Improvement of the conductive network of positive electrodes and the performance of Ni-MH battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morimoto, Katsuya; Nakayama, Kousuke; Maki, Hideshi; Inoue, Hiroshi; Mizuhata, Minoru

2017-06-01

The pretreatment to modify the valence of cobalt by discharging at 0.2 C rate for 7.5 h before the first initial activation charge process is effective in improving the surface electronic conductivity among fine particles of positive electrode active materials. The discharge curves indicate the same locus within 1800 cycles, and the capacity of the pretreated battery is stable for over 4000 cycles. However, in-situ cell pretreatment with constant current has negative influence on other components. During the constant current pretreatment, the cell voltage rapidly falls to -0.5 V in the first 10 s of in-situ pretreatment. Therefore, we investigate the pretreatment by supplying a constant voltage to the battery instead of a constant current, and find the effective condition to improve the electrochemical performance and not to have any influence on other components of the battery.

Zn/gelled 6 M KOH/O 2 zinc-air battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohamad, A. A.

The gel electrolyte for the zinc-air cell was prepared by mixing hydroponics gel with a 6 M potassium hydroxide aqueous solution. The self-discharge of cells was characterized by measuring the open-circuit voltage. The effect of a discharge rate of 50 mA constant current on cell voltage and plateau hour, as well as the voltage-current and current density-power density were measured and analysed. The electrode degradation after discharge cycling was characterized by structural and surface methods. The oxidation of the electrode surface further blocked the utilization of the Zn anode and was identified as a cause for the failure of the cell.

Method for sensing and measuring a concentration or partial pressure of a reactant used in a redox reaction

DOEpatents

Findl, E.

1984-12-21

A method for sensing or measuring the partial pressure or concentration of an electroactive species used in conjunction with an electrolyte, the method being characterized by providing a constant current between an anode and a cathode of an electrolyte-containing cell, while measuring changes in voltage that occur between either the anode and cathode or between a reference electrode and one of the main electrodes of the cell, thereby to determine the concentration or partial pressure of the electro-active species as a function of said measured voltage changes. The method of the invention can be practiced using either a cell having only an anode and a cathode, or using a cell having an anode and a cathode in combination with a reference electrode. Accurate measurements of small concentrations or partial pressures of electro-active species are obtainable with the method of the invention, by using constant currents of only a few microamperes between the anode and cathode of the cell, while the concentration-determining voltage is measured.

Structural changes in a commercial lithium-ion battery during electrochemical cycling: An in situ neutron diffraction study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Neeraj; Peterson, Vanessa K.; Elcombe, Margaret M.; Avdeev, Maxim; Studer, Andrew J.; Blagojevic, Ned; Yusoff, Rozila; Kamarulzaman, Norlida

The structural response to electrochemical cycling of the components within a commercial Li-ion battery (LiCoO 2 cathode, graphite anode) is shown through in situ neutron diffraction. Lithuim insertion and extraction is observed in both the cathode and anode. In particular, reversible Li incorporation into both layered and spinel-type LiCoO 2 phases that comprise the cathode is shown and each of these components features several phase transitions attributed to Li content and correlated with the state-of-charge of the battery. At the anode, a constant cell voltage correlates with a stable lithiated graphite phase. Transformation to de-lithiated graphite at the discharged state is characterised by a sharp decrease in both structural cell parameters and cell voltage. In the charged state, a two-phase region exists and is composed of the lithiated graphite phase and about 64% LiC 6. It is postulated that trapping Li in the solid|electrolyte interface layer results in minimal structural changes to the lithiated graphite anode across the constant cell voltage regions of the electrochemical cycle.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING AMALGAM DECOMPOSITION RATE

DOEpatents

Johnson, R.W.; Wright, C.C.

1962-04-24

A method and apparatus for measuring the rate at which an amalgam decomposes in contact with aqueous solutions are described. The amalgam and an aqueous hydroxide solution are disposed in an electrolytic cell. The amalgam is used as the cathode of the cell, and an electrode and anode are disposed in the aqueous solution. A variable source of plating potential is connected across the cell. The difference in voltage between the amalgam cathode and a calibrated source of reference potential is used to control the variable source to null the difference in voltage and at the same time to maintain the concentration of the amalgam at some predetermined constant value. The value of the current required to maintain this concentration constant is indicative of the decomposition rate of the amalgam. (AEC)

Lithium-Ion Batteries Being Evaluated for Low-Earth-Orbit Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKissock, Barbara I.

2005-01-01

The performance characteristics and long-term cycle life of aerospace lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in low-Earth-orbit applications are being investigated. A statistically designed test using Li-ion cells from various manufacturers began in September 2004 to study the effects of temperature, end-of-charge voltage, and depth-of-discharge operating conditions on the cycle life and performance of these cells. Performance degradation with cycling is being evaluated, and performance characteristics and failure modes are being modeled statistically. As technology improvements are incorporated into aerospace Li-ion cells, these new designs can be added to the test to evaluate the effect of the design changes on performance and life. Cells from Lithion and Saft have achieved over 2000 cycles under 10 different test condition combinations and are being evaluated. Cells from Mine Safety Appliances (MSA) and modules made up of commercial-off-the-shelf 18650 Li-ion cells connected in series/parallel combinations are scheduled to be added in the summer of 2005. The test conditions include temperatures of 10, 20, and 30 C, end-of-charge voltages of 3.85, 3.95, and 4.05 V, and depth-of-discharges from 20 to 40 percent. The low-Earth-orbit regime consists of a 55 min charge, at a constant-current rate that is 110 percent of the current required to fully recharge the cells in 55 min until the charge voltage limit is reached, and then at a constant voltage for the remaining charge time. Cells are discharged for 35 min at the current required for their particular depth-of-discharge condition. Cells are being evaluated in four-cell series strings with charge voltage limits being applied to individual cells by the use of charge-control units designed and produced at the NASA Glenn Research Center. These charge-control units clamp the individual cell voltages as each cell reaches its end-of-charge voltage limit, and they bypass the excess current from that cell, while allowing the full current flow to the remaining cells in the pack. The goal of this evaluation is to identify conditions and cell designs for Li-ion technology that can achieve more than 30,000 low-Earth-orbit cycles. Testing is being performed at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, in Crane, Indiana.

Computer-aided control of electrolysis of solid Nb2O5 in molten CaCl2.

PubMed

Wu, Tian; Xiao, Wei; Jin, Xianbo; Liu, Chao; Wang, Dihua; Chen, George Z

2008-04-07

Low energy production of Nb powders via computer-aided control (CAC) of two-electrode electrolysis of porous Nb2O5 pellets (ca. 1.0 g) has been successfully demonstrated in molten CaCl2 at 1123 K. It was observed that potentiostatic electrolysis of the oxide in a three-electrode cell led to a cell voltage, i.e. the potential difference between the working (cathode) and counter (anode) electrodes, that decreased to a low and stable value within 1-2 h of the potential application until the end of the electrolysis (up to 12 h in this work). The cell voltage varied closely according to the current change. The stabilised cell voltage was below 2.5 V when the cathode potential was more positive than that for the reduction of Ca2+, leading to much lower energy consumption than that of constant voltage (>3.0 V) two-electrode electrolysis, as previously reported. Using a computer to program the variation of the cell voltage of two-electrode electrolysis according to that observed in the potentiostatic three-electrode electrolysis (0.05 V vs. Ca/Ca2+), a Nb powder with ca. 3900 ppm oxygen was produced in 12 h, with the energy consumption being 37.4% less than that of constant voltage two-electrode electrolysis at 3.0 V. Transmission electron microscopy revealed thin oxide layers (4-6 nm) on individual nodular particles (1-5 microm) of the obtained Nb powder. The oxide layer was likely formed in post-electrolysis processing operations, including washing in water, and contributed largely to the oxygen content in the obtained Nb powder.

Developing Fast Fluorescent Protein Voltage Sensors by Optimizing FRET Interactions

PubMed Central

Sung, Uhna; Sepehri-Rad, Masoud; Piao, Hong Hua; Jin, Lei; Hughes, Thomas; Cohen, Lawrence B.; Baker, Bradley J.

2015-01-01

FRET (Förster Resonance Energy Transfer)-based protein voltage sensors can be useful for monitoring neuronal activity in vivo because the ratio of signals between the donor and acceptor pair reduces common sources of noise such as heart beat artifacts. We improved the performance of FRET based genetically encoded Fluorescent Protein (FP) voltage sensors by optimizing the location of donor and acceptor FPs flanking the voltage sensitive domain of the Ciona intestinalis voltage sensitive phosphatase. First, we created 39 different “Nabi1” constructs by positioning the donor FP, UKG, at 8 different locations downstream of the voltage-sensing domain and the acceptor FP, mKO, at 6 positions upstream. Several of these combinations resulted in large voltage dependent signals and relatively fast kinetics. Nabi1 probes responded with signal size up to 11% ΔF/F for a 100 mV depolarization and fast response time constants both for signal activation (~2 ms) and signal decay (~3 ms). We improved expression in neuronal cells by replacing the mKO and UKG FRET pair with Clover (donor FP) and mRuby2 (acceptor FP) to create Nabi2 probes. Nabi2 probes also had large signals and relatively fast time constants in HEK293 cells. In primary neuronal culture, a Nabi2 probe was able to differentiate individual action potentials at 45 Hz. PMID:26587834

PEDOT-CNT coated electrodes stimulate retinal neurons at low voltage amplitudes and low charge densities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samba, R.; Herrmann, T.; Zeck, G.

2015-02-01

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare two different microelectrode materials—the conductive polymer composite poly-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT)-carbon nanotube(CNT) and titanium nitride (TiN)—at activating spikes in retinal ganglion cells in whole mount rat retina through stimulation of the local retinal network. Stimulation efficacy of the microelectrodes was analyzed by comparing voltage, current and transferred charge at stimulation threshold. Approach. Retinal ganglion cell spikes were recorded by a central electrode (30 μm diameter) in the planar grid of an electrode array. Extracellular stimulation (monophasic, cathodic, 0.1-1.0 ms) of the retinal network was performed using constant voltage pulses applied to the eight surrounding electrodes. The stimulation electrodes were equally spaced on the four sides of a square (400 × 400 μm). Threshold voltage was determined as the pulse amplitude required to evoke network-mediated ganglion cell spiking in a defined post stimulus time window in 50% of identical stimulus repetitions. For the two electrode materials threshold voltage, transferred charge at threshold, maximum current and the residual current at the end of the pulse were compared. Main results. Stimulation of retinal interneurons using PEDOT-CNT electrodes is achieved with lower stimulation voltage and requires lower charge transfer as compared to TiN. The key parameter for effective stimulation is a constant current over at least 0.5 ms, which is obtained by PEDOT-CNT electrodes at lower stimulation voltage due to its faradaic charge transfer mechanism. Significance. In neuroprosthetic implants, PEDOT-CNT may allow for smaller electrodes, effective stimulation in a safe voltage regime and lower energy-consumption. Our study also indicates, that the charge transferred at threshold or the charge injection capacity per se does not determine stimulation efficacy.

Systems and methods for providing power to a load based upon a control strategy

DOEpatents

Perisic, Milun; Kajouke, Lateef A; Ransom, Ray M

2013-12-24

Systems and methods are provided for an electrical system. The electrical system includes a load, an interface configured to receive a voltage from a voltage source, and a controller configured to receive the voltage from the voltage source through the interface and to provide a voltage and current to the load. Wherein, when the controller is in a constant voltage mode, the controller provides a constant voltage to the load, when the controller is in a constant current mode, the controller provides a constant current to the load, and when the controller is in a constant power mode, the controller provides a constant power to the load.

Removal of sodium chloride from human urine via batch recirculation electrodialysis at constant applied voltage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gordils-Striker, Nilda E.; Colon, Guillermo

2003-01-01

The removal of sodium chloride (NaCl) from human urine using a six-compartment electrodialysis cell with batch recirculation mode of operation for use in advanced life support systems (ALSS) was studied. From the results obtained, batch recirculation at constant applied voltage yields high values (approximately 94% of NaCl removal. Based on the results, the initial rate of NaCl removal was correlated to a power function of the applied voltage: -r=2.0 x 10(-4)E(3.8). With impedance spectroscopy methods, it was also found that the anion membranes were more affected by fouling with an increase of the ohmic resistance of almost 11% compared with 7.4% for the cationic ones.

The protein kinase C inhibitor, bisindolylmaleimide (I), inhibits voltage-dependent K+ channels in coronary arterial smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Park, Won Sun; Son, Youn Kyoung; Ko, Eun A; Ko, Jae-Hong; Lee, Hyang Ae; Park, Kyoung Sun; Earm, Yung E

2005-06-17

We examined the effects of the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, bisindolylmaleimide (BIM) (I), on voltage-dependent K+ (K(V)) channels in rabbit coronary arterial smooth muscle cells using whole-cell patch clamp technique. BIM (I) reversibly and dose-dependently inhibited the K(V) currents with an apparent Kd value of 0.27 microM. The inhibition of the K(V) current by BIM (I) was highly voltage-dependent between -30 and +10 mV (voltage range of channel activation), and the additive inhibition of the K(V) current by BIM (I) was voltage-dependence in the full activation voltage range. The rate constants of association and dissociation for BIM (I) were 18.4 microM(-1) s(-1) and 4.7 s(-1), respectively. BIM (I) had no effect on the steady-state activation and inactivation of K(V) channels. BIM (I) caused use-dependent inhibition of K(V) current, which was consistent with the slow recovery from inactivation in the presence of BIM (I) (recovery time constants were 856.95 +/- 282.6 ms for control, and 1806.38 +/- 110.0 ms for 300 nM BIM (I)). ATP-sensitive K+ (K(ATP)), inward rectifier K+ (K(IR)), Ca2+-activated K+ (BK(Ca)) channels, which regulate the membrane potential and arterial tone, were not affected by BIM (I). The PKC inhibitor, chelerythrine, and protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, PKA-IP, had little effect on the K(V) current and did not significantly alter the inhibitory effects of BIM (I) on the K(V) current. These results suggest that BIM (I) inhibits K(V) channels in a phosphorylation-independent, and voltage-, time- and use-dependent manner.

Galantamine inhibits slowly inactivating K+ currents with a dual dose-response relationship in differentiated N1E-115 cells and in CA1 neurones.

PubMed

Vicente, M Inês; Costa, Pedro F; Lima, Pedro A

2010-05-25

Galantamine, one of the major drugs used in Alzheimer's disease therapy, is a relatively weak acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and an allosteric potentiating ligand of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. However, a role in the control of excitability has also been attributed to galantamine via modulation of K+ currents in central neurones. To further investigate the effect of galantamine on voltage-activated K+ currents, we performed whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings in differentiated neuroblastoma N1E-115 cells and in dissociated rat CA1 neurones. In both cell models, one can identify two main voltage-activated K+ current components: a relatively fast inactivating component (Ifast; time constant approximately hundred milliseconds) and a slowly inactivating one (Islow; time constant approximately 1 s). We show that galantamine (1 pM-300 microM) inhibits selectively Islow, exhibiting a dual dose-response relationship, in both differentiated N1E-115 cells and CA1 neurones. We also demonstrate that, in contrast with what was previously reported, galantamine-induced inhibition is not due to a shift on the steady-state inactivation and activation curves. Additionally, we characterized a methodological artefact that affects voltage-dependence as a function of time in whole-cell configuration, observed in both cell models. By resolving an inhibitory role on K+ currents in a non-central neuronal system and in hippocampal neurones, we are attributing a widespread role of galantamine on the modulation of cell excitability. The present results are relevant in the clinical context, since the effects at low dosages suggest that galantamine-induced K+ current inhibition may contribute to the efficiency of galantamine in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a tester for evaluation of prototype thermal cells and batteries

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

Guidotti, R.A.

1994-10-01

A tester was developed to evaluate prototype thermal cells and batteries--especially high-voltage units--under a wide range of constant-current and constant-resistance discharge conditions. Programming of the steady-state and pulsing conditions was by software control or by hardware control via an external pulse generator. The tester was assembled from primarily Hewlett-Packard (H-P) instrumentation and was operated under H-P`s Rocky Mountain Basic (RMB). Constant-current electronic loads rated up to 4 kW (400 V at up to 100 A) were successfully used with the setup. For testing under constant-resistance conditions, power metal-oxide field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) controlled by a programmable pulse generator were used tomore » switch between steady-state and pulse loads. The pulses were digitized at up to a 50 kHz rate (20 {mu} s/pt) using high-speed DVMs; steady-state voltages were monitored with standard DVMs. This paper describes several of the test configurations used and discusses the limitations of each. Representative data are presented for a number of the test conditions.« less

Power conversion apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Su, Gui-Jia [Knoxville, TN

2012-02-07

A power conversion apparatus includes an interfacing circuit that enables a current source inverter to operate from a voltage energy storage device (voltage source), such as a battery, ultracapacitor or fuel cell. The interfacing circuit, also referred to as a voltage-to-current converter, transforms the voltage source into a current source that feeds a DC current to a current source inverter. The voltage-to-current converter also provides means for controlling and maintaining a constant DC bus current that supplies the current source inverter. The voltage-to-current converter also enables the current source inverter to charge the voltage energy storage device, such as during dynamic braking of a hybrid electric vehicle, without the need of reversing the direction of the DC bus current.

Distinguishing mechanisms for alternans in cardiac cells using constant-diastolic-interval pacing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherry, Elizabeth M.

2017-09-01

Alternans, a proarrhythmic dynamical state in which cardiac action potentials alternate between long and short durations despite a constant pacing period, traditionally has been explained at the cellular level using nonlinear dynamics principles under the assumption that the action potential duration (APD) is determined solely by the time elapsed since the end of the previous action potential, called the diastolic interval (DI). In this scenario, APDs at a steady state should be the same provided that the preceding DIs are the same. Nevertheless, experiments attempting to eliminate alternans by dynamically adjusting the timing of pacing stimuli to keep the DI constant showed that alternans persisted, contradicting the traditional theory. It is now widely known that alternans also can arise from a different mechanism associated with intracellular calcium cycling. Our goal is to determine whether intracellular calcium dynamics can explain the experimental findings regarding the persistence of alternans despite a constant DI. For this, we use mathematical models capable of producing alternans through both voltage- and calcium-mediated mechanisms. We show that for voltage-driven alternans, action potentials elicited from a constant-DI protocol are always the same. However, in the case of calcium-driven alternans, the constant-DI protocol can result in alternans. Reducing the strength of the calcium instability progressively reduces and finally eliminates constant-DI alternans. Our findings suggest that screening for the presence of alternans using a constant-DI protocol has the potential for differentiating between voltage-driven and calcium-driven alternans.

Wide-temperature integrated operational amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mojarradi, Mohammad (Inventor); Levanas, Greg (Inventor); Chen, Yuan (Inventor); Cozy, Raymond S. (Inventor); Greenwell, Robert (Inventor); Terry, Stephen (Inventor); Blalock, Benjamin J. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

The present invention relates to a reference current circuit. The reference circuit comprises a low-level current bias circuit, a voltage proportional-to-absolute temperature generator for creating a proportional-to-absolute temperature voltage (VPTAT), and a MOSFET-based constant-IC regulator circuit. The MOSFET-based constant-IC regulator circuit includes a constant-IC input and constant-IC output. The constant-IC input is electrically connected with the VPTAT generator such that the voltage proportional-to-absolute temperature is the input into the constant-IC regulator circuit. Thus the constant-IC output maintains the constant-IC ratio across any temperature range.

A comprehensive study to evaluate the effect of constant low voltage iontophoresis on transungual delivery.

PubMed

Nair, Anroop B; Singh, Kishan; Shinu, Pottathil; Harsha, Sree; Al-Dhubiab, Bandar E

2013-05-01

Treatment of nail diseases by topical drug delivery continues to draw much attention in the recent days. This study aims to systematically investigate the effect of constant voltage iontophoresis in the transungual drug delivery, using ciclopirox as a model drug. Preliminary permeation studies were carried out by applying constant voltage (6 V for 24 h) using a gel formulation across the human nail plate in a Franz diffusion cell. Different protocols have been studied to authenticate the potential of the proposed technique. Antifungal studies were carried out to assess the pharmacodynamic effect of drug depot formed in the nail plate. Initial studies revealed that application of constant voltage iontophoresis enhanced the permeation by an order of magnitude (p = 0.019) and delivered significant amount of drug into the deeper nail layers. Noticeably higher permeation was observed during the active phase in on-off studies. Excellent correlation was observed in permeation (r(2) = 0.98) and drug load (r(2) = 0.97) with the increase in applied voltage (3-12 V), indicating that the current technique is predictable. The data observed suggest that any further increase in voltage could eventually lead to increase in the permeation and drug load, as the saturation level is very distant. Furthermore, the enhancement in permeation with the applied voltage (3-12 V) was found to be 6-20 folds, compared to the passive process. Results of step up and step down studies substantiated the viability of the current technique. Zone of inhibition measured during the antifungal studies demonstrated that the drug molecules loaded into the nail plate by low voltage iontophoresis is active and releases over an extended period of time (~32 days). Given the excellent results, the current technique could be used as an effective approach for the delivery of antimycotics, which would localize the drug at the infection site and potentially offer higher patient compliance.

Solar panel acceptance testing using a pulsed solar simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hershey, T. L.

1977-01-01

Utilizing specific parameters as area of an individual cell, number in series and parallel, and established coefficient of current and voltage temperature dependence, a solar array irradiated with one solar constant at AMO and at ambient temperature can be characterized by a current-voltage curve for different intensities, temperatures, and even different configurations. Calibration techniques include: uniformity in area, depth and time, absolute and transfer irradiance standards, dynamic and functional check out procedures. Typical data are given for individual cell (2x2 cm) to complete flat solar array (5x5 feet) with 2660 cells and on cylindrical test items with up to 10,000 cells. The time and energy saving of such testing techniques are emphasized.

Higher success rate with transcranial electrical stimulation of motor-evoked potentials using constant-voltage stimulation compared with constant-current stimulation in patients undergoing spinal surgery.

PubMed

Shigematsu, Hideki; Kawaguchi, Masahiko; Hayashi, Hironobu; Takatani, Tsunenori; Iwata, Eiichiro; Tanaka, Masato; Okuda, Akinori; Morimoto, Yasuhiko; Masuda, Keisuke; Tanaka, Yuu; Tanaka, Yasuhito

2017-10-01

During spine surgery, the spinal cord is electrophysiologically monitored via transcranial electrical stimulation of motor-evoked potentials (TES-MEPs) to prevent injury. Transcranial electrical stimulation of motor-evoked potential involves the use of either constant-current or constant-voltage stimulation; however, there are few comparative data available regarding their ability to adequately elicit compound motor action potentials. We hypothesized that the success rates of TES-MEP recordings would be similar between constant-current and constant-voltage stimulations in patients undergoing spine surgery. The objective of this study was to compare the success rates of TES-MEP recordings between constant-current and constant-voltage stimulation. This is a prospective, within-subject study. Data from 100 patients undergoing spinal surgery at the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar level were analyzed. The success rates of the TES-MEP recordings from each muscle were examined. Transcranial electrical stimulation with constant-current and constant-voltage stimulations at the C3 and C4 electrode positions (international "10-20" system) was applied to each patient. Compound muscle action potentials were bilaterally recorded from the abductor pollicis brevis (APB), deltoid (Del), abductor hallucis (AH), tibialis anterior (TA), gastrocnemius (GC), and quadriceps (Quad) muscles. The success rates of the TES-MEP recordings from the right Del, right APB, bilateral Quad, right TA, right GC, and bilateral AH muscles were significantly higher using constant-voltage stimulation than those using constant-current stimulation. The overall success rates with constant-voltage and constant-current stimulations were 86.3% and 68.8%, respectively (risk ratio 1.25 [95% confidence interval: 1.20-1.31]). The success rates of TES-MEP recordings were higher using constant-voltage stimulation compared with constant-current stimulation in patients undergoing spinal surgery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Changes in impedance of Ni/Cd cells with voltage and cycle life

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, Margaret A.

1992-01-01

Impedances of aerospace design Super Ni/Cd cells are being measured as functions of voltage and number of cycles. The cells have been cycled over 4400 cycles to date. Analysis of the impedance data has been made using a number of equivalent circuits. The model giving the best fit over the whole range of voltage has a parallel circuit of a kinetic resistance and a constant phase element in series with the ohmic resistance. The values for the circuit elements have been treated as empirical parameters, and no attempt has been made as yet to correlate them with physical and chemical changes in the electrode. No significant changes have been seen as yet with the exception of a decrease in kinetic resistance at low states of charge in the first 500 cycles.

Design of a high voltage input - output ratio dc-dc converter dedicated to small power fuel cell systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Béthoux, O.; Cathelin, J.

2010-12-01

Consuming chemical energy, fuel cells produce simultaneously heat, water and useful electrical power [J.M. Andújar, F. Segura, Renew. Sust. Energy Rev. 13, 2309 (2009)], [J. Larminie, A. Dicks, Fuel Cell Systems Explained, 2nd edn. (John Wiley & Sons, 2003)]. As a matter of fact, the voltage generated by a fuel cell strongly depends on both the load power demand and the operating conditions. Besides, as a result of many design aspects, fuel cells are low voltage and high current electric generators. On the contrary, electric loads are commonly designed for small voltage swing and a high V/I ratio in order to minimize Joule losses. Therefore, electric loads supplied by fuel cells are typically fed by means of an intermediate power voltage regulator. The specifications of such a power converter are to be able to step up the input voltage with a high ratio (a ratio of 10 is a classic situation) and also to work with an excellent efficiency (in order to minimize its size, its weight and its losses) [A. Shahin, B. Huang, J.P. Martin, S. Pierfederici, B. Davat, Energy Conv. Manag. 51, 56 (2010)]. This paper deals with the design of this essential ancillary device. It intends to bring out the best structure for fulfilling this function. Several dc-dc converters with large voltage step-up ratios are introduced. A topology based on a coupled inductor or tapped inductor is closely studied. A detailed modelling is performed with the purpose of providing designing rules. This model is validated with both simulation and implementation. The experimental prototype is based on the following specifications: the fuel cell output voltage ranges from a 50 V open-voltage to a 25 V rated voltage while the load requires a constant 250 V voltage. The studied coupled inductor converter is compared with a classic boost converter commonly used in this voltage elevating application. Even though the voltage regulator faces severe FC specifications, the measured efficiency reaches 96% at the rated power whereas conventional boost efficiency barely achieves 91.5% in the same operating conditions.

Minimized open-circuit voltage reduction in GaAs/InGaAs quantum well solar cells with bandgap-engineered graded quantum well depths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiaohan; Dasika, Vaishno D.; Li, Ping-Chun; Ji, Li; Bank, Seth R.; Yu, Edward T.

2014-09-01

The use of InGaAs quantum wells with composition graded across the intrinsic region to increase open-circuit voltage in p-i-n GaAs/InGaAs quantum well solar cells is demonstrated and analyzed. By engineering the band-edge energy profile to reduce photo-generated carrier concentration in the quantum wells at high forward bias, simultaneous increases in both open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current density are achieved, compared to those for a structure with the same average In concentration, but constant rather than graded quantum well composition across the intrinsic region. This approach is combined with light trapping to further increase short-circuit current density.

Battery charging and discharging research based on the interactive technology of smart grid and electric vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Mingyang

2018-06-01

To further study the bidirectional flow problem of V2G (Vehicle to Grid) charge and discharge motor, the mathematical model of AC/DC converter and bi-directional DC/DC converter was established. Then, lithium battery was chosen as the battery of electric vehicle and its mathematical model was established. In order to improve the service life of lithium battery, bidirectional DC/DC converter adopted constant current and constant voltage control strategy. In the initial stage of charging, constant current charging was adopted with current single closed loop control. After reaching a certain value, voltage was switched to constant voltage charging controlled by voltage and current. Subsequently, the V2G system simulation model was built in MATLAB/Simulink. The simulation results verified the correctness of the control strategy and showed that when charging, constant current and constant voltage charging was achieved, the grid side voltage and current were in the same phase, and the power factor was about 1. When discharging, the constant current discharge was applied, and the grid voltage and current phase difference was r. To sum up, the simulation results are correct and helpful.

Cycle life test of secondary spacecraft cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harkness, J. D.

1980-01-01

The results of the life cycling program on rechargeable calls are reported. Information on required data, the use of which the data will be put, application details, including orbital description, charge control methods, load rquirements, etc., are given. Cycle tests were performed on 660 sealed, nickel cadmium cells. The cells consisted of seven sample classifications ranging form 3.0 to 20 amp. hours. Nickel cadmium, silver cadmium, and silver zinc sealed cells, excluding synchronous orbit and accelerated test packs were added. The capacities of the nickel cadmium cells, the silver cadmium and the silver zinc cells differed in range of amp hrs. The cells were cylced under different load, charge control, and temperature conditions. All cell packs are recharged by use of a pack voltage limit. All charging is constant current until the voltage limit is reached.

High voltage solar cell power generating system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levy, E., Jr.; Opjorden, R. W.; Hoffman, A. C.

1974-01-01

A laboratory solar power system regulated by on-panel switches has been delivered for operating high power (3 kW), high voltage (15,000 volt) loads (communication tubes, ion thrusters). The modular system consists of 26 solar arrays, each with an integral light source and cooling system. A typical array contains 2,560 series-connected cells. Each light source consists of twenty 500-watt tungsten iodide lamps providing plus or minus 5 percent uniformity at one solar constant. An array temperature of less than 40 C is achieved using an infrared filter, a water-cooled plate, a vacuum hold-down system, and air flushing.

Variable-speed wind power system with improved energy capture via multilevel conversion

DOEpatents

Erickson, Robert W.; Al-Naseem, Osama A.; Fingersh, Lee Jay

2005-05-31

A system and method for efficiently capturing electrical energy from a variable-speed generator are disclosed. The system includes a matrix converter using full-bridge, multilevel switch cells, in which semiconductor devices are clamped to a known constant DC voltage of a capacitor. The multilevel matrix converter is capable of generating multilevel voltage wave waveform of arbitrary magnitude and frequencies. The matrix converter can be controlled by using space vector modulation.

Electrical filtering in gerbil isolated type I semicircular canal hair cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rennie, K. J.; Ricci, A. J.; Correia, M. J.

1996-01-01

1. Membrane potential responses of dissociated gerbil type I semicircular canal hair cells to current injections in whole cell current-clamp have been measured. The input resistance of type I cells was 21.4 +/- 14.3 (SD) M omega, (n = 25). Around the zero-current potential (Vz = -66.6 +/- 9.3 mV, n = 25), pulsed current injections (from approximately -200 to 750 pA) produced only small-amplitude, pulse-like changes in membrane potential. 2. Injecting constant current to hyperpolarize the membrane to around -100 mV resulted in a approximately 10-fold increase in membrane resistance. Current pulses superimposed on this constant hyperpolarization produced larger and more complex membrane potential changes. Depolarizing currents > or = 200 pA caused a rapid transient peak voltage before a plateau. 3. Membrane voltage was able to faithfully follow sine-wave current injections around Vz over the range 1-1,000 Hz with < 25% attenuation at 1 kHz. A previously described K conductance, IKI, which is active at Vz, produces the low input resistance and frequency response. This was confirmed by pharmacologically blocking IKI. This conductance, present in type I cells but not type II hair cells, would appear to confer on type I cells a lower gain, but a much broader bandwidth at Vz, than seen in type II cells.

Universal Features of Electron Dynamics in Solar Cells with TiO2 Contact: From Dye Solar Cells to Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Todinova, Anna; Idígoras, Jesús; Salado, Manuel; Kazim, Samrana; Anta, Juan A

2015-10-01

The electron dynamics of solar cells with mesoporous TiO2 contact is studied by electrochemical small-perturbation techniques. The study involved dye solar cells (DSC), solid-state perovskite solar cells (SSPSC), and devices where the perovskite acts as sensitizer in a liquid-junction device. Using a transport-recombination continuity equation we found that mid-frequency time constants are proper lifetimes that determine the current-voltage curve. This is not the case for the SSPSC, where a lifetime of ∼1 μs, 1 order of magnitude longer, is required to reproduce the current-voltage curve. This mismatch is attributed to the dielectric response on the mid-frequency component. Correcting for this effect, lifetimes lie on a common exponential trend with respect to open-circuit voltage. Electron transport times share a common trend line too. This universal behavior of lifetimes and transport times suggests that the main difference between the cells is the power to populate the mesoporous TiO2 contact with electrons.

Preprototype independent air revitalization subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schubert, F. H.; Hallick, T. M.; Woods, R. R.

1982-01-01

The performance and maturity of a preprototype, three-person capacity, automatically controlled and monitored, self-contained independent air revitalization subsystem were evaluated. The subsystem maintains the cabin partial pressure of oxygen at 22 kPa (3.2 psia) and that of carbon dioxide at 400 Pa (3 mm Hg) over a wide range of cabin air relative humidity conditions. Consumption of water vapor by the water vapor electrolysis module also provides partial humidity control of the cabin environment. During operation, the average carbon dioxide removal efficiency at baseline conditions remained constant throughout the test at 84%. The average electrochemical depolarized concentrator cell voltage at the end of the parametric/endurance test was 0.41 V, representing a very slowly decreasing average cell voltage. The average water vapor electrolysis cell voltage increased only at a rate of 20 mu/h from the initial level of 1.67 V to the final level of 1.69 V at conclusion of the testing.

