cell, the MEA is rehydrated inside the fuel cell such that it swells in the "z" direction for enhanced electrical contact with contiguous electrically conductive components of the fuel cell.

Methane - fuel for the future

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

McGeer, P.; Durbin, E.

1982-01-01

The 20 invited papers presented at the world conference on alternative fuel entitled 'Methane - fuel for the future' form the basis of this book. Papers discuss: the availability of alternative fuels (natural gas, biomass conversion to methane, methane from coal conversion); technological adaptions for alternative fuels (e.g. natural gas fueled engines, methane and diesel engines); commercial experience with alternative fuel programs. (e.g. retailing of methane); and some national programs for alternative fuels. One paper has been abstracted separately.

Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environmental Simulator (NTREES) Upgrade Activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emrich, William

2013-01-01

A key technology element in Nuclear Thermal Propulsion is the development of fuel materials and components which can withstand extremely high temperatures while being exposed to flowing hydrogen. NTREES provides a cost effective method for rapidly screening of candidate fuel components with regard to their viability for use in NTR systems. The NTREES is designed to mimic the conditions (minus the radiation) to which nuclear rocket fuel elements and other components would be subjected to during reactor operation. The NTREES consists of a water cooled ASME code stamped pressure vessel and its associated control hardware and instrumentation coupled with inductive heaters to simulate the heat provided by the fission process. The NTREES has been designed to safely allow hydrogen gas to be injected into internal flow passages of an inductively heated test article mounted in the chamber.

Carpool incentives: analysis of transportation and energy impacts

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

Not Available

1976-06-01

The report quantitatively analyzes the impacts of carpooling strategies on travel behavior and energy consumption. It details the effects of 18 candidate strategies on the utilization of different transport modes for work trips and the resultant effects on non-work travel patterns, household auto ownership, and total fuel consumption. Five specific objectives governed the work performed: (1) To collect information on carpooling behavior and analyze existing experience with strategies that may encourage ride-sharing; (2) to predict, by using behavioral travel-demand models, the changes in travel patterns that might result from implementation of such strategies; (3) to translate increased carpooling (or othermore » changes in travel patterns) into decreased fuel consumption; (4) to evaluate the feasibility of implementing particular strategies; (5) to recommend strategies for increasing carpooling and reducing fuel consumption that will be both feasible and effective.« less

Cellulases: Role in Lignocellulosic Biomass Utilization.

PubMed

Soni, Sanjeev Kumar; Sharma, Amita; Soni, Raman

2018-01-01

Rapid depletion of fossil fuels worldwide presents a dire situation demanding a potential replacement to surmount the current energy crisis. Lignocellulose presents a logical candidate to be exploited at industrial scale owing to its vast availability, inexpensive and renewable nature. Microbial degradation of lignocellulosic biomass is a lucrative, sustainable, and promising approach to obtain valuable commercial commodities at gigantic scale. The enzymatic hydrolysis involving cellulases is fundamental to all the technologies needed to transform lignocellulosic biomass to valuable industry relevant products. Cellulases have enormous potential to utilize cellulosic biomass, thus reducing environmental stress in addition to production of commodity chemicals resolving the current challenge to meet the energy needs globally. The substitution of petroleum-based fuels with bio-based fuels is the subject of thorough research establishing biofuel production as the future technology to achieve a sustainable, eco-friendly society with a zero waste approach.

An all-aromatic polypyridine: Monomer and polymer synthesis; Film formation and crosslinking; A candidate fuel cell membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sikkema, Doetze J.; Versteegen, Ron M.; Pouderoijen, Maarten J.; Janssen, Henk M.; Boere, Ben; Brands, Ferry; Kemperman, GerJan; Rewinkel, Jos B. M.; Koeman, Menno

2018-03-01

2,6-di (3-pyridyl)phenol and the title polymer are synthesized at 1 kg scale. Polymer is processed and crosslinked without the introduction of non-aromatic moieties after shaping into membranes. Attractive proton conduction, at high temperature (140-180 °C: 300 mS cm-1) and at room temperature (60 mS cm-1) are recorded in the dry state (higher numbers at modest humidity) and excellent retention of properties after challenge by humidity (in contrast with state-of-the-art PBI membranes). Functional fuel cells are made and tested. In prolonged use the membrane is plasticized and this seems attributable to curing reversal at the hydrogen electrode. For high temperature fuel cell use, another curing scheme (again without the introduction of aliphatic character) must be found.

Analysis of fuel options for the breakeven core configuration of the Advanced Recycling Reactor

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

Stauff, N.E.; Klim, T.K.; Taiwo, T.A.

2013-07-01

A trade-off study is performed to determine the impacts of various fuel forms on the core design and core physics characteristics of the sodium-cooled Toshiba- Westinghouse Advanced Recycling Reactor (ARR). The fuel forms include oxide, nitride, and metallic forms of U and Th. The ARR core configuration is redesigned with driver and blanket regions in order to achieve breakeven fissile breeding performance with the various fuel types. State-of-the-art core physics tools are used for the analyses. In addition, a quasi-static reactivity balance approach is used for a preliminary comparison of the inherent safety performances of the various fuel options. Thorium-fueledmore » cores exhibit lower breeding ratios and require larger blankets compared to the U-fueled cores, which is detrimental to core compactness and increases reprocessing and manufacturing requirements. The Th cores also exhibit higher reactivity swings through each cycle, which penalizes reactivity control and increases the number of control rods required. On the other hand, using Th leads to drastic reductions in void and coolant expansion coefficients of reactivity, with the potential for enhancing inherent core safety. Among the U-fueled ARR cores, metallic and nitride fuels result in higher breeding ratios due to their higher heavy metal densities. On the other hand, oxide fuels provide a softer spectrum, which increases the Doppler effect and reduces the positive sodium void worth. A lower fuel temperature is obtained with the metallic and nitride fuels due to their higher thermal conductivities and compatibility with sodium bonds. This is especially beneficial from an inherent safety point of view since it facilitates the reactor cool-down during loss of power removal transients. The advantages in terms of inherent safety of nitride and metallic fuels are maintained when using Th fuel. However, there is a lower relative increase in heavy metal density and in breeding ratio going from oxide to metallic or nitride Th fuels relative to the U counterpart fuels. (authors)« less

Input Correlations for Irradiation Creep of FeCrAl and SiC Based on In-Pile Halden Test Results

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

Terrani, K. A.; Karlsen, T. M.; Yamamoto, Yukinori

2016-05-01

Swelling and creep behavior of wrought FeCrAl alloys and CVD-SiC, two candidate accident tolerant fuel cladding materials, are being examined using in-pile tests at the Halden reactor. The outcome of these tests are material property correlations that are inputs into fuel performance analysis tools. The results are discussed and compared with what is available in literature from irradiation experiments in other reactors or out-of-pile tests. Specific recommendation on what correlations should be used for swelling, thermal, and irradiation creep for each material are provided in this document.

Alkaline fuel cell performance investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, R. E.; Manzo, M. A.

1988-01-01

An exploratory experimental fuel cell test program was conducted to investigate the performance characteristics of alkaline laboratory research electrodes. The objective of this work was to establish the effect of temperature, pressure, and concentration upon performance and evaluate candidate cathode configurations having the potential for improved performance. The performance characterization tests provided data to empirically establish the effect of temperature, pressure, and concentration upon performance for cell temperatures up to 300 F and reactant pressures up to 200 psia. Evaluation of five gold alloy cathode catalysts revealed that three doped gold alloys had more that two times the surface areas of reference cathodes and therefore offered the best potential for improved performance.

Alkaline fuel cell performance investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, R. E.; Manzo, M. A.

1988-01-01

An exploratory experimental fuel cell test program was conducted to investigate the performance characteristics of alkaline laboratory research electrodes. The objective of this work was to establish the effect of temperature, pressure, and concentration upon performance and evaluate candidate cathode configurations having the potential for improved performance. The performance characterization tests provided data to empirically establish the effect of temperature, pressure, and concentration upon performance for cell temperatures up to 300 F and reactant pressures up to 200 psia. Evaluation of five gold alloy cathode catalysts revealed that three doped gold alloys had more than two times the surface areas of reference cathodes and therefore offered the best potential for improved performance.

Regenerative fuel cell systems for space station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoberecht, M. A.; Sheibley, D. W.

1985-01-01

Regenerative fuel cell (RFC) systems are the leading energy storage candidates for Space Station. Key design features are the advanced state of technology readiness and high degree of system level design flexibility. Technology readiness was demonstrated through testing at the single cell, cell stack, mechanical ancillary component, subsystem, and breadboard levels. Design flexibility characteristics include independent sizing of power and energy storage portions of the system, integration of common reactants with other space station systems, and a wide range of various maintenance approaches. The design features led to selection of a RFC system as the sole electrochemical energy storage technology option for the space station advanced development program.

Evaluation of candidate stirling engine heater tube alloys at 820 deg and 860 deg C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Misencik, J. A.

1982-01-01

Seven commercial alloys were evaluated in Stirling simulator materials rigs. Five iron base alloys (N-155, A-286, Incoloy 800, 19-9DL, and 316 stainless steel), one nickel base alloy (Inconel 718), and one cobalt base alloy (HS-188) were tested in the form of thin wall tubing in a diesel fuel fired test rig. Tubes filled with hydrogen or helium at gas pressure of 21.6 MPa and temperatures of 820 and 860 C were endurance tested for 1000 and 535 hours, respectively. Results showed that under these conditions hydrogen permeated rapidly through the tube walls, thus requiring refilling during each five hour cycle. Helium was readily contained, exhibiting no measurable loss by permeation. Helium filled tubes tested at 860 C all exhibited creep-rupture failures within the 535 hour endurance test. Subsequent tensile test evaluation after removal from the rig indicated reduced room temperature ductility for some hydrogen-filled tubes compared to helium-filled tubes, suggesting possible hydrogen embrittlement in these alloys.

Materials Testing for an Accelerator-Driven Subcritical Molten Salt Fission System: A look at the Materials Science of Molten Salt Corrosion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sooby, Elizabeth; Balachandran, Shreyas; Foley, David; Hartwig, Karl; McIntyre, Peter; Phongikaroon, Supathorn; Pogue, Nathaniel; Simpson, Michael; Tripathy, Prabhat

2011-10-01

For an accelerator-driven subcritical molten salt fission core to survive its 50+ year fuel life, the primary vessel, heat exchanger, and various internal components must be made of materials that resist corrosion and radiation damage in a high-temperature environment, (500-800 C). An experimental study of the corrosion behavior of candidate metals in contact with molten salt is being conducted at the Center for Advanced Energy Studies. Initial experiments have been run on Nb, Ta, Ni, two zirconium alloys, Hastelloy-N, and a series of steel alloys to form a base line for corrosion in both chloride and bromide salt. Metal coupons were immersed in LiCl-KCl or LiBr-KBr at 700 C in an inert-atmosphere. Salt samples were extracted on a time schedule over a 24-hr period. The samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry to determine concentrations of metals from corrosion. Preliminary results will be presented.

Metaphors of Social Studies Teacher Candidates on Democracy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tural, Aysegül

2018-01-01

Democracy is a form of government in which principle of equality is based, human rights and freedoms are protected. In this research, it is aimed to reveal democracy perceptions of social science teacher candidates through metaphors. Towards this aim, 105 social science teacher candidates are consulted about their democracy opinions. Study is a…

Clean-Burning Diesel Engines.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-01

Dietzmann L.R. Smith Engines, Emissions, and Vehicle Research Division Southwest Research Institute San Antonio, Texas Prepared for Belvoir Fuels and...replacing the currently used electric forklift with diesel engine-powered forklifts in handling hazardous materials. Electric -powered forklifts have no...diesel engines considered as potential candidates for forklift vehicles used to handle hazardous materials. The first program was conducted to

78 FR 23927 - Forms and Procedures for Submitting Attest Engagements Under Various Subparts

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-23

... gasoline, anti-dumping, gasoline sulfur, benzene content, and the renewable fuel standard. DATES: The... the reformulated gasoline, anti-dumping, gasoline sulfur, and benzene programs, and the renewable fuel...; Confidential business information; Diesel fuel; Fuel additives; Gasoline; Imports; Motor vehicle pollution...

40 CFR 96.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Season emissions limitation for the source. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... any other fuel, during a specified year. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired...

40 CFR 96.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Season emissions limitation for the source. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... any other fuel, during a specified year. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired...