Hydroelectric voltage generation based on water-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Yuan, Quanzi; Zhao, Ya-Pu

2009-05-13

A DFT/MD mutual iterative method was employed to give insights into the mechanism of voltage generation based on water-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Our calculations showed that a constant voltage difference of several mV would generate between the two ends of a carbon nanotube, due to interactions between the water dipole chains and charge carriers in the tube. Our work validates this structure of a water-filled SWCNT as a promising candidate for a synthetic nanoscale power cell, as well as a practical nanopower harvesting device at the atomic level.

Revisiting the relevance of using a constant voltage step to improve electrochemical performances of Li-rich lamellar oxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pradon, A.; Caldes, M. T.; Petit, P.-E.; La Fontaine, C.; Elkaim, E.; Tessier, C.; Ouvrard, G.; Dumont, E.

2018-03-01

A Li-rich lamellar oxide was cycled at high potential and the relevance of using a constant voltage step (CVS) at the end of the charge, needed for industrial application, was investigated by electrochemical performance, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Electrochemical studies at 4.7 and 4.5 V with and without CVS showed that capacity and voltage fading occurred mostly when cells operated at high potential. After cycling, 3D-type defects involving transition metals trapped in lithium layer were observed by HRTEM into the electrode bulk. These defects are responsible for the voltage fading. XRD microstrain parameter was used to evaluate defects rate in aged materials subjected to a CVS, showing more 3D-type defects when cycled at 4.7 V than at 4.5 V. The time spent at high potential at the end of the charge as well as the value of the upper potential limit, are both relevant parameters to voltage decay. The use of a CVS at the end of the charge needs at the same time, a reduced upper potential window in order to minimize 3D-type defects occurrence. Unfortunately, this approach is still not sufficient to prevent voltage fading.

Energy consumption analysis of constant voltage and constant current operations in capacitive deionization

DOE PAGES

Qu, Yatian; Campbell, Patrick G.; Gu, Lei; ...

2016-09-21

Here we report our studies to compare energy consumption of a CDI cell in constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) operations, with a focus on understanding the underlying physics of consumption patterns. The comparison is conducted under conditions that the CV and CC operations result in the same amounts of input charge and within identical charging phase durations. We present two electrical circuit models to simulate energy consumption in charging phase: one is a simple RC circuit model, and the other a transmission line circuit model. We built and tested a CDI cell to validate the transmission line model,more » and performed a series of experiments to compare CV versus CC operation under the condition of equal applied charge and charging duration. The experiments show that CC mode consumes energy at 33.8 kJ per mole of ions removed, which is only 28% of CV mode energy consumption (120.6 kJ/mol), but achieves similar level of salt removals. Lastly, together, the models and experiment support our major conclusion that CC is more energy efficient than CV for equal charge and charging duration. The models also suggest that the lower energy consumption of CC in charging is due to its lower resistive dissipation.« less

Energy consumption analysis of constant voltage and constant current operations in capacitive deionization

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

Qu, Yatian; Campbell, Patrick G.; Gu, Lei

Here we report our studies to compare energy consumption of a CDI cell in constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) operations, with a focus on understanding the underlying physics of consumption patterns. The comparison is conducted under conditions that the CV and CC operations result in the same amounts of input charge and within identical charging phase durations. We present two electrical circuit models to simulate energy consumption in charging phase: one is a simple RC circuit model, and the other a transmission line circuit model. We built and tested a CDI cell to validate the transmission line model,more » and performed a series of experiments to compare CV versus CC operation under the condition of equal applied charge and charging duration. The experiments show that CC mode consumes energy at 33.8 kJ per mole of ions removed, which is only 28% of CV mode energy consumption (120.6 kJ/mol), but achieves similar level of salt removals. Lastly, together, the models and experiment support our major conclusion that CC is more energy efficient than CV for equal charge and charging duration. The models also suggest that the lower energy consumption of CC in charging is due to its lower resistive dissipation.« less

Direct block by bisindolylmaleimide of rat Kv1.5 expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells.

PubMed

Choi, B H; Choi, J S; Jeong, S W; Hahn, S J; Yoon, S H; Jo, Y H; Kim, M S

2000-05-01

The interaction of bisindolylmaleimide (BIM), widely used as a specific protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, with rat brain Kv1.5 (rKv1.5) channels stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells was investigated using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. BIM (I) and its inactive analog, BIM (V), inhibited rKv1.5 currents at +50 mV in a reversible concentration-dependent manner with an apparent K(d) value of 0.38 and 1.70 microM, respectively. BIM (I) accelerated the decay rate of inactivation of rKv1.5 currents but did not significantly modify the kinetics of current activation. Other specific PKC inhibitors, chelerythrine and PKC 19-36, had no effect on rKv1.5 and did not prevent the inhibitory effect of BIM (I). The inhibition of rKv1.5 by BIM (I) and BIM (V) was highly voltage-dependent between -30 and 0 mV (voltage range of channel opening), suggesting that both drugs interact preferentially with the open state of the channel. The additional inhibition by BIM (I) displayed a voltage dependence (delta = 0.19) in the full activation voltage range positive to 0 mV, but was not shown in BIM (V) (delta = 0). The rate constants of association and dissociation for BIM (I) were 9.63 microM(-1) s(-1) and 5.82 s(-1), respectively. BIM (I) increased the time constant of deactivation of tail currents from 26. 35 to 45.79 ms, resulting in tail crossover phenomenon. BIM (I) had no effect on the voltage dependence of steady-state inactivation. BIM (I) produced use-dependent inhibition of rKv1.5, which was consistent with the slow recovery from inactivation in the presence of drug. These results suggest that BIM (I) directly inhibits rKv1.5 channels in a phosphorylation-independent, and state-, voltage-, time-, and use-dependent manner.

Air Force Ni-H2 cell test program: State of Charge test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, Bruce; Smellie, Douglas

1995-01-01

Nickel-Hydrogen cells are being cycled under a LEO (low earth orbit) test regime to examine the benefits of operating the cells at lower States of Charge (SOC) than typically used. A group of four cells are cycled using a voltage limiting charge regime that limits the State of Charge that the cells are allowed to reach. The test cells are then compared to identical cells being cycled at or near 100% State of Charge using a constant current charge regime.

Constant voltage electro-slag remelting control

DOEpatents

Schlienger, Max E.

1996-01-01

A system for controlling electrode gap in an electro-slag remelt furnace has a constant regulated voltage and an eletrode which is fed into the slag pool at a constant rate. The impedance of the circuit through the slag pool is directly proportional to the gap distance. Because of the constant voltage, the system current changes are inversely proportional to changes in gap. This negative feedback causes the gap to remain stable.

Microprocessor control of multiple peak power tracking DC/DC converters for use with solar cell arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, Martin E. (Inventor); Jermakian, Joel (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A method and an apparatus is provided for efficiently controlling the power output of a solar cell array string or a plurality of solar cell array strings to achieve a maximum amount of output power from the strings under varying conditions of use. Maximum power output from a solar array string is achieved through control of a pulse width modulated DC/DC buck converter which transfers power from a solar array to a load or battery bus. The input voltage from the solar array to the converter is controlled by a pulse width modulation duty cycle, which in turn is controlled by a differential signal controller. By periodically adjusting the control voltage up or down by a small amount and comparing the power on the load or bus with that generated at different voltage values a maximum power output voltage may be obtained. The system is totally modular and additional solar array strings may be added to the system simply by adding converter boards to the system and changing some constants in the controller's control routines.

Contribution of Sialic Acid to the Voltage Dependence of Sodium Channel Gating

PubMed Central

Bennett, Eric; Urcan, Mary S.; Tinkle, Sally S.; Koszowski, Adam G.; Levinson, Simon R.

1997-01-01

A potential role for sialic acid in the voltage-dependent gating of rat skeletal muscle sodium channels (rSkM1) was investigated using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells stably transfected with rSkM1. Changes in the voltage dependence of channel gating were observed after enzymatic (neuraminidase) removal of sialic acid from cells expressing rSkM1 and through the expression of rSkM1 in a sialylation-deficient cell line (lec2). The steady-state half-activation voltages (Va) of channels under each condition of reduced sialylation were ∼10 mV more depolarized than control channels. The voltage dependence of the time constants of channel activation and inactivation were also shifted in the same direction and by a similar magnitude. In addition, recombinant deletion of likely glycosylation sites from the rSkM1 sequence resulted in mutant channels that gated at voltages up to 10 mV more positive than wild-type channels. Thus three independent means of reducing channel sialylation show very similar effects on the voltage dependence of channel gating. Finally, steady-state activation voltages for channels subjected to reduced sialylation conditions were much less sensitive to the effects of external calcium than those measured under control conditions, indicating that sialic acid directly contributes to the negative surface potential. These results are consistent with an electrostatic mechanism by which external, negatively charged sialic acid residues on rSkM1 alter the electric field sensed by channel gating elements. PMID:9089440

Characterization of three types of silicon solar cells for SEPS deep-space missions. Volume 2: Current voltage characteristics of Solarex textured P(+)8 to 10 mil, planar P(+)8 to 10 mil and planar P(+)2 mil cells as a function of temperature and intensity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitaker, A. F.; Little, S. A.; Wooden, V. A.

1980-01-01

Three types of high performance silicon solar cells, textured P(+)8 to 10 mil, planar P(+)8 to 10 mil and planar P(+)2 mil were evaluated for their low temperature and low intensity (LTLI) performance. Sixteen cells of each type were subjected to 11 temperatures and 9 intensities. The textured P(+)8 to 10 mil cells provided the best performance both at 1 astronomical unit and at LTLI conditions. The average efficiencies of this cell were 14.5 percent at 1 solar constant/+25 C and 18.7 percent at 0.086 solar constant/-100 C.

Components of gating charge movement and S4 voltage-sensor exposure during activation of hERG channels.

PubMed

Wang, Zhuren; Dou, Ying; Goodchild, Samuel J; Es-Salah-Lamoureux, Zeineb; Fedida, David

2013-04-01

The human ether-á-go-go-related gene (hERG) K(+) channel encodes the pore-forming α subunit of the rapid delayed rectifier current, IKr, and has unique activation gating kinetics, in that the α subunit of the channel activates and deactivates very slowly, which focuses the role of IKr current to a critical period during action potential repolarization in the heart. Despite its physiological importance, fundamental mechanistic properties of hERG channel activation gating remain unclear, including how voltage-sensor movement rate limits pore opening. Here, we study this directly by recording voltage-sensor domain currents in mammalian cells for the first time and measuring the rates of voltage-sensor modification by [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl] methanethiosulfonate chloride (MTSET). Gating currents recorded from hERG channels expressed in mammalian tsA201 cells using low resistance pipettes show two charge systems, defined as Q(1) and Q(2), with V(1/2)'s of -55.7 (equivalent charge, z = 1.60) and -54.2 mV (z = 1.30), respectively, with the Q(2) charge system carrying approximately two thirds of the overall gating charge. The time constants for charge movement at 0 mV were 2.5 and 36.2 ms for Q(1) and Q(2), decreasing to 4.3 ms for Q(2) at +60 mV, an order of magnitude faster than the time constants of ionic current appearance at these potentials. The voltage and time dependence of Q2 movement closely correlated with the rate of MTSET modification of I521C in the outermost region of the S4 segment, which had a V(1/2) of -64 mV and time constants of 36 ± 8.5 ms and 11.6 ± 6.3 ms at 0 and +60 mV, respectively. Modeling of Q(1) and Q(2) charge systems showed that a minimal scheme of three transitions is sufficient to account for the experimental findings. These data point to activation steps further downstream of voltage-sensor movement that provide the major delays to pore opening in hERG channels.

High voltage solar cell power generating system for regulated solar array development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levy, E., Jr.; Hoffman, A. C.

1973-01-01

A laboratory solar power system regulated by on-panel switches has been delivered for operating high power (3 kw), high voltage (15,000 volt) loads (communication tubes, ion thrusters). The modular system consists of 26 solar arrays, each with an integral light source and cooling system. A typical array contains 2560 series-connected cells. Each light source consists of twenty 500 watt tungsten iodide lamps providing plus or minus 5 per cent uniformity at one solar constant. An array temperature of less than 40 C is achieved using an infrared filter, a water cooled plate, a vacuum hold-down system, and air flushing.

Characterization of three types of silicon solar cells for SEPS deep space missions. Volume 1: Current-voltage characteristics of OCLI BSF/BSR 10 ohm-cm, and BSR 2 ohm-cm cells as a function of temperature and intensity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitaker, A. F.; Little, S. A.; Smith, C. F., Jr.; Wooden, V. A.

1979-01-01

Three types of high performance silicon solar cells, BSF/BSR 10 ohm-cm, BSR 10 ohm-cm, and BSR 2 ohm-cm, were evaluated for their low temperature and low intensity performance. Sixteen cells of each type were subjected to ten temperatures and nine intensities. The BSF/BSR 10 ohm-cm cells provided the best performance at 1 solar constant and +25 C with an efficiency of 14.1% while the BSR 2 ohm-cm cells had the highest low temperature and low intensity performance with an efficiency of 22.2% at 0.04 solar constant and -170 C and the most consistent cell-to-cell characteristics.

Constant voltage electro-slag remelting control

DOEpatents

Schlienger, M.E.

1996-10-22

A system for controlling electrode gap in an electro-slag remelt furnace has a constant regulated voltage and an electrode which is fed into the slag pool at a constant rate. The impedance of the circuit through the slag pool is directly proportional to the gap distance. Because of the constant voltage, the system current changes are inversely proportional to changes in gap. This negative feedback causes the gap to remain stable. 1 fig.

Current leakage for low altitude satellites - Modeling applications. [simulation of high voltage solar cell array in ionospheric plasma environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Konradi, A.; Mccoy, J. E.; Garriott, O. K.

1979-01-01

To simulate the behavior of a high voltage solar cell array in the ionospheric plasma environment, the large (90 ft x 55 ft diameter) vacuum chamber was used to measure the high-voltage plasma interactions of a 3 ft x 30 ft conductive panel. The chamber was filled with Nitrogen and Argon plasma at electron densities of up to 1,000,000 per cu cm. Measurements of current flow to the plasma were made in three configurations: (a) with one end of the panel grounded, (b) with the whole panel floating while a high bias was applied between the ends of the panel, and (c) with the whole panel at high negative voltage with respect to the chamber walls. The results indicate that a simple model with a constant panel conductivity and plasma resistance can adequately describe the voltage distribution along the panel and the plasma current flow. As expected, when a high potential difference is applied to the panel ends more than 95% of the panel floats negative with respect to the plasma.

Universality of Non-Ohmic Shunt Leakage in Thin-Film Solar Cells

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

Dongaonkar, S.; Servaites, J.D.; Ford, G.M.

2010-01-01

We compare the dark current-voltage (IV) characteristics of three different thin-film solar cell types: hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) p-i-n cells, organic bulk heterojunction (BHJ) cells, and Cu(In,Ga)Se 2 (CIGS) cells. All three device types exhibit a significant shunt leakage current at low forward bias (V<~0.4) and reverse bias, which cannot be explained by the classical solar cell diode model. This parasitic shunt current exhibits non-Ohmic behavior, as opposed to the traditional constant shunt resistance model for photovoltaics. We show here that this shunt leakage (I sh) , across all three solar cell types considered, is characterized by the following commonmore » phenomenological features: (a) voltage symmetry about V=0 , (b) nonlinear (power law) voltage dependence, and (c) extremely weak temperature dependence. Based on this analysis, we provide a simple method of subtracting this shunt current component from the measured data and discuss its implications on dark IV parameter extraction. We propose a space charge limited (SCL) current model for capturing all these features of the shunt leakage in a consistent framework and discuss possible physical origin of the parasitic paths responsible for this shunt current mechanism.« less

Constant current loop impedance measuring system that is immune to the effects of parasitic impedances

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Karl F. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A constant current loop measuring system is provided for measuring a characteristic of an environment. The system comprises a first impedance positionable in the environment, a second impedance coupled in series with said first impedance and a parasitic impedance electrically coupled to the first and second impedances. A current generating device, electrically coupled in series with the first and second impedances, provides a constant current through the first and second impedances to produce first and second voltages across the first and second impedances, respectively, and a parasitic voltage across the parasitic impedance. A high impedance voltage measuring device measures a voltage difference between the first and second voltages independent of the parasitic voltage to produce a characteristic voltage representative of the characteristic of the environment.

Renewable Electrolysis | Hydrogen and Fuel Cells | NREL

Science.gov Websites

variable-input power conditions Designing and developing shared power-electronics packages and controllers Development NREL develops power electronics interfaces for renewable electrolysis systems to characterize and constant voltage DC bus and power electronics to regulate power output and to convert wild alternating

Simulation analysis of receptive-field size of retinal horizontal cells by ionic current model.

PubMed

Aoyama, Toshihiro; Kamiyama, Yoshimi; Usui, Shiro

2005-01-01

The size of the receptive field of retinal horizontal cells changes with the state of dark/light adaptation. We have used a mathematical model to determine how changes in the membrane conductance affect the receptive-field properties of horizontal cells. We first modeled the nonlinear membrane properties of horizontal cells based on ionic current mechanisms. The dissociated horizontal cell model reproduced the voltage-current (V-I) relationships for various extracellular glutamate concentrations measured in electrophysiological studies. Second, a network horizontal cell model was also described, and it reproduced the V-I relationship observed in vivo. The network model showed a bell-shaped relationship between the receptive-field size and constant glutamate concentration. The simulated results suggest that the calcium current is a candidate for the bell-shaped length constant relationship.

PSO Based PI Controller Design for a Solar Charger System

PubMed Central

Yau, Her-Terng; Lin, Chih-Jer; Liang, Qin-Cheng

2013-01-01

Due to global energy crisis and severe environmental pollution, the photovoltaic (PV) system has become one of the most important renewable energy sources. Many previous studies on solar charger integrated system only focus on load charge control or switching Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and charge control modes. This study used two-stage system, which allows the overall portable solar energy charging system to implement MPPT and optimal charge control of Li-ion battery simultaneously. First, this study designs a DC/DC boost converter of solar power generation, which uses variable step size incremental conductance method (VSINC) to enable the solar cell to track the maximum power point at any time. The voltage was exported from the DC/DC boost converter to the DC/DC buck converter, so that the voltage dropped to proper voltage for charging the battery. The charging system uses constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method to charge the lithium battery. In order to obtain the optimum PI charge controller parameters, this study used intelligent algorithm to determine the optimum parameters. According to the simulation and experimental results, the control parameters resulted from PSO have better performance than genetic algorithms (GAs). PMID:23766713

PSO based PI controller design for a solar charger system.

PubMed

Yau, Her-Terng; Lin, Chih-Jer; Liang, Qin-Cheng

2013-01-01

Due to global energy crisis and severe environmental pollution, the photovoltaic (PV) system has become one of the most important renewable energy sources. Many previous studies on solar charger integrated system only focus on load charge control or switching Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and charge control modes. This study used two-stage system, which allows the overall portable solar energy charging system to implement MPPT and optimal charge control of Li-ion battery simultaneously. First, this study designs a DC/DC boost converter of solar power generation, which uses variable step size incremental conductance method (VSINC) to enable the solar cell to track the maximum power point at any time. The voltage was exported from the DC/DC boost converter to the DC/DC buck converter, so that the voltage dropped to proper voltage for charging the battery. The charging system uses constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method to charge the lithium battery. In order to obtain the optimum PI charge controller parameters, this study used intelligent algorithm to determine the optimum parameters. According to the simulation and experimental results, the control parameters resulted from PSO have better performance than genetic algorithms (GAs).

Growth behavior of anodic porous alumina formed in malic acid solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Yamamoto, Tsuyoshi; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

2013-11-01

The growth behavior of anodic porous alumina formed on aluminum by anodizing in malic acid solutions was investigated. High-purity aluminum plates were electropolished in CH3COOH/HClO4 solutions and then anodized in 0.5 M malic acid solutions at 293 K and constant cell voltages of 200-350 V. The anodic porous alumina grew on the aluminum substrate at voltages of 200-250 V, and a black, burned oxide film was formed at higher voltages. The nanopores of the anodic oxide were only formed at grain boundaries of the aluminum substrate during the initial stage of anodizing, and then the growth region extended to the entire aluminum surface as the anodizing time increased. The anodic porous alumina with several defects was formed by anodizing in malic acid solution at 250 V, and oxide cells were approximately 300-800 nm in diameter.

Fuel cells, batteries and super-capacitors stand-alone power systems management using optimal/flatness based-control

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

Benaouadj, M.; Aboubou, A.; Bahri, M.

2016-07-25

In this work, an optimal control (under constraints) based on the Pontryagin’s maximum principle is used to optimally manage energy flows in a basic PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) fuel cells system associated to lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors through a common DC bus having a voltage to stabilize using the differential flatness approach. The adaptation of voltage levels between different sources and load is ensured by use of three DC-DC converters, one boost connected to the PEM fuel cells, while the two others are buck/boost and connected to the lithiumion batteries and supercapacitors. The aim of this paper is to developmore » an energy management strategy that is able to satisfy the following objectives: Impose the power requested by a habitat (representing the load) according to a proposed daily consumption profile, Keep fuel cells working at optimal power delivery conditions, Maintain constant voltage across the common DC bus, Stabilize the batteries voltage and stored quantity of charge at desired values given by the optimal control. Results obtained under MATLAB/Simulink environment prove that the cited objectives are satisfied, validating then, effectiveness and complementarity between the optimal and flatness concepts proposed for energy management. Note that this study is currently in experimentally validation within MSE Laboratory.« less

Microfluidic electroporation for delivery of small molecules and genes into cells using a common DC power supply.

PubMed

Wang, Hsiang-Yu; Lu, Chang

2008-06-15

Electroporation is an efficient method of introducing foreign impermeant molecules such as drugs and genes into cells. Conventional electroporation has been based on the application of short electrical pulses (electropulsation). Electropulsation requires specialized equipment and cannot be integrated easily with techniques such as electrophoresis which is based on constant voltage. Here we demonstrate the delivery of small molecules and genes into cells, using a microfluidic electroporation technique based on constant direct current (DC) voltage that we developed earlier. We demonstrate the delivery of two molecules into Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells: a membrane impermeable nucleic acid dye (SYTOX Green) and a plasmid vector carrying the gene for green fluorescent protein (pEGFP-C1). Our devices can exert field variations to flowing cells that are analogous to the application of single or multiple pulses by having different geometries. We investigate the effects of the electrical parameters and different geometries of the device on the transfection efficiency and cell viability. Our technique provides a simple solution to electroporation-based drug and gene delivery by eliminating the need for a pulse generator. We envision that these simple microscale electroporation devices will have the potential to work in parallel on a microchip platform and such technology will allow high-throughput functional screening of drugs and genes. (c) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Silicon solar cells as a high-solar-intensity radiometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spisz, E. W.; Robson, R. R.

1971-01-01

The characteristics of a conventional, 1- by 2-cm, N/P, gridded silicon solar cell when used as a radiometer have been determined for solar intensity levels to 2800 mW/sq cm (20 solar constants). The short-circuit current was proportional to the radiant intensity for levels only to 700 mW/sq cm (5 solar constants). For intensity levels greater than 700 mW/sq cm, it was necessary to operate the cell in a photoconductive mode in order to obtain a linear relation between the measured current and the radiant intensity. When the solar cell was biased with a reverse voltage of -1 V, the measured current and radiant intensity were linearly related over the complete intensity range from 100 to 2800 mW/sq cm.

Research on equipment of micro-pressure measure and control in loading experiment of plant cell mechanics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lian; Yu, Chengbo; Tao, Hongyan; Chen, Xuejun; Zhai, Feng

2005-12-01

The equipment is developed to measure and control micro-pressure in loading experiment of plant cell mechanics. The motivation for the development of this equipment was to maintain a stationary micro-pressure on the agar of culturing cells to keep cytoactive in biology experiments. A singlechip controls the stepping motor of this equipment to drive loading equipment in the system, in order to load between 50mN and 250mN under a constant voltage. The accuracy is estimated to be +/-0.4 mN. The structure and control system of this equipment is introduced and described in detail. The experimental results show that the equipment is capable of maintaining a constant, stationary micropressure in cell culturing application and is worth of extending and applying.

Influence of the operational parameters on bioelectricity generation in continuous microbial fuel cell, experimental and computational fluid dynamics modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobieszuk, Paweł; Zamojska-Jaroszewicz, Anna; Makowski, Łukasz

2017-12-01

The influence of the organic loading rate (also known as active anodic chamber volume) on bioelectricity generation in a continuous, two-chamber microbial fuel cell for the treatment of synthetic wastewater, with glucose as the only carbon source, was examined. Ten sets of experiments with different combinations of hydraulic retention times (0.24-1.14 d) and influent chemical oxygen demand concentrations were performed to verify the impact of organic loading rate on the voltage generation capacity of a simple dual-chamber microbial fuel cell working in continuous mode. We found that there is an optimal hydraulic retention time value at which the maximum voltage is generated: 0.41 d. However, there were no similar effects, in terms of voltage generation, when a constant hydraulic retention time with different influent chemical oxygen demand of wastewater was used. The obtained maximal voltage value (600 mV) has also been compared to literature data. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to calculate the fluid flow and the exit age distribution of fluid elements in the reactor to explain the obtained experimental results and identify the crucial parameters for the design of bioreactors on an industrial scale.

Numerical analysis on effect of aspect ratio of planar solid oxide fuel cell fueled with decomposed ammonia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Wee Choon; Iwai, Hiroshi; Kishimoto, Masashi; Brus, Grzegorz; Szmyd, Janusz S.; Yoshida, Hideo

2018-04-01

Planar solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with decomposed ammonia are numerically studied to investigate the effect of the cell aspect ratio. The ammonia decomposer is assumed to be located next to the SOFCs, and the heat required for the endothermic decomposition reaction is supplied by the thermal radiation from the SOFCs. Cells with aspect ratios (ratios of the streamwise length to the spanwise width) between 0.130 and 7.68 are provided with the reactants at a constant mass flow rate. A parametric study is conducted by varying the cell temperature and fuel utility factor to investigate their effects on the cell performance in terms of the voltage efficiency. The effect of the heat supply to the ammonia decomposer is also studied. The developed model shows good agreement, in terms of the current-voltage curve, with the experimental data obtained from a short stack without parameter tuning. The simulation study reveals that the cell with the highest aspect ratio achieves the highest performance under furnace operation. On the other hand, the 0.750 aspect ratio cell with the highest voltage efficiency of 0.67 is capable of thermally sustaining the ammonia decomposers at a fuel utility of 0.80 using the thermal radiation from both sidewalls.

Sinusoidal voltage protocols for rapid characterisation of ion channel kinetics.

PubMed

Beattie, Kylie A; Hill, Adam P; Bardenet, Rémi; Cui, Yi; Vandenberg, Jamie I; Gavaghan, David J; de Boer, Teun P; Mirams, Gary R

2018-03-24

Ion current kinetics are commonly represented by current-voltage relationships, time constant-voltage relationships and subsequently mathematical models fitted to these. These experiments take substantial time, which means they are rarely performed in the same cell. Rather than traditional square-wave voltage clamps, we fitted a model to the current evoked by a novel sum-of-sinusoids voltage clamp that was only 8 s long. Short protocols that can be performed multiple times within a single cell will offer many new opportunities to measure how ion current kinetics are affected by changing conditions. The new model predicts the current under traditional square-wave protocols well, with better predictions of underlying currents than literature models. The current under a novel physiologically relevant series of action potential clamps is predicted extremely well. The short sinusoidal protocols allow a model to be fully fitted to individual cells, allowing us to examine cell-cell variability in current kinetics for the first time. Understanding the roles of ion currents is crucial to predict the action of pharmaceuticals and mutations in different scenarios, and thereby to guide clinical interventions in the heart, brain and other electrophysiological systems. Our ability to predict how ion currents contribute to cellular electrophysiology is in turn critically dependent on our characterisation of ion channel kinetics - the voltage-dependent rates of transition between open, closed and inactivated channel states. We present a new method for rapidly exploring and characterising ion channel kinetics, applying it to the hERG potassium channel as an example, with the aim of generating a quantitatively predictive representation of the ion current. We fitted a mathematical model to currents evoked by a novel 8 second sinusoidal voltage clamp in CHO cells overexpressing hERG1a. The model was then used to predict over 5 minutes of recordings in the same cell in response to further protocols: a series of traditional square step voltage clamps, and also a novel voltage clamp comprising a collection of physiologically relevant action potentials. We demonstrate that we can make predictive cell-specific models that outperform the use of averaged data from a number of different cells, and thereby examine which changes in gating are responsible for cell-cell variability in current kinetics. Our technique allows rapid collection of consistent and high quality data, from single cells, and produces more predictive mathematical ion channel models than traditional approaches. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Physiological Society.

System for improving measurement accuracy of transducer by measuring transducer temperature and resistance change using thermoelectric voltages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Karl F. (Inventor); Parker, Allen R., Jr. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

A constant current loop measuring system measures a property including the temperature of a sensor responsive to an external condition being measured. The measuring system includes thermocouple conductors connected to the sensor, sensing first and second induced voltages responsive to the external condition. In addition, the measuring system includes a current generator and reverser generating a constant current, and supplying the constant current to the thermocouple conductors in forward and reverse directions generating first and second measured voltages, and a determining unit receiving the first and second measured voltages from the current generator and reverser, and determining the temperature of the sensor responsive to the first and second measured voltages.

Extending battery life: A low-cost practical diagnostic technique for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merla, Yu; Wu, Billy; Yufit, Vladimir; Brandon, Nigel P.; Martinez-Botas, Ricardo F.; Offer, Gregory J.

2016-11-01

Modern applications of lithium-ion batteries such as smartphones, hybrid & electric vehicles and grid scale electricity storage demand long lifetime and high performance which typically makes them the limiting factor in a system. Understanding the state-of-health during operation is important in order to optimise for long term durability and performance. However, this requires accurate in-operando diagnostic techniques that are cost effective and practical. We present a novel diagnosis method based upon differential thermal voltammetry demonstrated on a battery pack made from commercial lithium-ion cells where one cell was deliberately aged prior to experiment. The cells were in parallel whilst being thermally managed with forced air convection. We show for the first time, a diagnosis method capable of quantitatively determining the state-of-health of four cells simultaneously by only using temperature and voltage readings for both charge and discharge. Measurements are achieved using low-cost thermocouples and a single voltage measurement at a frequency of 1 Hz, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing this approach on real world battery management systems. The technique could be particularly useful under charge when constant current or constant power is common, this therefore should be of significant interest to all lithium-ion battery users.

The human red cell voltage-regulated cation channel. The interplay with the chloride conductance, the Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel and the Ca(2+) pump.

PubMed

Bennekou, P; Kristensen, B I; Christophersen, P

2003-09-01

The activation/deactivation kinetics of the human erythrocyte voltage-dependent cation channel was characterized at the single-channel level using inside-out patches. It was found that the time dependence for voltage activation after steps to positive membrane potentials was slow ( t(1/2) about 30 s), whereas the deactivation was fast ( t(1/2) about 15 ms). Both activation and deactivation of this channel were also demonstrated in intact red cells in suspension. At very positive membrane potentials generated by suspension in extracellular low Cl(-) concentrations, the cation conductance switched on with a time constant of about 2 min. Deactivation of the cation channel was clearly demonstrated during transient activation of the Gárdos channel elicited by Ca(2+) influx via the cation channel and ensuing efflux via the Ca(2+) pump. Thus, the voltage-dependent cation channel, the Gárdos channel and the Ca(2+) pump constitute a coupled feedback-regulated system that may become operative under physiological conditions.

Electric double-layer capacitor based on zinc metaphosphate glass-derived hydrogel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akamatsu, Takafumi; Kasuga, Toshihiro; Nogami, Masayuki

2006-04-01

The present work reports the electrochemical characteristics of an electric double-layer capacitor (EDC) cell with an electrolyte consisting of a glass-derived zinc metaphosphate hydrogel (ZP gel) or H3PO4 solution. The EDC cell showed specific discharge capacities of 2.06 and 3.21F/g using the ZP gel and H3PO4 solution, respectively. The EDC cell performed higher voltage retentionability for self-discharge behavior after constant voltage using the ZP gel (0.83V after 24h) than using H3PO4 solution (0.45V after 24h). Self-discharge behaviors of the ZP gel and H3PO4 solution were controlled by a diffusion and current leakage process, respectively. These results show that the ZP gel has a great potential for practical use as an EDC electrolyte.

Power-control switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kessler, L. L.

1976-01-01

Constant-current source creates drive current independent of input-voltage variations, 50% reduction in power loss in base drive circuitry, maintains essentially constant charge rate, and improves rise-time consistency over input voltage range.

ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS USING COLD-CATHODE TRIODE VALVES

DOEpatents

Goulding, F.S.

1957-11-26

An electrical circuit which may be utilized as a pulse generator or voltage stabilizer is presented. The circuit employs a cold-cathode triode valve arranged to oscillate between its on and off stages by the use of selected resistance-capacitance time constant components in the plate and trigger grid circuits. The magnitude of the d-c voltage applied to the trigger grid circuit effectively controls the repetition rate of the output pulses. In the voltage stabilizer arrangement the d-c control voltage is a portion of the supply voltage and the rectified output voltage is substantially constant.

Electrical Coupling Between Glial Cells in the Rat Retina

PubMed Central

Ceelen, Paul W.; Lockridge, Amber; Newman, Eric A.