40 CFR 96.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Season emissions limitation for the source. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... any other fuel, during a specified year. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired...

40 CFR 96.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Season emissions limitation for the source. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... any other fuel, during a specified year. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired...

40 CFR 96.302 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Season emissions limitation for the source. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form... right-of-way tree trimmings. Boiler means an enclosed fossil- or other-fuel-fired combustion device used... any other fuel, during a specified year. Cogeneration unit means a stationary, fossil-fuel-fired...

Improving Reliability of a Residency Interview Process

PubMed Central

Serres, Michelle L.; Gundrum, Todd E.

2013-01-01

Objective. To improve the reliability and discrimination of a pharmacy resident interview evaluation form, and thereby improve the reliability of the interview process. Methods. In phase 1 of the study, authors used a Many-Facet Rasch Measurement model to optimize an existing evaluation form for reliability and discrimination. In phase 2, interviewer pairs used the modified evaluation form within 4 separate interview stations. In phase 3, 8 interviewers individually-evaluated each candidate in one-on-one interviews. Results. In phase 1, the evaluation form had a reliability of 0.98 with person separation of 6.56; reproducibly, the form separated applicants into 6 distinct groups. Using that form in phase 2 and 3, our largest variation source was candidates, while content specificity was the next largest variation source. The phase 2 g-coefficient was 0.787, while confirmatory phase 3 was 0.922. Process reliability improved with more stations despite fewer interviewers per station—impact of content specificity was greatly reduced with more interview stations. Conclusion. A more reliable, discriminating evaluation form was developed to evaluate candidates during resident interviews, and a process was designed that reduced the impact from content specificity. PMID:24159209

Nuclear fuel elements having a composite cladding

DOEpatents

Gordon, Gerald M.; Cowan, II, Robert L.; Davies, John H.

1983-09-20

An improved nuclear fuel element is disclosed for use in the core of nuclear reactors. The improved nuclear fuel element has a composite cladding of an outer portion forming a substrate having on the inside surface a metal layer selected from the group consisting of copper, nickel, iron and alloys of the foregoing with a gap between the composite cladding and the core of nuclear fuel. The nuclear fuel element comprises a container of the elongated composite cladding, a central core of a body of nuclear fuel material disposed in and partially filling the container and forming an internal cavity in the container, an enclosure integrally secured and sealed at each end of said container and a nuclear fuel material retaining means positioned in the cavity. The metal layer of the composite cladding prevents perforations or failures in the cladding substrate from stress corrosion cracking or from fuel pellet-cladding interaction or both. The substrate of the composite cladding is selected from conventional cladding materials and preferably is a zirconium alloy.

The myth of the ``proliferation-resistant'' closed nuclear fuel cycle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyman, Edwin S.

2000-07-01

National nuclear energy programs that engage in reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and the development of "closed" nuclear fuel cycles based on the utilization of plutonium process and store large quantities of weapons-usable nuclear materials in forms vulnerable to diversion or theft by national or subnational groups. Proliferation resistance, an idea dating back at least as far as the International Fuel Cycle Evaluation (INFCE) of the late 1970s, is a loosely defined term referring to processes for chemical separation of SNF that do not extract weapons-usable materials in a purified form.

Parametric Evaluation of SiC/SiC Composite Cladding with UO2 Fuel for LWR Applications: Fuel Rod Interactions and Impact of Nonuniform Power Profile in Fuel Rod

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, G.; Sweet, R.; Brown, N. R.; Wirth, B. D.; Katoh, Y.; Terrani, K.

2018-02-01

SiC/SiC composites are candidates for accident tolerant fuel cladding in light water reactors. In the extreme nuclear reactor environment, SiC-based fuel cladding will be exposed to neutron damage, significant heat flux, and a corrosive environment. To ensure reliable and safe operation of accident tolerant fuel cladding concepts such as SiC-based materials, it is important to assess thermo-mechanical performance under in-reactor conditions including irradiation and realistic temperature distributions. The effect of non-uniform dimensional changes caused by neutron irradiation with spatially varying temperatures, along with the closing of the fuel-cladding gap, on the stress development in the cladding over the course of irradiation were evaluated. The effect of non-uniform circumferential power profile in the fuel rod on the mechanical performance of the cladding is also evaluated. These analyses have been performed using the BISON fuel performance modeling code and the commercial finite element analysis code Abaqus. A constitutive model is constructed and solved numerically to predict the stress distribution in the cladding under normal operating conditions. The dependence of dimensions and thermophysical properties on irradiation dose and temperature has been incorporated into the models. Initial scoping results from parametric analyses provide time varying stress distributions in the cladding as well as the interaction of fuel rod with the cladding under different conditions of initial fuel rod-cladding gap and linear heat rate. It is found that a non-uniform circumferential power profile in the fuel rod may cause significant lateral bowing in the cladding, and motivates further analysis and evaluation.

Integral edge seals for phosphoric acid fuel cells

DOEpatents

Granata, Jr., Samuel J.; Woodle, Boyd M.; Dunyak, Thomas J.

1992-01-01

A phosphoric acid fuel cell having integral edge seals formed by an elastomer permeating an outer peripheral band contiguous with the outer peripheral edges of the cathode and anode assemblies and the matrix to form an integral edge seal which is reliable, easy to manufacture and has creep characteristics similar to the anode, cathode and matrix assemblies inboard of the seals to assure good electrical contact throughout the life of the fuel cell.

A U-bearing composite waste form for electrochemical processing wastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, X.; Ebert, W. L.; Indacochea, J. E.

2018-04-01

Metallic/ceramic composite waste forms are being developed to immobilize combined metallic and oxide waste streams generated during electrochemical recycling of used nuclear fuel. Composites were made for corrosion testing by reacting HT9 steel to represent fuel cladding, Zr and Mo to simulate metallic fuel waste, and a mixture of ZrO2, Nd2O3, and UO2 to represent oxide wastes. More than half of the added UO2 was reduced to metal and formed Fe-Zr-U intermetallics and most of the remaining UO2 and all of the Nd2O3 reacted to form zirconates. Fe-Cr-Mo intermetallics were also formed. Microstructure characterization of the intermetallic and ceramic phases that were generated and tests conducted to evaluate their corrosion behaviors indicate composite waste forms can accommodate both metallic and oxidized waste streams in durable host phases.

A U-bearing composite waste form for electrochemical processing wastes

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

Chen, X.; Ebert, W. L.; Indacochea, J. E.

Metallic/ceramic composite waste forms are being developed to immobilize combined metallic and oxide waste streams generated during electrochemical recycling of used nuclear fuel. Composites were made for corrosion testing by reacting HT9 steel to represent fuel cladding, Zr and Mo to simulate metallic fuel waste, and a mixture of ZrO2, Nd2O3, and UO2 to represent oxide wastes. More than half of the added UO2 was reduced to metal and formed Fe-Zr-U intermetallics and most of the remaining UO2 and all of the Nd2O3 reacted to form zirconates. Fe-Cr-Mo intermetallics were also formed. Microstructure characterization of the intermetallic and ceramic phasesmore » that were generated and tests conducted to evaluate their corrosion behaviors indicate composite waste forms can accommodate both metallic and oxidized waste streams in durable host phases. (c) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.« less

[Research misconduct: Knowledge, actions and attitudes of PhD candidates].

PubMed

Hofmann, Bjørn; Holm, Søren

2016-09-01

BACKGROUND Increasing attention is being paid to research misconduct in academic journals and in the media, but we know relatively little about its extent or attitudes to research misconduct, or how these are changing. This study therefore aims to investigate PhD candidates' knowledge, own actions and attitudes to specific forms of research misconduct.MATERIAL AND METHOD In autumn 2015, an anonymous questionnaire survey was distributed to all participants in the introductory course for PhD candidates at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Oslo.RESULTS Altogether 77 PhD candidates (79 %) responded to the questionnaire. A total of 62 % conducted clinical research and 25 % conducted basic research. Around one in four had heard about serious forms of research misconduct in the previous year, and around 4 % were aware of various forms of serious research misconduct in their own department in the previous year. Compared to earlier studies, an increasing number (16 %) responded that they had been subjected to unethical pressure with regard to inclusion or order of authors. Approximately two-thirds were uncertain of whether their department had written policies for academic conduct. One-third of PhD candidates did not disassociate themselves from actions that are generally viewed as scientific misconduct. One-tenth thought it acceptable to falsify or fabricate data in order to expedite publication, one-fifth did not object to taking the credit for others' ideas, and almost half did not believe it was wrong to attempt a number of methods of analysis until one arrived at a significant answer.INTERPRETATION PhD candidates at the Faculty of Medicine were aware of research misconduct, both generally and from their own department. They themselves reported some type of scientific misconduct, and a large majority were uncertain of their department's guidelines. Some of the candidates also accepted several forms of research misconduct.

77 FR 61313 - Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives: Modifications to Renewable Fuel Standard and Diesel...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-09

... consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption... technical information and/or data that you used. If you estimate potential costs or burdens, explain how you... the quantity of fossil fuel present in transportation fuel. Under EPA's RFS program this is...

40 CFR 52.1920 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... from combined wood fuel and fossil fuel fired steam generating units 6/1/2000 12/29/2008, 73 FR 79400... 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 Subsection (o) only. 595:20-3-42 Responsibility for signs, forms... Rejection receipt—Form VID 44 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 595:20-7-4 Station monthly report—Form VID 21...

40 CFR 52.1920 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... from combined wood fuel and fossil fuel fired steam generating units 6/1/2000 12/29/2008, 73 FR 79400... 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 Subsection (o) only. 595:20-3-42 Responsibility for signs, forms... Rejection receipt—Form VID 44 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 595:20-7-4 Station monthly report—Form VID 21...

40 CFR 52.1920 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... from combined wood fuel and fossil fuel fired steam generating units 6/1/2000 12/29/2008, 73 FR 79400... 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 Subsection (o) only. 595:20-3-42 Responsibility for signs, forms... Rejection receipt—Form VID 44 05/26/1994 02/29/1996 61 FR 7709 595:20-7-4 Station monthly report—Form VID 21...

Monitoring arrangement for vented nuclear fuel elements

DOEpatents

Campana, Robert J.

1981-01-01

In a nuclear fuel reactor core, fuel elements are arranged in a closely packed hexagonal configuration, each fuel element having diametrically opposed vents permitting 180.degree. rotation of the fuel elements to counteract bowing. A grid plate engages the fuel elements and forms passages for communicating sets of three, four or six individual vents with respective monitor lines in order to communicate vented radioactive gases from the fuel elements to suitable monitor means in a manner readily permitting detection of leakage in individual fuel elements.

Biobutanol as Fuel for Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells-Investigation of Sn-Modified Pt Catalyst for Butanol Electro-oxidation.

PubMed

Puthiyapura, Vinod Kumar; Brett, Dan J L; Russell, Andrea E; Lin, Wen-Feng; Hardacre, Christopher

2016-05-25

Direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs) mostly use low molecular weight alcohols such as methanol and ethanol as fuels. However, short-chain alcohol molecules have a relative high membrane crossover rate in DAFCs and a low energy density. Long chain alcohols such as butanol have a higher energy density, as well as a lower membrane crossover rate compared to methanol and ethanol. Although a significant number of studies have been dedicated to low molecular weight alcohols in DAFCs, very few studies are available for longer chain alcohols such as butanol. A significant development in the production of biobutanol and its proposed application as an alternative fuel to gasoline in the past decade makes butanol an interesting candidate fuel for fuel cells. Different butanol isomers were compared in this study on various Pt and PtSn bimetallic catalysts for their electro-oxidation activities in acidic media. Clear distinctive behaviors were observed for each of the different butanol isomers using cyclic voltammetry (CV), indicating a difference in activity and the mechanism of oxidation. The voltammograms of both n-butanol and iso-butanol showed similar characteristic features, indicating a similar reaction mechanism, whereas 2-butanol showed completely different features; for example, it did not show any indication of poisoning. Ter-butanol was found to be inactive for oxidation on Pt. In situ FTIR and CV analysis showed that OHads was essential for the oxidation of primary butanol isomers which only forms at high potentials on Pt. In order to enhance the water oxidation and produce OHads at lower potentials, Pt was modified by the oxophilic metal Sn and the bimetallic PtSn was studied for the oxidation of butanol isomers. A significant enhancement in the oxidation of the 1° butanol isomers was observed on addition of Sn to the Pt, resulting in an oxidation peak at a potential ∼520 mV lower than that found on pure Pt. The higher activity of PtSn was attributed to the bifunctional mechanism on PtSn catalyst. The positive influence of Sn was also confirmed in the PtSn nanoparticle catalyst prepared by the modification of commercial Pt/C nanoparticle and a higher activity was observed for PtSn (3:1) composition. The temperature-dependent data showed that the activation energy for butanol oxidation reaction over PtSn/C is lower than that over Pt/C.