2008-01-01

The strength of electrical coupling between retinal glial cells was quantified with simultaneous whole-cell current-clamp recordings from astrocyte–astrocyte, astrocyte–Müller cell, and Müller cell–Müller cell pairs in the acutely isolated rat retina. Experimental results were fit and space constants determined using a resistive model of the glial cell network that assumed a homogeneous two-dimensional glial syncytium. The effective space constant (the distance from the point of stimulation to where the voltage falls to 1/e) equaled 12.9, 6.2, and 3.7 µm, respectively for astrocyte–astrocyte, astrocyte–Müller cell, and Müller cell–Müller cell coupling. The addition of 1 mM Ba2+ had little effect on network space constants, while 0.5 mM octanol shortened the space constants to 4.7, 4.4, and 2.6 µm for the three types of coupling. For a given distance separating cell pairs, the strength of coupling showed considerable variability. This variability in coupling strength was reproduced accurately by a second resistive model of the glial cell network (incorporating discrete astrocytes spaced at varying distances from each other), demonstrating that the variability was an intrinsic property of the glial cell network. Coupling between glial cells in the retina may permit the intercellular spread of ions and small molecules, including messengers mediating Ca2+ wave propagation, but it is too weak to carry significant K+ spatial buffer currents. PMID:11424187

Energy breakdown in capacitive deionization.

PubMed

Hemmatifar, Ali; Palko, James W; Stadermann, Michael; Santiago, Juan G

2016-11-01

We explored the energy loss mechanisms in capacitive deionization (CDI). We hypothesize that resistive and parasitic losses are two main sources of energy losses. We measured contribution from each loss mechanism in water desalination with constant current (CC) charge/discharge cycling. Resistive energy loss is expected to dominate in high current charging cases, as it increases approximately linearly with current for fixed charge transfer (resistive power loss scales as square of current and charging time scales as inverse of current). On the other hand, parasitic loss is dominant in low current cases, as the electrodes spend more time at higher voltages. We built a CDI cell with five electrode pairs and standard flow between architecture. We performed a series of experiments with various cycling currents and cut-off voltages (voltage at which current is reversed) and studied these energy losses. To this end, we measured series resistance of the cell (contact resistances, resistance of wires, and resistance of solution in spacers) during charging and discharging from voltage response of a small amplitude AC current signal added to the underlying cycling current. We performed a separate set of experiments to quantify parasitic (or leakage) current of the cell versus cell voltage. We then used these data to estimate parasitic losses under the assumption that leakage current is primarily voltage (and not current) dependent. Our results confirmed that resistive and parasitic losses respectively dominate in the limit of high and low currents. We also measured salt adsorption and report energy-normalized adsorbed salt (ENAS, energy loss per ion removed) and average salt adsorption rate (ASAR). We show a clear tradeoff between ASAR and ENAS and show that balancing these losses leads to optimal energy efficiency. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Energy breakdown in capacitive deionization

DOE PAGES

Hemmatifar, Ali; Palko, James W.; Stadermann, Michael; ...

2016-08-12

We explored the energy loss mechanisms in capacitive deionization (CDI). We hypothesize that resistive and parasitic losses are two main sources of energy losses. We measured contribution from each loss mechanism in water desalination with constant current (CC) charge/discharge cycling. Resistive energy loss is expected to dominate in high current charging cases, as it increases approximately linearly with current for fixed charge transfer (resistive power loss scales as square of current and charging time scales as inverse of current). On the other hand, parasitic loss is dominant in low current cases, as the electrodes spend more time at higher voltages.more » We built a CDI cell with five electrode pairs and standard flow between architecture. We performed a series of experiments with various cycling currents and cut-off voltages (voltage at which current is reversed) and studied these energy losses. To this end, we measured series resistance of the cell (contact resistances, resistance of wires, and resistance of solution in spacers) during charging and discharging from voltage response of a small amplitude AC current signal added to the underlying cycling current. We performed a separate set of experiments to quantify parasitic (or leakage) current of the cell versus cell voltage. We then used these data to estimate parasitic losses under the assumption that leakage current is primarily voltage (and not current) dependent. Our results confirmed that resistive and parasitic losses respectively dominate in the limit of high and low currents. We also measured salt adsorption and report energy-normalized adsorbed salt (ENAS, energy loss per ion removed) and average salt adsorption rate (ASAR). As a result, we show a clear tradeoff between ASAR and ENAS and show that balancing these losses leads to optimal energy efficiency.« less

Voltage dependence of the rat chorda tympani response to Na+ salts: implications for the functional organization of taste receptor cells.

PubMed

Ye, Q; Heck, G L; DeSimone, J A

1993-07-01

1. Voltage-clamp and current-clamp data were obtained from a circumscribed region of the anterior rat lingual epithelium while simultaneously monitoring the afferent, stimulus-evoked, neural response from the same receptive field. 2. Chorda tympani (CT) responses at constant Na(+)-salt concentration were enhanced by submucosa negative voltage clamp and suppressed by positive voltage clamp. The complete CT response profile, including the time course of adaptation, was not uniquely determined by NaCl concentration alone. The response could be reproduced at different NaCl concentrations by applying a compensating voltage. 3. The form of the concentration and voltage dependence of the CT response indicates that the complete stimulus energy is the Na+ electrochemical potential difference across receptor cell apical membranes, and not Na+ concentration alone. This is the underlying principal behind the equivalence of chemical and electric taste for Na+ salts. 4. CT responses to sodium gluconate (25 and 200 mM) and 25 mM NaCl produced amiloride-insensitive components (AIC) of low magnitude. NaCl at 200 mM produced a significantly larger AIC. The AIC was voltage-clamp independent. The relative magnitude of the AIC was positively correlated with the transepithelial conductance of each salt. This suggests that the large AIC for 200 mM NaCl results from its relatively high permeability through the paracellular pathway. 5. Analysis of the CT response under voltage clamp revealed two anion effects on Na(+)-salt taste, both of which act through the paracellular shunt. 1) Anions modify the transepithelial potential (TP) across tight junctions and thereby modulate the cell receptor potential. This anion effect can be eliminated by voltage clamping the TP. 2) Sufficiently mobile anions facilitate electroneutral diffusion of Na+ salts through tight junctions. This effect is observed especially when Cl- is the anion and when the stimulus concentration favors NaCl influx, allowing Na+ to stimulate receptor cells from the submucosal side. Because the submucosal intercellular spaces are nearly isopotential regions, this effect is insensitive to voltage clamp of the TP. The large AIC associated with this anion effect is due to the low permeability of amiloride.

External pH effects on the depolarization-activated K channels in guard cell protoplasts of Vicia faba

PubMed Central

1994-01-01

Previous studies reveal that the pH of the apoplastic solution in the guard cell walls may vary between 7.2 and 5.1 in closed and open stomata, respectively. During these aperture and pH changes, massive K+ fluxes cross the cellular plasma membrane driving the osmotic turgor and volume changes of guard cells. Therefore, we examined the effect of extracellular pH on the depolarization-activated K channels (KD channels), which constitute the K+ efflux pathway, in the plasma membrane of Vicia faba guard cell protoplasts. We used patch clamp, both in whole cells as well as in excised outside-out membrane patches. Approximately 500 KD channels, at least, could be activated by depolarization in one protoplast (density: approximately 0.6 micron-2). Acidification from ph 8.1 to 4.4 decreased markedly the whole-cell conductance, GK, of the KD channels, shifted its voltage dependence, GK- EM, to the right on the voltage axis, slowed the rate of activation and increased the rate of deactivation, whereas the single channel conductance was not affected significantly. Based on the GK-EM shifts, the estimated average negative surface charge spacing near the KD channel is 39 A. To quantify the effects of protons on the rates of transitions between the hypothesized conformational states of the channels, we fitted the experimental macroscopic steady state conductance-voltage relationship and the voltage dependence of time constants of activation and deactivation, simultaneously, with a sequential three-state model CCO. In terms of this model, protonation affects the voltage-dependent properties via a decrease in localized, rather than homogeneous, surface charge sensed by the gating moieties. In terms of either the CO or CCO model, the protonation of a site with a pKa of 4.8 decreases the voltage-independent number of channels, N, that are available for activation by depolarization. PMID:8035163

Voltage sensor and dielectric material

DOEpatents

Yakymyshyn, Christopher Paul; Yakymyshyn, Pamela Jane; Brubaker, Michael Allen

2006-10-17

A voltage sensor is described that consists of an arrangement of impedance elements. The sensor is optimized to provide an output ratio that is substantially immune to changes in voltage, temperature variations or aging. Also disclosed is a material with a large and stable dielectric constant. The dielectric constant can be tailored to vary with position or direction in the material.

Detecting electroporation by assessing the time constants in the exponential response of human skin to voltage controlled impulse electrical stimulation.

PubMed

Bîrlea, Sinziana I; Corley, Gavin J; Bîrlea, Nicolae M; Breen, Paul P; Quondamatteo, Fabio; OLaighin, Gearóid

2009-01-01

We propose a new method for extracting the electrical properties of human skin based on the time constant analysis of its exponential response to impulse stimulation. As a result of this analysis an adjacent finding has arisen. We have found that stratum corneum electroporation can be detected using this analysis method. We have observed that a one time-constant model is appropriate for describing the electrical properties of human skin at low amplitude applied voltages (<30V), and a two time-constant model best describes skin electrical properties at higher amplitude applied voltages (>30V). Higher voltage amplitudes (>30V) have been proven to create pores in the skin's stratum corneum which offer a new, lower resistance, pathway for the passage of current through the skin. Our data shows that when pores are formed in the stratum corneum they can be detected, in-vivo, due to the fact that a second time constant describes current flow through them.

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD): Mechanisms, kinetics, and application to ceramics

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

Sarkar, P.; Nicholson, P.S.

1996-08-01

The mechanisms of electrophoretic deposition (EPD) are discussed and their shortcomings identified. The kinetics of the processes involved are analyzed for constant-current and constant-voltage conditions. A method of determining the Hamaker constant of suspended particles is developed by modeling the relationship between the particle interaction energy and the suspension stability. A three-probe dc technique is used to map the voltage profile around the depositing electrode, and the results are used to explain discrepancies between the calculated and experimentally observed voltage drops during deposition. A mechanism of deposition is proposed based on DLVO theory and particle double-layer distortion/thinning on application ofmore » a dc field to the suspension. Kinetic equations are developed for constant-current and constant-voltage EPD using mass balance conditions; these are verified by experiments. After the phenomenon is introduced and discussed, a critique of the application of EPD to the synthesis of ceramic shapes and coatings is given.« less

Photovoltaic array: Power conditioner interface characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gonzalez, C. C.; Hill, G. M.; Ross, R. G., Jr.

1982-01-01

The electrical output (power, current, and voltage) of flat plate solar arrays changes constantly, due primarily to changes in cell temperature and irradiance level. As a result, array loads such as dc-to-ac power conditioners must be capable of accommodating widely varying input levels while maintaining operation at or near the maximum power point of the array. The array operating characteristics and extreme output limits necessary for the systematic design of array load interfaces under a wide variety of climatic conditions are studied. A number of interface parameters are examined, including optimum operating voltage, voltage energy, maximum power and current limits, and maximum open circuit voltage. The effect of array degradation and I-V curve fill factor or the array power conditioner interface is also discussed. Results are presented as normalized ratios of power conditioner parameters to array parameters, making the results universally applicable to a wide variety of system sizes, sites, and operating modes.

Fabrication of White Light-emitting Electrochemical Cells with Stable Emission from Exciplexes.

PubMed

Uchida, Soichi; Takizawa, Daisuke; Ikeda, Satoru; Takeuchi, Hironori; Nishimura, Suzushi; Nishide, Hiroyuki; Nishikitani, Yoshinori

2016-11-15

The authors present an approach for fabricating stable white light emission from polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells (PLECs) having an active layer which consists of blue-fluorescent poly(9,9-di-n-dodecylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl) (PFD) and π-conjugated triphenylamine molecules. This white light emission originates from exciplexes formed between PFD and amines in electronically excited states. A device containing PFD, 4,4',4''-tris[2-naphthyl(phenyl)amino]triphenylamine (2-TNATA), Poly(ethylene oxide) and K2CF3SO3 showed white light emission with Commission internationale de l'éclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.33, 0.43) and a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of Ra = 73 at an applied voltage of 3.5 V. Constant voltage measurements showed that the CIE coordinates of (0.27, 0.37), Ra of 67, and the emission color observed immediately after application of a voltage of 5 V were nearly unchanged and stable after 300 sec.

Constant fields and constant gradients in open ionic channels.

PubMed Central

Chen, D P; Barcilon, V; Eisenberg, R S

1992-01-01

Ions enter cells through pores in proteins that are holes in dielectrics. The energy of interaction between ion and charge induced on the dielectric is many kT, and so the dielectric properties of channel and pore are important. We describe ionic movement by (three-dimensional) Nemst-Planck equations (including flux and net charge). Potential is described by Poisson's equation in the pore and Laplace's equation in the channel wall, allowing induced but not permanent charge. Asymptotic expansions are constructed exploiting the long narrow shape of the pore and the relatively high dielectric constant of the pore's contents. The resulting one-dimensional equations can be integrated numerically; they can be analyzed when channels are short or long (compared with the Debye length). Traditional constant field equations are derived if the induced charge is small, e.g., if the channel is short or if the total concentration gradient is zero. A constant gradient of concentration is derived if the channel is long. Plots directly comparable to experiments are given of current vs voltage, reversal potential vs. concentration, and slope conductance vs. concentration. This dielectric theory can easily be tested: its parameters can be determined by traditional constant field measurements. The dielectric theory then predicts current-voltage relations quite different from constant field, usually more linear, when gradients of total concentration are imposed. Numerical analysis shows that the interaction of ion and channel can be described by a mean potential if, but only if, the induced charge is negligible, that is to say, the electric field is spatially constant. Images FIGURE 1 PMID:1376159

Investigation of the double exponential in the current-voltage characteristics of silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolf, M.; Noel, G. T.; Stirn, R. J.

1976-01-01

A theoretical analysis is presented of certain peculiarities of the current-voltage characteristics of silicon solar cells, involving high values of the empirical constant A in the diode equation for a p-n junction. An attempt was made in a lab experiment to demonstrate that the saturation current which is associated with the exponential term qV/A2kT of the I-V characteristic, with A2 roughly equal to 2, originates in the space charge region and that it can be increased, as observed on ATS-1 cells, by the introduction of additional defects through low energy proton irradiation. It was shown that the proton irradiation introduces defects into the space charge region which give rise to a recombination current from this region, although the I-V characteristic is, in this case, dominated by an exponential term which has A = 1.

Lab-on-a-chip Single Particle Dielectrophoretic Traps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Weina; Shao, Hua; Lear, Kevin

2007-03-01

Cell-patterning and cell-manipulation in micro-environments are fundamental to biological and biomedical applications, for example, spectroscopic cytology based cancer detection. Dielectrophoresis (DEP) traps with transparent centers for stabilized cell and particle optofluidic intracavity spectroscopy (OFIS) were fabricated by patterning 10 μm wide, planar gold electrodes on glass substrates. The capturing strength of DEP traps was quantified based on the minimum AC voltage required to capture and hold varying diameter polystyrene or was it some other material, e.g. silica or PMMA microspheres in water as a function of frequency required under a constant flowrate of 20 μm/s. The maximum required trapping voltage in the negative DEP regime of f = 1 kHz to 40 MHz was 5.0 VAC. The use of AC fields effectively suppressed hydrolysis. New geometries of DEP traps are being explored on the basis of 3-D electrostatic field simulations.

Optimum DMOS cell doping profiles for high-voltage discrete and integrated device technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shenai, Krishna

1992-05-01

It is shown that the implantation and activation sequences of B and As result in significant variations in the contact resistance and p-base sheet resistance beneath the n+-source diffusion of a DMOSFET cell. For identical process parameters, the contact resistance of As-doped n+ silicon was significantly improved when high-dose B was implanted due to higher As surface concentration. The SUPREM III process modeling results were found to be in qualitative agreement with the measured spreading resistance profiles and the discrepancies could be attributed to larger high-temperature diffusion constants used in SUPREM III and the coupled As-B diffusion/activation effects that are not accounted for in process modeling. The experimental results are discussed within the framework of fabricating high-performance DMOSFET cells and CMOS high-voltage devices on the same chip for discrete and smart-power applications.

Octanol reduces end-plate channel lifetime

PubMed Central

Gage, Peter W.; McBurney, Robert N.; Van Helden, Dirk

1978-01-01

1. Post-synaptic effects of n-octanol at concentrations of 0·1-1 mM were examined in toad sartorius muscles by use of extracellular and voltage-clamp techniques. 2. Octanol depressed the amplitude and duration of miniature end-plate currents and hence depressed neuromuscular transmission. 3. The decay of miniature end-plate currents remained exponential in octanol solutions even when the time constant of decay (τD) was decreased by 80-90%. 4. The lifetime of end-plate channels, obtained by analysis of acetylcholine noise, was also decreased by octanol. The average lifetime measured from noise spectra agreed reasonably well with the time constant of decay of miniature end-plate currents, both in control solution and in octanol solutions. 5. Octanol caused a reduction in the conductance of end-plate channels. Single channel conductance was on average about 25 pS in control solution and 20 pS in octanol. 6. In most cells the normal voltage sensitivity of the decay of miniature end-plate currents was retained in octanol solutions. The lifetime of end-plate channels measured from acetylcholine noise also remained voltage-sensitive in octanol solutions. In some experiments in which channel lifetime was exceptionally reduced the voltage sensitivity was less than normal. 7. In octanol solutions, τD was still very sensitive to temperature changes in most cells although in some the temperature sensitivity of τD was clearly reduced. Changes in τD with temperature could generally be fitted by the Arrhenius equation suggesting that a single step reaction controlled the decay of currents both in control and in octanol solutions. In some cells in which τD became less than 0·3 ms, the relationship between τD and temperature became inconsistent with the Arrhenius equation. 8. As the decay of end-plate currents in octanol solutions remains exponential, and the voltage and temperature sensitivity can be unchanged even when τD is significantly reduced, it seems likely that octanol decreases τD by increasing the rate of the reaction which normally controls the lifetime of end-plate channels. PMID:203674

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under Ionic Liquid Field-Effect Gating

PubMed Central

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua; He, Xi; Bollinger, Anthony T.; Pavuna, Davor; Pindak, Ron; Božović, Ivan

2016-01-01

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La1.96Sr0.04CuO4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film (ground) and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were: (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and equatorial oxygen atoms were displaced towards the surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of equatorial oxygen atoms. PMID:27578237

Mathematical analysis of the Photovoltage Decay (PVD) method for minority carrier lifetime measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vonroos, O. H.

1982-01-01

When the diffusion length of minority carriers becomes comparable with or larger than the thickness of a p-n junction solar cell, the characteristic decay of the photon-generated voltage results from a mixture of contributions with different time constants. The minority carrier recombination lifetime tau and the time constant l(2)/D, where l is essentially the thickness of the cell and D the minority carrier diffusion length, determine the signal as a function of time. It is shown that for ordinary solar cells (n(+)-p junctions), particularly when the diffusion length L of the minority carriers is larger than the cell thickness l, the excess carrier density decays according to exp (-t/tau-pi(2)Dt/4l(2)), tau being the lifetime. Therefore, tau can be readily determined by the photovoltage decay method once D and L are known.

Solutions for transients in arbitrarily branching cables: III. Voltage clamp problems.

PubMed

Major, G

1993-07-01

Branched cable voltage recording and voltage clamp analytical solutions derived in two previous papers are used to explore practical issues concerning voltage clamp. Single exponentials can be fitted reasonably well to the decay phase of clamped synaptic currents, although they contain many underlying components. The effective time constant depends on the fit interval. The smoothing effects on synaptic clamp currents of dendritic cables and series resistance are explored with a single cylinder + soma model, for inputs with different time courses. "Soma" and "cable" charging currents cannot be separated easily when the soma is much smaller than the dendrites. Subtractive soma capacitance compensation and series resistance compensation are discussed. In a hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurone model, voltage control at most dendritic sites is extremely poor. Parameter dependencies are illustrated. The effects of series resistance compound those of dendritic cables and depend on the "effective capacitance" of the cell. Plausible combinations of parameters can cause order-of-magnitude distortions to clamp current waveform measures of simulated Schaeffer collateral inputs. These voltage clamp problems are unlikely to be solved by the use of switch clamp methods.

Mechanism of formation of subnanosecond current front in high-voltage pulse open discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schweigert, I. V.; Alexandrov, A. L.; Zakrevsky, Dm. E.; Bokhan, P. A.

2014-11-01

The mechanism of subnanosecond current front rise observed previously in the experiment in high-voltage pulse open discharge in helium is studied in kinetic particle-in-cell simulations. The Boltzmann equations for electrons, ions, and fast atoms are solved self-consistently with the Poisson equations for the electrical potential. The partial contributions to the secondary electron emission from the ions, fast atoms, photons, and electrons, bombarding the electrode, are calculated. In simulations, as in the experiment, the discharge glows between two symmetrical cathodes and the anode grid in the midplane at P =6 Torr and the applied voltage of 20 kV. The electron avalanche development is considered for two experimental situations during the last stage of breakdown: (i) with constant voltage and (ii) with decreasing voltage. For case (i), the subnanosecond current front rise is set by photons from the collisional excitation transfer reactions. For the case (ii), the energetic electrons swamp the cathode during voltage drop and provide the secondary electron emission for the subnanosecond current rise, observed in the experiment.

Influence of excitons interaction with charge carriers on photovoltaic parameters in organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Głowienka, Damian; Szmytkowski, Jędrzej

2018-03-01

We report on theoretical analysis of excitons annihilation on charge carriers in organic solar cells. Numerical calculations based on transient one-dimensional drift-diffusion model have been carried out. An impact of three quantities (an annihilation rate constant, an exciton mobility and a recombination reduction factor) on current density and concentrations of charge carriers and excitons is investigated. Finally, we discuss the influence of excitons interaction with electrons and holes on four photovoltaic parameters (a short-circuit current, an open-circuit voltage, a fill factor and a power conversion efficiency). The conclusion is that the annihilation process visibly decreases the efficiency of organic photocells, if the annihilation rate constant is greater than 10-15m3s-1 .

Carbon nanotube vacuum gauges with wide-dynamic range and processes thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manohara, Harish (Inventor); Kaul, Anupama B. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A miniature thermal conductivity gauge employs a carbon single-walled-nanotube. The gauge operates on the principle of thermal exchange between the voltage-biased nanotube and the surrounding gas at low levels of power and low temperatures to measure vacuum across a wide dynamic range. The gauge includes two terminals, a source of constant voltage to the terminals, a single-walled carbon nanotube between the terminals, a calibration of measured conductance of the nanotube to magnitudes of surrounding vacuum and a current meter in electrical communication with the source of constant voltage. Employment of the nanotube for measuring vacuum includes calibrating the electrical conductance of the nanotube to magnitudes of vacuum, exposing the nanotube to a vacuum, applying a constant voltage across the nanotube, measuring the electrical conductance of the nanotube in the vacuum with the constant voltage applied and converting the measured electrical conductance to the corresponding calibrated magnitude of vacuum using the calibration. The nanotube may be suspended to minimize heat dissipation through the substrate, increasing sensitivity at even tower pressures.

Pulsed Laser Illumination of Photovoltaic Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yater, Jane A.; Lowe, Roland; Jenkins, Philip; Landis, Geoffrey A.

1994-01-01

In future space missions, free electron lasers (FEL) may be used to illuminate photovoltaic array receivers to provide remote power. The induction FEL and the radio-frequency (RF) FEL both produce pulsed rather than continuous output. In this work, we investigate cell response to pulsed laser light which simulates the RF FEL format, producing 50 ps pulses at a frequency of 78 MHz. A variety of Si, GaAs, CaSb and CdInSe2 (CIS) solar cells are tested at average incident powers between 4 mW/sq cm and 425 mW/sq cm. The results indicate that if the pulse repetition is high, cell efficiencies are only slightly reduced by using a pulsed laser source compared to constant illumination at the same wavelength. Because the pulse separation is less than or approximately equal to the minority carrier lifetime, the illumination conditions are effectively those of a continuous wave laser. The time dependence of the voltage and current response of the cells are also measured using a sampling oscilloscope equipped with a high frequency voltage probe and current transformer. The frequency response of the cells is weak, with both voltage and current outputs essentially dc in nature. Comparison with previous experiments shows that the RF FEL pulse format yields much more efficient photovoltaic conversion of light than does an induction FEL pulse format.

Biophysical characterization of the fluorescent protein voltage probe VSFP2.3 based on the voltage-sensing domain of Ci-VSP.

PubMed

Lundby, Alicia; Akemann, Walther; Knöpfel, Thomas

2010-11-01

A voltage sensitive phosphatase was discovered in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. The phosphatase, Ci-VSP, contains a voltage-sensing domain homologous to those known from voltage-gated ion channels, but unlike ion channels, the voltage-sensing domain of Ci-VSP can reside in the cell membrane as a monomer. We fused the voltage-sensing domain of Ci-VSP to a pair of fluorescent reporter proteins to generate a genetically encodable voltage-sensing fluorescent probe, VSFP2.3. VSFP2.3 is a fluorescent voltage probe that reports changes in membrane potential as a FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) signal. Here we report sensing current measurements from VSFP2.3, and show that VSFP2.3 carries 1.2 e sensing charges, which are displaced within 1.5 ms. The sensing currents become faster at higher temperatures, and the voltage dependence of the decay time constants is temperature dependent. Neutralization of an arginine in S4, previously suggested to be a sensing charge, and measuring associated sensing currents indicate that this charge is likely to reside at the membrane-aqueous interface rather than within the membrane electric field. The data presented give us insights into the voltage-sensing mechanism of Ci-VSP, which will allow us to further improve the sensitivity and kinetics of the family of VSFP proteins.

Kinetics of Inhibitory Feedback from Horizontal Cells to Photoreceptors: Implications for an Ephaptic Mechanism

PubMed Central

Warren, Ted J.; Van Hook, Matthew J.; Tranchina, Daniel

2016-01-01

Inhibitory feedback from horizontal cells (HCs) to cones generates center-surround receptive fields and color opponency in the retina. Mechanisms of HC feedback remain unsettled, but one hypothesis proposes that an ephaptic mechanism may alter the extracellular electrical field surrounding photoreceptor synaptic terminals, thereby altering Ca2+ channel activity and photoreceptor output. An ephaptic voltage change produced by current flowing through open channels in the HC membrane should occur with no delay. To test for this mechanism, we measured kinetics of inhibitory feedback currents in Ambystoma tigrinum cones and rods evoked by hyperpolarizing steps applied to synaptically coupled HCs. Hyperpolarizing HCs stimulated inward feedback currents in cones that averaged 8–9 pA and exhibited a biexponential time course with time constants averaging 14–17 ms and 120–220 ms. Measurement of feedback-current kinetics was limited by three factors: (1) HC voltage-clamp speed, (2) cone voltage-clamp speed, and (3) kinetics of Ca2+ channel activation or deactivation in the photoreceptor terminal. These factors totaled ∼4–5 ms in cones meaning that the true fast time constants for HC-to-cone feedback currents were 9–13 ms, slower than expected for ephaptic voltage changes. We also compared speed of feedback to feedforward glutamate release measured at the same cone/HC synapses and found a latency for feedback of 11–14 ms. Inhibitory feedback from HCs to rods was also significantly slower than either measurement kinetics or feedforward release. The finding that inhibitory feedback from HCs to photoreceptors involves a significant delay indicates that it is not due to previously proposed ephaptic mechanisms. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Lateral inhibitory feedback from horizontal cells (HCs) to photoreceptors creates center-surround receptive fields and color-opponent interactions. Although underlying mechanisms remain unsettled, a longstanding hypothesis proposes that feedback is due to ephaptic voltage changes that regulate photoreceptor synaptic output by altering Ca2+ channel activity. Ephaptic processes should occur with no delay. We measured kinetics of inhibitory feedback currents evoked in photoreceptors with voltage steps applied to synaptically coupled HCs and found that feedback is too slow to be explained by ephaptic voltage changes generated by current flowing through continuously open channels in HC membranes. By eliminating the proposed ephaptic mechanism for HC feedback regulation of photoreceptor Ca2+ channels, our data support earlier proposals that synaptic cleft pH changes are more likely responsible. PMID:27683904

Constant-Current Source For Measuring Low Resistances

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Toomath, Robert L.

1996-01-01

Constant-current source constructed for measuring electrical resistances up to few ohms in power-supply equipment. By setting current at 1 A and measuring resulting voltage drop across item under test, one obtains voltage reading numerically equal to resistance in ohms.

Sodium-sulfur technology evaluation at Argonne National Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulcahey, T. P.; Tummillo, A. F.; Hogrefe, R. L.; Christianson, C. C.; Biwer, R.; Webster, C. E.; Lee, J.; Miller, J. F.; Marr, J. J.; Smaga, J. A.

The Analysis and Diagnostics Laboratory (ADL) at Argonne National Laboratory has completed evaluation of the Ford Aerospace and Communication Corp. (FACC) technology in the form of four load-levelling (LL) cells, five electric vehicle (EV) cells, and a sub-battery of 89 series connected EV cells. The ADL also has initiated evaluation of the Chloride Silent Power Limited (CSPL) sodium-sulfur (PB) battery technology in the form of 8 individual cells. The evaluation of the FACC-LL cells consisted of an abbreviated performance characterization followed by life-cycle tests on two individual cells and life-cycle tests only on the two other individual cells. The evaluation indicated that the technology was improving, but long-term (life) reliability was not yet adequate for utility applications. The cells exhibited individual cycle lives ranging from 659 to over 1366 cycles, which is equivalent to 2 1/2 to 5 1/2 years in utility use. It was also found that full-cell capacity could only be maintained by applying a special charge regime, regularly or periodically, that consisted of a constant-current followed by a constant-voltage.

Determining resistivity of a formation adjacent to a borehole having casing by generating constant current flow in portion of casing and using at least two voltage measurement electrodes

DOEpatents

Vail, III, William Banning

2000-01-01

Methods of operation of different types of multiple electrode apparatus vertically disposed in a cased well to measure information related to the resistivity of adjacent geological formations from within the cased well are described. The multiple electrode apparatus has a minimum of two spaced apart voltage measurement electrodes that electrically engage a first portion of the interior of the cased well and that provide at least first voltage information. Current control means are used to control the magnitude of any selected current that flows along a second portion of the interior of the casing to be equal to a predetermined selected constant. The first portion of the interior of the cased well is spaced apart from the second portion of the interior of the cased well. The first voltage information and the predetermined selected constant value of any selected current flowing along the casing are used in part to determine a magnitude related to the formation resistivity adjacent to the first portion of the interior of the cased well. Methods and apparatus having a plurality of voltage measurement electrodes are disclosed that provide voltage related information in the presence of constant currents flowing along the casing which is used to provide formation resistivity.

Design of Edible Oil Degradation Tool by Using Electromagnetic Field Absorbtion Principle which was Characterized to Peroxide Number

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isnen, M.; Nasution, T. I.; Perangin-angin, B.

2016-08-01

The identification of changes in oil quality has been conducted by indicating the change of dielectric constant which was showed by sensor voltage. Sensor was formed from two parallel flats that worked by electromagnetic wave propagation principle. By measuring its amplitude of electromagnetic wave attenuation caused by interaction between edible oil samples and the sensor, dielectric constant could be identified and estimated as well as peroxide number. In this case, the parallel flats were connected to an electric oscillator 700 kHz. Furthermore, sensor system could showed measurable voltage differences for each different samples. The testing carried out to five oil samples after undergoing an oxidation treatment at fix temperature of 235oC for 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes. Iodometry method testing showed peroxide values about 1.99, 9.95, 5.96, 11.86, and 15.92 meq/kg respectively with rising trend. Besides that, the testing result by sensor system showed voltages values 1.139, 1.147, 1.165, 1.173, and 1.176 volts with rising trend, respectively. It means that the higher sensor voltages showed the higher damage rate of edible oil when the change in sensor voltage was caused by the change in oil dielectric constant in which heating process caused damage in edible oil molecules structure. The more damage of oil structure caused the more difficulties of oil molecules to polarize and it is indicated by smaller dielectric constant. Therefore electric current would be smaller when sensor voltage was higher. On the other side, the higher sensor voltage means the smaller dielectric constant and the higher peroxide number.

FLASH X-RAY (FXR) LINEAR INDUCTION ACCELERATOR (LIA) OPTIMIZATION Sensor Delay Correction

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

Ong, M M; Houck, T L; Kreitzer, B R

2006-05-01

The radiographic goal of the FXR Optimization Project is to generate an x-ray pulse with peak energy of 19 MeV, spot-size of 1.5 mm, a dose of 500 rad, and duration of 60 ns. The electrical objectives are to generate a 3 kA electron-beam and refine our 16 MV accelerator so that the voltage does not vary more than 1%-rms. In a multi-cell linear induction accelerator, like FXR, the timing of the acceleration pulses relative to the beam is critical. The pulses must be timed optimally so that a cell is at full voltage before the beam arrives and doesmore » not drop until the beam passes. In order to stay within the energy-variation budget, the synchronization between the cells and beam arrival must be controlled to a couple of nanoseconds. Therefore, temporal measurements must be accurate to a fraction of a nanosecond. FXR Optimization Project developed a one-giga-sample per second (gs/s) data acquisition system to record beam sensor data. Signal processing algorithms were written to determine cell timing with an uncertainty of a fraction of a nanosecond. However, the uncertainty in the sensor delay was still a few nanoseconds. This error had to be reduced if we are to improve the quality of the electron beam. Two types of sensors are used to align the cell voltage pulse against the beam current. The beam current is measured with resistive-wall sensors. The cell voltages are read with capacitive voltage monitors. Sensor delays can be traced to two mechanisms: (1) the sensors are not co-located at the beam and cell interaction points, and (2) the sensors have different length jumper cables and other components that connect them to the standard-length coaxial cables of the data acquisition system. Using the physical locations and dimensions of the sensor components, and the dielectric constant of the materials, delay times were computed. Relative to the cell voltage, the beam current was theoretically reporting late by 7.7 ns. Two experiments were performed to verify and refine the sensor delay correction. In the first experiment, the beam was allowed to drift through a cell that was not pulsed. The beam induces a potential into the cell that is read by the voltage monitor. Analysis of the data indicated that the beam sensor signal was likely 7.1 ns late. In the second experiment, the beam current is calculated from the injector diode voltage that is the sum of the cell voltages. A 7 ns correction produced a very good match between the signals from the two types of sensors. For simplicity, we selected a correction factor that advanced the current signals by 7 ns. This should reduce the uncertainty in the temporal measurements to less than 1 ns.« less

Charge transport in quantum dot organic solar cells with Si quantum dots sandwiched between poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) absorber and bathocuproine (BCP) transport layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verma, Upendra Kumar; Kumar, Brijesh

2017-10-01

We have modeled a multilayer quantum dot organic solar cell that explores the current-voltage characteristic of the solar cell whose characteristics can be tuned by varying the fabrication parameters of the quantum dots (QDs). The modeled device consists of a hole transport layer (HTL) which doubles up as photon absorbing layer, several quantum dot layers, and an electron transport layer (ETL). The conduction of charge carriers in HTL and ETL has been modeled by the drift-diffusion transport mechanism. The conduction and recombination in the quantum dot layers are described by a system of coupled rate equations incorporating tunneling and bimolecular recombination. Analysis of QD-solar cells shows improved device performance compared to the similar bilayer and trilayer device structures without QDs. Keeping other design parameters constant, solar cell characteristics can be controlled by the quantum dot layers. Bimolecular recombination coefficient of quantum dots is a prime factor which controls the open circuit voltage (VOC) without any significant reduction in short circuit current (JSC).

Slow, steady discharge regime for concentrated lead-acid cells with planar, cylindrical, and spherical electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yigang; Saslow, Wayne M.

1998-12-01

A recent theoretical study of slow, steady discharge for a lead-acid cell carrying current I, with planar electrodes, predicts a nonzero bulk charge distribution with an associated voltage profile within the electrolyte that is quadratic in space. A second theoretical study finds that the Ohmic voltage resistance R=ΔV/I across the electrolyte differs from the Joule heating resistance RJ=P/I2. The very different diffusion constants of the charge-carrying ions H+ and HSO4- is responsible for the quadratic voltage profile. The presence of changing chemical energies is responsible for the different resistances. In the present work we study this same chemical system for the cylindrical and spherical geometries, with Pb at inner radius a and PbO2 at outer radius b. For the cylindrical case, the voltage varies with radius as the sum of a logarithm and a quadratic. For the spherical case, the voltage varies with the radius as a sum of an inverse r and a quadratic. For both cases, the quadratic is the signature of a uniform nonzero bulk charge distribution. For both cases, R≠RJ. For large enough b/a, in both the spherical and cylindrical cases, we find that R<0; current flows from lower to higher electrical potential. This does not violate energy conservation when chemical as well as electrical energies are included.

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under IonicLiquid Field-Effect Gating

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

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La 1.96Sr 0.04CuO 4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO 4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were:more » (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and planar oxygen atoms were displaced towards the sample surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of planar oxygen atoms.« less

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under IonicLiquid Field-Effect Gating

DOE PAGES

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua; ...

2016-08-15

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La 1.96Sr 0.04CuO 4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO 4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were:more » (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and planar oxygen atoms were displaced towards the sample surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of planar oxygen atoms.« less

Logarithmic circuit with wide dynamic range

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wiley, P. H.; Manus, E. A. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

A circuit deriving an output voltage that is proportional to the logarithm of a dc input voltage susceptible to wide variations in amplitude includes a constant current source which forward biases a diode so that the diode operates in the exponential portion of its voltage versus current characteristic, above its saturation current. The constant current source includes first and second, cascaded feedback, dc operational amplifiers connected in negative feedback circuit. An input terminal of the first amplifier is responsive to the input voltage. A circuit shunting the first amplifier output terminal includes a resistor in series with the diode. The voltage across the resistor is sensed at the input of the second dc operational feedback amplifier. The current flowing through the resistor is proportional to the input voltage over the wide range of variations in amplitude of the input voltage.

Preparation of supported electrocatalyst comprising multiwalled carbon nanotubes

DOEpatents

Wu, Gang; Zelenay, Piotr

2013-08-27

A process for preparing a durable non-precious metal oxygen reduction electrocatalyst involves heat treatment of a ball-milled mixture of polyaniline and multiwalled carbon nanotubes in the presence of a Fe species. The catalyst is more durable than catalysts that use carbon black supports. Performance degradation was minimal or absent after 500 hours of operation at constant cell voltage of 0.40 V.

Evaluation of resistive switching properties of Si-rich oxide embedded with Ti nanodots by applying constant voltage and current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohta, Akio; Kato, Yusuke; Ikeda, Mitsuhisa; Makihara, Katsunori; Miyazaki, Seiichi

2018-06-01

We have studied the resistive switching behaviors of electron beam (EB) evaporated Si-rich oxide (SiO x ) sandwiched between Ni electrodes by applying a constant voltage and current. Additionally, the impact of Ti nanodots (NDs) embedded into SiO x on resistive switching behaviors was investigated because it is expected that NDs can trigger the formation of a conductive filament path in SiO x . The resistive switching behaviors of SiO x show that the response time during resistance switching was decreased by increasing the applied constant current or constant voltage. It was found that Ti-NDs in SiO x enhance the conductive filament path formation owing to electric field concentration by Ti-NDs.

Electroosmotically enhanced drying of biomass

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

Banerjee, S.; Law, S.E.

A laboratory system for experimentally characterizing electroosmotic dewatering of biomass has been developed. The system was used to investigate the dewatering at both constant voltage and constant current of two biomass materials, organic humus with peat and composted wastewater sludge (WWS). The moisture content of humus decreased to 22.5% from an initial value of 44.3% wet basis (wb) after 2 h 10 min of electroosmosis at 50 V across a 2.9-cm-thick bed, whereas that of sludge decreased to 54.5% from an initial value of 68.4% after 2 h 20 min at 40 V across the bed. The electrical energy requiredmore » to remove 1 kg of water by constant-voltage electroosmosis of humus varied from 23% to 61%, in the voltage range of 10--50 V, of the thermal energy required to change the same quantity of free water from liquid to vapor state. For WWS, the energy remained constant at a higher value of 88% over the 20--40-V range studied. The flowrate of liquid water out of the bed at constant voltage linearly increased with the applied electric field, and the electrical energy expended in the constant-current dewatering mode was seen to be a quadratic function of time as predicted by classical electrokinetic theory.« less

Energetics of sodium transport in toad urinary bladder.

PubMed Central

Canessa, M; Labarca, P; DiBona, D R; Leaf, A

1978-01-01

The ratio of the rate of transepithelial sodium transport, JNa, across the isolated toad urinary bladder to the simultaneously measured rate of transport-dependent metabolism, JsbCO2, has been measured as a function of the transepithelial electrical voltage, deltapsi. The ratio remains constant with a mean value of 18 to 20 over the range of imposed voltages of 0 to +70 mV. With increasing hyperpolarization of the bladder, JNa decreases and the calculated electromotive force or apparent "ENa" of the sodium pump increases. From thermodynamic and kinetic arguments it is shown that the apparent "ENa" approaches the maximal electrochemical potential gradient, ENa, against which sodium can be transported by this tissue only when JNa approximately 0. At this unique condition F ENa (in which F is the Faraday constant) is the maximal free energy of the chemical reaction driving sodium transport and thus equal to the maximal extramitochondrial phosphorylation potential and the maximal free energy of the mitochondrial respiratory chain within the transporting cells. PMID:100789

Electrically controllable liquid crystal random lasers below the Fréedericksz transition threshold.

PubMed

Lee, Chia-Rong; Lin, Jia-De; Huang, Bo-Yuang; Lin, Shih-Hung; Mo, Ting-Shan; Huang, Shuan-Yu; Kuo, Chie-Tong; Yeh, Hui-Chen

2011-01-31

This investigation elucidates for the first time electrically controllable random lasers below the threshold voltage in dye-doped liquid crystal (DDLC) cells with and without adding an azo-dye. Experimental results show that the lasing intensities and the energy thresholds of the random lasers can be decreased and increased, respectively, by increasing the applied voltage below the Fréedericksz transition threshold. The below-threshold-electric-controllability of the random lasers is attributable to the effective decrease of the spatial fluctuation of the orientational order and thus of the dielectric tensor of LCs by increasing the electric-field-aligned order of LCs below the threshold, thereby increasing the diffusion constant and decreasing the scattering strength of the fluorescence photons in their recurrent multiple scattering. This can result in the decrease in the lasing intensity of the random lasers and the increase in their energy thresholds. Furthermore, the addition of an azo-dye in DDLC cell can induce the range of the working voltage below the threshold for the control of the random laser to reduce.

Engineering sciences area and module performance and failure analysis area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, R. G., Jr.; Runkle, L. D.

1982-01-01

Photovoltaic-array/power-conditioner interface studies are updated. An experiment conducted to evaluate different operating-point strategies, such as constant voltage and pilot cells, and to determine array energy losses when the array is operated off the maximum power points is described. Initial results over a test period of three and a half weeks showed a 2% energy loss when the array is operated at a fixed voltage. Degraded-array studies conducted at NE RES that used a range of simulated common types of degraded I-V curves are reviewed. The instrumentation installed at the JPL field-test site to obtain the irradiance data was described. Experiments using an optical filter to adjust the spectral irradiance of the large-area pulsed solar simulator (LAPSS) to AM1.5 are described. Residential-array research activity is reviewed. Voltage isolation test results are described. Experiments performed on one type of module to determine the relationship between leakage current and temperature are reviewed. An encapsulated-cell testing approach is explained. The test program, data reduction methods, and initial results of long-duration module testing are described.

Inverter for Interchangeable Use as Current Source Inverter and Voltage Source Inverter for Interconnecting to Grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teruya, Daisuke; Masukawa, Shigeo; Iida, Shoji

We propose a novel inverter that can be operated either as a Current Source Inverter (CSI) or as a Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) by changing only the control signals. It is proper to apply it to the interconnecting system with renewal energy, such as photovoltaic cells or wind generation systems, to a grid. This inverter is usually operated as the CSI connected to the grid. Even if the energy source has a lower voltage than the grid, the energy can be supplied to the grid through the proposed inverter. The power factor can be briefly maintained at almost unity. When power supply from the grid is interrupted, the proposed circuit should be operated as the VSI in the stand-alone operation mode. In this way, the circuit can maintain a constant output voltage to the loads. In this paper, the proposed circuit configuration and the control schemes for both the CSI and the VSI are described. Further, the circuit characteristics for both are discussed experimentally.

Investigation of the frequency response of constant voltage anemometers in turbulent flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghi Hassanlouei, Atabak

A commercially available anemometer system considered as a prototype, the constant voltage anemometer (CVA), is presented and its working principle is studied and analyzed. We detail the different procedures and corrections that have to be applied to voltage signals to deduce corresponding velocity signals, including the effect of the thermal inertia of the sensor. Results are compared to another anemometer system widely used in research and industry, the constant temperature anemometer (CTA), for validation requirements. Measurements are performed in the turbulent region of a subsonic axisymmetric jet and include mean velocities, root-mean-square (rms) values of velocity fluctuations and power spectral densities. In the same range of operation, we show that the two instruments give similar results. The CVA anemometer slightly underestimates the rms velocity values given by the CTA anemometer which is attributed to a non-linear effect. We show that the cut-off frequency of the CVA system is higher than the more commonly used CTA system, and that the electronic noise level is lower. The constant voltage anemometer is thus an excellent alternative to the constant temperature anemometer for low turbulent flows with rich frequency content, such as supersonic and hypersonic flows.

An electrochemical cell with sapphire windows for operando synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction and spectroscopy studies of high-power and high-voltage electrodes for metal-ion batteries.

PubMed

Drozhzhin, Oleg A; Tereshchenko, Ivan V; Emerich, Hermann; Antipov, Evgeny V; Abakumov, Artem M; Chernyshov, Dmitry

2018-03-01

A new multi-purpose operando electrochemical cell was designed, constructed and tested on the Swiss-Norwegian Beamlines BM01 and BM31 at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility. Single-crystal sapphire X-ray windows provide a good signal-to-noise ratio, excellent electrochemical contact because of the constant pressure between the electrodes, and perfect electrochemical stability at high potentials due to the inert and non-conductive nature of sapphire. Examination of the phase transformations in the Li 1-x Fe 0.5 Mn 0.5 PO 4 positive electrode (cathode) material at C/2 and 10C charge and discharge rates, and a study of the valence state of the Ni cations in the Li 1-x Ni 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 cathode material for Li-ion batteries, revealed the applicability of this novel cell design to diffraction and spectroscopic investigations of high-power/high-voltage electrodes for metal-ion batteries.

Differences in the Electrophysiological Properties of Mouse Somatosensory Layer 2/3 Neurons In Vivo and Slice Stem from Intrinsic Sources Rather than a Network-Generated High Conductance State

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Abstract Synaptic activity in vivo can potentially alter the integration properties of neurons. Using recordings in awake mice, we targeted somatosensory layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons and compared neuronal properties with those from slices. Pyramidal cells in vivo had lower resistance and gain values, as well as broader spikes and increased spike frequency adaptation compared to the same cells in slices. Increasing conductance in neurons using dynamic clamp to levels observed in vivo, however, did not lessen the differences between in vivo and slice conditions. Further, local application of tetrodotoxin (TTX) in vivo blocked synaptic-mediated membrane voltage fluctuations but had little impact on pyramidal cell membrane input resistance and time constant values. Differences in electrophysiological properties of layer 2/3 neurons in mouse somatosensory cortex, therefore, stem from intrinsic sources separate from synaptic-mediated membrane voltage fluctuations. PMID:29662946

Calcium channel currents in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells and their modulation by anaesthetic agents.

PubMed Central

Charlesworth, P; Pocock, G; Richards, C D

1994-01-01

1. The calcium channel currents of bovine adrenal chromaffin cells were characterized using a variety of voltage pulse protocols and selective channel blockers before examination of their modulation by anaesthetic agents. 2. All the anaesthetics studied (halothane, methoxyflurane, etomidate and methohexitone) inhibited the calcium channel currents in a concentration-dependent manner and increased the rate of current decay. 3. The anaesthetics did not shift the current-voltage relation nor did they change the voltage for half-maximal channel activation derived from analysis of the voltage dependence of the tail currents. None of the anaesthetics appeared to alter the time constant of tail current decay. 4. To complement earlier studies of the inhibitory actions of anaesthetics on K(+)-evoked catecholamine secretion and the associated Ca2+ uptake, the IC50 values for etomidate and methohexitone were determined using a biochemical assay. The IC50 values for anaesthetic inhibition of calcium channel currents corresponded closely with those for inhibition of K(+)-evoked calcium uptake and catecholamine secretion. 5. The inhibitory effect of the volatile anaesthetics and etomidate is best explained by dual action: a reduction in the probability of channel opening coupled with an increase in the rate of channel inactivation. Methohexitone appeared to inhibit the currents by a use-dependent slow block. PMID:7707224

Bioelectricity from kitchen and bamboo waste in a microbial fuel cell.

PubMed

Moqsud, M Azizul; Omine, Kiyoshi; Yasufuku, Noriyuki; Bushra, Quazi S; Hyodo, Masayuki; Nakata, Yukio

2014-02-01

This study evaluated bioelectricity generation by using kitchen garbage (KG) and bamboo waste (BW) as a solid waste management option by a microbial fuel cell (MFC) method. The nutrient content [nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK)] of the by-products of bioelectricity were also analyzed and assessed for their potential use as a soil amendment. A one-chamber MFC was used for bioelectricity generation in laboratory experiments using both KG and BW. A data-logger recorded voltage every 20 mins at a constant room temperature of 25°C over 45 days. The trend of voltage generation was different for the two organic wastes. In the case of KG, the voltage at the initial stage (0-5 days) increased rapidly and then gradually to a peak of 620 mV. In contrast, the voltage increased gradually to a peak of 540 mV in the case of BW. The by-products of bioelectricity can be used as soil conditioner as its NPK content was in the range of soil conditioner mentioned in other literature. Thus, the MFC has emerged as an efficient and eco-friendly solution for organic waste management, especially in developing and technologically less sophisticated countries, and can provide green and safe electricity from organic waste.

Miniaturized two-stack Blumlein pulser with a variable repetition-rate for non-thermal irreversible-electroporation experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Min, Sun-Hong; Kwon, Ohjoon; Sattorov, Matlabjon; Baek, In-Keun; Kim, Seontae; Jeong, Jin-Young; Hong, Dongpyo; Park, Seunghyuk; Park, Gun-Sik

2017-01-01

Non-thermal irreversible electroporation (NTIRE) to avoid thermal damage to cells during intense DC ns pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs) is a recent modality for medical applications. This mechanism, related to bioelectrical dynamics of the cell, is linked to the effect of a DC electric field and a threshold effect with an electrically stimulated membrane for the charge distribution in the cell. To create the NTIRE condition, the pulse width of the nsPEF should be shorter than the charging time constant of the membrane related to the cell radius, membrane capacitance, cytoplasm resistivity, and medium resistivity. It is necessary to design and fabricate a very intense nanosecond DC electric field pulser that is capable of producing voltages up to the level of 100 kV/cm with an artificial pulse width (˜ns) with controllable repetition rates. Many devices to generate intense DC nsPEF using various pulse-forming line technologies have been introduced thus far. However, the previous Blumlein pulse-generating devices are clearly inefficient due to the energy loss between the input voltage and the output voltage. An improved two-stage stacked Blumlein pulse-forming line can overcome this limitation and decrease the energy loss from a DC power supply. A metal oxide silicon field-effect transistor switch with a fast rise and fall time would enable a high repetition rate (max. 100 kHz) and good endurance against very high voltages (DC ˜ 30 kV). The load is designed to match the sample for exposure to cell suspensions consisting of a 200 Ω resistor matched with a Blumlein circuit and two electrodes without the characteristic RC time effect of the circuit (capacitance =0.174 pF).

Transient release kinetics of rod bipolar cells revealed by capacitance measurement of exocytosis from axon terminals in rat retinal slices.

PubMed

Oltedal, Leif; Hartveit, Espen

2010-05-01

Presynaptic transmitter release has mostly been studied through measurements of postsynaptic responses, but a few synapses offer direct access to the presynaptic terminal, thereby allowing capacitance measurements of exocytosis. For mammalian rod bipolar cells, synaptic transmission has been investigated in great detail by recording postsynaptic currents in AII amacrine cells. Presynaptic measurements of the dynamics of vesicular cycling have so far been limited to isolated rod bipolar cells in dissociated preparations. Here, we first used computer simulations of compartmental models of morphologically reconstructed rod bipolar cells to adapt the 'Sine + DC' technique for capacitance measurements of exocytosis at axon terminals of intact rod bipolar cells in retinal slices. In subsequent physiological recordings, voltage pulses that triggered presynaptic Ca(2+) influx evoked capacitance increases that were proportional to the pulse duration. With pulse durations 100 ms, the increase saturated at 10 fF, corresponding to the size of a readily releasable pool of vesicles. Pulse durations 400 ms evoked additional capacitance increases, probably reflecting recruitment from additional pools of vesicles. By using Ca(2+) tail current stimuli, we separated Ca(2+) influx from Ca(2+) channel activation kinetics, allowing us to estimate the intrinsic release kinetics of the readily releasable pool, yielding a time constant of 1.1 ms and a maximum release rate of 2-3 vesicles (release site)(1) ms(1). Following exocytosis, we observed endocytosis with time constants ranging from 0.7 to 17 s. Under physiological conditions, it is likely that release will be transient, with the kinetics limited by the activation kinetics of the voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels.

Voltage-step pulsed electromembrane as a novel view of electrical field-induced liquid-phase microextraction.

PubMed

Rezazadeh, Maryam; Yamini, Yadollah; Seidi, Shahram; Arjomandi-Behzad, Leila

2014-01-10

In the present work, the effect of application of voltage steps on extraction efficiency of pulsed electromembrane extraction (PEME) was investigated for the first time. The effects of voltage variations including initial and final voltages, number of steps between the initial and final voltages as well as their time durations were studied on the extraction efficiencies of three different classes of analytes. These classes include amitriptyline (AMI) and nortriptyline (NOR) as more hydrophobic analytes, diclofenac (DIC) and mefenamic acid (MEF) as acidic drugs and salbutamol (SB) and terbutaline (TB) as hydrophilic compounds. It was anticipated that the application of high voltages is not necessary at the beginning of the extraction, since large amounts of target analytes exist around the supported liquid membrane (SLM)/sample solution interface. So, they could be easily transferred into the acceptor phase utilizing lower voltages. Results showed that the benefits of voltage-step PEME (VS-PEME) are more obvious in systems with low electrical resistance (regarding the SLM composition). Efficiencies of VS-PEME for extraction of AMI and NOR (96% and 89% for AMI and NOR, respectively) were comparable with those achieved from applying a constant voltage (95% for AMI and 83% for NOR). However, recoveries from the VS-PEME of DIC and MEF (53% and 44% for DIC and MEF, respectively) were significantly higher than those from the application of a constant voltage (33% for DIC and 31% for MEF). Also, recoveries obtained from the VS-PEME for SB and TB were approximately 3 orders of magnitude greater than those from a constant voltage. Moreover, it was demonstrated that in all cases analytes could effectively be extracted at the beginning of extraction by applying low voltages. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability analysis of InGaN/GaN multi-quantum-well solar cells under thermal stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Xuanqi; Fu, Houqiang; Chen, Hong; Lu, Zhijian; Baranowski, Izak; Montes, Jossue; Yang, Tsung-Han; Gunning, Brendan P.; Koleske, Dan; Zhao, Yuji

2017-12-01

We investigate the thermal stability of InGaN solar cells under thermal stress at elevated temperatures from 400 °C to 500 °C. High Resolution X-Ray Diffraction analysis reveals that material quality of InGaN/GaN did not degrade after thermal stress. The external quantum efficiency characteristics of solar cells were well-maintained at all temperatures, which demonstrates the thermal robustness of InGaN materials. Analysis of current density-voltage (J-V) curves shows that the degradation of conversion efficiency of solar cells is mainly caused by the decrease in open-circuit voltage (Voc), while short-circuit current (Jsc) and fill factor remain almost constant. The decrease in Voc after thermal stress is attributed to the compromised metal contacts. Transmission line method results further confirmed that p-type contacts became Schottky-like after thermal stress. The Arrhenius model was employed to estimate the failure lifetime of InGaN solar cells at different temperatures. These results suggest that while InGaN solar cells have high thermal stability, the degradation in the metal contact could be the major limiting factor for these devices under high temperature operation.

Studies on graphene zinc-oxide nanocomposites photoanodes for high-efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Effendi, N. A. S.; Samsi, N. S.; Zawawi, S. A.; Hassan, O. H.; Zakaria, R.; Yahya, M. Z. A.; Ali, A. M. M.

2017-09-01

A dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) using a nanocomposite (NC) semiconductor film, consisting of graphene layer and ZnO nanosheets (Gr-ZnO) is fabricated by electrodeposition process. The DSSCs based on Gr-ZnO NC were determined via electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS), UV-Visible diffused reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and photovoltaic performances J-V curves to substantiate the explanations. Impedance spectra shows that a smaller charge transport time constant occurs in DSSCs based on Gr-ZnO NC comparing to ZnO. This improved the electron collecting efficiency significantly, resulting in high open circuit voltage. Moreover, Gr-ZnO NC shows an efficient photoinduced charge separation and transportation can be achieved at the interface thus exhibit excellent potential for photocurrent generation compared with sole ZnO. Gr-ZnO NC obtained a maximum photocurrent response for an open-circuit voltage and a power conversion efficiency of 0.96 V and 7.01% respectively, which is doubled from sole ZnO. The fabricated Gr-ZnO NC cells show better performances compared to conventional ZnO structure reference cell.

Reevaluation of Performance of Electric Double-layer Capacitors from Constant-current Charge/Discharge and Cyclic Voltammetry

PubMed Central

Allagui, Anis; Freeborn, Todd J.; Elwakil, Ahmed S.; Maundy, Brent J.

2016-01-01

The electric characteristics of electric-double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are determined by their capacitance which is usually measured in the time domain from constant-current charging/discharging and cyclic voltammetry tests, and from the frequency domain using nonlinear least-squares fitting of spectral impedance. The time-voltage and current-voltage profiles from the first two techniques are commonly treated by assuming ideal SsC behavior in spite of the nonlinear response of the device, which in turn provides inaccurate values for its characteristic metrics. In this paper we revisit the calculation of capacitance, power and energy of EDLCs from the time domain constant-current step response and linear voltage waveform, under the assumption that the device behaves as an equivalent fractional-order circuit consisting of a resistance Rs in series with a constant phase element (CPE(Q, α), with Q being a pseudocapacitance and α a dispersion coefficient). In particular, we show with the derived (Rs, Q, α)-based expressions, that the corresponding nonlinear effects in voltage-time and current-voltage can be encompassed through nonlinear terms function of the coefficient α, which is not possible with the classical RsC model. We validate our formulae with the experimental measurements of different EDLCs. PMID:27934904

Reevaluation of Performance of Electric Double-layer Capacitors from Constant-current Charge/Discharge and Cyclic Voltammetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allagui, Anis; Freeborn, Todd J.; Elwakil, Ahmed S.; Maundy, Brent J.

2016-12-01

The electric characteristics of electric-double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are determined by their capacitance which is usually measured in the time domain from constant-current charging/discharging and cyclic voltammetry tests, and from the frequency domain using nonlinear least-squares fitting of spectral impedance. The time-voltage and current-voltage profiles from the first two techniques are commonly treated by assuming ideal SsC behavior in spite of the nonlinear response of the device, which in turn provides inaccurate values for its characteristic metrics. In this paper we revisit the calculation of capacitance, power and energy of EDLCs from the time domain constant-current step response and linear voltage waveform, under the assumption that the device behaves as an equivalent fractional-order circuit consisting of a resistance Rs in series with a constant phase element (CPE(Q, α), with Q being a pseudocapacitance and α a dispersion coefficient). In particular, we show with the derived (Rs, Q, α)-based expressions, that the corresponding nonlinear effects in voltage-time and current-voltage can be encompassed through nonlinear terms function of the coefficient α, which is not possible with the classical RsC model. We validate our formulae with the experimental measurements of different EDLCs.

Reevaluation of Performance of Electric Double-layer Capacitors from Constant-current Charge/Discharge and Cyclic Voltammetry.

PubMed

Allagui, Anis; Freeborn, Todd J; Elwakil, Ahmed S; Maundy, Brent J

2016-12-09

The electric characteristics of electric-double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are determined by their capacitance which is usually measured in the time domain from constant-current charging/discharging and cyclic voltammetry tests, and from the frequency domain using nonlinear least-squares fitting of spectral impedance. The time-voltage and current-voltage profiles from the first two techniques are commonly treated by assuming ideal R s C behavior in spite of the nonlinear response of the device, which in turn provides inaccurate values for its characteristic metrics [corrected]. In this paper we revisit the calculation of capacitance, power and energy of EDLCs from the time domain constant-current step response and linear voltage waveform, under the assumption that the device behaves as an equivalent fractional-order circuit consisting of a resistance R s in series with a constant phase element (CPE(Q, α), with Q being a pseudocapacitance and α a dispersion coefficient). In particular, we show with the derived (R s , Q, α)-based expressions, that the corresponding nonlinear effects in voltage-time and current-voltage can be encompassed through nonlinear terms function of the coefficient α, which is not possible with the classical R s C model. We validate our formulae with the experimental measurements of different EDLCs.

Electrochemical performance of microporous and mesoporous activated carbons in neat and diluted 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumagai, Seiji; Hatomi, Masaki; Tashima, Daisuke

2017-03-01

1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIm·BF4), neat and diluted with propylene carbonate to 1 mol L-1, have been employed as electrolytes of electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). The effects of microporosity and mesoporosity in activated carbon (AC) electrodes on the capacitive and resistive performances upon the use of neat and diluted EMIm·BF4 have been explored. In addition to cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge tests, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy has been performed employing Kang's equivalent circuit model consisting of three resistances, three constant phase elements, and one bounded Warburg impedance. The overall impedance of the EDLC cell was separated into components of intrinsic resistance, bulk electrolyte, diffusion layer, and Helmholtz layer. The specific capacitance and the equivalent series resistance (ESR) of mesoporous AC were found to be highly dependent on the rate of ionic transfer. Lower cell voltage was identified as being responsible for lower specific capacitance and larger ESR of mesoporous AC, which was similarly seen in the neat and diluted EMIm·BF4, and could be alleviated by increasing the cell voltage. The inferior rate performance and the cell-voltage-dependent performance of mesoporous AC, which were more distinctly observed in the neat EMIm·BF4, could be attributed to the lower mobility of EMIm+ and BF4- in mesopores.

Experimental investigation of high temperature high voltage thermionic diode for the space power nuclear reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onufriyev, Valery. V.

2001-02-01

It is well known that the rise of arc from the dense glow discharge is connected with the thermion and secondary processes on the cathode surface (Granovsky, 1971; Leob, 1953; Engel, 1935). First model of breakdown of the cathode layer is connected with the increase of the cathode temperature in consequence of the ion bombardment that leads to the grows its thermo-emissive current. Other model shows the main role of the secondary effects on the cathode surface-the increase of the secondary ion emission coefficient-γi with the grows of glow discharge voltage. But the author of this investigation work of breakdown in Cs vapor (a transmission the glow discharge into self-maintaining arc discharge) discovered the next peculiarity: the value of breakdown voltage is constant when the values of vapor temperature (its pressure pcs) and cathode temperature Tk is constant too (Ub=constant with Tk=constant and pcs=constant) and it is not a statistical value (Onufryev, Grishin, 1996) (that was observed in gas glow discharges other authors (Granovsky, 1971; Leob, 1953; Engel, 1935)). The investigations of thermion high voltage high temperature diode (its breakdown characteristics in closed state and voltage-current characteristics in disclosed state) showed that the value of the breakdown voltage is depended on the vapor pressure in inter-electrode gap (IEG)-pcs and cathode temperature-Tk and is independent on IEG length-Δieg. On this base it was settled that the main role in transition of glow discharge to self-maintaining arc discharge plays an ion cathode layer but more exactly-the region of excited atoms-``Aston glow.'' .

Analysis of capacitive force acting on a cantilever tip at solid/liquid interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umeda, Ken-ichi; Kobayashi, Kei; Oyabu, Noriaki; Hirata, Yoshiki; Matsushige, Kazumi; Yamada, Hirofumi

2013-04-01

Dielectric properties of biomolecules or biomembranes are directly related to their structures and biological activities. Capacitance force microscopy based on the cantilever deflection detection is a useful scanning probe technique that can map local dielectric constant. Here we report measurements and analysis of the capacitive force acting on a cantilever tip at solid/liquid interfaces induced by application of an alternating voltage to explore the feasibility of the measurements of local dielectric constant by the voltage modulation technique in aqueous solutions. The results presented here suggest that the local dielectric constant measurements by the conventional voltage modulation technique are basically possible even in polar liquid media. However, the cantilever deflection is not only induced by the electrostatic force, but also by the surface stress, which does not include the local dielectric information. Moreover, since the voltage applied between the tip and sample are divided by the electric double layer and the bulk polar liquid, the capacitive force acting on the apex of the tip are strongly attenuated. For these reasons, the lateral resolution in the local dielectric constant measurements is expected to be deteriorated in polar liquid media depending on the magnitude of dielectric response. Finally, we present the criteria for local dielectric constant measurements with a high lateral resolution in polar liquid media.

Constant voltage and constant current control implementation for electric vehicles (evs) wireless charger

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tampubolon, Marojahan; Pamungkas, Laskar; Hsieh, Yao Ching; Chiu, Huang Jen

2018-04-01

This paper presents the implementation of Constant Voltage (CV) and Constant Current (CC) control for a wireless charger system. A battery charging system needs these control modes to ensure the safety of the battery and the effectiveness of the charging system. Here, the wireless charger system does not employ any post-regulator stage to control the output voltage and output current of the charger. But, it uses a variable frequency control incorporated with a conventional PI control. As a result, the size and the weight of the system are reduced. This paper discusses the brief review of the SS-WPT, control strategy and implementation of the CV and CC control. Experimental hardware with 2kW output power has been performed and tested. The results show that the proposed CV and CC control method works well with the system.

Auger-generated hot carrier current in photo-excited forward biased single quantum well blue light emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espenlaub, Andrew C.; Alhassan, Abdullah I.; Nakamura, Shuji; Weisbuch, Claude; Speck, James S.