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

Baek, M. H.; Kim, S. J.; Yoo, J.

The major roles of a prototype SFR are to provide irradiation test capability for the fuel and structure materials, and to obtain operational experiences of systems. Due to a compromise between the irradiation capability and construction costs, the power level should be properly determined. In this paper, a trade-off study on the power level of the prototype SFR was performed from a neutronics viewpoint. To select candidate cores, the parametric study of pin diameters was estimated using 20 wt.% uranium fuel. The candidate cores of different power levels, 125 MWt, 250 MWt, 400 MWt, and 500 MWt, were compared withmore » the 1500 MWt reference core. The resulting core performance and economic efficiency indices became insensitive to the power at about 400-500 MWt and sharply deteriorated at about 125-250 MWt with decreasing core sizes. Fuel management scheme, TRU core performance comparing with uranium core, and sodium void reactivity were also evaluated with increasing power levels. It is found that increasing the number of batches showed higher burnup performance and economic efficiency. However, increasing the cycle length showed the trends in lower economic efficiency. Irradiation performance of TRU and enriched TRU cores was improved about 20 % and 50 %, respectively. The maximum sodium void reactivity of 5.2$ was confirmed less than the design limit of 7.5$. As a result, the power capacity of the prototype SFR should not be less than 250 MWt and would be appropriate at {approx} 500 MWt considering the performance and economic efficiency. (authors)« less

Design of a fuel element for a lead-cooled fast reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobolev, V.; Malambu, E.; Abderrahim, H. Aït

2009-03-01

The options of a lead-cooled fast reactor (LFR) of the fourth generation (GEN-IV) reactor with the electric power of 600 MW are investigated in the ELSY Project. The fuel selection, design and optimization are important steps of the project. Three types of fuel are considered as candidates: highly enriched Pu-U mixed oxide (MOX) fuel for the first core, the MOX containing between 2.5% and 5.0% of the minor actinides (MA) for next core and Pu-U-MA nitride fuel as an advanced option. Reference fuel rods with claddings made of T91 ferrite-martensitic steel and two alternative fuel assembly designs (one uses a closed hexagonal wrapper and the other is an open square variant without wrapper) have been assessed. This study focuses on the core variant with the closed hexagonal fuel assemblies. Based on the neutronic parameters provided by Monte-Carlo modeling with MCNP5 and ALEPH codes, simulations have been carried out to assess the long-term thermal-mechanical behaviour of the hottest fuel rods. A modified version of the fuel performance code FEMAXI-SCK-1, adapted for fast neutron spectrum, new fuels, cladding materials and coolant, was utilized for these calculations. The obtained results show that the fuel rods can withstand more than four effective full power years under the normal operation conditions without pellet-cladding mechanical interaction (PCMI). In a variant with solid fuel pellets, a mild PCMI can appear during the fifth year, however, it remains at an acceptable level up to the end of operation when the peak fuel pellet burnup ∼80 MW d kg-1 of heavy metal (HM) and the maximum clad damage of about 82 displacements per atom (dpa) are reached. Annular pellets permit to delay PCMI for about 1 year. Based on the results of this simulation, further steps are envisioned for the optimization of the fuel rod design, aiming at achieving the fuel burnup of 100 MW d kg-1 of HM.

Fuel cell elements with improved water handling capacity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Lee, Albany (Inventor)

2001-01-01

New fuel cell components for use in liquid feed fuel cell systems are provided. The components include biplates and endplates, having a hydrophilic surface and allow high efficiency operation. Conductive elements and a wicking device also form a part of the fuel cell components of the invention.

40 CFR 72.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil fuel-fired means the... average quantity of fossil fuel consumed by a unit, measured in millions of British Thermal Units... high relative to the reference value. Boiler means an enclosed fossil or other fuel-fired combustion...

40 CFR 72.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil fuel-fired means the... average quantity of fossil fuel consumed by a unit, measured in millions of British Thermal Units... high relative to the reference value. Boiler means an enclosed fossil or other fuel-fired combustion...

40 CFR 72.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil fuel-fired means the... average quantity of fossil fuel consumed by a unit, measured in millions of British Thermal Units... high relative to the reference value. Boiler means an enclosed fossil or other fuel-fired combustion...

40 CFR 72.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such material. Fossil fuel-fired means the... average quantity of fossil fuel consumed by a unit, measured in millions of British Thermal Units... high relative to the reference value. Boiler means an enclosed fossil or other fuel-fired combustion...

FUEL ELEMENT FOR NUCLEAR REACTORS

DOEpatents

Bassett, C.H.

1961-07-11

Nuclear reactor fuel elements of the type in which the flssionsble material is in ceramic form, such as uranium dioxide, are described. The fuel element is comprised of elongated inner and outer concentric spaced tubular members providing an annular space therebetween for receiving the fissionable material, the annular space being closed at both ends and the inner tube being open at both ends. The fuel is in the form of compressed pellets of ceramic fissionsble material having the configuration of split bushings formed with wedge surfaces and arranged in seriated inner and outer concentric groups which are urged against the respective tubes in response to relative axial movement of the pellets in the direction toward each other. The pairs of pellets are axially urged together by a resilient means also enclosed within the annulus. This arrangement-permits relative axial displacement of the pellets during use dial stresses on the inner and outer tube members and yet maintains the fuel pellets in good thermal conductive relationship therewith.

Advanced reactors and associated fuel cycle facilities: safety and environmental impacts.

PubMed

Hill, R N; Nutt, W M; Laidler, J J

2011-01-01

The safety and environmental impacts of new technology and fuel cycle approaches being considered in current U.S. nuclear research programs are contrasted to conventional technology options in this paper. Two advanced reactor technologies, the sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR) and the very high temperature gas-cooled reactor (VHTR), are being developed. In general, the new reactor technologies exploit inherent features for enhanced safety performance. A key distinction of advanced fuel cycles is spent fuel recycle facilities and new waste forms. In this paper, the performance of existing fuel cycle facilities and applicable regulatory limits are reviewed. Technology options to improve recycle efficiency, restrict emissions, and/or improve safety are identified. For a closed fuel cycle, potential benefits in waste management are significant, and key waste form technology alternatives are described. Copyright © 2010 Health Physics Society

Semi-empirical analysis of liquid fuel distribution downstream of a plain orifice injector under cross-stream air flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, M.-H.; Jiang, H.-K.; Chin, J.-S.

1982-04-01

An improved flat-fan spray model is used for the semi-empirical analysis of liquid fuel distribution downstream of a plain orifice injector under cross-stream air flow. The model assumes that, due to the aerodynamic force of the high-velocity cross air flow, the injected fuel immediately forms a flat-fan liquid sheet perpendicular to the cross flow. Once the droplets have been formed, the trajectories of individual droplets determine fuel distribution downstream. Comparison with test data shows that the proposed model accurately predicts liquid fuel distribution at any point downstream of a plain orifice injector under high-velocity, low-temperature uniform cross-stream air flow over a wide range of conditions.

Method and apparatus for advanced staged combustion utilizing forced internal recirculation

DOEpatents

Rabovitser, Iosif K.; Knight, Richard A.; Cygan, David F.; Nester, Serguei; Abbasi, Hamid A.

2003-12-16

A method and apparatus for combustion of a fuel in which a first-stage fuel and a first-stage oxidant are introduced into a combustion chamber and ignited, forming a primary combustion zone. At least about 5% of the total heat output produced by combustion of the first-stage fuel and the first-stage oxidant is removed from the primary combustion zone, forming cooled first-stage combustion products. A portion of the cooled first-stage combustion products from a downstream region of the primary combustion zone is recirculated to an upstream region of primary combustion zone. A second-stage fuel is introduced into the combustion chamber downstream of the primary combustion zone and ignited, forming a secondary combustion zone. At least about 5% of the heat from the secondary combustion zone is removed. In accordance with one embodiment, a third-stage oxidant is introduced into the combustion chamber downstream of the secondary combustion zone, forming a tertiary combustion zone.

High-mass Starless Clumps in the Inner Galactic Plane: The Sample and Dust Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jinghua; Wu, Yuefang; Ellingsen, Simon P.; Evans, Neal J., II; Henkel, Christian; Wang, Ke; Liu, Hong-Li; Liu, Tie; Li, Jin-Zeng; Zavagno, Annie

2017-07-01

We report a sample of 463 high-mass starless clump (HMSC) candidates within -60^\\circ < l< 60^\\circ and -1^\\circ < b< 1^\\circ . This sample has been singled out from 10,861 ATLASGAL clumps. None of these sources are associated with any known star-forming activities collected in SIMBAD and young stellar objects identified using color-based criteria. We also make sure that the HMSC candidates have neither point sources at 24 and 70 μm nor strong extended emission at 24 μm. Most of the identified HMSCs are infrared dark, and some are even dark at 70 μm. Their distribution shows crowding in Galactic spiral arms and toward the Galactic center and some well-known star-forming complexes. Many HMSCs are associated with large-scale filaments. Some basic parameters were attained from column density and dust temperature maps constructed via fitting far-infrared and submillimeter continuum data to modified blackbodies. The HMSC candidates have sizes, masses, and densities similar to clumps associated with Class II methanol masers and H II regions, suggesting that they will evolve into star-forming clumps. More than 90% of the HMSC candidates have densities above some proposed thresholds for forming high-mass stars. With dust temperatures and luminosity-to-mass ratios significantly lower than that for star-forming sources, the HMSC candidates are externally heated and genuinely at very early stages of high-mass star formation. Twenty sources with equivalent radii {r}{eq}< 0.15 pc and mass surface densities {{Σ }}> 0.08 g cm-2 could be possible high-mass starless cores. Further investigations toward these HMSCs would undoubtedly shed light on comprehensively understanding the birth of high-mass stars.

Preparing Teacher Candidates to Integrate Reading and Writing Instruction: A Conceptual Piece

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nicholas, Erika L.

2017-01-01

This piece focuses on increasing writing instruction for secondary English teacher candidates in the form of integrating reading and writing. Often, teacher candidates are not sufficiently prepared in university coursework to teach writing and are left to rely on formulaic writing that merely prepares their students for the end-of-year tests.…

40 CFR 60.41 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials for the purpose of creating useful heat. Fossil fuel and wood residue-fired steam... PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Fossil-Fuel-Fired Steam Generators § 60.41...

40 CFR 60.41 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials for the purpose of creating useful heat. Fossil fuel and wood residue-fired steam... PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Fossil-Fuel-Fired Steam Generators § 60.41...

40 CFR 60.41 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel derived from such materials for the purpose of creating useful heat. Fossil fuel and wood residue-fired steam... PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Fossil-Fuel-Fired Steam Generators § 60.41...

The influence of mixture preparation in the intake port on the performance of a spark-ignited four-stroke engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daniels, Charles Howard

An experimental technique is developed for evaluating the influence of mixture preparation in the intake port on the performance of a spark ignited engine. The preparation components studied are fuel vapor, droplets, and liquid streams. The fuel in these three distinct forms are produced and varied in a specially designed mixture preparation system, which delivers an air/fuel mixture to a test cylinder of an engine. Incorporated in the preparation system are devices for measuring the flow rates of fuel in these forms. A method of estimating the vapor concentration of a gasoline in the preparation channel by the use of simple temperature measurements is also presented. The effect of these fuel forms on in-cylinder pressure performance and exhaust gas concentrations are investigated in a 1.9 L Ford engine. A matrix of engine operations are studied along with two gasolines of different volatilities. The results of this investigation show that the operation of the engine at low speeds and low manifold absolute pressures is most susceptible to the effects mixture preparation. For those engine operating conditions affected, the results show that by increasing the amount of fuel in liquid stream form, the performance of the engine is generally diminished. In addition, 'equivalent' mixtures resulting from a conventional injector and a pneumatic atomizer in the intake port are identified relative to engine performance.