2018-04-01

We report on measurements of the photo-modulated current-voltage and electroluminescence characteristics of forward biased single quantum well, blue InGaN/GaN light emitting diodes with and without electron blocking layers. Low intensity resonant optical excitation of the quantum well was observed to induce an additional forward current at constant forward diode bias, in contrast to the usual sense of the photocurrent in photodiodes and solar cells, as well as an increased electroluminescence intensity. The presence of an electron blocking layer only slightly decreased the magnitude of the photo-induced current at constant forward bias. Photo-modulation at constant forward diode current resulted in a reduced diode bias under optical excitation. We argue that this decrease in diode bias at constant current and the increase in forward diode current at constant applied bias can only be due to additional hot carriers being ejected from the quantum well as a result of an increased Auger recombination rate within the quantum well.

Pulsed laser illumination of photovoltaic cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yater, Jane A.; Lowe, Roland A.; Jenkins, Phillip P.; Landis, Geoffrey A.

1995-01-01

In future space missions, free electron lasers (FEL) may be used to illuminate photovoltaic receivers to provide remote power. Both the radio-frequency (RF) and induction FEL produce pulsed rather than continuous output. In this work we investigate cell response to pulsed laser light which simulates the RF FEL format. The results indicate that if the pulse repetition is high, cell efficiencies are only slightly reduced compared to constant illumination at the same wavelength. The frequency response of the cells is weak, with both voltage and current outputs essentially dc in nature. Comparison with previous experiments indicates that the RF FEL pulse format yields more efficient photovoltaic conversion than does an induction FEL format.

Pulsed laser illumination of photovoltaic cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yater, Jane A.; Lowe, Roland A.; Jenkins, Phillip P.; Landis, Geoffrey A.

1994-01-01

In future space missions, free electron lasers (FEL) may be used to illuminate photovoltaic array receivers to provide remote power. Both the radio-frequency (RF) and induction FEL provide FEL produce pulsed rather than continuous output. In this work we investigate cell response to pulsed laser light which simulates the RF FEL format. The results indicate that if the pulse repetition is high, cell efficiencies are only slightly reduced compared to constant illumination at the same wavelength. The frequency response of the cells is weak, with both voltage and current outputs essentially dc in nature. Comparison with previous experiments indicates that the RF FEL pulse format yields more efficient photovoltaic conversion than does an induction FEL pulse format.

The Most Energy Efficient Way to Charge the Capacitor in an RC Circuit

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Dake

2017-01-01

The voltage waveform that minimizes the energy loss in the resistance when charging the capacitor in a resistor-capacitor circuit is investigated using the calculus of variation. A linear voltage ramp gives the best efficiency, which means a constant current source should be used for charging. Comparison between constant current source and…

Time and voltage dependences of nanoscale dielectric constant modulation on indium tin oxide films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Liang; Hao, Haoyue; Zhao, Hua

2017-01-01

The modulation of indium tin oxide (ITO) films through surface charge accumulation plays an important role in many different applications. In order to elaborately study the modulation, we measured the dielectric constant of the modulated layer through examining the excitation of surface plasmon polaritons. Charges were pumped on the surfaces of ITO films through applying high voltage in appropriate directions. Experiments unveiled that the dielectric constant of the modulated layer had large variation along with the nanoscale charge accumulation. Corresponding numerical results were worked out through combining Drude model and Mayadas-Shatzkes model. Based on the above results, we deduced the time and voltage dependences of accumulated charge density, which revealed a long-time charge accumulation process.

Interpretation of current-voltage relationships for "active" ion transport systems: I. Steady-state reaction-kinetic analysis of class-I mechanisms.

PubMed

Hansen, U P; Gradmann, D; Sanders, D; Slayman, C L

1981-01-01

This paper develops a simple reaction-kinetic model to describe electrogenic pumping and co- (or counter-) transport of ions. It uses the standard steady-state approach for cyclic enzyme- or carrier-mediated transport, but does not assume rate-limitation by any particular reaction step. Voltage-dependence is introduced, after the suggestion of Läuger and Stark (Biochim. Biophys. Acta 211:458-466, 1970), via a symmetric Eyring barrier, in which the charge-transit reaction constants are written as k12 = ko12 exp(zF delta psi/2RT) and k21 = ko21 exp(-zF delta psi/2RT). For interpretation of current-voltage relationships, all voltage-independent reaction steps are lumped together, so the model in its simplest form can be described as a pseudo-2-state model. It is characterized by the two voltage-dependent reaction constants, two lumped voltage-independent reaction constants (k12, k21), and two reserve factors (ri, ro) which formally take account of carrier states that are indistinguishable in the current-voltage (I-V) analysis. The model generates a wide range of I-V relationships, depending on the relative magnitudes of the four reaction constants, sufficient to describe essentially all I-V datas now available on "active" ion-transport systems. Algebraic and numerical analysis of the reserve factors, by means of expanded pseudo-3-, 4-, and 5-state models, shows them to be bounded and not large for most combinations of reaction constants in the lumped pathway. The most important exception to this rule occurs when carrier decharging immediately follows charge transit of the membrane and is very fast relative to other constituent voltage-independent reactions. Such a circumstance generates kinetic equivalence of chemical and electrical gradients, thus providing a consistent definition of ion-motive forces (e.g., proton-motive force, PMF). With appropriate restrictions, it also yields both linear and log-linear relationships between net transport velocity and either membrane potential or PMF. The model thus accommodates many known properties of proton-transport systems, particularly as observed in "chemiosmotic" or energy-coupling membranes.

Voltage dependence of acetylcholine receptor channel gating in rat myoballs

PubMed Central

1992-01-01

Whole-cell currents from nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) channels were studied in rat myoballs using a light-activated agonist to determine the voltage dependence of the macroscopic opening and closing rate constants. Myoballs were bathed in a solution containing a low concentration of the inactive isomer of the photoisomerizable azobenzene derivative, cis-Bis-Q. A light flash was then presented to produce a known concentration jump of agonist, trans-Bis-Q, across a wide range of membrane potentials in symmetrical solutions (NaCl or CsCl on both sides) or asymmetrical solutions (NaCl in the bath and CsCl in the pipette). At the low agonist concentration used in this study, the reciprocal of the macroscopic time constants gives an unambiguous measure of the effective closing rate. It showed an exponential decrease with membrane hyperpolarization between +20 and - 100 mV, but tended to level off at more depolarized and at more hyperpolarized membrane potentials. The relative effective opening rate was derived from the steady-state conductance, the single-channel conductance, and the apparent closing rate; it decreased sharply in the depolarizing region and tended to level off and then turn up in the hyperpolarizing region. The two effective rate constants were shown to depend on the first, second, and third power of membrane potential. PMID:1460456

Investigation of the Biological Effects of Pulsed Electrical Fields.

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-01-30

oxidized cholesterol. .iprid b;l:ayor menbranes . In these ne.’branes step changes In current while the membrane was held at a constant voltage...oxidized cholesterol menbranes , then one would cxpect a qalitatively similar, though not necessarily quanti- tatively identical, dependence of...ml of blcc). The blood was inmediately centrifuged for 10 minutes At 1,500 g and the plasma , buffy coat, aiLd top layer of cells were removed. The

Bipolar square-wave current source for transient electromagnetic systems based on constant shutdown time

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shilong; Yin, Changchun; Lin, Jun; Yang, Yu; Hu, Xueyan

2016-03-01

Cooperative work of multiple magnetic transmitting sources is a new trend in the development of transient electromagnetic system. The key is the bipolar current waves shutdown, concurrently in the inductive load. In the past, it was difficult to use the constant clamping voltage technique to realize the synchronized shutdown of currents with different peak values. Based on clamping voltage technique, we introduce a new controlling method with constant shutdown time. We use the rising time to control shutdown time and use low voltage power source to control peak current. From the viewpoint of the circuit energy loss, by taking the high-voltage capacitor bypass resistance and the capacitor of the passive snubber circuit into account, we establish the relationship between the rising time and the shutdown time. Since the switch is not ideal, we propose a new method to test the shutdown time by the low voltage, the high voltage and the peak current. Experimental results show that adjustment of the current rising time can precisely control the value of the clamp voltage. When the rising time is fixed, the shutdown time is unchanged. The error for shutdown time deduced from the energy consumption is less than 6%. The new controlling method on current shutdown proposed in this paper can be used in the cooperative work of borehole and ground transmitting system.

Bipolar square-wave current source for transient electromagnetic systems based on constant shutdown time.

PubMed

Wang, Shilong; Yin, Changchun; Lin, Jun; Yang, Yu; Hu, Xueyan

2016-03-01

Cooperative work of multiple magnetic transmitting sources is a new trend in the development of transient electromagnetic system. The key is the bipolar current waves shutdown, concurrently in the inductive load. In the past, it was difficult to use the constant clamping voltage technique to realize the synchronized shutdown of currents with different peak values. Based on clamping voltage technique, we introduce a new controlling method with constant shutdown time. We use the rising time to control shutdown time and use low voltage power source to control peak current. From the viewpoint of the circuit energy loss, by taking the high-voltage capacitor bypass resistance and the capacitor of the passive snubber circuit into account, we establish the relationship between the rising time and the shutdown time. Since the switch is not ideal, we propose a new method to test the shutdown time by the low voltage, the high voltage and the peak current. Experimental results show that adjustment of the current rising time can precisely control the value of the clamp voltage. When the rising time is fixed, the shutdown time is unchanged. The error for shutdown time deduced from the energy consumption is less than 6%. The new controlling method on current shutdown proposed in this paper can be used in the cooperative work of borehole and ground transmitting system.

Device for monitoring cell voltage

DOEpatents

Doepke, Matthias [Garbsen, DE; Eisermann, Henning [Edermissen, DE

2012-08-21

A device for monitoring a rechargeable battery having a number of electrically connected cells includes at least one current interruption switch for interrupting current flowing through at least one associated cell and a plurality of monitoring units for detecting cell voltage. Each monitoring unit is associated with a single cell and includes a reference voltage unit for producing a defined reference threshold voltage and a voltage comparison unit for comparing the reference threshold voltage with a partial cell voltage of the associated cell. The reference voltage unit is electrically supplied from the cell voltage of the associated cell. The voltage comparison unit is coupled to the at least one current interruption switch for interrupting the current of at least the current flowing through the associated cell, with a defined minimum difference between the reference threshold voltage and the partial cell voltage.

Permeation and gating properties of the L-type calcium channel in mouse pancreatic beta cells

PubMed Central

1993-01-01

Ba2+ currents through L-type Ca2+ channels were recorded from cell- attached patches on mouse pancreatic beta cells. In 10 mM Ba2+, single- channel currents were recorded at -70 mV, the beta cell resting membrane potential. This suggests that Ca2+ influx at negative membrane potentials may contribute to the resting intracellular Ca2+ concentration and thus to basal insulin release. Increasing external Ba2+ increased the single-channel current amplitude and shifted the current-voltage relation to more positive potentials. This voltage shift could be modeled by assuming that divalent cations both screen and bind to surface charges located at the channel mouth. The single- channel conductance was related to the bulk Ba2+ concentration by a Langmuir isotherm with a dissociation constant (Kd(gamma)) of 5.5 mM and a maximum single-channel conductance (gamma max) of 22 pS. A closer fit to the data was obtained when the barium concentration at the membrane surface was used (Kd(gamma) = 200 mM and gamma max = 47 pS), which suggests that saturation of the concentration-conductance curve may be due to saturation of the surface Ba2+ concentration. Increasing external Ba2+ also shifted the voltage dependence of ensemble currents to positive potentials, consistent with Ba2+ screening and binding to membrane surface charge associated with gating. Ensemble currents recorded with 10 mM Ca2+ activated at more positive potentials than in 10 mM Ba2+, suggesting that external Ca2+ binds more tightly to membrane surface charge associated with gating. The perforated-patch technique was used to record whole-cell currents flowing through L-type Ca2+ channels. Inward currents in 10 mM Ba2+ had a similar voltage dependence to those recorded at a physiological Ca2+ concentration (2.6 mM). BAY-K 8644 (1 microM) increased the amplitude of the ensemble and whole-cell currents but did not alter their voltage dependence. Our results suggest that the high divalent cation solutions usually used to record single L-type Ca2+ channel activity produce a positive shift in the voltage dependence of activation (approximately 32 mV in 100 mM Ba2+). PMID:7687645

Evidence for thermally assisted threshold switching behavior in nanoscale phase-change memory cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Gallo, Manuel; Athmanathan, Aravinthan; Krebs, Daniel; Sebastian, Abu

2016-01-01

In spite of decades of research, the details of electrical transport in phase-change materials are still debated. In particular, the so-called threshold switching phenomenon that allows the current density to increase steeply when a sufficiently high voltage is applied is still not well understood, even though there is wide consensus that threshold switching is solely of electronic origin. However, the high thermal efficiency and fast thermal dynamics associated with nanoscale phase-change memory (PCM) devices motivate us to reassess a thermally assisted threshold switching mechanism, at least in these devices. The time/temperature dependence of the threshold switching voltage and current in doped Ge2Sb2Te5 nanoscale PCM cells was measured over 6 decades in time at temperatures ranging from 40 °C to 160 °C. We observe a nearly constant threshold switching power across this wide range of operating conditions. We also measured the transient dynamics associated with threshold switching as a function of the applied voltage. By using a field- and temperature-dependent description of the electrical transport combined with a thermal feedback, quantitative agreement with experimental data of the threshold switching dynamics was obtained using realistic physical parameters.

Serial Charging Test on High Capacity Li-Ion Cells for the Orbiter Advanced Hydraulic Power System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeevarajan, Judith A.; Irlbeck, Brad

2006-01-01

Although it looks like module level voltage drives the cutoff for charge, the actual cutoff is due to unbalanced cell voltages that drive the module voltage up. Individual cell voltage drives the cutoff for discharge Low resistance cells are the first to reach the low-voltage cutoff Cell-to-Cell voltage differences are generally small and show similar trends for each cycle Increase for a distinct window during charge and at the end of discharge Increase in max to min cell voltage difference with time/cycles Decrease in max to min cell voltage difference during high current pulses with time/cycles Individual cell voltage trends (with respect to other cells) are very repeatable from cycle to cycle, although voltage slowly degrades with time/cycles (resistance growth) Much more difference observed near end of discharge Little change in order of cell voltage (cell with highest voltage to cell with lowest voltage) Temp sensor on the side of cell (between 2 cells) shows much greater rise during discharge than for single cell tests (18 C vs 5 C) Conclusion: Serial Charging of this string of cells is feasible as it has only a minor impact on useful capacity

Band tailing and efficiency limitation in kesterite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gokmen, Tayfun; Gunawan, Oki; Todorov, Teodor K.; Mitzi, David B.

2013-09-01

We demonstrate that a fundamental performance bottleneck for hydrazine processed kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells with efficiencies reaching above 11% can be the formation of band-edge tail states, which quantum efficiency and photoluminescence data indicate is roughly twice as severe as in higher-performing Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 devices. Low temperature time-resolved photoluminescence data suggest that the enhanced tailing arises primarily from electrostatic potential fluctuations induced by strong compensation and facilitated by a lower CZTSSe dielectric constant. We discuss the implications of the band tails for the voltage deficit in these devices.

Experimental investigation of the excess charge and time constant of minority carriers in the thin diffused layer of 0.1 ohm-cm silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Godlewski, M. P.; Brandhorst, H. W., Jr.; Lindholm, F. A.; Sah, C. T.

1976-01-01

An experimental method is presented that can be used to interpret the relative roles of bandgap narrowing and recombination processes in the diffused layer. This method involves measuring the device time constant by open-circuit voltage decay and the base region diffusion length by X-ray excitation. A unique illuminated diode method is used to obtain the diode saturation current. These data are interpreted using a simple model to determine individually the minority carrier lifetime and the excess charge. These parameters are then used to infer the relative importance of bandgap narrowing and recombination processes in the diffused layer.

Mechanism and kinetics of electrophoretic deposition of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}

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

Sarkar, P.; Nicholson, P.S.

1996-06-01

The four main electrophoretic deposition (EPD) mechanisms are discussed and their shortcomings pointed out. The Hamaker constant for Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in ethanol suspension is determined by modelling the relationship between particle interaction energy and suspension stability. The Derjagun-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) interaction energy curve for Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles in ethanol suspension is calculated and the minimum deposition voltage determined. Three probe dc measurements were conducted to explain discrepancies between the calculated and experimentally-observed voltage. A mechanism proposed is based on the DLVO theory and particle-lyosphere destortion/thinning. Kinetic equations for EPD are developed for constant current and constant voltage deposition usingmore » mass balance conditions and verified by experimental data.« less

Recent results on aqueous electrolyte cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wessells, Colin; Huggins, Robert A.; Cui, Yi

2011-03-01

The improved safety of aqueous electrolytes makes aqueous lithium-ion batteries an attractive alternative to commercial cells utilizing flammable and expensive organic electrolytes. Two important issues relating to their use have been addressed in this work. One is the extension of the usable voltage range by the incorporation of lithium salts, and the other is the investigation of a useful negative electrode reactant, LiTi2(PO4)3. The electrochemical stability of aqueous lithium salt solutions containing two lithium salts, LiNO3 and Li2SO4, has been characterized using a constant current technique. In both cases, concentrated solutions had effective electrolyte stability windows substantially greater than that of pure water under standard conditions. At an electrolyte leakage current of 10 μA cm-2 between two platinum electrodes in 5 M LiNO3 the cell voltage can reach 2.0 V, whereas with a leakage current of 50 μA cm-2 it can reach 2.3 V. LiTi2(PO4)3 was synthesized using a Pechini method and cycled in pH-neutral Li2SO4. At a reaction potential near the lower limit of electrolyte stability, an initial discharge capacity of 118 mAh g-1 was measured at a C/5 rate, while about 90% of this discharge capacity was retained after 100 cycles. This work demonstrates that it is possible to have useful aqueous electrolyte lithium-ion batteries using the LiTi2(PO4)3 anode with cell voltages of 2 V and above.

State-plane trajectories used to observe and control the behavior of a voltage step-up dc-to-dc converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burns, W. W., III; Wilson, T. G.

1976-01-01

State-plane analysis techniques are employed to study the voltage step up energy storage dc-to-dc converter. Within this framework, an example converter operating under the influence of a constant on time and a constant frequency controller is examined. Qualitative insight gained through this approach is used to develop a conceptual free running control law for the voltage step up converter which can achieve steady state operation in one on/off cycle of control. Digital computer simulation data is presented to illustrate and verify the theoretical discussions presented.

Modeling and simulation performance of photovoltaic system integration battery and supercapacitor paralellization of MPPT prototipe for solar vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajiatmo, Dwi; Robandi, Imam

2017-03-01

This paper proposes a control scheme photovoltaic, battery and super capacitor connected in parallel for use in a solar vehicle. Based on the features of battery charging, the control scheme consists of three modes, namely, mode dynamic irradian, constant load mode and constant voltage charging mode. The shift of the three modes can be realized by controlling the duty cycle of the mosffet Boost converter system. Meanwhile, the high voltage which is more suitable for the application can be obtained. Compared with normal charging method with parallel connected current limiting detention and charging method with dynamic irradian mode, constant load mode and constant voltage charging mode, the control scheme is proposed to shorten the charging time and increase the use of power generated from the PV array. From the simulation results and analysis conducted to determine the performance of the system in state transient and steady-state by using simulation software Matlab / Simulink. Response simulation results demonstrate the suitability of the proposed concept.

Adjustable electronic load-alarm relay

DOEpatents

Mason, Charles H.; Sitton, Roy S.

1976-01-01

This invention is an improved electronic alarm relay for monitoring the current drawn by an AC motor or other electrical load. The circuit is designed to measure the load with high accuracy and to have excellent alarm repeatability. Chattering and arcing of the relay contacts are minimal. The operator can adjust the set point easily and can re-set both the high and the low alarm points by means of one simple adjustment. The relay includes means for generating a signal voltage proportional to the motor current. In a preferred form of the invention a first operational amplifier is provided to generate a first constant reference voltage which is higher than a preselected value of the signal voltage. A second operational amplifier is provided to generate a second constant reference voltage which is lower than the aforementioned preselected value of the signal voltage. A circuit comprising a first resistor serially connected to a second resistor is connected across the outputs of the first and second amplifiers, and the junction of the two resistors is connected to the inverting terminal of the second amplifier. Means are provided to compare the aforementioned signal voltage with both the first and second reference voltages and to actuate an alarm if the signal voltage is higher than the first reference voltage or lower than the second reference voltage.

Feasibility study: Atmospheric general circulation experiment, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Homsey, R. J. (Editor)

1981-01-01

The atmospheric general circulation experiment (AGCE) uses a rotating fluid flow cell assembly. The key technical areas affecting the feasibility of the design and operation of the AGCE are investigated. The areas investigated include materials for the flow cell assembly, thermal design, high voltage power supply design, effective retrieval and handling of experiment data and apparatus configuration. Several materials, DMSO and m-tolunitrile, were selected as candidate fluids for the flow cell principally for their high dielectric constant which permits the high voltage power supply design to be held to 15 kV and still simulate terrestrial gravity. Achievement of a low dissipation factor in the fluid to minimize internal heating from the applied electrical field depends strongly on purification and handling procedures. The use of sapphire as the outer hemisphere for the flow cell provides excellent viewing conditions without a significant impact on attaining the desired thermal gradients. Birefringent effects from sapphire can be held to acceptably low limits. Visualization of flow fluid is achieved through the motion of a dot matrix formed by photochromic dyes. Two dyes found compatible with the candidate fluids are spiropyran and triarylmethane. The observation of the dot motion is accomplished using a flying spot scanner.

Improved Control of Charging Voltage for Li-Ion Battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Timmerman, Paul; Bugga, Ratnakumar

2006-01-01

The protocol for charging a lithium-ion battery would be modified, according to a proposal, to compensate for the internal voltage drop (charging current internal resistance of the battery). The essence of the modification is to provide for measurement of the internal voltage drop and to increase the terminal-voltage setting by the amount of the internal voltage drop. Ordinarily, a lithium-ion battery is charged at constant current until its terminal voltage attains a set value equal to the nominal full-charge potential. The set value is chosen carefully so as not to exceed the lithium-plating potential, because plated lithium in metallic form constitutes a hazard. When the battery is charged at low temperature, the internal voltage drop is considerable because the electrical conductivity of the battery electrolyte is low at low temperature. Charging the battery at high current at any temperature also gives rise to a high internal voltage drop. In some cases, the internal voltage drop can be as high as 1 volt per cell. Because the voltage available for charging is less than the terminal voltage by the amount of the internal voltage drop, the battery is not fully charged (see figure), even when the terminal voltage reaches the set value. In the modified protocol, the charging current would be periodically interrupted so that the zero-current battery-terminal voltage indicative of the state of charge could be measured. The terminal voltage would also be measured at full charging current. The difference between the full-current and zero-current voltages would equal the internal voltage drop. The set value of terminal voltage would then be increased beyond the nominal full-charge potential by the amount of the internal voltage drop. This adjustment would be performed repeatedly, in real time, so that the voltage setting would track variations in the internal voltage drop to afford full charge without risk of lithium plating. If the charging current and voltage settings were controlled by a computer, then this method of charge control could readily be implemented in software.

Simple programmable voltage reference for low frequency noise measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, V. E.; Chye, En Un

2018-05-01

The paper presents a circuit design of a low-noise voltage reference based on an electric double-layer capacitor, a microcontroller and a general purpose DAC. A large capacitance value (1F and more) makes it possible to create low-pass filter with a large time constant, effectively reducing low-frequency noise beyond its bandwidth. Choosing the optimum value of the resistor in the RC filter, one can achieve the best ratio between the transient time, the deviation of the output voltage from the set point and the minimum noise cut-off frequency. As experiments have shown, the spectral density of the voltage at a frequency of 1 kHz does not exceed 1.2 nV/√Hz the maximum deviation of the output voltage from the predetermined does not exceed 1.4 % and depends on the holding time of the previous value. Subsequently, this error is reduced to a constant value and can be compensated.

Energy-conserving programming of VVI pacemakers: a telemetry-supported, long-term, follow-up study.

PubMed

Klein, H H; Knake, W

1990-06-01

Thirty patients with VVI pacemakers (Quantum 253-09, 253-19, Intermedics Inc., Freeport, TX) were observed for a mean of 65 months. Within 12 months after implantation, optimized output programming was performed in 29 patients. This included a decrease in pulse amplitude (22 patients), pulse width (4 patients), and/or pacing rate (11 patients). After 65 months postimplantation, telemetered battery voltage and battery impedance were compared with the predicted values expected when the pulse generator constantly stimulates at nominal program conditions (heart rate 72.3 beats/min, pulse amplitude 5.4 V, pulse width 0.61 ms). Instead of an expected cell voltage of 2.6 V and a cell impedance of 10 k omega mean telemetered values amounted to 2.78 V and 1.4 k omega, respectively. These data correspond to a battery age of 12-15 months at nominal program conditions. This long-term follow-up study suggests that adequate programming will extend battery longevity and thus pulse generator survival in many patients.

Fabrication of one-dimensional alumina photonic crystals by anodization using a modified pulse-voltage method

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

Li, Shou-Yi; Wang, Jian, E-mail: wangjian@nwnu.edu.cn; Wang, Gang

2015-08-15

Highlights: • The alumina multilayer structure with alternating high and low refractive index is fabricated. • This multilayer shows a strong photonic band gap (PBG) and vivid film colors. • The first PBG could be modulated easily by varying the duration time of constant high or low voltages. • Fabrication of the photonic crystal is obtained by directly electrochemical anodization. • The formation mechanism of multilayer is also discussed. - Abstract: The alumina nanolayer structure with alternating high and low porosities is conveniently fabricated by applying a modified pulse voltage waveform with constant high and low voltage. This structure showsmore » the well-defined layer in a long-range structural periodicity leads to a strong photonic band gap (PBG) from visible to near infrared and brilliant film colors. Compared with the previous reported tuning method, this method is more simple and flexible in tuning the PBG of photonic crystals (PCs). The effect of duration time of high, low and 0 V voltages on PBG is discussed. The first PBG could be modulated easily from the visible to near infrared region by varying the duration time of constant high or low voltages. It is also found that the 0 V lasting for appropriate time is helpful to improve the quality of the PCs. The formation mechanism of multilayer is also discussed.« less

Self similarities in desalination dynamics and performance using capacitive deionization.

PubMed

Ramachandran, Ashwin; Hemmatifar, Ali; Hawks, Steven A; Stadermann, Michael; Santiago, Juan G

2018-09-01

Charge transfer and mass transport are two underlying mechanisms which are coupled in desalination dynamics using capacitive deionization (CDI). We developed simple reduced-order models based on a mixed reactor volume principle which capture the coupled dynamics of CDI operation using closed-form semi-analytical and analytical solutions. We use the models to identify and explore self-similarities in the dynamics among flow rate, current, and voltage for CDI cell operation including both charging and discharging cycles. The similarity approach identifies the specific combination of cell (e.g. capacitance, resistance) and operational parameters (e.g. flow rate, current) which determine a unique effluent dynamic response. We here demonstrate self-similarity using a conventional flow between CDI (fbCDI) architecture, and we hypothesize that our similarity approach has potential application to a wide range of designs. We performed an experimental study of these dynamics and used well-controlled experiments of CDI cell operation to validate and explore limits of the model. For experiments, we used a CDI cell with five electrode pairs and a standard flow between (electrodes) architecture. Guided by the model, we performed a series of experiments that demonstrate natural response of the CDI system. We also identify cell parameters and operation conditions which lead to self-similar dynamics under a constant current forcing function and perform a series of experiments by varying flowrate, currents, and voltage thresholds to demonstrate self-similarity. Based on this study, we hypothesize that the average differential electric double layer (EDL) efficiency (a measure of ion adsorption rate to EDL charging rate) is mainly dependent on user-defined voltage thresholds, whereas flow efficiency (measure of how well desalinated water is recovered from inside the cell) depends on cell volumes flowed during charging, which is determined by flowrate, current and voltage thresholds. Results of experiments strongly support this hypothesis. Results show that cycle efficiency and salt removal for a given flowrate and current are maximum when average EDL and flow efficiencies are approximately equal. We further explored a range of CC operations with varying flowrates, currents, and voltage thresholds using our similarity variables to highlight trade-offs among salt removal, energy, and throughput performance. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The most energy efficient way to charge the capacitor in a RC circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Dake

2017-11-01

The voltage waveform that minimize the energy loss in the resistance when charging the capacitor in a resistor-capacitor circuit is investigated using the calculus of variation. A linear voltage ramp gives the best efficiency, which means a constant current source should be used for charging. Comparison between constant current source and battery-powered system is made to illustrate the energy advantage of the former.

The Redox flow system for solar photovoltaic energy storage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Odonnell, P.; Gahn, R. F.

1976-01-01

A new method of storage was applied to a solar photovoltaic system. The storage method is a redox flow system which utilizes the oxidation-reduction capability of two soluble electrochemical redox couples for its storage capacity. The particular variant described separates the charging and discharging function of the system such that the electrochemical couples are simultaneously charged and discharged in separate parts of the system. The solar array had 12 solar cells; wired in order to give a range of voltages and currents. The system stored the solar energy so that a load could be run continually day and night. The main advantages of the redox system are that it can accept a charge in the low voltage range and produce a relatively constant output regardless of solar activity.

Demonstration of Johnson noise thermometry with all-superconducting quantum voltage noise source

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

Yamada, Takahiro, E-mail: yamada-takahiro@aist.go.jp; Urano, Chiharu; Maezawa, Masaaki

We present a Johnson noise thermometry (JNT) system based on an integrated quantum voltage noise source (IQVNS) that has been fully implemented using superconducting circuit technology. To enable precise measurement of Boltzmann's constant, an IQVNS chip was designed to produce intrinsically calculable pseudo-white noise to calibrate the JNT system. On-chip real-time generation of pseudo-random codes via simple circuits produced pseudo-voltage noise with a harmonic tone interval of less than 1 Hz, which was one order of magnitude finer than the harmonic tone interval of conventional quantum voltage noise sources. We estimated a value for Boltzmann's constant experimentally by performing JNT measurementsmore » at the temperature of the triple point of water using the IQVNS chip.« less

Enhanced electrohydrodynamic force generation in a two-stroke cycle dielectric-barrier-discharge plasma actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Shintaro; Takahashi, Masayuki; Ohnishi, Naofumi

2017-05-01

An approach for electrohydrodynamic (EHD) force production is proposed with a focus on a charge cycle on a dielectric surface. The cycle, consisting of positive-charging and neutralizing strokes, is completely different from the conventional methodology, which involves a negative-charging stroke, in that the dielectric surface charge is constantly positive. The two-stroke charge cycle is realized by applying a DC voltage combined with repetitive pulses. Simulation results indicate that the negative pulse eliminates the surface charge accumulated during constant voltage phase, resulting in repetitive EHD force generation. The time-averaged EHD force increases almost linearly with increasing repetitive pulse frequency and becomes one order of magnitude larger than that driven by the sinusoidal voltage, which has the same peak-to-peak voltage.

A variable-speed, constant-frequency wind power generation scheme using a slip-ring induction generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velayudhan, C.; Bundell, J. H.

This paper investigates a variable-speed, constant-frequency double output induction generator which is capable of absorbing the mechanical energy from a fixed pitch wind turbine and converting it into electrical energy at constant grid voltage and frequency. Rotor power at varying voltage and frequency is either fed to electronically controlled resistances and used as heat energy or is rectified, inverted by a controllable line-commutated inverter and returned to the grid. Optimal power tracking is by means of an adaptive controller which controls the developed torque of the generator by monitoring the shaft speed.

Gas composition sensing using carbon nanotube arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Jing (Inventor); Meyyappan, Meyya (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A method and system for estimating one, two or more unknown components in a gas. A first array of spaced apart carbon nanotubes (''CNTs'') is connected to a variable pulse voltage source at a first end of at least one of the CNTs. A second end of the at least one CNT is provided with a relatively sharp tip and is located at a distance within a selected range of a constant voltage plate. A sequence of voltage pulses {V(t.sub.n)}.sub.n at times t=t.sub.n (n=1, . . . , N1; N1.gtoreq.3) is applied to the at least one CNT, and a pulse discharge breakdown threshold voltage is estimated for one or more gas components, from an analysis of a curve I(t.sub.n) for current or a curve e(t.sub.n) for electric charge transported from the at least one CNT to the constant voltage plate. Each estimated pulse discharge breakdown threshold voltage is compared with known threshold voltages for candidate gas components to estimate whether at least one candidate gas component is present in the gas. The procedure can be repeated at higher pulse voltages to estimate a pulse discharge breakdown threshold voltage for a second component present in the gas.

Thermally-induced voltage alteration for analysis of microelectromechanical devices

DOEpatents

Walraven, Jeremy A.; Cole, Jr., Edward I.

2002-01-01

A thermally-induced voltage alteration (TIVA) apparatus and method are disclosed for analyzing a microelectromechanical (MEM) device with or without on-board integrated circuitry. One embodiment of the TIVA apparatus uses constant-current biasing of the MEM device while scanning a focused laser beam over electrically-active members therein to produce localized heating which alters the power demand of the MEM device and thereby changes the voltage of the constant-current source. This changing voltage of the constant-current source can be measured and used in combination with the position of the focused and scanned laser beam to generate an image of any short-circuit defects in the MEM device (e.g. due to stiction or fabrication defects). In another embodiment of the TIVA apparatus, an image can be generated directly from a thermoelectric potential produced by localized laser heating at the location of any short-circuit defects in the MEM device, without any need for supplying power to the MEM device. The TIVA apparatus can be formed, in part, from a scanning optical microscope, and has applications for qualification testing or failure analysis of MEM devices.

Precision envelope detector and linear rectifier circuitry

DOEpatents

Davis, Thomas J.

1980-01-01

Disclosed is a method and apparatus for the precise linear rectification and envelope detection of oscillatory signals. The signal is applied to a voltage-to-current converter which supplies current to a constant current sink. The connection between the converter and the sink is also applied through a diode and an output load resistor to a ground connection. The connection is also connected to ground through a second diode of opposite polarity from the diode in series with the load resistor. Very small amplitude voltage signals applied to the converter will cause a small change in the output current of the converter, and the difference between the output current and the constant current sink will be applied either directly to ground through the single diode, or across the output load resistor, dependent upon the polarity. Disclosed also is a full-wave rectifier utilizing constant current sinks and voltage-to-current converters. Additionally, disclosed is a combination of the voltage-to-current converters with differential integrated circuit preamplifiers to boost the initial signal amplitude, and with low pass filtering applied so as to obtain a video or signal envelope output.

Battery Cell By-Pass Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mumaw, Susan J. (Inventor); Evers, Jeffrey (Inventor); Craig, Calvin L., Jr. (Inventor); Walker, Stuart D. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

The invention is a circuit and method of limiting the charging current voltage from a power supply net work applied to an individual cell of a plurality of cells making up a battery being charged in series. It is particularly designed for use with batteries that can be damaged by overcharging, such as Lithium-ion type batteries. In detail. the method includes the following steps: 1) sensing the actual voltage level of the individual cell; 2) comparing the actual voltage level of the individual cell with a reference value and providing an error signal representative thereof; and 3) by-passing the charging current around individual cell necessary to keep the individual cell voltage level generally equal a specific voltage level while continuing to charge the remaining cells. Preferably this is accomplished by by-passing the charging current around the individual cell if said actual voltage level is above the specific voltage level and allowing the charging current to the individual cell if the actual voltage level is equal or less than the specific voltage level. In the step of bypassing the charging current, the by-passed current is transferred at a proper voltage level to the power supply. The by-pass circuit a voltage comparison circuit is used to compare the actual voltage level of the individual cell with a reference value and to provide an error signal representative thereof. A third circuit, designed to be responsive to the error signal, is provided for maintaining the individual cell voltage level generally equal to the specific voltage level. Circuitry is provided in the third circuit for bypassing charging current around the individual cell if the actual voltage level is above the specific voltage level and transfers the excess charging current to the power supply net work. The circuitry also allows charging of the individual cell if the actual voltage level is equal or less than the specific voltage level.

Timing and efficacy of Ca2+ channel activation in hippocampal mossy fiber boutons.

PubMed

Bischofberger, Josef; Geiger, Jörg R P; Jonas, Peter

2002-12-15

The presynaptic Ca2+ signal is a key determinant of transmitter release at chemical synapses. In cortical synaptic terminals, however, little is known about the kinetic properties of the presynaptic Ca2+ channels. To investigate the timing and magnitude of the presynaptic Ca2+ inflow, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from mossy fiber boutons (MFBs) in rat hippocampus. MFBs showed large high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents, with a maximal amplitude of approximately 100 pA at a membrane potential of 0 mV. Both activation and deactivation were fast, with time constants in the submillisecond range at a temperature of approximately 23 degrees C. An MFB action potential (AP) applied as a voltage-clamp command evoked a transient Ca2+ current with an average amplitude of approximately 170 pA and a half-duration of 580 microsec. A prepulse to +40 mV had only minimal effects on the AP-evoked Ca2+ current, indicating that presynaptic APs open the voltage-gated Ca2+ channels very effectively. On the basis of the experimental data, we developed a kinetic model with four closed states and one open state, linked by voltage-dependent rate constants. Simulations of the Ca2+ current could reproduce the experimental data, including the large amplitude and rapid time course of the current evoked by MFB APs. Furthermore, the simulations indicate that the shape of the presynaptic AP and the gating kinetics of the Ca2+ channels are tuned to produce a maximal Ca2+ influx during a minimal period of time. The precise timing and high efficacy of Ca2+ channel activation at this cortical glutamatergic synapse may be important for synchronous transmitter release and temporal information processing.

Whole-cell and single channel monovalent cation currents through the novel rabbit epithelial Ca2+ channel ECaC

PubMed Central

Nilius, Bernd; Vennekens, Rudi; Prenen, Jean; Hoenderop, Joost G J; Bindels, René J M; Droogmans, Guy

2000-01-01

This study describes properties of monovalent cation currents through ECaC, a recently cloned epithelial Ca2+-permeable channel from rabbit. The kinetics of currents through ECaC was strongly modulated by divalent cations. Currents were inhibited in the presence of extracellular Ca2+. They showed an initial voltage-dependent decay in the presence of 1 mm Mg2+ at hyperpolarizing steps in Ca2+-free solutions, which represents a voltage-dependent Mg2+ block through binding of Mg2+ to a site localized in the electrical field of the membrane (δ = 0.31) and a voltage-dependent binding constant (at 0 mV 3.1 mm Ca2+, obtained from a Woodhull type analysis). Currents were only stable in the absence of divalent cations and showed under these conditions a small time- and voltage-dependent component of activation. Single channel currents in cell-attached and inside-out patches had a conductance of 77.5 ± 4.9 pS (n = 11) and reversed at +14.8 ± 1.6 mV (n = 9) in the absence of divalent cations. The permeation sequence for monovalent cations through ECaC was Na+ > Li+ > K+ > Cs+ > NMDG+ which is identical to the Eisenmann sequence X for a strong field-strength binding site. It is concluded that the permeation profile of ECaC for monovalent cations suggests a strong field-strength binding site that may be involved in Ca2+ permeation and Mg2+ block. PMID:10970426

Failure of ESI Spectra to Represent Metal-Complex Solution Composition: A Study of Lanthanide-Carboxylate Complexes

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

McDonald, Luther W.; Campbell, James A.; Clark, Sue B.

2014-01-21

Electrospray ionization - mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) was used for the characterization of uranyl complexed to tributyl phosphate (TBP) and dibutyl phosphate (DBP). The stoichiometry of uranyl with TBP and DBP was determined, and the gas phase speciation was found to be dependent on the cone voltage applied to induce fragmentation on the gas phase complexes. To quantitatively compare the gas phase distribution of species to solution, apparent stability constants were calculated. With a cone voltage of 80V, the apparent stability constants for the complexes UO2(NO3)2•2TBP, UO2(NO3)2(H2O)•2TBP, and UO2(DBP)+ were determined. With a lower cone voltage applied, larger complexes were observedmore » and stability constants for the complexes UO2(NO3)2•3TBP and UO2(DBP)42- were determined.« less

Electromechanical conversion efficiency for dielectric elastomer generator in different energy harvesting cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Jian-Bo; E, Shi-Ju; Guo, Zhuang; Gao, Zhao; Luo, Han-Pin

2017-11-01

In order to improve electromechanical conversion efficiency for dielectric elastomer generators (DEG), on the base of studying DEG energy harvesting cycles of constant voltage, constant charge and constant electric field intensity, a new combined cycle mode and optimization theory in terms of the generating mechanism and electromechanical coupling process have been built. By controlling the switching point to achieve the best energy conversion cycle, the energy loss in the energy conversion process is reduced. DEG generating test bench which was used to carry out comparative experiments has been established. Experimental results show that the collected energy in constant voltage cycle, constant charge cycle and constant electric field intensity energy harvesting cycle decreases in turn. Due to the factors such as internal resistance losses, electrical losses and so on, actual energy values are less than the theoretical values. The electric energy conversion efficiency by combining constant electric field intensity cycle with constant charge cycle is larger than that of constant electric field intensity cycle. The relevant conclusions provide a basis for the further applications of DEG.

Evidence for thermally assisted threshold switching behavior in nanoscale phase-change memory cells

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

Le Gallo, Manuel; Athmanathan, Aravinthan; Krebs, Daniel

2016-01-14

In spite of decades of research, the details of electrical transport in phase-change materials are still debated. In particular, the so-called threshold switching phenomenon that allows the current density to increase steeply when a sufficiently high voltage is applied is still not well understood, even though there is wide consensus that threshold switching is solely of electronic origin. However, the high thermal efficiency and fast thermal dynamics associated with nanoscale phase-change memory (PCM) devices motivate us to reassess a thermally assisted threshold switching mechanism, at least in these devices. The time/temperature dependence of the threshold switching voltage and current inmore » doped Ge{sub 2}Sb{sub 2}Te{sub 5} nanoscale PCM cells was measured over 6 decades in time at temperatures ranging from 40 °C to 160 °C. We observe a nearly constant threshold switching power across this wide range of operating conditions. We also measured the transient dynamics associated with threshold switching as a function of the applied voltage. By using a field- and temperature-dependent description of the electrical transport combined with a thermal feedback, quantitative agreement with experimental data of the threshold switching dynamics was obtained using realistic physical parameters.« less

Increases in intracellular pH facilitate endocytosis and decrease availability of voltage-gated proton channels in osteoclasts and microglia

PubMed Central

Sakai, Hiromu; Li, Guangshuai; Hino, Yoshiko; Moriura, Yoshie; Kawawaki, Junko; Sawada, Makoto; Kuno, Miyuki

2013-01-01

Voltage-gated proton channels (H+ channels) are highly proton-selective transmembrane pathways. Although the primary determinants for activation are the pH and voltage gradients across the membrane, the current amplitudes fluctuate often when these gradients are constant. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the intracellular pH (pHi) in regulating the availability of H+ channels in osteoclasts and microglia. In whole-cell clamp recordings, the pHi was elevated after exposure to NH4Cl and returned to the control level after washout. However, the H+ channel conductance did not recover fully when the exposure was prolonged (>5 min). Similar results were observed in osteoclasts and microglia, but not in COS7 cells expressing a murine H+ channel gene (mVSOP). As other electrophysiological properties, like the gating kinetics and voltage dependence for activation, were unchanged, the decreases in the H+ channel conductance were probably due to the decreases in H+ channels available at the plasma membrane. The decreases in the H+ channel conductances were accompanied by reductions in the cell capacitance. Exposure to NH4Cl increased the uptake of the endocytosis marker FM1-43, substantiating the idea that pHi increases facilitated endocytosis. In osteoclasts, whose plasma membrane expresses V-ATPases and H+ channels, pHi increases by these H+-transferring molecules in part facilitated endocytosis. The endocytosis and decreases in the H+ channel conductance were reduced by dynasore, a dynamin blocker. These results suggest that pHi increases in osteoclasts and microglia decrease the numbers of H+ channels available at the plasma membrane through facilitation of dynamin-dependent endocytosis. PMID:24081153

Progress and opportunities in high-voltage microactuator powering technology towards one-chip MEMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mita, Yoshio; Hirakawa, Atsushi; Stefanelli, Bruno; Mori, Isao; Okamoto, Yuki; Morishita, Satoshi; Kubota, Masanori; Lebrasseur, Eric; Kaiser, Andreas

2018-04-01

In this paper, we address issues and solutions for micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS) powering through semiconductor devices towards one-chip MEMS, especially those with microactuators that require high voltage (HV, which is more than 10 V, and is often over 100 V) for operation. We experimentally and theoretically demonstrated that the main reason why MEMS actuators need such HV is the tradeoff between resonant frequency and displacement amplitude. Indeed, the product of frequency and displacement is constant regardless of the MEMS design, but proportional to the input energy, which is the square of applied voltage in an electrostatic actuator. A comprehensive study on the principles of HV device technology and associated circuit technologies, especially voltage shifter circuits, was conducted. From the viewpoint of on-chip energy source, series-connected HV photovoltaic cells have been discussed. Isolation and electrical connection methods were identified to be key enabling technologies. Towards future rapid development of such autonomous devices, a technology to convert standard 5 V CMOS devices into HV circuits using SOI substrate and a MEMS postprocess is presented. HV breakdown experiments demonstrated this technology can hold over 700 to 1000 V, depending on the layout.

Device and Method for Continuously Equalizing the Charge State of Lithium Ion Battery Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwartz, Paul D. (Inventor); Roufberg, Lewis M. (Inventor); Martin, Mark N. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A method of equalizing charge states of individual cells in a battery includes measuring a previous cell voltage for each cell, measuring a previous shunt current for each cell, calculating, based on the previous cell voltage and the previous shunt current, an adjusted cell voltage for each cell, determining a lowest adjusted cell voltage from among the calculated adjusted cell voltages, and calculating a new shunt current for each cell.

Applications technology satellites battery and power system design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ford, F. E.; Bemis, B.

1977-01-01

A summary of the ATS battery design which is onboard the Applications Technology Satellite (ATS) is provided. The 15 ampere hour nickel cadmium cells were manufactured by Gulton, 19 series connected cells per battery, and there are two batteries in each spacecraft. The operating design life was two years in a synchronous orbit, and a maximum depth of discharge of 50 percent. The design temperature for the batteries in the spacecraft was 0 to 25 C, and the charge control consisted of 1 volt versus temperature on a constant percentage voltage. Also, C/10 current limit, and a commandable trickle charge rate, using C/20 or C/60. The undervoltage was sent across a 9 cell and a 10 cell group, and it was set at one volt average per group on either group.

Round Trip Energy Efficiency of NASA Glenn Regenerative Fuel Cell System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garcia, Christopher P.; Chang, Bei-jiann; Johnson, Donald W.; Bents, David J.; Scullin, Vincent J.; Jakupca, Ian J.; Scullin, Vincent J.; Jakupca, Ian J.

2006-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) has recently demonstrated a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) based hydrogen/oxygen regenerative fuel cell system (RFCS) that operated for a charge/discharge cycle with round trip efficiency (RTE) greater than 50 percent. The regenerative fuel cell system (RFCS) demonstrated closed loop energy storage over a pressure range of 90 to 190 psig. In charge mode, a constant electrical power profile of 7.1 kWe was absorbed by the RFCS and stored as pressurized hydrogen and oxygen gas. In discharge mode, the system delivered 3 to 4 kWe of electrical power along with product water. Fuel cell and electrolyzer power profiles and polarization performance are documented in this paper. Individual cell performance and the variation of cell voltages within the electrochemical stacks are also reported. Fuel cell efficiency, electrolyzer efficiency, and the system RTE were calculated from the test data and are included below.

Capacitors in Series: A Laboratory Activity to Promote Critical Thinking.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Noll, Ellis D.; Kowalski, Ludwik

1996-01-01

Describes experiments designed to explore the distribution of potential difference between two uncharged capacitors when they are suddenly connected to a source of constant voltage. Enables students to explore the evolution of a system in which initial voltage distribution depends on capacitor values, and the final voltage distribution depends on…

Associating ground magnetometer observations with current or voltage generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartinger, M. D.; Xu, Z.; Clauer, C. R.; Yu, Y.; Weimer, D. R.; Kim, H.; Pilipenko, V.; Welling, D. T.; Behlke, R.; Willer, A. N.

2017-07-01

A circuit analogy for magnetosphere-ionosphere current systems has two extremes for drivers of ionospheric currents: ionospheric electric fields/voltages constant while current/conductivity vary—the "voltage generator"—and current constant while electric field/conductivity vary—the "current generator." Statistical studies of ground magnetometer observations associated with dayside Transient High Latitude Current Systems (THLCS) driven by similar mechanisms find contradictory results using this paradigm: some studies associate THLCS with voltage generators, others with current generators. We argue that most of this contradiction arises from two assumptions used to interpret ground magnetometer observations: (1) measurements made at fixed position relative to the THLCS field-aligned current and (2) negligible auroral precipitation contributions to ionospheric conductivity. We use observations and simulations to illustrate how these two assumptions substantially alter expectations for magnetic perturbations associated with either a current or a voltage generator. Our results demonstrate that before interpreting ground magnetometer observations of THLCS in the context of current/voltage generators, the location of a ground magnetometer station relative to the THLCS field-aligned current and the location of any auroral zone conductivity enhancements need to be taken into account.

Viscoelastic performance of dielectric elastomer subject to different voltage stimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheng, Junjie; Zhang, Yuqing; Liu, Lei; Li, Bo; Chen, Hualing

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomer (DE) is capable of giant deformation subject to an electric field, and demonstrates significant advantages in the potentially application of soft machines with muscle-like characteristics. Due to an inherent property of all macromolecular materials, DE exhibits strong viscoelastic properties. Viscoelasticity could cause a time-dependent deformation and lower the response speed and energy conversion efficiency of DE based actuators, thus strongly affect its electromechanical performance and applications. Combining with the rheological model of viscoelastic relaxation, the viscoelastic performance of a VHB membrane in a circular actuator configuration undergoing separately constant, ramp and sinusoidal voltages are analyzed both theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical results indicated that DE could attain a big deformation under a small constant voltage with a longer time or under a big voltage with a shorter time. The model also showed that a higher critical stretch could be achieved by applying ramping voltage with a lower rate and the stretch magnitude under sinusoidal voltage is much larger at a relatively low frequency. Finally, experiments were designed to validate the simulation and show well consistent with the simulation results.

Dual-bridge LLC-SRC with extended voltage range for deeply depleted PEV battery charging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahzad, M. Imran; Iqbal, Shahid; Taib, Soib

2017-11-01

This paper proposes a dual-bridge LLC series resonant converter with hybrid-rectifier for achieving extended charging voltage range of 50-420 V for on-board battery charger of plug-in electric vehicle for normal and deeply depleted battery charging. Depending upon the configuration of primary switching network and secondary rectifier, the proposed topology has three operating modes as half-bridge with bridge rectifier (HBBR), full-bridge with bridge rectifier (FBBR) and full-bridge with voltage doubler (FBVD). HBBR, FBBR and FBVD operating modes of converter achieve 50-125, 125-250 and 250-420 V voltage ranges, respectively. For voltage above 62 V, the converter operates below resonance frequency zero voltage switching region with narrow switching frequency range for soft commutation of secondary diodes and low turn-off current of MOSFETs to reduce switching losses. The proposed converter is simulated using MATLAB Simulink and a 1.5 kW laboratory prototype is also built to validate the operation of proposed topology. Simulation and experimental results show that the converter meets all the charging requirements for deeply depleted to fully charged battery using constant current-constant voltage charging method with fixed 400 V DC input and achieves 96.22% peak efficiency.

Liquid Nitrogen as Fast High Voltage Switching Medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickens, J.; Neuber, A.; Haustein, M.; Krile, J.; Krompholz, H.

2002-12-01

Compact pulsed power systems require new switching technologies. For high voltages, liquid nitrogen seems to be a suitable switching medium, with high hold-off voltage, low dielectric constant, and no need for pressurized systems as in high pressure gas switches. The discharge behavior in liquid nitrogen, such as breakdown voltages, formative times, current rise as function of voltage, recovery, etc. are virtually unknown, however. The phenomenology of breakdown in liquid nitrogen is investigated with high speed (temporal resolution < 1 ns) electrical and optical diagnostics, in a coaxial system with 50-Ohm impedance. Discharge current and voltage are determined with transmission line type current sensors and capacitive voltage dividers. The discharge luminosity is measured with photomultiplier tubes. Preliminary results of self-breakdown investigations (gap 1 mm, breakdown voltage 44 kV, non-boiling supercooled nitrogen) show a fast (2 ns) transition from an unknown current level to several mA, a long-duration (100 ns) phase with constant current superimposed by ns-spikes, and a final fast transition to the impedance limited current during several nanoseconds. The optical measurements will be expanded toward spectroscopy and high speed photography with the aim of clarifying the overall breakdown mechanisms, including electronic initiation, bubble formation, bubble dynamics, and their role in breakdown, for different electrode geometries (different macroscopic field enhancements).

Comparison of Voltage Gated K+ Currents in Arterial Myocytes with Heterologously Expressed K v Subunits.

PubMed

Cox, Robert H; Fromme, Samantha

2016-12-01

We have shown that three components contribute to functional voltage gated K + (K v ) currents in rat small mesenteric artery myocytes: (1) Kv1.2 plus Kv1.5 with Kvβ1.2 subunits, (2) Kv2.1 probably associated with Kv9.3 subunits, and (3) Kv7.4 subunits. To confirm and address subunit stoichiometry of the first two, we have compared the biophysical properties of K v currents in small mesenteric artery myocytes with those of K v subunits heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells using whole cell voltage clamp methods. Selective inhibitors of Kv1 (correolide, COR) and Kv2 (stromatoxin, ScTx) channels were used to separate these K v current components. Conductance-voltage and steady state inactivation data along with time constants of activation, inactivation, and deactivation of native K v components were generally well represented by those of Kv1.2-1.5-β1.2 and Kv2.1-9.3 channels. The slope of the steady state inactivation-voltage curve (availability slope) proved to be the most sensitive measure of accessory subunit presence. The availability slope curves exhibited a single peak for both native K v components. Availability slope curves for Kv1.2-1.5-β1.2 and Kv2.1-9.3 channels expressed in human embryonic kidney cells also exhibited a single peak that shifted to more depolarized voltages with increasing accessory to α subunit transfection ratio. Availability slope curves for SxTc-insensitive currents were similar to those of Kv1.2-1.5 expressed with Kvβ1.2 at a 1:5 molar ratio while curves for COR-insensitive currents closely resembled those of Kv2.1 expressed with Kv9.3 at a 1:1 molar ratio. These results support the suggested K v subunit combinations in small mesenteric artery, and further suggest that Kv1 α and Kvβ1.2 but not Kv2.1 and Kv9.3 subunits are present in a saturated (4:4) stoichiometry.

Method to improve reliability of a fuel cell system using low performance cell detection at low power operation

DOEpatents

Choi, Tayoung; Ganapathy, Sriram; Jung, Jaehak; Savage, David R.; Lakshmanan, Balasubramanian; Vecasey, Pamela M.

2013-04-16

A system and method for detecting a low performing cell in a fuel cell stack using measured cell voltages. The method includes determining that the fuel cell stack is running, the stack coolant temperature is above a certain temperature and the stack current density is within a relatively low power range. The method further includes calculating the average cell voltage, and determining whether the difference between the average cell voltage and the minimum cell voltage is greater than a predetermined threshold. If the difference between the average cell voltage and the minimum cell voltage is greater than the predetermined threshold and the minimum cell voltage is less than another predetermined threshold, then the method increments a low performing cell timer. A ratio of the low performing cell timer and a system run timer is calculated to identify a low performing cell.

Electronic circuit for measuring series connected electrochemical cell voltages

DOEpatents

Ashtiani, Cyrus N.; Stuart, Thomas A.

2000-01-01

An electronic circuit for measuring voltage signals in an energy storage device is disclosed. The electronic circuit includes a plurality of energy storage cells forming the energy storage device. A voltage divider circuit is connected to at least one of the energy storage cells. A current regulating circuit is provided for regulating the current through the voltage divider circuit. A voltage measurement node is associated with the voltage divider circuit for producing a voltage signal which is proportional to the voltage across the energy storage cell.

Automatic voltage imbalance detector

DOEpatents

Bobbett, Ronald E.; McCormick, J. Byron; Kerwin, William J.

1984-01-01

A device for indicating and preventing damage to voltage cells such as galvanic cells and fuel cells connected in series by detecting sequential voltages and comparing these voltages to adjacent voltage cells. The device is implemented by using operational amplifiers and switching circuitry is provided by transistors. The device can be utilized in battery powered electric vehicles to prevent galvanic cell damage and also in series connected fuel cells to prevent fuel cell damage.

Investigation of an Aberrant Cell Voltage During the Filling of a Large Lithium Thionyl Chloride Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thaller, Lawrence H.; Quinzio, Michael V.

1997-01-01

The investigation of an aberrant cell voltage during the filling of a large lithium thionyl chloride cell summary is at: an aberrant voltage trace was noted during the review of cell filling data; incident was traced to an interruption during filling; experimentation suggested oxidizable sites within the carbon electrode were responsible for the drop in voltage; the voltage anomaly could be reproduced by interrupting the filling of similar cells; and anomalous voltage dip was not due to a short.

Resistor-logic demultiplexers for nanoelectronics based on constant-weight codes.

PubMed

Kuekes, Philip J; Robinett, Warren; Roth, Ron M; Seroussi, Gadiel; Snider, Gregory S; Stanley Williams, R

2006-02-28

The voltage margin of a resistor-logic demultiplexer can be improved significantly by basing its connection pattern on a constant-weight code. Each distinct code determines a unique demultiplexer, and therefore a large family of circuits is defined. We consider using these demultiplexers for building nanoscale crossbar memories, and determine the voltage margin of the memory system based on a particular code. We determine a purely code-theoretic criterion for selecting codes that will yield memories with large voltage margins, which is to minimize the ratio of the maximum to the minimum Hamming distance between distinct codewords. For the specific example of a 64 × 64 crossbar, we discuss what codes provide optimal performance for a memory.

Modelling bio-electrosynthesis in a reverse microbial fuel cell to produce acetate from CO2 and H2O.

PubMed

Kazemi, M; Biria, D; Rismani-Yazdi, H

2015-05-21

Bio-electrosynthesis is one of the significant developments in reverse microbial fuel cell technology which is potentially capable of creating organic compounds by combining CO2 with H2O. Accordingly, the main objective in the current study was to present a model of microbial electrosynthesis for producing organic compounds (acetate) based on direct conduction of electrons in biofilms. The proposed model enjoys a high degree of rigor because it can predict variations in the substrate concentration, electrical potential, current density and the thickness of the biofilm. Additionally, coulombic efficiency was investigated as a function of substrate concentration and cathode potential. For a system containing CO2 as the substrate and Sporomusa ovata as the biofilm forming microorganism, an increase in the substrate concentration at a constant potential can lead to a decrease in coulombic efficiency as well as an increase in current density and biofilm thickness. On the other hand, an increase in the surface cathodic voltage at a constant substrate concentration may result in an increase in the coulombic efficiency and a decrease in the current density. The maximum coulombic efficiency was revealed to be 75% at a substrate concentration of 0.025 mmol cm(-3) and 55% at a surface cathodic voltage of -0.3 V producing a high range of acetate production by creating an optimal state in the concentration and potential intervals. Finally, the validity of the model was verified by comparing the obtained results with related experimental findings.

Characterization of slowly inactivating KV{alpha} current in rabbit pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies: effects of hypoxia and nicotine.

PubMed

Fu, Xiao Wen; Nurse, Colin; Cutz, Ernest

2007-10-01

Pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEB) form innervated cell clusters that express voltage-activated currents and function as airway O(2) sensors. We investigated A-type K(+) currents in NEB cells using neonatal rabbit lung slice preparation. The whole cell K(+) current was slowly inactivating with activation threshold of approximately -30 mV. This current was blocked approximately 27% by blood-depressing substance I (BDS-I; 3 microM), a selective blocker of Kv3.4 subunit, and reduced approximately 20% by tetraethylammonium (TEA; 100 microM). The BDS-I-sensitive component had an average peak value of 189 +/- 14 pA and showed fast inactivation kinetics that could be fitted by one-component exponential function with a time constant of (tau1) 77 +/- 10 ms. This Kv slowly inactivating current was also blocked by heteropodatoxin-2 (HpTx-2; 0.2 microM), a blocker of Kv4 subunit. The HpTx-2-sensitive current had an average peak value of 234 +/- 23 pA with a time constant (tau) 82 +/- 11 ms. Hypoxia (Po(2) = 15-20 mmHg) inhibited the slowly inactivating K(+) current by approximately 47%, during voltage steps from -30 to +30 mV, and no further inhibition occurred when TEA was combined with hypoxia. Nicotine at concentrations of 50 and 100 microM suppressed the slowly inactivating K(+) current by approximately 24 and approximately 40%, respectively. This suppression was not reversed by mecamylamine suggesting a direct effect of nicotine on these K(+) channels. In situ hybridization experiments detected expression of mRNAs for Kv3.4 and Kv4.3 subunits, while double-label immunofluorescence confirmed membrane localization of respective channel proteins in NEB cells. These studies suggest that the hypoxia-sensitive current in NEB cells is carried by slowly inactivating A-type K(+) channels, which underlie their oxygen-sensitive potassium currents, and that exposure to nicotine may directly affect their function, contributing to smoking-related lung disease.

Study of the back recombination processes of PbS quantum dots sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badawi, Ali; Al-Hosiny, N.; Merazga, Amar; Albaradi, Ateyyah M.; Abdallah, S.; Talaat, H.

2016-12-01

In this study, the back recombination processes of PbS quantum dots sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) has been investigated. PbS QDs were adsorbed onto titania electrodes to act the role of sensitizers using successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The energy band gaps of the synthesized PbS QDs/titania are ranged from 1.64 eV (corresponding to 756 nm) to 3.12 eV (397 nm) matching the whole visible solar spectrum. The hyperbolic band model (HBM) was used to calculate PbS QDs size and it ranges from 1.76 to 3.44 nm. The photovoltaic parameters (open circuit voltage Voc, short circuit current density Jsc, fill factor FF and efficiency η) of the assembled PbS QDs sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) were determined under a solar illumination of 100 mW/cm2 (AM 1.5 conditions). The open circuit voltage-decay (OCVD) rates of the assembled PbS QDSSCs were measured. The time constant (τ) for PbS QDSSCs (4 SILAR cycles) shows one order of magnitude larger than that of PbS QDSSCs (8 SILAR cycles) as a result of a decreased electron-hole back recombination.

Constant-current regulator improves tunnel diode threshold-detector performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cancro, C. A.

1965-01-01

Grounded-base transistor is placed in a tunnel diode threshold detector circuit, and a bias voltage is applied to the tunnel diode. This provides the threshold detector with maximum voltage output and overload protection.

Hyperpolarization-activated current (I(h)) in vestibular calyx terminals: characterization and role in shaping postsynaptic events.

PubMed

Meredith, Frances L; Benke, Tim A; Rennie, Katherine J

2012-12-01

Calyx afferent terminals engulf the basolateral region of type I vestibular hair cells, and synaptic transmission across the vestibular type I hair cell/calyx is not well understood. Calyces express several ionic conductances, which may shape postsynaptic potentials. These include previously described tetrodotoxin-sensitive inward Na(+) currents, voltage-dependent outward K(+) currents and a K(Ca) current. Here, we characterize an inwardly rectifying conductance in gerbil semicircular canal calyx terminals (postnatal days 3-45), sensitive to voltage and to cyclic nucleotides. Using whole-cell patch clamp, we recorded from isolated calyx terminals still attached to their type I hair cells. A slowly activating, noninactivating current (I(h)) was seen with hyperpolarizing voltage steps negative to the resting potential. External Cs(+) (1-5 mM) and ZD7288 (100 μM) blocked the inward current by 97 and 83 %, respectively, confirming that I(h) was carried by hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide gated channels. Mean half-activation voltage of I(h) was -123 mV, which shifted to -114 mV in the presence of cAMP. Activation of I(h) was well described with a third order exponential fit to the current (mean time constant of activation, τ, was 190 ms at -139 mV). Activation speeded up significantly (τ=136 and 127 ms, respectively) when intracellular cAMP and cGMP were present, suggesting that in vivo I(h) could be subject to efferent modulation via cyclic nucleotide-dependent mechanisms. In current clamp, hyperpolarizing current steps produced a time-dependent depolarizing sag followed by either a rebound afterdepolarization or an action potential. Spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) became larger and wider when I(h) was blocked with ZD7288. In a three-dimensional mathematical model of the calyx terminal based on Hodgkin-Huxley type ionic conductances, removal of I(h) similarly increased the EPSP, whereas cAMP slightly decreased simulated EPSP size and width.

Low noise constant current source for bias dependent noise measurements

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

Talukdar, D.; Bose, Suvendu; Bardhan, K. K.

2011-01-15

A low noise constant current source used for measuring the 1/f noise in disordered systems in ohmic as well as nonohmic regime is described. The source can supply low noise constant current starting from as low as 1 {mu}A to a few tens of milliampere with a high voltage compliance limit of around 20 V. The constant current source has several stages, which can work in a standalone manner or together to supply the desired value of load current. The noise contributed by the current source is very low in the entire current range. The fabrication of a low noisemore » voltage preamplifier modified for bias dependent noise measurements and based on the existing design available in the MAT04 data sheet is also described.« less

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell short stack performance testing - part B: Operation in carbon capture applications and degradation issues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mastropasqua, L.; Campanari, S.; Brouwer, J.

2017-12-01

The need to experimentally understand the performance of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) stacks under Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) mode operating conditions, hence with anode recirculation, has prompted this two-part study. The steady state performance of a 6-cell short stack of Y2O3 stabilised Zirconia (YSZ) with Ni/YSZ anodes and composite Sr-doped LaMnO3 (LSM)/YSZ cathodes is experimentally evaluated. In Part A, the electrical and environmental performance are assessed and the results are compared with the commercial full-scale micro-Combined Heat and Power system, which comprises the same cells. In Part B of this work, a specific set of stack operating conditions important to CCS applications is explored. The experimental inlet composition is changed in order to reproduce a simulated syngas in CCS mode operation for different fuel utilisation factors. Operation with the simulated anode recycle syngas leads to lower voltage when the anode recycle is lower, mainly due to higher internal reforming and polarisation losses. A clear voltage trend is observed when the amount of CO content in the inlet fuel is increased, signalling an improvement of the polarisation performance at constant current density and fixed inlet equivalent hydrogen content. Stack degradation is measured and results in line with manufacturer's data.