Cold start characteristics of ethanol as an automobile fuel

DOEpatents

Greiner, Leonard

1982-01-01

An alcohol fuel burner and decomposer in which one stream of fuel is preheated by passing it through an electrically heated conduit to vaporize the fuel, the fuel vapor is mixed with air, the air-fuel mixture is ignited and combusted, and the combustion gases are passed in heat exchange relationship with a conduit carrying a stream of fuel to decompose the fuel forming a fuel stream containing hydrogen gas for starting internal combustion engines, the mass flow of the combustion gas being increased as it flows in heat exchange relationship with the fuel carrying conduit, is disclosed.

Gaseous swelling of U 3 Si 2 during steady-state LWR operation: A rate theory investigation

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

Miao, Yinbin; Gamble, Kyle A.; Andersson, David

Rate theory simulations of fission gas behavior in U 3Si 2 are reported for light water reactor (LWR) steady-state operation scenarios. We developed a model of U 3Si 2 and implemented into the GRASS-SST code based on available research reactor post-irradiation examination (PIE) data, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations of key material properties. Simplified peripheral models were also introduced to capture the fuel-cladding interaction. The simulations identified three regimes of U 3Si 2 swelling behavior between 390 K and 1190 K. Under typical steady-state LWR operating conditions where U 3Si 2 temperature is expected to be below 1000 K,more » intragranular bubbles are dominant and fission gas is retained in those bubbles. The consequent gaseous swelling is low and associated degradation in the fuel thermal conductivity is also limited. Those predictions of U 3Si 2 performance during steady-state operations in LWRs suggest that this fuel material is an appropriate LWR candidate fuel material. Fission gas behavior models established based on this work are being coupled to the thermo-mechanical simulation of the fuel behavior using the BISON fuel performance multi-dimensional finite element code.« less

Gaseous swelling of U 3 Si 2 during steady-state LWR operation: A rate theory investigation

DOE PAGES

Miao, Yinbin; Gamble, Kyle A.; Andersson, David; ...

2017-07-25

Rate theory simulations of fission gas behavior in U 3Si 2 are reported for light water reactor (LWR) steady-state operation scenarios. We developed a model of U 3Si 2 and implemented into the GRASS-SST code based on available research reactor post-irradiation examination (PIE) data, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations of key material properties. Simplified peripheral models were also introduced to capture the fuel-cladding interaction. The simulations identified three regimes of U 3Si 2 swelling behavior between 390 K and 1190 K. Under typical steady-state LWR operating conditions where U 3Si 2 temperature is expected to be below 1000 K,more » intragranular bubbles are dominant and fission gas is retained in those bubbles. The consequent gaseous swelling is low and associated degradation in the fuel thermal conductivity is also limited. Those predictions of U 3Si 2 performance during steady-state operations in LWRs suggest that this fuel material is an appropriate LWR candidate fuel material. Fission gas behavior models established based on this work are being coupled to the thermo-mechanical simulation of the fuel behavior using the BISON fuel performance multi-dimensional finite element code.« less

Removal of sulphur-containing odorants from fuel gases for fuel cell-based combined heat and power applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Wild, P. J.; Nyqvist, R. G.; de Bruijn, F. A.; Stobbe, E. R.

Natural gas (NG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are important potential feedstocks for the production of hydrogen for fuel cell-based (e.g. proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) or solid oxide fuel Cells (SOFC) combined heat and power (CHP) applications. To prevent detrimental effects on the (electro)catalysts in fuel cell-based combined heat and power installations (FC-CHP), sulphur removal from the feedstock is mandatory. An experimental bench-marking study of adsorbents has identified several candidates for the removal of sulphur containing odorants at low temperature. Among these adsorbents a new material has been discovered that offers an economically attractive means to remove TetraHydroThiophene (THT), the main European odorant, from natural gas at ambient temperature. The material is environmentally benign, easy to use and possesses good activity (residual sulphur levels below 20 ppbv) and capacity for the common odorant THT in natural gas. When compared to state-of-the-art metal-promoted active carbon the new material has a THT uptake capacity that is up to 10 times larger, depending on temperature and pressure. Promoted versions of the new material have shown potential for the removal of THT at higher temperatures and/or for the removal of other odorants such as mercaptans from natural gas or from LPG.

78 FR 70103 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native Species That are Candidates for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-22

...In this Candidate Notice of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), present an updated list of plant and animal species native to the United States that we regard as candidates for or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Identification of candidate species can assist environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential listings, allowing landowners and resource managers to alleviate threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as endangered or threatened. Even if we subsequently list a candidate species, the early notice provided here could result in more options for species management and recovery by prompting candidate conservation measures to alleviate threats to the species. The CNOR summarizes the status and threats that we evaluated in order to determine that species qualify as candidates and to assign a listing priority number (LPN) to each species or to determine that species should be removed from candidate status. Additional material that we relied on is available in the Species Assessment and Listing Priority Assignment Forms (species assessment forms) for each candidate species. Overall, this CNOR recognizes no new candidates, changes the LPN for three candidates, and removes three species from candidate status. Combined with other decisions for individual species that were published separately from this CNOR in the past year, the current number of species that are candidates for listing is 146. This document also includes our findings on resubmitted petitions and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists) during the period October 1, 2012, through September 30, 2013. We request additional status information that may be available for the 146 candidate species identified in this CNOR.

76 FR 66369 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native Species That Are Candidates for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-26

...In this Candidate Notice of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), present an updated list of plant and animal species native to the United States that we regard as candidates for or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Identification of candidate species can assist environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential listings, allowing landowners and resource managers to alleviate threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as endangered or threatened. Even if we subsequently list a candidate species, the early notice provided here could result in more options for species management and recovery by prompting candidate conservation measures to alleviate threats to the species. The CNOR summarizes the status and threats that we evaluated in order to determine that species qualify as candidates and to assign a listing priority number (LPN) to each species or to determine that species should be removed from candidate status. Additional material that we relied on is available in the Species Assessment and Listing Priority Assignment Forms (species assessment forms) for each candidate species. Overall, this CNOR recognizes three new candidates, changes the LPN for seven candidates, and removes three species from candidate status. Combined with other decisions for individual species that were published separately from this CNOR in the past year, the current number of species that are candidates for listing is 244. This document also includes our findings on resubmitted petitions and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists) during the period October 1, 2010, through September 30, 2011. We request additional status information that may be available for the 244 candidate species identified in this CNOR.

Superconducting RF Linacs Driving Subcritical Reactors for Profitable Disposition of Surplus Weapons-grade Plutonium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cummings, Mary Anne; Johnson, Rolland

Acceptable capital and operating costs of high-power proton accelerators suitable for profitable commercial electric-power and process-heat applications have been demonstrated. However, studies have pointed out that even a few hundred trips of an accelerator lasting a few seconds would lead to unacceptable thermal stresses as each trip causes fission to be turned off in solid fuel structures found in conventional reactors. The newest designs based on the GEM*STAR concept take such trips in stride by using molten-salt fuel, where fuel pin fatigue is not an issue. Other aspects of the GEM*STAR concept which address all historical reactor failures include an internal spallation neutron target and high temperature molten salt fuel with continuous purging of volatile radioactive fission products such that the reactor contains less than a critical mass and almost a million times fewer volatile radioactive fission products than conventional reactors. GEM*STAR is a reactor that without redesign will burn spent nuclear fuel, natural uranium, thorium, or surplus weapons material. It will operate without the need for a critical core, fuel enrichment, or reprocessing making it an excellent candidate for export. As a first application, the design for a pilot plant is described for the profitable disposition of surplus weapons-grade plutonium by using process heat to produce green diesel fuel for the Department of Defense (DOD) from natural gas and renewable carbon.

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

Rosfjord, T.J.

United Technologies Research Center has conducted a comprehensive investigation of the combustion characteristics of coal-water mixture (CWM) fuel for use in gas turbine combustors. Included in the program have been studies of the physical and chemical processes involved in CWM combustion. In particular, subrig test programs were performed to document the level of atomization achieved by candidate fuel nozzles and to evaluate the mixing/stability characteristics as evidenced by flow patterns in the combustor. Additionally, an extensive investigation of the pyrolysis behavior of coals used in the preparation of CWM fuels has been conducted for the high heat flux conditions experiencedmore » in a gas turbine combustor. These several activities were performed in preparation for tests in a combustor rig which simulated full-load gas turbine combustor conditions. Data were acquired to evaluate the ability of several configurations to achieve high levels of fuel burnout while controlling the conversion of fuel nitrogen to NOx. The bulk of the combustion tests were performed using one slurry, designated UCC-1, which was a 60% loaded CWM with a heating value of approximately 8800 Btu/lb. A limited test effort was conducted using a second fuel (UCC-2) which was chemically identical to the original CWM but contained coal possessing a larger particle size distribution. High levels of combustion efficiency were obtained using either UCC-1 or UCC-2 fuels. 9 refs., 53 figs., 7 tabs.« less

Applications of advanced electric/electronic technology to conventional aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heimbold, R. L.

1980-01-01

The desirability of seven advanced technologies as applied to three commercial aircraft of 1985 to 1995 was investigated. Digital fly by wire, multiplexing, ring laser gyro, integrated avionics, all electric airplane, electric load management, and fiber optics were considered for 500 passenger, 50 passenger, and 30 passenger aircraft. The major figure of merit used was Net Value of Technology based on procurement and operating cost over the life of the aircraft. An existing computer program, ASSET, was used to resize the aircraft and evalute fuel usage and maintenance costs for each candidate configuration. Conclusions were that, for the 500 passenger aircraft, all candidates had a worthwhile payoff with the all electric airplane having a large payoff.

Method for making hydrogen rich gas from hydrocarbon fuel

DOEpatents

Krumpelt, M.; Ahmed, S.; Kumar, R.; Doshi, R.

1999-07-27

A method of forming a hydrogen rich gas from a source of hydrocarbon fuel in which the hydrocarbon fuel contacts a two-part catalyst comprising a dehydrogenation portion and an oxide-ion conducting portion at a temperature not less than about 400 C for a time sufficient to generate the hydrogen rich gas while maintaining CO content less than about 5 volume percent. There is also disclosed a method of forming partially oxidized hydrocarbons from ethanes in which ethane gas contacts a two-part catalyst comprising a dehydrogenation portion and an oxide-ion conducting portion for a time and at a temperature sufficient to form an oxide. 4 figs.

Method for making hydrogen rich gas from hydrocarbon fuel

DOEpatents

Krumpelt, Michael; Ahmed, Shabbir; Kumar, Romesh; Doshi, Rajiv

1999-01-01

A method of forming a hydrogen rich gas from a source of hydrocarbon fuel in which the hydrocarbon fuel contacts a two-part catalyst comprising a dehydrogenation portion and an oxide-ion conducting portion at a temperature not less than about 400.degree. C. for a time sufficient to generate the hydrogen rich gas while maintaining CO content less than about 5 volume percent. There is also disclosed a method of forming partially oxidized hydrocarbons from ethanes in which ethane gas contacts a two-part catalyst comprising a dehydrogenation portion and an oxide-ion conducting portion for a time and at a temperature sufficient to form an oxide.

Metrics for the technical performance evaluation of light water reactor accident-tolerant fuel

DOE PAGES

Bragg-Sitton, Shannon M.; Todosow, Michael; Montgomery, Robert; ...

2017-03-26

The safe, reliable, and economic operation of the nation’s nuclear power reactor fleet has always been a top priority for the nuclear industry. Continual improvement of technology, including advanced materials and nuclear fuels, remains central to the industry’s success. Enhancing the accident tolerance of light water reactors (LWRs) became a topic of serious discussion following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, resulting tsunami, and subsequent damage to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant complex. The overall goal for the development of accident-tolerant fuel (ATF) for LWRs is to identify alternative fuel system technologies to further enhance the safety, competitiveness, andmore » economics of commercial nuclear power. Designed for use in the current fleet of commercial LWRs or in reactor concepts with design certifications (GEN-III+), fuels with enhanced accident tolerance would endure loss of active cooling in the reactor core for a considerably longer period of time than the current fuel system while maintaining or improving performance during normal operations. The complex multiphysics behavior of LWR nuclear fuel in the integrated reactor system makes defining specific material or design improvements difficult; as such, establishing desirable performance attributes is critical in guiding the design and development of fuels and cladding with enhanced accident tolerance. Research and development of ATF in the United States is conducted under the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Fuel Cycle Research and Development Advanced Fuels Campaign. The DOE is sponsoring multiple teams to develop ATF concepts within multiple national laboratories, universities, and the nuclear industry. Concepts under investigation offer both evolutionary and revolutionary changes to the current nuclear fuel system. This study summarizes the technical evaluation methodology proposed in the United States to aid in the optimization and prioritization of candidate ATF designs.« less

Prognosis and comparison of performances of composite CERCER and CERMET fuels dedicated to transmutation of TRU in an EFIT ADS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobolev, V.; Uyttenhove, W.; Thetford, R.; Maschek, W.