Interfacial morphology of low-voltage anodic aluminium oxide

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

Hu, Naiping; Dongcinn, Xuecheng; He, Xueying

X-ray reflectivity (XRR) and neutron reflectivity (NR), as well as ultra-smallangle X-ray scattering (USAXS), are used to examine the in-plane and surfacenormal structure of anodic films formed on aluminium alloy AA2024 and pure aluminium. Aluminium and alloy films up to 3500 A thick were deposited on Si wafers by electron beam evaporation of ingots. Porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) films are formed by polarizing at constant voltage up to 20 V noble to the open circuit potential. The voltage sweet spot (5 V) appropriate for constant-voltage anodization of such thin films was determined for both alloy and pure Al. Inmore » addition, a new concurrent voltage- and current-control protocol was developed to prepare films with larger pores (voltages higher than 5 V), but formed at a controlled current so that pore growth is slow enough to avoid stripping the aluminium substrate layer. USAXS shows that the pore size and interpore spacing are fixed in the first 10 s after initiation of anodization. Pores then grow linearly in time, at constant radius and interpore spacing. Using a combination of XRR and NR, the film density and degree of hydration of the films were determined from the ratio of scattering length densities. Assuming a chemical formula Al2O3xH2O, it was found that x varies from 0.29 for the native oxide to 1.29 for AAO grown at 20 V under concurrent voltage and current control. The average AAO film density of the porous film at the air surface is 2.45 (20) g cm3. The density of the barrier layer at the metal interface is 2.9 (4) g cm3, which indicates that this layer is also quite porous« less

High-voltage isolation transformer for sub-nanosecond rise time pulses constructed with annular parallel-strip transmission lines.

PubMed

Homma, Akira

2011-07-01

A novel annular parallel-strip transmission line was devised to construct high-voltage high-speed pulse isolation transformers. The transmission lines can easily realize stable high-voltage operation and good impedance matching between primary and secondary circuits. The time constant for the step response of the transformer was calculated by introducing a simple low-frequency equivalent circuit model. Results show that the relation between the time constant and low-cut-off frequency of the transformer conforms to the theory of the general first-order linear time-invariant system. Results also show that the test transformer composed of the new transmission lines can transmit about 600 ps rise time pulses across the dc potential difference of more than 150 kV with insertion loss of -2.5 dB. The measured effective time constant of 12 ns agreed exactly with the theoretically predicted value. For practical applications involving the delivery of synchronized trigger signals to a dc high-voltage electron gun station, the transformer described in this paper exhibited advantages over methods using fiber optic cables for the signal transfer system. This transformer has no jitter or breakdown problems that invariably occur in active circuit components.

The calmodulin inhibitor CGS 9343B inhibits voltage-dependent K{sup +} channels in rabbit coronary arterial smooth muscle cells

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

Li, Hongliang; Hong, Da Hye; Kim, Han Sol

We investigated the effects of the calmodulin inhibitor CGS 9343B on voltage-dependent K{sup +} (Kv) channels using whole-cell patch clamp technique in freshly isolated rabbit coronary arterial smooth muscle cells. CGS 9343B inhibited Kv currents in a concentration-dependent manner, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC{sub 50}) value of 0.81 μM. The decay rate of Kv channel inactivation was accelerated by CGS 9343B. The rate constants of association and dissociation for CGS 9343B were 2.77 ± 0.04 μM{sup −1} s{sup −1} and 2.55 ± 1.50 s{sup −1}, respectively. CGS 9343B did not affect the steady-state activation curve, but shifted the inactivationmore » curve toward to a more negative potential. Train pulses (1 or 2 Hz) application progressively increased the CGS 9343B-induced Kv channel inhibition. In addition, the inactivation recovery time constant was increased in the presence of CGS 9343B, suggesting that CGS 9343B-induced inhibition of Kv channel was use-dependent. Another calmodulin inhibitor, W-13, did not affect Kv currents, and did not change the inhibitory effect of CGS 9343B on Kv current. Our results demonstrated that CGS 9343B inhibited Kv currents in a state-, time-, and use-dependent manner, independent of calmodulin inhibition. - Highlights: • We investigated the effects of CGS 9394B on Kv channels. • CGS 9394B inhibited Kv current in a state-, time-, and use-dependent manner. • Caution is required when using CGS 9394B in vascular function studies.« less

Moderately nonlinear diffuse-charge dynamics under an ac voltage.

PubMed

Stout, Robert F; Khair, Aditya S

2015-09-01

The response of a symmetric binary electrolyte between two parallel, blocking electrodes to a moderate amplitude ac voltage is quantified. The diffuse charge dynamics are modeled via the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations for a dilute solution of point-like ions. The solution to these equations is expressed as a Fourier series with a voltage perturbation expansion for arbitrary Debye layer thickness and ac frequency. Here, the perturbation expansion in voltage proceeds in powers of V_{o}/(k_{B}T/e), where V_{o} is the amplitude of the driving voltage and k_{B}T/e is the thermal voltage with k_{B} as Boltzmann's constant, T as the temperature, and e as the fundamental charge. We show that the response of the electrolyte remains essentially linear in voltage amplitude at frequencies greater than the RC frequency of Debye layer charging, D/λ_{D}L, where D is the ion diffusivity, λ_{D} is the Debye layer thickness, and L is half the cell width. In contrast, nonlinear response is predicted at frequencies below the RC frequency. We find that the ion densities exhibit symmetric deviations from the (uniform) equilibrium density at even orders of the voltage amplitude. This leads to the voltage dependence of the current in the external circuit arising from the odd orders of voltage. For instance, the first nonlinear contribution to the current is O(V_{o}^{3}) which contains the expected third harmonic but also a component oscillating at the applied frequency. We use this to compute a generalized impedance for moderate voltages, the first nonlinear contribution to which is quadratic in V_{o}. This contribution predicts a decrease in the imaginary part of the impedance at low frequency, which is due to the increase in Debye layer capacitance with increasing V_{o}. In contrast, the real part of the impedance increases at low frequency, due to adsorption of neutral salt from the bulk to the Debye layer.

Simple Cell Balance Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Steven D.; Byers, Jerry W.; Martin, James A.

2012-01-01

A method has been developed for continuous cell voltage balancing for rechargeable batteries (e.g. lithium ion batteries). A resistor divider chain is provided that generates a set of voltages representing the ideal cell voltage (the voltage of each cell should be as if the cells were perfectly balanced). An operational amplifier circuit with an added current buffer stage generates the ideal voltage with a very high degree of accuracy, using the concept of negative feedback. The ideal voltages are each connected to the corresponding cell through a current- limiting resistance. Over time, having the cell connected to the ideal voltage provides a balancing current that moves the cell voltage very close to that ideal level. In effect, it adjusts the current of each cell during charging, discharging, and standby periods to force the cell voltages to be equal to the ideal voltages generated by the resistor divider. The device also includes solid-state switches that disconnect the circuit from the battery so that it will not discharge the battery during storage. This solution requires relatively few parts and is, therefore, of lower cost and of increased reliability due to the fewer failure modes. Additionally, this design uses very little power. A preliminary model predicts a power usage of 0.18 W for an 8-cell battery. This approach is applicable to a wide range of battery capacities and voltages.

A maximum power point tracking algorithm for photovoltaic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nelatury, Sudarshan R.; Gray, Robert

2013-05-01

The voltage and current characteristic of a photovoltaic (PV) cell is highly nonlinear and operating a PV cell for maximum power transfer has been a challenge for a long time. Several techniques have been proposed to estimate and track the maximum power point (MPP) in order to improve the overall efficiency of a PV panel. A strategic use of the mean value theorem permits obtaining an analytical expression for a point that lies in a close neighborhood of the true MPP. But hitherto, an exact solution in closed form for the MPP is not published. This problem can be formulated analytically as a constrained optimization, which can be solved using the Lagrange method. This method results in a system of simultaneous nonlinear equations. Solving them directly is quite difficult. However, we can employ a recursive algorithm to yield a reasonably good solution. In graphical terms, suppose the voltage current characteristic and the constant power contours are plotted on the same voltage current plane, the point of tangency between the device characteristic and the constant power contours is the sought for MPP. It is subject to change with the incident irradiation and temperature and hence the algorithm that attempts to maintain the MPP should be adaptive in nature and is supposed to have fast convergence and the least misadjustment. There are two parts in its implementation. First, one needs to estimate the MPP. The second task is to have a DC-DC converter to match the given load to the MPP thus obtained. Availability of power electronics circuits made it possible to design efficient converters. In this paper although we do not show the results from a real circuit, we use MATLAB to obtain the MPP and a buck-boost converter to match the load. Under varying conditions of load resistance and irradiance we demonstrate MPP tracking in case of a commercially available solar panel MSX-60. The power electronics circuit is simulated by PSIM software.

Ionospheric convection driven by NBZ currents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rasmussen, C. E.; Schunk, R. W.

1987-01-01

Computer simulations of Birkeland currents and electric fields in the polar ionosphere during periods of northward IMF were conducted. When the IMF z component is northward, an additional current system, called the NBZ current system, is present in the polar cap. These simulations show the effect of the addition of NBZ currents on ionospheric convection, particularly in the polar cap. When the total current in the NBZ system is roughly 25 to 50 percent of the net region 1 and 2 currents, convection in the central portion of the polar cap reverses direction and turns sunward. This creates a pattern of four-cell convection with two small cells located in the polar cap, rotating in an opposite direction from the larger cells. When the Birkeland currents are fixed (constant current source), the electric field is reduced in regions of relatively high conductivity, which affects the pattern of ionospheric convection. Day-night asymmetries in conductivity change convection in such a way that the two polar-cap cells are located within the large dusk cell. When ionospheric convection is fixed (constant voltage source), Birkeland currents are increased in regions of relatively high conductivity. Ionospheric currents, which flow horizontally to close the Birkeland currents, are changed appreciably by the NBZ current system. The principal effect is an increase in ionospheric current in the polar cap.

Kir2.1 encodes the inward rectifier potassium channel in rat arterial smooth muscle cells

PubMed Central

Bradley, Karri K; Jaggar, Jonathan H; Bonev, Adrian D; Heppner, Thomas J; Flynn, Elaine RM; Nelson, Mark T; Horowitz, Burton

1999-01-01

The molecular nature of the strong inward rectifier K+ channel in vascular smooth muscle was explored by using isolated cell RT-PCR, cDNA cloning and expression techniques.RT-PCR of RNA from single smooth muscle cells of rat cerebral (basilar), coronary and mesenteric arteries revealed transcripts for Kir2.1. Transcripts for Kir2.2 and Kir2.3 were not found.Quantitative PCR analysis revealed significant differences in transcript levels of Kir2.1 between the different vascular preparations (n = 3; P < 0.05). A two-fold difference was detected between Kir2.1 mRNA and β-actin mRNA in coronary arteries when compared with relative levels measured in mesenteric and basilar preparations.Kir2.1 was cloned from rat mesenteric vascular smooth muscle cells and expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Currents were strongly inwardly rectifying and selective for K+.The effect of extracellular Ba2+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and Cs2+ ions on cloned Kir2.1 channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes was examined. Ba2+ and Cs+ block were steeply voltage dependent, whereas block by external Ca2+ and Mg2+ exhibited little voltage dependence. The apparent half-block constants and voltage dependences for Ba2+, Cs+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ were very similar for inward rectifier K+ currents from native cells and cloned Kir2.1 channels expressed in oocytes.Molecular studies demonstrate that Kir2.1 is the only member of the Kir2 channel subfamily present in vascular arterial smooth muscle cells. Expression of cloned Kir2.1 in Xenopus oocytes resulted in inward rectifier K+ currents that strongly resemble those that are observed in native vascular arterial smooth muscle cells. We conclude that Kir2.1 encodes for inward rectifier K+ channels in arterial smooth muscle. PMID:10066894

Ion pathways in the taste bud and their significance for transduction.

PubMed

DeSimone, J A; Ye, Q; Heck, G L

1993-01-01

Taste buds share a topology with ion-transporting epithelial and evidence now indicates that neural responses in rats to Na+ salts of differing anion are mediated by both transcellular and paracellular ion transport. Na+ exerts its effects mainly on the transcellular pathway. Neural responses to Na+ salts are enhanced by negative voltage clamp and suppressed by positive clamp in a manner indicating modulation of the apical membrane potential of receptor cells. Anion effects are mainly paracellular. Under zero current clamp increasing anion size reduces the neural response at constant Na+ concentration. Below about 50 mM this difference is entirely eliminated under voltage clamp. This suggests that paracellular transepithelial potentials normally create an anion difference. At higher concentrations the relatively high permeability of the paracellular shunt to Cl- permits sufficient electroneutral diffusion of NaCl below the tight junctions to stimulate cells that do not make direct contact with the oral cavity. In general, the sensitivity of a response to perturbations in the apical membrane potential indicates that some phase of Na+ salt taste transduction is accompanied by changes in an apical membrane channel conductance.

3-V Solid-State Flexible Supercapacitors with Ionic-Liquid-Based Polymer Gel Electrolyte for AC Line Filtering.

PubMed

Kang, Yu Jin; Yoo, Yongju; Kim, Woong

2016-06-08

State-of-the-art solid-state flexible supercapacitors with sufficiently fast response speed for AC line filtering application suffer from limited energy density. One of the main causes of the low energy density is the low cell voltage (1 V), which is limited by aqueous-solution-based gel electrolytes. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time a 3-V flexible supercapacitor for AC line filtering based on an ionic-liquid-based polymer gel electrolyte and carbon nanotube electrode material. The flexible supercapacitor exhibits an areal energy density that is more than 20 times higher than that of the previously demonstrated 1-V flexible supercapacitor (0.66 vs 0.03 μWh/cm(2)) while maintaining excellent capacitive behavior at 120 Hz. The supercapacitor shows a maximum areal power density of 1.5 W/cm(2) and a time constant of 1 ms. The improvement of the cell voltage while maintaining the fast-response capability greatly improves the potential of supercapacitors for high-frequency applications in wearable and/or portable electronics.

A chemically regenerative redox fuel cell using (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl redox reaction in acid medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Sang-Beom; Kwak, Da-Hee; Park, Hyun Suk; Park, Jin-Young; Ma, Kyeng-Bae; Won, Ji-Eun; Kim, Do-Hyoung; Kim, Min-Cheol; Park, Kyung-Won

2018-07-01

(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO) with no free radical and non-volatile characteristic can be utilized as a liquid catalyst instead of O2 at the cathode in a chemical regenerative redox fuel cell with H2 as a fuel at the anode. In this study, the electrochemical properties and performance of TEMPO dissolved in sulfuric acid solution are investigated using half and unit cells. In the half-cell, TEMPO shows an activation energy of 1.27 kcal mol-1 K-1 for the reduction. A chemical regenerative redox fuel cell (CRRFC) using TEMPO as the liquid catalyst exhibits an open circuit voltage of 0.7 V and a maximum power density of 90 mW cm-2 at 30 °C with a low activation loss. The regeneration cycling test of the CRRFC is performed at a constant voltage of 0.4 V under a flow rate of the oxygen-bubbled TEMPO solution. The performance of the CRRFC deteriorates, i.e., a power density of zero measured at >200 min. Thus, a highly efficient regeneration system needs to be developed for a high-performance CRRFC using TEMPO used as a liquid-type oxidant. Furthermore, stable liquid oxidants with relatively high standard reduction potentials can be proposed through various organic compounds.

Effects of fluctuations on electrical properties of gap-junction connected cells in the turtle retina.

PubMed

Louis, E; Degli Esposti Boschi, C; Ortega, G; Andreu, E; Fernández, E; Sánchez-Andrés, J V

2002-04-19

Electrical properties of gap-junction connected cells (input voltage and length constant) are shown to depend strongly on fluctuations in membrane and contact conductances. This opens new possibilities and incorporates a further difficulty to the analysis of electrophysiological data, since four, instead of two, parameters (the average values and the magnitude of fluctuations of the two conductances) have to be used in fitting the experimental data. The discussion is illustrated by investigating the effects of dopamine on signal spreading in horizontal cells of turtle retina, assuming a linear cell arrangement. It is shown that while a standard fitting with the average values of the two conductances leads to the conclusion that both are equally affected by dopamine, including fluctuations allows fitting the data by varying just the average contact conductance plus the magnitude of fluctuations.

Design Flexibility of Redox Flow Systems. [for energy storage applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagedorn, N. H.; Thaller, L. H.

1982-01-01

The characteristics inherent in Redox flow systems permit considerable latitude in designing systems for specific storage applications. The first of these characteristics is the absence of plating/deplating reactions with their attendant morphology changes at the electrodes. This permits a given Redox system to operate over a wide range of depths of discharge and charge/discharge rates. The second characteristic is the separation of power generating components (stacks) from the energy storage components (tanks). This results in cost effective system design, ease of system growth via modularization, and freedom from sizing restraints so that the whole spectrum of applications, from utilities down to single residence can be considered. The final characteristic is the commonality of the reactant fluids which assures that all cells at all times are receiving reactants at the same state of charge. Since no cell can be out of balance with respect to any other cell, it is possible for some cells to be charged while others are discharging, in effect creating a DC to DC transformer. It is also possible for various groups of cells to be connected to separate loads, thus supplying a range of output voltages. Also, trim cells can be used to maintain constant bus voltage as the load is changed or as the depth of discharge increases. The commonality of reactant fluids also permits any corrective measures such as rebalancing to occur at the system level instead of at the single cell level.

Load characteristics of wireless power transfer system with different resonant types and resonator numbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yiming; Zhao, Zhengming; Chen, Kainan; Fan, Jun

2017-05-01

Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) has been the research focus and applied in many fields. Normally power is transferred wirelessly to charge the battery, which requires specific load characteristics. The load characteristics are essential for the design and operation of the WPT system. This paper investigates the load characteristics of the WPT system with different resonant types and resonator numbers. It is found that in a WPT system with series or LCL resonance under a constant voltage source, the load characteristic is determined by the number of inductors. Even number of inductors results in a constant current characteristic and odd number constant voltage characteristic. Calculations, simulations, and experiments verify the analysis.

CFAVC scheme for high frequency series resonant inverter-fed domestic induction heating system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagarajan, Booma; Reddy Sathi, Rama

2016-01-01

This article presents the investigations on the constant frequency asymmetric voltage cancellation control in the AC-AC resonant converter-fed domestic induction heating system. Conventional fixed frequency control techniques used in the high frequency converters lead to non-zero voltage switching operation and reduced output power. The proposed control technique produces higher output power than the conventional fixed-frequency control strategies. In this control technique, zero-voltage-switching operation is maintained during different duty cycle operation for reduction in the switching losses. Complete analysis of the induction heating power supply system with asymmetric voltage cancellation control is discussed in this article. Simulation and experimental study on constant frequency asymmetric voltage cancellation (CFAVC)-controlled full bridge series resonant inverter is performed. Time domain simulation results for the open and closed loop of the system are obtained using MATLAB simulation tool. The simulation results prove the control of voltage and power in a wide range. PID controller-based closed loop control system achieves the voltage regulation of the proposed system for the step change in load. Hardware implementation of the system under CFAVC control is done using the embedded controller. The simulation and experimental results validate the performance of the CFAVC control technique for series resonant-based induction cooking system.

Full-order observer for direct torque control of induction motor based on constant V/F control technique.

PubMed

Pimkumwong, Narongrit; Wang, Ming-Shyan

2018-02-01

This paper presents another control method for the three-phase induction motor that is direct torque control based on constant voltage per frequency control technique. This method uses the magnitude of stator flux and torque errors to generate the stator voltage and phase angle references for controlling the induction motor by using constant voltage per frequency control method. Instead of hysteresis comparators and optimum switching table, the PI controllers and space vector modulation technique are used to reduce torque and stator-flux ripples and achieve constant switching frequency. Moreover, the coordinate transformations are not required. To implement this control method, a full-order observer is used to estimate stator flux and overcome the problems from drift and saturation in using pure integrator. The feedback gains are designed by simple manner to improve the convergence of stator flux estimation, especially in low speed range. Furthermore, the necessary conditions to maintain the stability for feedback gain design are introduced. The simulation and experimental results show accurate and stable operation of the introduced estimator and good dynamic response of the proposed control method. Copyright © 2017 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

HIT-SI Injector Voltage Measurements Using Injector Langmuir Probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aboul Hosn, Rabih; Smith, Roger; Jarboe, Thomas

2006-10-01

A pair of Langmuir probe arrays have been designed and built to measure floating potentials of the plasma at the injector mouth of the HIT-SI device. The Helicity Injected Torus using Steady Inductive Helicity Injection (HIT-SI) [1,2] is a ``bow tie'' spheromak using an electrodeless formation and sustainment concept. HIT-SI is powered by two inductive helicity injectors operated in quadrature to maintain a constant helicity injection rate. The electric probes consist of an array of four floating potential Langmuir probes measuring the voltage distribution in each injector from the shell to midpoint of the injector mouth. The probe measurements combine to determine the part of the injector loop voltage driving the n = 0 spheromak equilibrium region. Preliminary data suggest the spheromak voltage is the loop voltage minus the nearly constant injector voltage of 150-180 volts. These probe data will be used to calculate the helicity decay time of the spheromak. [1] T. R. Jarboe. Steady inductive helicity injection and its application to a high-beta spheromak. Fusion Technology, 36(1):85--91, July 1999. [2] P.E.Sieck et al., ``Demonstration of Steady Inductive Helicity Injection'', Nuc. Fusion, in press (2006).

Acetylcholine-induced current in perfused rat myoballs

PubMed Central

1980-01-01

Spherical "myoballs" were grown under tissue culture conditions from striated muscle of neonatal rat thighs. The myoballs were examined electrophysiologically with a suction pipette which was used to pass current and perfuse internally. A microelectrode was used to record membrane potential. Experiments were performed with approximately symmetrical (intracellular and extracellular) sodium aspartate solutions. The resting potential, acetylcholine (ACh) reversal potential, and sodium channel reversal potential were all approximately 0 mV. ACh-induced currents were examined by use of both voltage jumps and voltage ramps in the presence of iontophoretically applied agonist. The voltage-jump relaxations had a single exponential time-course. The time constant, tau, was exponentially related to membrane potential, increasing e-fold for 81 mV hyperpolarization. The equilibrium current- voltage relationship was also approximately exponential, from -120 to +81 mV, increasing e-fold for 104 mV hyperpolarization. The data are consistent with a first-order gating process in which the channel opening rate constant is slightly voltage dependent. The instantaneous current-voltage relationship was sublinear in the hyperpolarizing direction. Several models are discussed which can account for the nonlinearity. Evidence is presented that the "selectivity filter" for the ACh channel is located near the intracellular membrane surface. PMID:7381423

In situ X-ray near-edge absorption spectroscopy investigation of the state of charge of all-vanadium redox flow batteries.

PubMed

Jia, Chuankun; Liu, Qi; Sun, Cheng-Jun; Yang, Fan; Ren, Yang; Heald, Steve M; Liu, Yadong; Li, Zhe-Fei; Lu, Wenquan; Xie, Jian

2014-10-22

Synchrotron-based in situ X-ray near-edge absorption spectroscopy (XANES) has been used to study the valence state evolution of the vanadium ion for both the catholyte and anolyte in all-vanadium redox flow batteries (VRB) under realistic cycling conditions. The results indicate that, when using the widely used charge-discharge profile during the first charge process (charging the VRB cell to 1.65 V under a constant current mode), the vanadium ion valence did not reach V(V) in the catholyte and did not reach V(II) in the anolyte. Consequently, the state of charge (SOC) for the VRB cell was only 82%, far below the desired 100% SOC. Thus, such incompletely charged mix electrolytes results in not only wasting the electrolytes but also decreasing the cell performance in the following cycles. On the basis of our study, we proposed a new charge-discharge profile (first charged at a constant current mode up to 1.65 V and then continuously charged at a constant voltage mode until the capacity was close to the theoretical value) for the first charge process that achieved 100% SOC after the initial charge process. Utilizing this new charge-discharge profile, the theoretical charge capacity and the full utilization of electrolytes has been achieved, thus having a significant impact on the cost reduction of the electrolytes in VRB.

Dependences of the geometrical parameters of cell community on stimulation voltage and frequency in chick embryonic cardiomyocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujii, Koki; Nomura, Fumimasa; Kaneko, Tomoyuki

2018-03-01

To investigate the optimal conditions for electrical stimulation, communities of lined-up chick embryonic cardiomyocytes were evaluated in terms of their threshold voltage for pacing (PVMin) and the half-maximum paced frequency (PF50), with a focus on the following factors: (1) the orientation of the major axis of cell communities to the electric field (EF) direction as the external factor; (2) the number of cells in a cell community, the length of the cell community, and the mean length of cells comprising the community as the internal factors. Firstly, PVMin decreased with increasing length of the cell network oriented parallel to the EF. PVMin was approximately 0.041 ± 0.025 V/mm when the community was sufficiently long. On the other hand, PVMin in the orthogonal orientation was constant at 1.7 ± 0.047 V/mm with no dependence on the length of the cell network. Secondly, we found that PF50 increased with increasing length of the cell network or the number of cells in the network; the PF50 values were 2.03 ± 0.05 and 3.39 ± 0.05 Hz when the respective cell network lengths were 100 µm (n = 43) and more than 300 µm (n = 6) and the cells were oriented parallel to the EF. These findings indicate that it is important to suppress ventricular fibrillation with minimal efficient stimulation by considering the EF direction with respect to the orientation of cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, expanded cells showed the loss of ability to respond to stimulation at higher frequencies. Cardiomyocytes combined with seeded fibroblasts as a cell network at a low density are a possible model of a ventricular remodeling heart.

Enhanced voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy in magnetic tunnel junctions with an MgO/PZT/MgO tunnel barrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chien, Diana; Li, Xiang; Wong, Kin; Zurbuchen, Mark A.; Robbennolt, Shauna; Yu, Guoqiang; Tolbert, Sarah; Kioussis, Nicholas; Khalili Amiri, Pedram; Wang, Kang L.; Chang, Jane P.

2016-03-01

Compared with current-controlled magnetization switching in a perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), electric field- or voltage-induced magnetization switching reduces the writing energy of the memory cell, which also results in increased memory density. In this work, an ultra-thin PZT film with high dielectric constant was integrated into the tunneling oxide layer to enhance the voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) effect. The growth of MTJ stacks with an MgO/PZT/MgO tunnel barrier was performed using a combination of sputtering and atomic layer deposition techniques. The fabricated MTJs with the MgO/PZT/MgO barrier demonstrate a VCMA coefficient, which is ˜40% higher (19.8 ± 1.3 fJ/V m) than the control sample MTJs with an MgO barrier (14.3 ± 2.7 fJ/V m). The MTJs with the MgO/PZT/MgO barrier also possess a sizeable tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) of more than 50% at room temperature, comparable to the control MTJs with an MgO barrier. The TMR and enhanced VCMA effect demonstrated simultaneously in this work make the MgO/PZT/MgO barrier-based MTJs potential candidates for future voltage-controlled, ultralow-power, and high-density magnetic random access memory devices.

(In)validity of the constant field and constant currents assumptions in theories of ion transport.

PubMed Central

Syganow, A; von Kitzing, E

1999-01-01

Constant electric fields and constant ion currents are often considered in theories of ion transport. Therefore, it is important to understand the validity of these helpful concepts. The constant field assumption requires that the charge density of permeant ions and flexible polar groups is virtually voltage independent. We present analytic relations that indicate the conditions under which the constant field approximation applies. Barrier models are frequently fitted to experimental current-voltage curves to describe ion transport. These models are based on three fundamental characteristics: a constant electric field, negligible concerted motions of ions inside the channel (an ion can enter only an empty site), and concentration-independent energy profiles. An analysis of those fundamental assumptions of barrier models shows that those approximations require large barriers because the electrostatic interaction is strong and has a long range. In the constant currents assumption, the current of each permeating ion species is considered to be constant throughout the channel; thus ion pairing is explicitly ignored. In inhomogeneous steady-state systems, the association rate constant determines the strength of ion pairing. Among permeable ions, however, the ion association rate constants are not small, according to modern diffusion-limited reaction rate theories. A mathematical formulation of a constant currents condition indicates that ion pairing very likely has an effect but does not dominate ion transport. PMID:9929480

Poloxamer 188 decreases susceptibility of artificial lipid membranes to electroporation.

PubMed Central

Sharma, V; Stebe, K; Murphy, J C; Tung, L

1996-01-01

The effect of a nontoxic, nonionic block co-polymeric surface active agent, poloxamer 188, on electroporation of artificial lipid membranes made of azolectin, was investigated. Two different experimental protocols were used in our study: charge pulse and voltage clamp. For the charge pulse protocol, membranes were pulsed with a 10-micronsecond rectangular voltage waveform, after which membrane voltage decay was observed through an external 1-M omega resistance. For the voltage clamp protocol the membranes were pulsed with a waveform that consisted of an initial 10-microsecond rectangular phase, followed by a negative sloped ramp that decayed to zero in the subsequent 500 microseconds. Several parameters characterizing the electroporation process were measured and compared for the control membranes and membranes treated with 1.0 mM poloxamer 188. For both the charge pulse and voltage clamp experiments, the threshold voltage (amplitude of initial rectangular phase) and latency time (time elapsed between the end of rectangular phase and the onset of membrane electroporation) were measured. Membrane conductance (measured 200 microseconds after the initial rectangular phase) and rise time (tr; the time required for the porated membrane to reach a certain conductance value) were also determined for the voltage clamp experiments, and postelectroporation time constant (PE tau; the time constant for transmembrane voltage decay after onset of electroporation) for the charge pulse experiments. The charge pulse experiments were performed on 23 membranes with 10 control and 13 poloxamer-treated membranes, and voltage pulse experiments on 49 membranes with 26 control and 23 poloxamer-treated membranes. For both charge pulse and voltage clamp experiments, poloxamer 188-treated membranes exhibited a statistically higher threshold voltage (p = 0.1 and p = 0.06, respectively), and longer latency time (p = 0.04 and p = 0.05, respectively). Also, poloxamer 188-treated membranes were found to have a relatively lower conductance (p = 0.001), longer time required for the porated membrane to reach a certain conductance value (p = 0.05), and longer postelectroporation time constant (p = 0.005). Furthermore, addition of poloxamer 188 was found to reduce the membrane capacitance by approximately 4-8% in 5 min. These findings suggest that poloxamer 188 adsorbs into the lipid bilayers, thereby decreasing their susceptibility to electroporation. Images FIGURE 1 PMID:8968593

Are Soft Short Tests Good Indicators of Internal Li-ion Cell Defects?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeevarajan, J.; Chung, J.-S.; Jung, K.; Park, J.

2013-01-01

The self discharge test at full state of charge, may not be a good one to detect subtle defects since the li-ion chemistry has the highest self discharge at full state of charge. One should characterize self discharge versus storage time for each cell manufacturer/design to differentiate between normal self discharge and that due to a subtle manufacturing defect. The various soft short test methods indicate that if this test is carried out at full discharge (0% SOC) with all capacity removed (by lowering the current load in a stepwise manner to the same end of discharge voltage), then the cells need to be placed in storage for more than 72 hours to get a good analysis on the presence of subtle defects since it takes more than 72 hours to achieve voltage stabilization. If the cells are to be charged up even to a small percentage (ex. 1%), 72 hours are sufficient to determine issues. However, the pass/fail criteria should be based on a valid OCV decline. Less than 10 mV voltage decline is not a good method to detect subtle defects. As mentioned in the first bullet, self discharge is a competing reaction when a charge is introduced and hence a characterization of the self discharge versus storage time is required to fully correlate voltage decline to a failure due to a subtle defect. Soft short test method cannot be relied on for defect detection because cells with and without voltage decline seemed to have similar defects and characteristics. Screening methods such as internal resistance and capacity as well as a 3-sigma range for OCV, mass and dimensions should be used to screen out outliers. A very critical aspect in the understanding of subtle defects is to carry out destructive analysis of cells from every lot to confirm the quality of production and screen all cells and batteries in a stringent manner to have a high quality set of flight cells. Self Discharge Test: Fully charged cells shall be placed in Open circuit stand for 72 hours (OCV measurement twice a day); continue for total of 14 days with 1 reading per day 2. Soft Short Test 1: Fully charge; cells discharged to manufacturer's end of disch. Voltage (EODV) cutoff at C/5 rate; stand for 30 minutes; discharge with C/500 to the same EODV. stand for another 30 minutes; discharge the cells again using C/1000 current to the same EODV. OCV measurements twice a day for 72 hours and then for total of 14 days (data collection same as in 1.) 3. Soft Short Test 2: Fully charge; cells discharged to the manuf. EODV with a C/13 constant current; provide a 10 hour rest, discharge again to the same EODV with a current of C/250, provide a 10 hour rest, discharge again using a C/250 rate, provide a 24 hour rest, charge using C/250 to 3.15 V (for 12 hours). OCV measurements twice a day for at 72 hours. (data collection same as in 1.) 4. Soft Short Test 3: Fully charge; cells shall be discharged using C/10 current to manuf. EODV. Allow the cell to remain at Open circuit for 10 seconds. Discharge the cell at C/20 rate to the same EODV, hold open circuit for 24 hours. Discharge the cells at C/200 rate to the same end of voltage cutoff and hold open circuit for 24 hours. Discharge the cells one more time at C/200 rate to the same EODV and hold open circuit for 36 hours. Charge at C/200 rate to 3.15 V and hold for 3 days. Record OCV during the open circuit stand periods every 12 hours and at the beginning and end of the 3 day hold (include the 12 hour OCV recording during this time also). Capacity Cycling: Cells with declining voltages - one cell from each manufacturer chosen for cycling Destructive Physical Analysis (DPA): Cells with and without decline chosen from each lot for DPA.