2011-07-01

The neutronic and thermomechanical performances of two composite fuel systems: CERCER with (Pu,Np,Am,Cm)O 2-x fuel particles in ceramic MgO matrix and CERMET with metallic Mo matrix, selected for transmutation of minor actinides in the European Facility for Industrial Transmutation (EFIT), were analysed aiming at their optimisation. The ALEPH burnup code system, based on MNCPX and ORIGEN codes and JEFF3.1 nuclear data library, and the modern version of the fuel rod performance code TRAFIC were used for this analysis. Because experimental data on the properties of the mixed minor-actinide oxides are scarce, and the in-reactor behaviour of the T91 steel chosen as cladding, as well as of the corrosion protective layer, is still not well-known, a set of "best estimates" provided the properties used in the code. The obtained results indicate that both fuel candidates, CERCER and CERMET, can satisfy the fuel design and safety criteria of EFIT. The residence time for both types of fuel elements can reach about 5 years with the reactivity swing within ±1000 pcm, and about 22% of the loaded MA is transmuted during this period. However, the fuel centreline temperature in the hottest CERCER fuel rod is close to the temperature above which MgO matrix becomes chemically instable. Moreover, a weak PCMI can appear in about 3 years of operation. The CERMET fuel can provide larger safety margins: the fuel temperature is more than 1000 K below the permitted level of 2380 K and the pellet-cladding gap remains open until the end of operation.

40 CFR 98.6 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... perfluoropolyether, and any hydrofluoropolyether. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of... generator. Emergency equipment means any auxiliary fossil fuel-powered equipment, such as a fire pump, that... the kiln to produce heat to form the clinker product. Feedstock means raw material inputs to a process...

76 FR 70994 - Proposed Agency Information Collection

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-16

... collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Please note that in the final version of the....ornl.gov/evaluation_sep.shtml ]. The surveys and data collection forms that compose this information... reductions in consumption of fossil fuel and replacement of fossil fuel generation with renewable energy...

40 CFR 98.6 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... perfluoropolyether, and any hydrofluoropolyether. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of... generator. Emergency equipment means any auxiliary fossil fuel-powered equipment, such as a fire pump, that... the kiln to produce heat to form the clinker product. Feedstock means raw material inputs to a process...

40 CFR 98.6 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... perfluoropolyether, and any hydrofluoropolyether. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of... generator. Emergency equipment means any auxiliary fossil fuel-powered equipment, such as a fire pump, that... the kiln to produce heat to form the clinker product. Feedstock means raw material inputs to a process...

40 CFR 98.6 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... perfluoropolyether, and any hydrofluoropolyether. Fossil fuel means natural gas, petroleum, coal, or any form of... generator. Emergency equipment means any auxiliary fossil fuel-powered equipment, such as a fire pump, that... the kiln to produce heat to form the clinker product. Feedstock means raw material inputs to a process...

Analysis of pellet cladding interaction and creep of U 3SIi2 fuel for use in light water reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Metzger, Kathryn E.

Following the accident at the Fukushima plant, enhancing the accident tolerance of the light water reactor (LWR) fleet became a topic of serious discussion. Under the direction of congress, the DOE office of Nuclear Energy added accident tolerant fuel development as a primary component to the existing Advanced Fuels Program. The DOE defines accident tolerant fuels as fuels that "in comparison with the standard UO2- Zircaloy system currently used by the nuclear industry, can tolerate loss of active cooling in the reactor core for a considerably longer time period (depending on the LWR system and accident scenario) while maintaining or improving the fuel performance during normal operations, operational transients, as well as design-basis and beyond design-basis events." To be economically viable, proposed accident tolerant fuels and claddings should be backward compatible with LWR designs, provide significant operating cost improvements such as power uprates, increased fuel burnup, or increased cycle length. In terms of safety, an alternative fuel pellet must have resistance to water corrosion comparable to UO2, thermal conductivity equal to or larger than that of UO2, and a melting temperature that allows the material to remain solid under power reactor conditions. Among the candidates, U3Si2 has a number of advantageous thermophysical properties, including; high density, high thermal conductivity at room temperature, and a high melting temperature. These properties support its use as an accident tolerant fuel while its high uranium density is capable of supporting uprates to the LWR fleet. This research characterizes U3Si2 pellets and analyzes U3Si2 under light water reactor conditions using the fuel performance code BISON. While some thermophysical properties for U3Si2 have been found in the literature, the irradiation behavior is sparse and limited to experience with dispersion fuels. Accordingly, the creep behavior for U3Si2 has been unknown, making it difficult to predict fuel-cladding mechanical behavior. This information is essential for designing accident tolerant fuel systems where ceramic claddings, like silicon carbide (SiC) are proposed. This research provides a model for both the thermal and irradiation creep behavior for U3Si2. This body of research is comprised of both experimental and modeling components. Characterization of the fuel microstructure includes; optical microscopy with pore and grain size analysis, helium pycnometry for density determination, mercury intrusion porosimetry, compositional analysis in the form of XRD, second phase identification using EDX, electrical resistance measurement via four point probe, determination of hardness and toughness through Vickers indentation testing, and determination of elastic properties using the impulse excitation method. Post-sintering grain size data allowed for the determination of grain boundary activation energy and diffusion coefficients, which were used to develop creep models. This was extended to lattice and irradiation enhanced diffusion in order to develop a U3Si2 creep model over thermal and irradiation creep regimes. In addition to the creep model, thermal and swelling behavior models for U3Si2 were implemented into the BISON fuel performance code. A series of simulations evaluated the performance and behavior of U3Si2 under typical light water reactor conditions with advanced SiC ceramic cladding. Simulation results show that fuel creep relieves stress in the ceramic cladding and postpones the. moment of fuel-clad contact. However, the stress reduction to the cladding is minimal because the fuel creep rate is low while the swelling rate is high. Future work should include the investigation of monolithic U3Si2 irradiation swelling since the current model relies upon the swelling data of U3Si2 particles in a metallic dispersion fuel. Additionally, planned thermal creep testing at the University of South Carolina can provide confirmation of the U3Si2 creep model contained herein.

Long-life high performance fuel cell program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, R. E.

1985-01-01

A multihundred kilowatt Regenerative Fuel Cell for use in a space station is envisioned. Three 0.508 sq ft (471.9 cm) active area multicell stacks were assembled and endurance tested. The long term performance stability of the platinum on carbon catalyst configuration suitability of the lightweight graphite electrolyte reservoir plate, the stability of the free standing butyl bonded potassium titanate matrix structure, and the long life potential of a hybrid polysulfone cell edge frame construction were demonstrated. A 18,000 hour demonstration test of multicell stack to a continuous cyclical load profile was conducted. A total of 12,000 cycles was completed, confirming the ability of the alkaline fuel cell to operate to a load profile simulating Regenerative Fuel Cell operation. An orbiter production hydrogen recirculation pump employed in support of the cyclical load profile test completed 13,000 hours of maintenance free operation. Laboratory endurance tests demonstrated the suitability of the butyl bonded potassium matrix, perforated nickel foil electrode substrates, and carbon ribbed substrate anode for use in the alkaline fuel cell. Corrosion testing of materials at 250 F (121.1 C) in 42% wgt. potassium identified ceria, zirconia, strontium titanate, strontium zirconate and lithium cobaltate as candidate matrix materials.

Fuel management optimization using genetic algorithms and code independence

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

DeChaine, M.D.; Feltus, M.A.

1994-12-31

Fuel management optimization is a hard problem for traditional optimization techniques. Loading pattern optimization is a large combinatorial problem without analytical derivative information. Therefore, methods designed for continuous functions, such as linear programming, do not always work well. Genetic algorithms (GAs) address these problems and, therefore, appear ideal for fuel management optimization. They do not require derivative information and work well with combinatorial. functions. The GAs are a stochastic method based on concepts from biological genetics. They take a group of candidate solutions, called the population, and use selection, crossover, and mutation operators to create the next generation of bettermore » solutions. The selection operator is a {open_quotes}survival-of-the-fittest{close_quotes} operation and chooses the solutions for the next generation. The crossover operator is analogous to biological mating, where children inherit a mixture of traits from their parents, and the mutation operator makes small random changes to the solutions.« less

Non-stoichiometry in U 3Si 2

DOE PAGES

Middleburgh, Simon C.; Grimes, Robin W.; Lahoda, Ed J.; ...

2016-10-08

Uranium silicides, in particular U 3Si 2, are being explored as an advanced nuclear fuel with increased accident tolerance as well as competitive economics compared to the baseline UO 2 fuel. Here we use density functional theory calculations and thermochemical analysis to assess the stability of U 3Si 2 with respect to non-stoichiometry reactions in both the hypo- and hyper-stoichiometric regimes. We find that the degree of non-stoichiometry in U 3Si 2 is much smaller than in UO 2 and at most reaches a few percent at high temperature. Non-stoichiometry impacts fuel performance by determining whether the loss of uraniummore » due to fission leads to a non-stoichiometric U 3Si 2±x phase or precipitation of a second U-Si phase. Lastly, we also investigate the U 5Si 4 phase as a candidate for the equilibrium phase diagram.« less

Performance and economics of advanced energy conversion systems for coal and coal-derived fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corman, J. C.; Fox, G. R.

1978-01-01

The desire to establish an efficient Energy Conversion System to utilize the fossil fuel of the future - coal - has produced many candidate systems. A comparative technical/economic evaluation was performed on the seven most attractive advanced energy conversion systems. The evaluation maintains a cycle-to-cycle consistency in both performance and economic projections. The technical information base can be employed to make program decisions regarding the most attractive concept. A reference steam power plant was analyzed to the same detail and, under the same ground rules, was used as a comparison base. The power plants were all designed to utilize coal or coal-derived fuels and were targeted to meet an environmental standard. The systems evaluated were two advanced steam systems, a potassium topping cycle, a closed cycle helium system, two open cycle gas turbine combined cycles, and an open cycle MHD system.

Evaluation of fuel additives for reduction of material imcompatibilities in methanol-gasoline blends

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodriguez, C. F.; Barbee, J. G.; Knutson, W. K.; Cuellar, J. P., Jr.

1983-01-01

Screening tests determined the efficacy of six commercially available additives as modifiers of methanol's corrosivity toward metals and its weakening of tensile properties of nonmetals in automotive fuel systems. From the screening phase, three additives which seemed to protect some of the metals were tested in higher concentrations and binary combinations in search of optimal application conditions. Results indicate that two of the additives have protective properties and combining them increases the protection of the metals corroded by methanol-gasoline blends. Half of the metals in the tests were not corroded. Testing at recommended concentrations and then at higher concentrations and in combinations shows that the additives would have no protective or harmful effects on the nonmetals. Two additives emerged as candidates for application to the protection of metals in automotive methanol-gasoline fuel systems. The additives tested were assigned letter codes to protect their proprietary nature.

Hybrid propulsion technology program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

Technology was identified which will enable application of hybrid propulsion to manned and unmanned space launch vehicles. Two design concepts are proposed. The first is a hybrid propulsion system using the classical method of regression (classical hybrid) resulting from the flow of oxidizer across a fuel grain surface. The second system uses a self-sustaining gas generator (gas generator hybrid) to produce a fuel rich exhaust that was mixed with oxidizer in a separate combustor. Both systems offer cost and reliability improvement over the existing solid rocket booster and proposed liquid boosters. The designs were evaluated using life cycle cost and reliability. The program consisted of: (1) identification and evaluation of candidate oxidizers and fuels; (2) preliminary evaluation of booster design concepts; (3) preparation of a detailed point design including life cycle costs and reliability analyses; (4) identification of those hybrid specific technologies needing improvement; and (5) preperation of a technology acquisition plan and large scale demonstration plan.

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Hybrid System for Distributed Power Generation

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

Nguyen Minh

2002-03-31

This report summarizes the work performed by Honeywell during the January 2002 to March 2002 reporting period under Cooperative Agreement DE-FC26-01NT40779 for the U. S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory (DOE/NETL) entitled ''Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Hybrid System for Distributed Power Generation''. The main objective of this project is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a highly efficient hybrid system integrating a planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) and a turbogenerator. For this reporting period the following activities have been carried out: {lg_bullet} Conceptual system design trade studies were performed {lg_bullet} System-level performance model was created {lg_bullet}more » Dynamic control models are being developed {lg_bullet} Mechanical properties of candidate heat exchanger materials were investigated {lg_bullet} SOFC performance mapping as a function of flow rate and pressure was completed« less

Development of Advanced Ods Ferritic Steels for Fast Reactor Fuel Cladding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ukai, S.; Oono, N.; Ohtsuka, S.; Kaito, T.

Recent progress of the 9CrODS steel development is presented focusing on their microstructure control to improve sufficient high-temperature strength as well as cladding manufacturing capability. The martensitic 9CrODS steel is primarily candidate cladding materials for the Generation IV fast reactor fuel. They are the attractive composite-like materials consisting of the hard residual ferrite and soft tempered martensite, which are able to be easily controlled by α-γ phase transformation. The residual ferrite containing extremely nanosized oxide particles leads to significantly improved creep rupture strength in 9CrODS cladding. The creep strength stability at extended time of 60,000 h at 700 ºC is ascribed to the stable nanosized oxide particles. It was also reviewed that 9CrODS steel has well irradiation stability and fuel pin irradiation test was conducted up to 12 at% burnup and 51 dpa at the cladding temperature of 700ºC.

The dynamics and fueling of active nuclei

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Norman, C.; Silk, J.

1983-01-01

It is generally believed that quasars and active galactic nuclei produce their prodigious luminosities in connection with the release of gravitational energy associated with accretion and infall of matter onto a compact central object. In the present analysis, it is assumed that the central object is a massive black hole. The fact that a black hole provides the deepest possible central potential well does imply that it is the most natural candidate for the central engine. It is also assumed that the quasar is associated with the nucleus of a conventional galaxy. A number of difficulties arise in connection with finding a suitable stellar fueling model. A simple scheme is discussed for resolving these difficulties. Attention is given to fueling in a nonaxisymmetric potential, the effects of a massive accretion disk, and the variability in the disk luminosity caused by star-disk collisions assuming that the energy deposited in the disk is radiated.

Thermal Properties Measurement Report

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

Carmack, Jon; Braase, Lori; Papesch, Cynthia

2015-08-01

The Thermal Properties Measurement Report summarizes the research, development, installation, and initial use of significant experimental thermal property characterization capabilities at the INL in FY 2015. These new capabilities were used to characterize a U 3Si 2 (candidate Accident Tolerant) fuel sample fabricated at the INL. The ability to perform measurements at various length scales is important and provides additional data that is not currently in the literature. However, the real value of the data will be in accomplishing a phenomenological understanding of the thermal conductivity in fuels and the ties to predictive modeling. Thus, the MARMOT advanced modeling andmore » simulation capability was utilized to illustrate how the microstructural data can be modeled and compared with bulk characterization data. A scientific method was established for thermal property measurement capability on irradiated nuclear fuel samples, which will be installed in the Irradiated Material Characterization Laboratory (IMCL).« less

Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environmental Simulator (NTREES) Upgrade Activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emrich, William J. Jr.; Moran, Robert P.; Pearson, J. Boise

2012-01-01

To support the on-going nuclear thermal propulsion effort, a state-of-the-art non nuclear experimental test setup has been constructed to evaluate the performance characteristics of candidate fuel element materials and geometries in representative environments. The facility to perform this testing is referred to as the Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environment Simulator (NTREES). This device can simulate the environmental conditions (minus the radiation) to which nuclear rocket fuel components will be subjected during reactor operation. Test articles mounted in the simulator are inductively heated in such a manner so as to accurately reproduce the temperatures and heat fluxes which would normally occur as a result of nuclear fission and would be exposed to flowing hydrogen. Initial testing of a somewhat prototypical fuel element has been successfully performed in NTREES and the facility has now been shutdown to allow for an extensive reconfiguration of the facility which will result in a significant upgrade in its capabilities

Characterization of microstructural, mechanical and thermophysical properties of Th-52U alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Santanu; Kaity, S.; Kumar, R.; Banerjee, J.; Roy, S. B.; Chaudhari, G. P.; Daniel, B. S. S.

2016-11-01

Th-52 wt.% U alloy has a microstructure featuring interspersed networks of uranium rich and thorium rich phases. Room temperature hardness of the alloy is more than twice that of unalloyed thorium. The alloy age hardens (550 °C) only slightly (peak hardness/hardness of solution heated and quenched = 1.05). Room temperature thermal conductivity (25.6 W m-1 °C-1) is close to that of uranium and most of the binary and ternary metallic alloy fuel materials. Average linear coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of Th-52 wt.% U alloy [11.2 × 10-06 °C-1 (27-290 °C) and 16.75 × 10-06 °C-1 (27-600 °C)] are comparable with that of many metallic alloy fuel candidates. Th-52 wt.% U alloy with non-age hardenable microstructure, appreciable thermal conductivity, moderate thermal expansion may find metallic fuel applications in nuclear reactors.

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

J. Carmack; L. Braase; F. Goldner

The mission of the Advanced Fuels Campaign (AFC) is to perform Research, Development, and Demonstration (RD&D) activities for advanced fuel forms (including cladding) to enhance the performance and safety of the nation’s current and future reactors, enhance proliferation resistance of nuclear fuel, effectively utilize nuclear energy resources, and address the longer-term waste management challenges. This includes development of a state of the art Research and Development (R&D) infrastructure to support the use of a “goal oriented science based approach.” AFC uses a “goal oriented, science based approach” aimed at a fundamental understanding of fuel and cladding fabrication methods and performancemore » under irradiation, enabling the pursuit of multiple fuel forms for future fuel cycle options. This approach includes fundamental experiments, theory, and advanced modeling and simulation. One of the most challenging aspects of AFC is the management, integration, and coordination of major R&D activities across multiple organizations. AFC interfaces and collaborates with Fuel Cycle Technologies (FCT) campaigns, universities, industry, various DOE programs and laboratories, federal agencies (e.g., Nuclear Regulatory Commission [NRC]), and international organizations. Key challenges are the development of fuel technologies to enable major increases in fuel performance (safety, reliability, power and burnup) beyond current technologies, and development of characterization methods and predictive fuel performance models to enable more efficient development and licensing of advanced fuels. Challenged with the research and development of fuels for two different reactor technology platforms, AFC targeted transmutation fuel development and focused ceramic fuel development for Advanced LWR Fuels.« less

Direct methanol feed fuel cell and system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Surampudi, Subbarao (Inventor); Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor); Frank, Harvey A. (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Chun, William (Inventor); Jeffries-Nakamura, Barbara (Inventor)

2009-01-01

Improvements to non acid methanol fuel cells include new formulations for materials. The platinum and ruthenium are more exactly mixed together. Different materials are substituted for these materials. The backing material for the fuel cell electrode is specially treated to improve its characteristics. A special sputtered electrode is formed which is extremely porous. The fuel cell system also comprises a fuel supplying part including a meter which meters an amount of fuel which is used by the fuel cell, and controls the supply of fuel based on said metering.

Electric Power Quarterly, January-March 1983

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

Not Available

1983-07-01

The Electric Power Quarterly (EPQ), a new series in the EIA statistical publications, provides electric utilities' plant-level information about the cost, quantity, and quality of fossil fuel receipts, net generation, fuel consumption and fuel stocks. The EPQ contains monthly data and quarterly totals for the reporting quarter. The data presented in this report were collected and published by the EIA to fulfill its responsibilities as specified in the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-275). This edition of the EPQ contains monthly data for the first quarter of 1983. In this report, data collected on Form EIA-759 regarding electricmore » utilities' net generation, fuel consumption, and fuel stocks are presented for the first time on a plant-by-plant basis. In addition, quantity, cost, and quality of fossil fuel receipts collected on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Form 423 are presented on a plant-by-plant basis.« less

Progress in understanding fission-product behaviour in coated uranium-dioxide fuel particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrachin, M.; Dubourg, R.; Kissane, M. P.; Ozrin, V.

2009-03-01

Supported by results of calculations performed with two analytical tools (MFPR, which takes account of physical and chemical mechanisms in calculating the chemical forms and physical locations of fission products in UO2, and MEPHISTA, a thermodynamic database), this paper presents an investigation of some important aspects of the fuel microstructure and chemical evolutions of irradiated TRISO particles. The following main conclusions can be identified with respect to irradiated TRISO fuel: first, the relatively low oxygen potential within the fuel particles with respect to PWR fuel leads to chemical speciation that is not typical of PWR fuels, e.g., the relatively volatile behaviour of barium; secondly, the safety-critical fission-product caesium is released from the urania kernel but the buffer and pyrolytic-carbon coatings could form an important chemical barrier to further migration (i.e., formation of carbides). Finally, significant releases of fission gases from the urania kernel are expected even in nominal conditions.

Synthesis of Perfluorinated Polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosser, R. W.; Psarras, T.

1982-01-01

Long-chain perfluoropolyethers containing functional pendent groups were investigated as possible candidates for new sealants and elastomers that function in extreme environments. Of specific interest was development of materials exhibiting high thermal and oxidative stability at temperatures around 400 degrees C, low-temperature flexibility with glass transition at about 50 degrees C, and hydrolytic stability as well as compatibility with metals and resistance to fuels.

Sintered electrode for solid oxide fuel cells

DOEpatents

Ruka, Roswell J.; Warner, Kathryn A.

1999-01-01

A solid oxide fuel cell fuel electrode is produced by a sintering process. An underlayer is applied to the electrolyte of a solid oxide fuel cell in the form of a slurry, which is then dried. An overlayer is applied to the underlayer and then dried. The dried underlayer and overlayer are then sintered to form a fuel electrode. Both the underlayer and the overlayer comprise a combination of electrode metal such as nickel, and stabilized zirconia such as yttria-stabilized zirconia, with the overlayer comprising a greater percentage of electrode metal. The use of more stabilized zirconia in the underlayer provides good adhesion to the electrolyte of the fuel cell, while the use of more electrode metal in the overlayer provides good electrical conductivity. The sintered fuel electrode is less expensive to produce compared with conventional electrodes made by electrochemical vapor deposition processes. The sintered electrodes exhibit favorable performance characteristics, including good porosity, adhesion, electrical conductivity and freedom from degradation.

Oxidation and formation of deposit precursors in hydrocarbon fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buttrill, S. E., Jr.; Mayo, F. R.; Lan, B.; St.john, G. A.; Dulin, D.

1982-01-01

A practical fuel, home heating oil no. 2 (Fuel C), and the pure hydrocarbon, n-dodecane, were subjected to mild oxidation at 130 C and the resulting oxygenated reaction products, deposit precursors, were analyzed using field ionization mass spectrometry. Results for fuel C indicated that, as oxidation was initially extended, certain oxygenated reaction products of increasing molecular weights in the form of monomers, dimers and some trimers were produced. Further oxidation time increase resulted in further increase in monomers but a marked decrease in dimers and trimers. This suggests that these larger molecular weight products have proceeded to form deposit and separated from the fuel mixture. Results for a dodecane indicated that yields for dimers and trimers were very low. Dimers were produced as a result of interaction between oxygenated products with each other rather than with another fuel molecule. This occurred even though fuel molecule concentration was 50 times, or more greater than that for these oxygenated reaction products.

Sintered electrode for solid oxide fuel cells

DOEpatents

Ruka, R.J.; Warner, K.A.

1999-06-01

A solid oxide fuel cell fuel electrode is produced by a sintering process. An underlayer is applied to the electrolyte of a solid oxide fuel cell in the form of a slurry, which is then dried. An overlayer is applied to the underlayer and then dried. The dried underlayer and overlayer are then sintered to form a fuel electrode. Both the underlayer and the overlayer comprise a combination of electrode metal such as nickel, and stabilized zirconia such as yttria-stabilized zirconia, with the overlayer comprising a greater percentage of electrode metal. The use of more stabilized zirconia in the underlayer provides good adhesion to the electrolyte of the fuel cell, while the use of more electrode metal in the overlayer provides good electrical conductivity. The sintered fuel electrode is less expensive to produce compared with conventional electrodes made by electrochemical vapor deposition processes. The sintered electrodes exhibit favorable performance characteristics, including good porosity, adhesion, electrical conductivity and freedom from degradation. 4 figs.

Carbide fuels for nuclear thermal propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matthews, R. B.; Blair, H. T.; Chidester, K. M.; Davidson, K. V.; Stark, W. E.; Storms, E. K.

1991-09-01

A renewed interest in manned exploration of space has revitalized interest in the potential for advancing nuclear rocket technology developed during the 1960's. Carbide fuel performance, melting point, stability, fabricability and compatibility are key technology issues for advanced Nuclear Thermal Propulsion reactors. The Rover fuels development ended with proven carbide fuel forms with demonstrated operating temperatures up to 2700 K for over 100 minutes. The next generation of nuclear rockets will start where the Rover technology ended, but with a more rigorous set of operating requirements including operating lifetime to 10 hours, operating temperatures greater that 3000 K, low fission product release, and compatibility. A brief overview of Rover/NERVA carbide fuel development is presented. A new fuel form with the highest potential combination of operating temperature and lifetime is proposed that consists of a coated uranium carbide fuel sphere with built-in porosity to contain fission products. The particles are dispersed in a fiber reinforced ZrC matrix to increase thermal shock resistance.

The emergence of Clostridium thermocellum as a high utility candidate for consolidated bioprocessing applications

PubMed Central

Akinosho, Hannah; Yee, Kelsey; Close, Dan; Ragauskas, Arthur

2014-01-01

First isolated in 1926, Clostridium thermocellum has recently received increased attention as a high utility candidate for use in consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) applications. These applications, which seek to process lignocellulosic biomass directly into useful products such as ethanol, are gaining traction as economically feasible routes toward the production of fuel and other high value chemical compounds as the shortcomings of fossil fuels become evident. This review evaluates C. thermocellum's role in this transitory process by highlighting recent discoveries relating to its genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic responses to varying biomass sources, with a special emphasis placed on providing an overview of its unique, multivariate enzyme cellulosome complex and the role that this structure performs during biomass degradation. Both naturally evolved and genetically engineered strains are examined in light of their unique attributes and responses to various biomass treatment conditions, and the genetic tools that have been employed for their creation are presented. Several future routes for potential industrial usage are presented, and it is concluded that, although there have been many advances to significantly improve C. thermocellum's amenability to industrial use, several hurdles still remain to be overcome as this unique organism enjoys increased attention within the scientific community. PMID:25207268

The emergence of Clostridium thermocellum as a high utility candidate for consolidated bioprocessing applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ragauskas, Arthur; Akinosho, Hannah; Yee, Kelsey; Close, Dan

2014-08-01

First isolated in 1926, Clostridium thermocellum has recently received increased attention as a high utility candidate for use in consolidated bioprocessing applications. These applications, which seek to process lignocellulosic biomass directly into useful products such as ethanol, are gaining traction as economically feasible routes towards the production of fuel and other high value chemical compounds as the shortcomings of fossil fuels become evident. This review evaluates C. thermocellum’s role in this transitory process by highlighting recent discoveries relating to its genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic responses to varying biomass sources, with a special emphasis placed on providing an overview of its unique, multivariate enzyme cellulosome complex and the role that this structure performs during biomass degradation. Both naturally evolved and genetically engineered strains are examined in light of their unique attributes and responses to various biomass treatment conditions, and the genetic tools that have been employed for their creation are presented. Several future routes for potential industrial usage are presented, and it is concluded that, although there have been many advances to significantly improve C. thermocellum’s amenability to industrial use, several hurdles still remain to be overcome as this unique organism enjoys increased attention within the scientific community.

FUEL ELEMENT CONSTRUCTION

DOEpatents

Simnad, M.T.

1961-08-15

A method of preventing diffusible and volatile fission products from diffusing through a fuel element container and contaminating reactor coolant is described. More specifically, relatively volatile and diffusible fission products either are adsorbed by or react with magnesium fluoride or difluoride to form stable, less volatile, less diffusible forms. The magnesium fluoride or difluoride is disposed anywhere inwardly from the outer surface of the fuel element container in order to be contacted by the fission products before they reach and contaminate the reactor coolant. (AEC)

TWISTED RIBBON FUEL ELEMENT

DOEpatents

Breden, C.R.; Schultz, A.B.

1961-06-01

A reactor core formed of bundles of parallel fuel elements in the form of ribbons is patented. The fuel ribbons are twisted about their axes so as to have contact with one another at regions spaced lengthwise of the ribbons and to be out of contact with one another at locations between these spaced regions. The contact between the ribbons is sufficient to allow them to be held together in a stable bundle in a containing tube without intermediate support, while permitting enough space between the ribbon for coolant flowing.

Method of controlling crystallite size in nuclear-reactor fuels

DOEpatents

Lloyd, Milton H.; Collins, Jack L.; Shell, Sam E.

1985-01-01

Improved spherules for making enhanced forms of nuclear-reactor fuels are prepared by internal gelation procedures within a sol-gel operation and are accomplished by first boiling the concentrated HMTA-urea feed solution before engaging in the spherule-forming operation thereby effectively controlling crystallite size in the product spherules.

77 FR 34368 - Agency Information Collection Extension

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-11

... Gasoline Blending Components, All Other --Kerosene-Type Jet Fuel --Distillate Fuel Oil by Sulfur Category (15 ppm sulfur and under, Greater than 15 ppm to 500 ppm sulfur (inclusive), and Greater than 500 ppm sulfur) Eliminating Form EIA-801 and the proposed changes to Form EIA-805 will make weekly bulk terminal...

Method of fabricating a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell

DOEpatents

Minh, N.Q.; Horne, C.R.

1994-03-01

In a two-step densifying process of making a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell, a limited number of anode-electrolyte-cathode cells separated by an interconnect layer are formed and partially densified. Subsequently, the partially densified cells are stacked and further densified to form a monolithic array. 10 figures.

Method of fabricating a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell

DOEpatents

Minh, Nguyen Q.; Horne, Craig R.

1994-01-01

In a two-step densifying process of making a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell, a limited number of anode-electrolyte-cathode cells separated by an interconnect layer are formed and partially densified. Subsequently, the partially densified cells are stacked and further densified to form a monolithic array.

Method of controlling crystallite size in nuclear-reactor fuels

DOEpatents

Lloyd, M.H.; Collins, J.L.; Shell, S.E.

Improved spherules for making enhanced forms of nuclear-reactor fuels are prepared by internal gelation procedures within a sol-gel operation and are accomplished by first boiling the concentrated HMTA-urea feed solution before engaging in the spherule-forming operation thereby effectively controlling crystallite size in the product spherules.

Fuels Containing Methane of Natural Gas in Solution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, Thomas A.

2004-01-01

While exploring ways of producing better fuels for propulsion of a spacecraft on the Mars sample return mission, a researcher at Johnson Space Center (JSC) devised a way of blending fuel by combining methane or natural gas with a second fuel to produce a fuel that can be maintained in liquid form at ambient temperature and under moderate pressure. The use of such a blended fuel would be a departure for both spacecraft engines and terrestrial internal combustion engines. For spacecraft, it would enable reduction of weights on long flights. For the automotive industry on Earth, such a fuel could be easily distributed and could be a less expensive, more efficient, and cleaner-burning alternative to conventional fossil fuels. The concept of blending fuels is not new: for example, the production of gasoline includes the addition of liquid octane enhancers. For the future, it has been commonly suggested to substitute methane or compressed natural gas for octane-enhanced gasoline as a fuel for internal-combustion engines. Unfortunately, methane or natural gas must be stored either as a compressed gas (if kept at ambient temperature) or as a cryogenic liquid. The ranges of automobiles would be reduced from their present values because of limitations on the capacities for storage of these fuels. Moreover, technical challenges are posed by the need to develop equipment to handle these fuels and, especially, to fill tanks acceptably rapidly. The JSC alternative to provide a blended fuel that can be maintained in liquid form at moderate pressure at ambient temperature has not been previously tried. A blended automotive fuel according to this approach would be made by dissolving natural gas in gasoline. The autogenous pressure of this fuel would eliminate the need for a vehicle fuel pump, but a pressure and/or flow regulator would be needed to moderate the effects of temperature and to respond to changing engine power demands. Because the fuel would flash as it entered engine cylinders, relative to gasoline, it would disperse more readily and therefore would mix with air more nearly completely. As a consequence, this fuel would burn more nearly completely (and, hence, more cleanly) than gasoline does. The storage density of this fuel would be similar to that of gasoline, but its energy density would be such that the mileage (more precisely, the distance traveled per unit volume of fuel) would be greater than that of either gasoline or compressed natural gas. Because the pressure needed to maintain the fuel in liquid form would be more nearly constant and generally lower than that needed to maintain compressed natural gas in liquid form, the pressure rating of a tank used to hold this fuel could be lower than that of a tank used to hold compressed natural gas. A mixture of natural gas and gasoline could be distributed more easily than could some alternative fuels. A massive investment in new equipment would not be necessary: One could utilize the present fuel-distribution infrastructure and could blend the gasoline and natural gas at almost any place in the production or distribution process - perhaps even at the retail fuel pump. Yet another advantage afforded by use of a blend of gasoline and natural gas would be a reduction in the amount of gasoline consumed. Because natural gas costs less than gasoline does and is in abundant supply in the United States, the cost of automotive fuel and the demand for imported oil could be reduced.

Strategies for Choosing Descent Flight-Path Angles for Small Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, Minghong Gilbert; Green, Steven M.

2012-01-01

Three candidate strategies for choosing the descent flight path angle (FPA) for small jets are proposed, analyzed, and compared for fuel efficiency under arrival metering conditions. The strategies vary in operational complexity from a universally fixed FPA, or FPA function that varies with descent speed for improved fuel efficiency, to the minimum-fuel FPA computed for each flight based on winds, route, and speed profile. Methodologies for selecting the parameter for the first two strategies are described. The differences in fuel burn are analyzed over a year s worth of arrival traffic and atmospheric conditions recorded for the Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) Airport during 2011. The results show that the universally fixed FPA strategy (same FPA for all flights, all year) burns on average 26 lbs more fuel per flight as compared to the minimum-fuel solution. This FPA is adapted to the arrival gate (direction of entry to the terminal) and various timespans (season, month and day) to improve fuel efficiency. Compared to a typical FPA of approximately 3 degrees the adapted FPAs vary significantly, up to 1.3 from one arrival gate to another or up to 1.4 from one day to another. Adapting the universally fixed FPA strategy to the arrival gate or to each day reduces the extra fuel burn relative to the minimum-fuel solution by 27% and 34%, respectively. The adaptations to gate and time combined shows up to 57% reduction of the extra fuel burn. The second strategy, an FPA function, contributes a 17% reduction in the 26 lbs of extra fuel burn over the universally fixed FPA strategy. Compared to the corresponding adaptations of the universally fixed FPA, adaptations of the FPA function reduce the extra fuel burn anywhere from 15-23% depending on the extent of adaptation. The combined effect of the FPA function strategy with both directional and temporal adaptation recovers 67% of the extra fuel relative to the minimum-fuel solution.

A method of evaluating crown fuels in forest stands.

Treesearch

Rodney W. Sando; Charles H. Wick

1972-01-01

A method of describing the crown fuels in a forest fuel complex based on crown weight and crown volume was developed. A computer program is an integral part of the method. Crown weight data are presented in graphical form and are separated into hardwood and coniferous fuels. The fuel complex is described using total crown weight per acre, mean height to the base of...

Vehicle fuel system

DOEpatents

Risse, John T.; Taggart, James C.

1976-01-01

A vehicle fuel system comprising a plurality of tanks, each tank having a feed and a return conduit extending into a lower portion thereof, the several feed conduits joined to form one supply conduit feeding fuel to a supply pump and using means, unused fuel being returned via a return conduit which branches off to the several return conduits.

40 CFR 63.10042 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... gas stream. Fossil fuel means natural gas, oil, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel... administrative proceeding. Anthracite coal means solid fossil fuel classified as anthracite coal by American... utility steam generating unit meeting the definition of “fossil fuel-fired” that burns coal for more than...

40 CFR 63.10042 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... gas stream. Fossil fuel means natural gas, oil, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel... administrative proceeding. Anthracite coal means solid fossil fuel classified as anthracite coal by American... utility steam generating unit meeting the definition of “fossil fuel-fired” that burns coal for more than...

40 CFR 63.10042 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... gas stream. Fossil fuel means natural gas, oil, coal, and any form of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel... administrative proceeding. Anthracite coal means solid fossil fuel classified as anthracite coal by American... utility steam generating unit meeting the definition of “fossil fuel-fired” that burns coal for more than...

40 CFR 80.42 - Simple emissions model.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (as measured under § 80.46) ETOH = Oxygen content of the fuel in question in the form of ethanol, in...) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated Gasoline § 80.42 Simple emissions model. (a) VOC... VOC emissions from the fuel in question, in grams per mile, for VOC control region 1 during the summer...

40 CFR 80.42 - Simple emissions model.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (as measured under § 80.46) ETOH = Oxygen content of the fuel in question in the form of ethanol, in...) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated Gasoline § 80.42 Simple emissions model. (a) VOC... VOC emissions from the fuel in question, in grams per mile, for VOC control region 1 during the summer...

40 CFR 80.42 - Simple emissions model.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (as measured under § 80.46) ETOH = Oxygen content of the fuel in question in the form of ethanol, in...) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated Gasoline § 80.42 Simple emissions model. (a) VOC... VOC emissions from the fuel in question, in grams per mile, for VOC control region 1 during the summer...

Liquid phase products and solid deposit formation from thermally stressed model jet fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, W. S.; Bittker, D. A.

1984-01-01

The relationship between solid deposit formation and liquid degradation product concentration was studied for the high temperature (400 C) stressing of three hydrocarbon model fuels. A Jet Fuel Thermal Oxidation Tester was used to simulate actual engine fuel system conditions. The effects of fuel type, dissolved oxygen concentration, and hot surface contact time (reaction time) were studied. Effects of reaction time and removal of dissolved oxygen on deposit formation were found to be different for n-dodecane and for 2-ethylnaphthalene. When ten percent tetralin is added to n-dodecane to give a simpler model of an actual jet fuel, the tetralin inhibits both the deposit formation and the degradation of n-dodecane. For 2-ethylnaphthalene primary product analyses indicate a possible self-inhibition at long reaction times of the secondary reactions which form the deposit precursors. The mechanism of the primary breakdown of these fuels is suggested and the primary products which participate in these precursor-forming reactions are identified. Some implications of the results to the thermal degradation of real jet fuels are given.

Initial Evaluation of Burn Characteristics of Phenolic Foam Runway Brake Arrestor Material

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-12-01

foam immersed in a jet fuel fire when extinguished using 3-percent Aqueous Film Forming Foam ( AFFF ). Three pool...extinguishment time of phenolic foam immersed in a jet fuel fire, using 3-percent Aqueous Film Forming Foam ( AFFF ) extinguishing agent. The wind was negligible...percent Aqueous Film Forming Foam ( AFFF ) agent. This project is an initial assessment of the fire safety of phenolic foam

Manual Fire Suppression Methods on Typical Machinery Space Spray Fires

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-07-31

Aqueous Film Forming Foam Manuscnpt approved April 25, 1990. ( AFFF ), has been incorporated in machinery space fire protection systems to...distribution unlimited. 13. ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 words) A series of tests was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Aqueous Film Forming Foami ( AFFF ...machinery space fire protection systems to control running fuel and fuel spray fires (PKP side of TAFES), and bilge fires ( aqueous film forming foam

Bonded polyimide fuel cell package

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D.; Jankowski, Alan; Graff, Robert T.; Bettencourt, Kerry

2010-06-08

Described herein are processes for fabricating microfluidic fuel cell systems with embedded components in which micron-scale features are formed by bonding layers of DuPont Kapton.TM. polyimide laminate. A microfluidic fuel cell system fabricated using this process is also described.

Hybrid deposition of thin film solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers

DOEpatents

Jankowski, A.F.; Makowiecki, D.M.; Rambach, G.D.; Randich, E.

1998-05-19

The use of vapor deposition techniques enables synthesis of the basic components of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC); namely, the electrolyte layer, the two electrodes, and the electrolyte-electrode interfaces. Such vapor deposition techniques provide solutions to each of the three critical steps of material synthesis to produce a thin film solid oxide fuel cell (TFSOFC). The electrolyte is formed by reactive deposition of essentially any ion conducting oxide, such as defect free, yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) by planar magnetron sputtering. The electrodes are formed from ceramic powders sputter coated with an appropriate metal and sintered to a porous compact. The electrolyte-electrode interface is formed by chemical vapor deposition of zirconia compounds onto the porous electrodes to provide a dense, smooth surface on which to continue the growth of the defect-free electrolyte, whereby a single fuel cell or multiple cells may be fabricated. 8 figs.

Hybrid deposition of thin film solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers

DOEpatents

Jankowski, Alan F.; Makowiecki, Daniel M.; Rambach, Glenn D.; Randich, Erik

1999-01-01

The use of vapor deposition techniques enables synthesis of the basic components of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC); namely, the electrolyte layer, the two electrodes, and the electrolyte-electrode interfaces. Such vapor deposition techniques provide solutions to each of the three critical steps of material synthesis to produce a thin film solid oxide fuel cell (TFSOFC). The electrolyte is formed by reactive deposition of essentially any ion conducting oxide, such as defect free, yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) by planar magnetron sputtering. The electrodes are formed from ceramic powders sputter coated with an appropriate metal and sintered to a porous compact. The electrolyte-electrode interface is formed by chemical vapor deposition of zirconia compounds onto the porous electrodes to provide a dense, smooth surface on which to continue the growth of the defect-free electrolyte, whereby a single fuel cell or multiple cells may be fabricated.

Hybrid deposition of thin film solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers

DOEpatents

Jankowski, Alan F.; Makowiecki, Daniel M.; Rambach, Glenn D.; Randich, Erik

1998-01-01

The use of vapor deposition techniques enables synthesis of the basic components of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC); namely, the electrolyte layer, the two electrodes, and the electrolyte-electrode interfaces. Such vapor deposition techniques provide solutions to each of the three critical steps of material synthesis to produce a thin film solid oxide fuel cell (TFSOFC). The electrolyte is formed by reactive deposition of essentially any ion conducting oxide, such as defect free, yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) by planar magnetron sputtering. The electrodes are formed from ceramic powders sputter coated with an appropriate metal and sintered to a porous compact. The electrolyte-electrode interface is formed by chemical vapor deposition of zirconia compounds onto the porous electrodes to provide a dense, smooth surface on which to continue the growth of the defect-free electrolyte, whereby a single fuel cell or multiple cells may be fabricated.

Fuel cell with interdigitated porous flow-field

DOEpatents

Wilson, Mahlon S.

1997-01-01

A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell is formed with an improved system for distributing gaseous reactants to the membrane surface. A PEM fuel cell has an ionic transport membrane with opposed catalytic surfaces formed thereon and separates gaseous reactants that undergo reactions at the catalytic surfaces of the membrane. The fuel cell may also include a thin gas diffusion layer having first and second sides with a first side contacting at least one of the catalytic surfaces. A macroporous flow-field with interdigitated inlet and outlet reactant channels contacts the second side of the thin gas diffusion layer for distributing one of the gaseous reactants over the thin gas diffusion layer for transport to an adjacent one of the catalytic surfaces of the membrane. The porous flow field may be formed from a hydrophilic material and provides uniform support across the backside of the electrode assembly to facilitate the use of thin backing layers.

Fuel cell with interdigitated porous flow-field

DOEpatents

Wilson, M.S.

1997-06-24

A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell is formed with an improved system for distributing gaseous reactants to the membrane surface. A PEM fuel cell has an ionic transport membrane with opposed catalytic surfaces formed thereon and separates gaseous reactants that undergo reactions at the catalytic surfaces of the membrane. The fuel cell may also include a thin gas diffusion layer having first and second sides with a first side contacting at least one of the catalytic surfaces. A macroporous flow-field with interdigitated inlet and outlet reactant channels contacts the second side of the thin gas diffusion layer for distributing one of the gaseous reactants over the thin gas diffusion layer for transport to an adjacent one of the catalytic surfaces of the membrane. The porous flow field may be formed from a hydrophilic material and provides uniform support across the backside of the electrode assembly to facilitate the use of thin backing layers. 9 figs.

Application of dynamic mass spectrometers for investigations in the field of thermonuclear synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aruev, N. N.

2017-04-01

This review discusses the design, analytical characteristics, and some applications of two types of dynamic mass spectrometers that have been developed at the Ioffe Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences: the magnetic resonance mass spectrometer (MRMS) and time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS), the latter of which the inventors named the mass reflectron. With the aid of an MRMS, it was possible to measure the half-life of tritium, which is a fusion fuel candidate, and to start investigating how deuterium plasma interacts with the structural materials of the spherical tokamak Globus-M. The research done shows that mass reflectrons can be used successfully in the analysis of tritium-containing fusion fuel gas mixtures.

Evaluation of the Optimum Composition of Low-Temperature Fuel Cell Electrocatalysts for Methanol Oxidation by Combinatorial Screening.

PubMed

Antolini, Ermete

2017-02-13

Combinatorial chemistry and high-throughput screening represent an innovative and rapid tool to prepare and evaluate a large number of new materials, saving time and expense for research and development. Considering that the activity and selectivity of catalysts depend on complex kinetic phenomena, making their development largely empirical in practice, they are prime candidates for combinatorial discovery and optimization. This review presents an overview of recent results of combinatorial screening of low-temperature fuel cell electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation. Optimum catalyst compositions obtained by combinatorial screening were compared with those of bulk catalysts, and the effect of the library geometry on the screening of catalyst composition is highlighted.

Fabrication and test of digital output interface devices for gas turbine electronic controls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Newirth, D. M.; Koenig, E. W.

1978-01-01

A program was conducted to develop an innovative digital output interface device, a digital effector with optical feedback of the fuel metering valve position, for future electronic controls for gas turbine engines. A digital effector (on-off solenoids driven directly by on-off signals from a digital electronic controller) with optical position feedback was fabricated, coupled with the fuel metering valve, and tested under simulated engine operating conditions. The testing indicated that a digital effector with optical position feedback is a suitable candidate, with proper development for future digital electronic gas turbine controls. The testing also identified several problem areas which would have to be overcome in a final production configuration.

Laser and Pressure Resistance Weld of Thin-Wall Cladding for LWR Accident-Tolerant Fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gan, J.; Jerred, N.; Perez, E.; Haggard, D. C.

2017-12-01

FeCrAl alloy with typical composition of approximately Fe-15Cr-5Al is considered a primary candidate cladding material for light water reactor accident-tolerant fuel because of its superior resistance to oxidation in high-temperature steam compared with Zircaloy cladding. Thin-walled FeCrAl cladding at 350 μm wall thickness is required, and techniques for joining endplug to cladding need to be developed. Fusion-based laser weld and solid-state joining with pressure resistance weld were investigated in this study. The results of microstructural characterization, mechanical property evaluation by tensile testing, and hydraulic pressure burst testing of the welds for the cladding-endplug specimen are discussed.

Laser and Pressure Resistance Weld of Thin-Wall Cladding for LWR Accident-Tolerant Fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gan, J.; Jerred, N.; Perez, E.; Haggard, D. C.

2018-02-01

FeCrAl alloy with typical composition of approximately Fe-15Cr-5Al is considered a primary candidate cladding material for light water reactor accident-tolerant fuel because of its superior resistance to oxidation in high-temperature steam compared with Zircaloy cladding. Thin-walled FeCrAl cladding at 350 μm wall thickness is required, and techniques for joining endplug to cladding need to be developed. Fusion-based laser weld and solid-state joining with pressure resistance weld were investigated in this study. The results of microstructural characterization, mechanical property evaluation by tensile testing, and hydraulic pressure burst testing of the welds for the cladding-endplug specimen are discussed.

Recapturing Graphite-Based Fuel Element Technology for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

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

Trammell, Michael P; Jolly, Brian C; Miller, James Henry

ORNL is currently recapturing graphite based fuel forms for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP). This effort involves research and development on materials selection, extrusion, and coating processes to produce fuel elements representative of historical ROVER and NERVA fuel. Initially, lab scale specimens were fabricated using surrogate oxides to develop processing parameters that could be applied to full length NTP fuel elements. Progress toward understanding the effect of these processing parameters on surrogate fuel microstructure is presented.