CaV 3.1 and CaV 3.3 account for T-type Ca2+ current in GH3 cells.

PubMed

Mudado, M A; Rodrigues, A L; Prado, V F; Beirão, P S L; Cruz, J S

2004-06-01

T-type Ca2+ channels are important for cell signaling by a variety of cells. We report here the electrophysiological and molecular characteristics of the whole-cell Ca2+ current in GH3 clonal pituitary cells. The current inactivation at 0 mV was described by a single exponential function with a time constant of 18.32 +/- 1.87 ms (N = 16). The I-V relationship measured with Ca2+ as a charge carrier was shifted to the left when we applied a conditioning pre-pulse of up to -120 mV, indicating that a low voltage-activated current may be present in GH3 cells. Transient currents were first activated at -50 mV and peaked around -20 mV. The half-maximal voltage activation and the slope factors for the two conditions are -35.02 +/- 2.4 and 6.7 +/- 0.3 mV (pre-pulse of -120 mV, N = 15), and -27.0 +/- 0.97 and 7.5 +/- 0.7 mV (pre-pulse of -40 mV, N = 9). The 8-mV shift in the activation mid-point was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The tail currents decayed bi-exponentially suggesting two different T-type Ca2+ channel populations. RT-PCR revealed the presence of alpha1G (CaV3.1) and alpha1I (CaV3.3) T-type Ca2+ channel mRNA transcripts.

State of charge modeling of lithium-ion batteries using dual exponential functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuo, Ting-Jung; Lee, Kung-Yen; Huang, Chien-Kang; Chen, Jau-Horng; Chiu, Wei-Li; Huang, Chih-Fang; Wu, Shuen-De

2016-05-01

A mathematical model is developed by fitting the discharging curve of LiFePO4 batteries and used to investigate the relationship between the state of charge and the closed-circuit voltage. The proposed mathematical model consists of dual exponential terms and a constant term which can fit the characteristics of dual equivalent RC circuits closely, representing a LiFePO4 battery. One exponential term presents the stable discharging behavior and the other one presents the unstable discharging behavior and the constant term presents the cut-off voltage.

State trajectories used to observe and control dc-to-dc converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burns, W. W., III; Wilson, T. G.

1976-01-01

State-plane analysis techniques are employed to study the voltage stepup energy-storage dc-to-dc converter. Within this framework, an example converter operating under the influence of a constant on-time and a constant frequency controller is examined. Qualitative insight gained through this approach is used to develop a conceptual free-running control law for the voltage stepup converter which can achieve steady-state operation in one on/off cycle of control. Digital computer simulation data are presented to illustrate and verify the theoretical discussions presented.

Simultaneous selection of soil electroactive bacterial communities associated to anode and cathode in a two-chamber Microbial Fuel Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiellini, Carolina; Bacci, Giovanni; Fani, Renato; Mocali, Stefano

2016-04-01

Different bacteria have evolved strategies to transfer electrons over their cell surface to (or from) their extracellular environment. This electron transfer enables the use of these bacteria in bioelectrochemical systems (BES) such as Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs). In MFC research the biological reactions at the cathode have long been a secondary point of interest. However, bacterial biocathodes in MFCs represent a potential advantage compared to traditional cathodes, for both their low costs and their low impact on the environment. The main challenge in biocathode set-up is represented by the selection of a bacterial community able to efficiently accept electrons from the electrode, starting from an environmental matrix. In this work, a constant voltage was supplied on a two-chamber MFC filled up with soil over three weeks in order to simultaneously select an electron donor bacterial biomass on the anode and an electron acceptor biomass on the cathode, starting from the same soil. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis was performed to characterize the bacterial community of the initial soil, in the anode, in the cathode and in the control chamber not supplied with any voltage. Results highlighted that both the MFC conditions and the voltage supply affected the soil bacterial communities, providing a selection of different bacterial groups preferentially associated to the anode (Betaproteobacteria, Bacilli and Clostridia) and to the cathode (Actinobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria). These results confirmed that several electroactive bacteria are naturally present within a top soil and, moreover, different soil bacterial genera could provide different electrical properties.

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

Two-Dimensional Porous Electrode Model for Capacitive Deionization

DOE PAGES

Hemmatifar, Ali; Stadermann, Michael; Santiago, Juan G.

2015-10-28

Here, ion transport in porous conductive materials is of great importance in a variety of electrochemical systems including batteries and supercapacitors. We here analyze the coupling of flow and charge transport and charge capacitance in capacitive deionization (CDI). In CDI, a pair of porous carbon electrodes is employed to electrostatically retain and remove ionic species from aqueous solutions. We here develop and solve a novel unsteady two-dimensional model for capturing the ion adsorption/desorption dynamics in a flow-between CDI system. We use this model to study the complex, nonlinear coupling between electromigration, diffusion, and advection of ions. We also fabricated amore » laboratory-scale CDI cell which we use to measure the near-equilibrium, cumulative adsorbed salt, and electric charge as a function of applied external voltage. We use these integral measures to validate and calibrate this model. We further present a detailed computational study of the spatiotemporal adsorption/desorption dynamics under constant voltage and constant flow conditions. We show results for low (20 mM KCl) and relatively high (200 mM KCl) inlet ion concentrations and identify effects of ion starvation on desalination. We show that in both cases electromigrative transport eventually becomes negligible and diffusive ion transport reduces the desalination rate.« less

An area and power-efficient analog li-ion battery charger circuit.

PubMed

Do Valle, Bruno; Wentz, Christian T; Sarpeshkar, Rahul

2011-04-01

The demand for greater battery life in low-power consumer electronics and implantable medical devices presents a need for improved energy efficiency in the management of small rechargeable cells. This paper describes an ultra-compact analog lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery charger with high energy efficiency. The charger presented here utilizes the tanh basis function of a subthreshold operational transconductance amplifier to smoothly transition between constant-current and constant-voltage charging regimes without the need for additional area- and power-consuming control circuitry. Current-domain circuitry for end-of-charge detection negates the need for precision-sense resistors in either the charging path or control loop. We show theoretically and experimentally that the low-frequency pole-zero nature of most battery impedances leads to inherent stability of the analog control loop. The circuit was fabricated in an AMI 0.5-μm complementary metal-oxide semiconductor process, and achieves 89.7% average power efficiency and an end voltage accuracy of 99.9% relative to the desired target 4.2 V, while consuming 0.16 mm(2) of chip area. To date and to the best of our knowledge, this design represents the most area-efficient and most energy-efficient battery charger circuit reported in the literature.

The voltage control for self-excited induction generator based on STATCOM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Dandan; Wang, Feifeng; Pan, Juntao; Long, Weijie

2018-05-01

The small independent induction generator can build up voltage under its remanent magnetizing and excitation capacitance, but it is prone to voltage sag and harmonic increment when running with load. Therefore, the controller for constant voltage is designed based on the natural coordinate system to adjust the static synchronous compensator (STATCOM), which provides two-way dynamic reactive power compensation for power generation system to achieve voltage stability and harmonic suppression. The control strategy is verified on Matlab/Sinmulik, and the results show that the STATCOM under the controller can effectively improve the load capacity and reliability of asynchronous generator.

Voltage gating by molecular subunits of Na+ and K+ ion channels: higher-dimensional cubic kinetics, rate constants, and temperature

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

The structural similarity between the primary molecules of voltage-gated Na and K channels (alpha subunits) and activation gating in the Hodgkin-Huxley model is brought into full agreement by increasing the model's sodium kinetics to fourth order (m3 → m4). Both structures then virtually imply activation gating by four independent subprocesses acting in parallel. The kinetics coalesce in four-dimensional (4D) cubic diagrams (16 states, 32 reversible transitions) that show the structure to be highly failure resistant against significant partial loss of gating function. Rate constants, as fitted in phase plot data of retinal ganglion cell excitation, reflect the molecular nature of the gating transitions. Additional dimensions (6D cubic diagrams) accommodate kinetically coupled sodium inactivation and gating processes associated with beta subunits. The gating transitions of coupled sodium inactivation appear to be thermodynamically irreversible; response to dielectric surface charges (capacitive displacement) provides a potential energy source for those transitions and yields highly energy-efficient excitation. A comparison of temperature responses of the squid giant axon (apparently Arrhenius) and mammalian channel gating yields kinetic Q10 = 2.2 for alpha unit gating, whose transitions are rate-limiting at mammalian temperatures; beta unit kinetic Q10 = 14 reproduces the observed non-Arrhenius deviation of mammalian gating at low temperatures; the Q10 of sodium inactivation gating matches the rate-limiting component of activation gating at all temperatures. The model kinetics reproduce the physiologically large frequency range for repetitive firing in ganglion cells and the physiologically observed strong temperature dependence of recovery from inactivation. PMID:25867741

Neuronal Spike Timing Adaptation Described with a Fractional Leaky Integrate-and-Fire Model

PubMed Central

Teka, Wondimu; Marinov, Toma M.; Santamaria, Fidel

2014-01-01

The voltage trace of neuronal activities can follow multiple timescale dynamics that arise from correlated membrane conductances. Such processes can result in power-law behavior in which the membrane voltage cannot be characterized with a single time constant. The emergent effect of these membrane correlations is a non-Markovian process that can be modeled with a fractional derivative. A fractional derivative is a non-local process in which the value of the variable is determined by integrating a temporal weighted voltage trace, also called the memory trace. Here we developed and analyzed a fractional leaky integrate-and-fire model in which the exponent of the fractional derivative can vary from 0 to 1, with 1 representing the normal derivative. As the exponent of the fractional derivative decreases, the weights of the voltage trace increase. Thus, the value of the voltage is increasingly correlated with the trajectory of the voltage in the past. By varying only the fractional exponent, our model can reproduce upward and downward spike adaptations found experimentally in neocortical pyramidal cells and tectal neurons in vitro. The model also produces spikes with longer first-spike latency and high inter-spike variability with power-law distribution. We further analyze spike adaptation and the responses to noisy and oscillatory input. The fractional model generates reliable spike patterns in response to noisy input. Overall, the spiking activity of the fractional leaky integrate-and-fire model deviates from the spiking activity of the Markovian model and reflects the temporal accumulated intrinsic membrane dynamics that affect the response of the neuron to external stimulation. PMID:24675903

Research on Experiment of Islanding Protection Device of Grid-connected Photovoltaic System Based on RTDS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Ning; Yang, Jia; Cheng, Zheng; Chen, Bo; Su, Yong Chun; Shu, Zhan; Zou, Jin

2017-06-01

Solar photovoltaic power generation is the power generation using solar cell module converting sunlight into DC electric energy. In the paper an equivalent model of solar photovoltaic power generation system is built in RTDS. The main circuit structure of the two-stage PV grid-connected system consists of the DC-DC, DC-AC circuit. The MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) control of the PV array is controlled by adjusting the duty ratio of the DC-DC circuit. The proposed control strategy of constant voltage/constant reactive power (V/Q) control is successfully implemented grid-connected control of the inverter when grid-connected operation. The closed-loop experiment of islanding protection device of photovoltaic power plant on RTDS, verifies the correctness of the simulation model, and the experimental verification can be applied to this type of device.

[Study of the electrical properties of retinal horizontal cell syncytia by the technic of uniform polarization].

PubMed

Shura-Bura, T M; Trifonov, Iu A

1980-01-01

For uniform polarization of syncytial or cable structures at a large area with current passed via extracellular electrodes the extracellular longitudinal gradient of potential must be proportional to distance from the edge of preparation. In this paper the profile of conducting plate was found analytically which allows to obtain such a distribution of potentials. The profile is formed by hyperbola and its orthogonal asymptotes. Two polarizing electrodes are applied to places where the hyperbola is near to asymptotes. On the surfaces formed by asymptotes the gradient of potential is proportional to distance from intersection of these surfaces. Such a conducting plate was made as cavity in plexiglas filled by Ringer solution in agar. The plate was used for obtaining the voltage-current curves of horizontal cell membrane in gold fish retina. The area of uniform polarization was 4-5 mm long. Measurements inside this area allowed to determine the space constant of horizontal cell layer. The space constant measured in bright light (when resistance of subsynaptic membrane is high) depends on the membrane potential, being high (approximately 1,5 mm) during depolarization and low (0,2-0,4 mm) during hyperpolarization.

A study of Schwarz converters for nuclear powered spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuart, Thomas A.; Schwarze, Gene E.

1987-01-01

High power space systems which use low dc voltage, high current sources such as thermoelectric generators, will most likely require high voltage conversion for transmission purposes. This study considers the use of the Schwarz resonant converter for use as the basic building block to accomplish this low-to-high voltage conversion for either a dc or an ac spacecraft bus. The Schwarz converter has the important assets of both inherent fault tolerance and resonant operation; parallel operation in modular form is possible. A regulated dc spacecraft bus requires only a single stage converter while a constant frequency ac bus requires a cascaded Schwarz converter configuration. If the power system requires constant output power from the dc generator, then a second converter is required to route unneeded power to a ballast load.

Heliocentric interplanetary low thrust trajectory optimization program, supplement 1, part 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mann, F. I.; Horsewood, J. L.

1978-01-01

The improvements made to the HILTOP electric propulsion trajectory computer program are described. A more realistic propulsion system model was implemented in which various thrust subsystem efficiencies and specific impulse are modeled as variable functions of power available to the propulsion system. The number of operating thrusters are staged, and the beam voltage is selected from a set of five (or less) constant voltages, based upon the application of variational calculus. The constant beam voltages may be optimized individually or collectively. The propulsion system logic is activated by a single program input key in such a manner as to preserve the HILTOP logic. An analysis describing these features, a complete description of program input quantities, and sample cases of computer output illustrating the program capabilities are presented.

Aging and failure mode of electrochemical double layer capacitors during accelerated constant load tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kötz, R.; Ruch, P. W.; Cericola, D.

Electrochemical double layer capacitors of the BCAP0350 type (Maxwell Technologies) were tested under constant load conditions at different voltages and temperatures. The aging of the capacitors was monitored during the test in terms of capacitance, internal resistance and leakage current. Aging was significantly accelerated by elevated temperature or increased voltage. Only for extreme conditions at voltages of 3.5 V or temperatures above 70 °C the capacitors failed due to internal pressure build-up. No other failure events such as open circuit or short circuit were detected. Impedance measurements after the tests showed increased high frequency resistance, an increased distributed resistance and most likely an increase in contact resistance between electrode and current collector together with a loss of capacitance. Capacitors aged at elevated voltages (3.3 V) exhibited a tilting of the low frequency component, which implies an increase in the heterogeneity of the electrode surface. This feature was not observed upon aging at elevated temperatures (70 °C).

Interpretation of inverted photocurrent transients in organic lead halide perovskite solar cells: proof of the field screening by mobile ions and determination of the space charge layer widths

DOE PAGES

Belisle, Rebecca A.; Nguyen, William H.; Bowring, Andrea R.; ...

2017-01-01

In Methyl Ammonium Lead Iodide (MAPI) perovskite solar cells, screening of the built-in field by mobile ions has been proposed as part of the cause of the large hysteresis observed in the current/voltage scans in many cells. Here, we show that photocurrent transients measured immediately (e.g. 100 μs) after a voltage step can provide direct evidence that this field screening exists. Just after a step to forward bias, the photocurrent transients are reversed in sign (i.e. inverted), and the magnitude of the inverted transients can be used to find an upper bound on the width of the space charge layersmore » adjacent to the electrodes. This in turn provides a lower bound on the mobile charge concentration, which we find to be ≳1 x 10 17 cm -3. Using a new photocurrent transient experiment, we show that the space charge layer thickness remains approximately constant as a function of bias, as expected for mobile ions in a solid electrolyte. We also discuss additional characteristics of the inverted photocurrent transients that imply either an unusually stable deep trapping, or a photo effect on the mobile ion conductivity.« less

Interpretation of inverted photocurrent transients in organic lead halide perovskite solar cells: proof of the field screening by mobile ions and determination of the space charge layer widths

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

Belisle, Rebecca A.; Nguyen, William H.; Bowring, Andrea R.

In Methyl Ammonium Lead Iodide (MAPI) perovskite solar cells, screening of the built-in field by mobile ions has been proposed as part of the cause of the large hysteresis observed in the current/voltage scans in many cells. Here, we show that photocurrent transients measured immediately (e.g. 100 μs) after a voltage step can provide direct evidence that this field screening exists. Just after a step to forward bias, the photocurrent transients are reversed in sign (i.e. inverted), and the magnitude of the inverted transients can be used to find an upper bound on the width of the space charge layersmore » adjacent to the electrodes. This in turn provides a lower bound on the mobile charge concentration, which we find to be ≳1 x 10 17 cm -3. Using a new photocurrent transient experiment, we show that the space charge layer thickness remains approximately constant as a function of bias, as expected for mobile ions in a solid electrolyte. We also discuss additional characteristics of the inverted photocurrent transients that imply either an unusually stable deep trapping, or a photo effect on the mobile ion conductivity.« less

Development of membrane electrode assembly for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell by catalyst coating membrane method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Huagen; Su, Huaneng; Pollet, Bruno G.; Pasupathi, Sivakumar

2015-08-01

Membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which contains cathode and anode catalytic layer, gas diffusion layers (GDL) and electrolyte membrane, is the key unit of a PEMFC. An attempt to develop MEA for ABPBI membrane based high temperature (HT) PEMFC is conducted in this work by catalyst coating membrane (CCM) method. The structure and performance of the MEA are examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and I-V curve. Effects of the CCM preparation method, Pt loading and binder type are investigated for the optimization of the single cell performance. Under 160 °C and atmospheric pressure, the peak power density of the MEA, with Pt loading of 0.5 mg cm-2 and 0.3 mg cm-2 for the cathode and the anode, can reach 277 mW cm-2, while a current density of 620 A cm-2 is delivered at the working voltage of 0.4 V. The MEA prepared by CCM method shows good stability operating in a short term durability test: the cell voltage maintained at ∼0.45 V without obvious drop when operated at a constant current density of 300 mA cm-2 and 160 °C under ambient pressure for 140 h.

Plasma-based Compressor Stall Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGowan, Ryan; Corke, Thomas

2017-11-01

The use of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuator casing treatment to prevent or delay stall inception in an axial fan is examined. The actuators are powered by a pulsed-DC waveform which induces a larger peak velocity than a purely AC waveform such as a sine or sawtooth wave. With this system, a high-voltage DC source is supplied to both electrodes, remaining constant in time for the exposed electrode. Meanwhile, the covered electrode is periodically grounded for several microseconds and allowed to rise back to the source DC level. To test the actuators' ability to interact with and modify the formation of stall cells, a facility has been designed and constructed around nonconductive fan blades. The actuators are installed in the fan casing near the blade tips. The instrumentation allows for the measurement of rotating pressure disturbances (traveling stall cells) in this tip gap region as well as fan performance characteristics including pressure rise and flow rate. The casing plasma actuation is found to reduce the correlation of the rotating stall cells, thereby extending the stall margin of the fan. Various azimuthal arrangements of the plasma actuator casing treatment is explored, as well as input voltage levels to the actuator to determine optimum conditions. NASA SBIR Contract NNX14CC12C.

Branchy alumina nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, Jianping; Pu, Lin; Bao, Ximao; Feng, Duan

2002-02-01

Branchy alumina nanotubes (bANTs) have been shown to exist in aluminum oxide. Electron-beam evaporated 400 nm Al film on Si substrate is stepwise anodized in dilute sulfuric acid under the constant dc voltage 40 V at 10.0 °C. This electrochemical-anodizing route resulted in the formation of individual bANTs. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the length of the bANTs was around 450 nm, and the inner diameter was around 10-20 nm. We deduced that the bANTs, the completely detached multibranchy cells of anodic porous alumina (APA) film, should be evolved from the stagnant cells of the APA mother film. The bANTs may be used as templates in fabrication of individual branchy nanoscale cables, jacks, and heterojunctions. The proposed formation mechanisms of the bANTs and the stagnant cells should give some insights into the long-standing problem of APA film, i.e., the self-ordering mechanism of the cells arrangement in porous anodization of aluminum.

Activation of Ih and TTX-sensitive sodium current at subthreshold voltages during CA1 pyramidal neuron firing

PubMed Central

Yamada-Hanff, Jason

2015-01-01

We used dynamic clamp and action potential clamp techniques to explore how currents carried by tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels and HCN channels (Ih) regulate the behavior of CA1 pyramidal neurons at resting and subthreshold voltages. Recording from rat CA1 pyramidal neurons in hippocampal slices, we found that the apparent input resistance and membrane time constant were strongly affected by both conductances, with Ih acting to decrease apparent input resistance and time constant and sodium current acting to increase both. We found that both Ih and sodium current were active during subthreshold summation of artificial excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) generated by dynamic clamp, with Ih dominating at less depolarized voltages and sodium current at more depolarized voltages. Subthreshold sodium current—which amplifies EPSPs—was most effectively recruited by rapid voltage changes, while Ih—which blunts EPSPs—was maximal for slow voltage changes. The combined effect is to selectively amplify rapid EPSPs. We did similar experiments in mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons, doing voltage-clamp experiments using experimental records of action potential firing of CA1 neurons previously recorded in awake, behaving animals as command voltages to quantify flow of Ih and sodium current at subthreshold voltages. Subthreshold sodium current was larger and subthreshold Ih was smaller in mouse neurons than in rat neurons. Overall, the results show opposing effects of subthreshold sodium current and Ih in regulating subthreshold behavior of CA1 neurons, with subthreshold sodium current prominent in both rat and mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons and additional regulation by Ih in rat neurons. PMID:26289465

Multijunction high-voltage solar cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, J. C., Jr.; Goradia, C.; Chai, A. T.

1981-01-01

Multijunction cell allows for fabrication of high-voltage solar cell on single semiconductor wafer. Photovoltaic energy source using cell is combined on wafer with circuit it is to power. Cell consists of many voltage-generating regions internally or externally interconnected to give desired voltage and current combination. For computer applications, module is built on silicon wafer with energy for internal information processing and readouts derived from external light source.

Fuel cell stack monitoring and system control

DOEpatents

Keskula, Donald H.; Doan, Tien M.; Clingerman, Bruce J.

2004-02-17

A control method for monitoring a fuel cell stack in a fuel cell system in which the actual voltage and actual current from the fuel cell stack are monitored. A preestablished relationship between voltage and current over the operating range of the fuel cell is established. A variance value between the actual measured voltage and the expected voltage magnitude for a given actual measured current is calculated and compared with a predetermined allowable variance. An output is generated if the calculated variance value exceeds the predetermined variance. The predetermined voltage-current for the fuel cell is symbolized as a polarization curve at given operating conditions of the fuel cell.

A High Voltage Ratio and Low Ripple Interleaved DC-DC Converter for Fuel Cell Applications

PubMed Central

Chang, Long-Yi; Chao, Kuei-Hsiang; Chang, Tsang-Chih

2012-01-01

This paper proposes a high voltage ratio and low ripple interleaved boost DC-DC converter, which can be used to reduce the output voltage ripple. This converter transfers the low DC voltage of fuel cell to high DC voltage in DC link. The structure of the converter is parallel with two voltage-doubler boost converters by interleaving their output voltages to reduce the voltage ripple ratio. Besides, it can lower the current stress for the switches and inductors in the system. First, the PSIM software was used to establish a proton exchange membrane fuel cell and a converter circuit model. The simulated and measured results of the fuel cell output characteristic curve are made to verify the correctness of the established simulation model. In addition, some experimental results are made to validate the effectiveness in improving output voltage ripple of the proposed high voltage ratio interleaved boost DC-DC converters. PMID:23365536

A high voltage ratio and low ripple interleaved DC-DC converter for fuel cell applications.

PubMed

Chang, Long-Yi; Chao, Kuei-Hsiang; Chang, Tsang-Chih

2012-01-01

This paper proposes a high voltage ratio and low ripple interleaved boost DC-DC converter, which can be used to reduce the output voltage ripple. This converter transfers the low DC voltage of fuel cell to high DC voltage in DC link. The structure of the converter is parallel with two voltage-doubler boost converters by interleaving their output voltages to reduce the voltage ripple ratio. Besides, it can lower the current stress for the switches and inductors in the system. First, the PSIM software was used to establish a proton exchange membrane fuel cell and a converter circuit model. The simulated and measured results of the fuel cell output characteristic curve are made to verify the correctness of the established simulation model. In addition, some experimental results are made to validate the effectiveness in improving output voltage ripple of the proposed high voltage ratio interleaved boost DC-DC converters.

A methodology for constraining power in finite element modeling of radiofrequency ablation.

PubMed

Jiang, Yansheng; Possebon, Ricardo; Mulier, Stefaan; Wang, Chong; Chen, Feng; Feng, Yuanbo; Xia, Qian; Liu, Yewei; Yin, Ting; Oyen, Raymond; Ni, Yicheng

2017-07-01

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive thermal therapy for the treatment of cancer, hyperopia, and cardiac tachyarrhythmia. In RFA, the power delivered to the tissue is a key parameter. The objective of this study was to establish a methodology for the finite element modeling of RFA with constant power. Because of changes in the electric conductivity of tissue with temperature, a nonconventional boundary value problem arises in the mathematic modeling of RFA: neither the voltage (Dirichlet condition) nor the current (Neumann condition), but the power, that is, the product of voltage and current was prescribed on part of boundary. We solved the problem using Lagrange multiplier: the product of the voltage and current on the electrode surface is constrained to be equal to the Joule heating. We theoretically proved the equality between the product of the voltage and current on the surface of the electrode and the Joule heating in the domain. We also proved the well-posedness of the problem of solving the Laplace equation for the electric potential under a constant power constraint prescribed on the electrode surface. The Pennes bioheat transfer equation and the Laplace equation for electric potential augmented with the constraint of constant power were solved simultaneously using the Newton-Raphson algorithm. Three problems for validation were solved. Numerical results were compared either with an analytical solution deduced in this study or with results obtained by ANSYS or experiments. This work provides the finite element modeling of constant power RFA with a firm mathematical basis and opens pathway for achieving the optimal RFA power. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Bivariate quadratic method in quantifying the differential capacitance and energy capacity of supercapacitors under high current operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goh, Chin-Teng; Cruden, Andrew

2014-11-01

Capacitance and resistance are the fundamental electrical parameters used to evaluate the electrical characteristics of a supercapacitor, namely the dynamic voltage response, energy capacity, state of charge and health condition. In the British Standards EN62391 and EN62576, the constant capacitance method can be further improved with a differential capacitance that more accurately describes the dynamic voltage response of supercapacitors. This paper presents a novel bivariate quadratic based method to model the dynamic voltage response of supercapacitors under high current charge-discharge cycling, and to enable the derivation of the differential capacitance and energy capacity directly from terminal measurements, i.e. voltage and current, rather than from multiple pulsed-current or excitation signal tests across different bias levels. The estimation results the author achieves are in close agreement with experimental measurements, within a relative error of 0.2%, at various high current levels (25-200 A), more accurate than the constant capacitance method (4-7%). The archival value of this paper is the introduction of an improved quantification method for the electrical characteristics of supercapacitors, and the disclosure of the distinct properties of supercapacitors: the nonlinear capacitance-voltage characteristic, capacitance variation between charging and discharging, and distribution of energy capacity across the operating voltage window.

GaN HEMTs with p-GaN gate: field- and time-dependent degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meneghesso, G.; Meneghini, M.; Rossetto, I.; Canato, E.; Bartholomeus, J.; De Santi, C.; Trivellin, N.; Zanoni, E.

2017-02-01

GaN-HEMTs with p-GaN gate have recently demonstrated to be excellent normally-off devices for application in power conversion systems, thanks to the high and robust threshold voltage (VTH>1 V), the high breakdown voltage, and the low dynamic Ron increase. For this reason, studying the stability and reliability of these devices under high stress conditions is of high importance. This paper reports on our most recent results on the field- and time-dependent degradation of GaN-HEMTs with p-GaN gate submitted to stress with positive gate bias. Based on combined step-stress experiments, constant voltage stress and electroluminescence testing we demonstrated that: (i) when submitted to high/positive gate stress, the transistors may show a negative threshold voltage shift, that is ascribed to the injection of holes from the gate metal towards the p-GaN/AlGaN interface; (ii) in a step-stress experiment, the analyzed commercial devices fail at gate voltages higher than 9-10 V, due to the extremely high electric field over the p-GaN/AlGaN stack; (iii) constant voltage stress tests indicate that the failure is also time-dependent and Weibull distributed. The several processes that can explain the time-dependent failure are discussed in the following.

On-line and real-time diagnosis method for proton membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack by the superposition principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Young-Hyun; Kim, Jonghyeon; Yoo, Seungyeol

2016-09-01

The critical cell voltage drop in a stack can be followed by stack defect. A method of detecting defective cell is the cell voltage monitoring. The other methods are based on the nonlinear frequency response. In this paper, the superposition principle for the diagnosis of PEMFC stack is introduced. If critical cell voltage drops exist, the stack behaves as a nonlinear system. This nonlinearity can explicitly appear in the ohmic overpotential region of a voltage-current curve. To detect the critical cell voltage drop, a stack is excited by two input direct test-currents which have smaller amplitude than an operating stack current and have an equal distance value from the operating current. If the difference between one voltage excited by a test current and the voltage excited by a load current is not equal to the difference between the other voltage response and the voltage excited by the load current, the stack system acts as a nonlinear system. This means that there is a critical cell voltage drop. The deviation from the value zero of the difference reflects the grade of the system nonlinearity. A simulation model for the stack diagnosis is developed based on the SPP, and experimentally validated.

Electrostimulation of rat callus cells and human lymphocytes in vitro

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

Aro, H.; Eerola, E.; Aho, A.J.

1984-01-01

Asymmetrical pulsing low voltage current was supplied via electrodes to cultured rat fracture callus cells and human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The (/sup 3/H)thymidine incorporation of the callus cells and 5-(/sup 125/I)iodo-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation of the lymphocytes were determined. The growth pattern of callus cells (estimated by cellular density) did not respond to electrical stimulation. However, the uptake of (/sup 3/H)thymidine was increased at the early phase of cell proliferation and inhibited at later phases of proliferation. The (/sup 3/H)thymidine uptake of confluent callus cell cultures did not respond to electrical stimulation. Lymphocytes reacted in a similar way; stimulated cells took upmore » more DNA precursor than control cells at the early phase of stimulation. During cell division, induced by the mitogens phytohemagglutinin and Concanavalin-A, the uptake of DNA precursor by stimulated cells was constantly inhibited. The results suggest that electrical stimuli affect the uptake mechanisms of cell membranes. The duality of the effect seems to be dependent on the cell cycle.« less

Fractional cable equation models for anomalous electrodiffusion in nerve cells: infinite domain solutions.

PubMed

Langlands, T A M; Henry, B I; Wearne, S L

2009-12-01

We introduce fractional Nernst-Planck equations and derive fractional cable equations as macroscopic models for electrodiffusion of ions in nerve cells when molecular diffusion is anomalous subdiffusion due to binding, crowding or trapping. The anomalous subdiffusion is modelled by replacing diffusion constants with time dependent operators parameterized by fractional order exponents. Solutions are obtained as functions of the scaling parameters for infinite cables and semi-infinite cables with instantaneous current injections. Voltage attenuation along dendrites in response to alpha function synaptic inputs is computed. Action potential firing rates are also derived based on simple integrate and fire versions of the models. Our results show that electrotonic properties and firing rates of nerve cells are altered by anomalous subdiffusion in these models. We have suggested electrophysiological experiments to calibrate and validate the models.

Patient size and x-ray technique factors in head computed tomography examinations. II. Image quality.

PubMed

Huda, Walter; Lieberman, Kristin A; Chang, Jack; Roskopf, Marsha L

2004-03-01

We investigated how patient head characteristics, as well as the choice of x-ray technique factors, affect lesion contrast and noise values in computed tomography (CT) images. Head sizes and mean Hounsfield unit (HU) values were obtained from head CT images for five classes of patients ranging from the newborn to adults. X-ray spectra with tube voltages ranging from 80 to 140 kV were used to compute the average photon energy, and energy fluence, transmitted through the heads of patients of varying size. Image contrast, and the corresponding contrast to noise ratios (CNRs), were determined for lesions of fat, muscle, and iodine relative to a uniform water background. Maintaining a constant image CNR for each lesion, the patient energy imparted was also computed to identify the x-ray tube voltage that minimized the radiation dose. For adults, increasing the tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV changed the iodine HU from 2.62 x 10(5) to 1.27 x 10(5), the fat HU from -138 to -108, and the muscle HU from 37.1 to 33.0. Increasing the x-ray tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV increased the percentage energy fluence transmission by up to a factor of 2. For a fixed x-ray tube voltage, the percentage transmitted energy fluence in adults was more than a factor of 4 lower than for newborns. For adults, increasing the x-ray tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV improved the CNR for muscle lesions by 130%, for fat lesions by a factor of 2, and for iodine lesions by 25%. As the size of the patient increased from newborn to adults, lesion CNR was reduced by about a factor of 2. The mAs value can be reduced by 80% when scanning newborns while maintaining the same lesion CNR as for adults. Maintaining the CNR of an iodine lesion at a constant level, use of 140 kV increases the energy imparted to an adult patient by nearly a factor of 3.5 in comparison to 80 kV. For fat and muscle lesions, raising the x-ray tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV at a constant CNR increased the patient dose by 37% and 7%, respectively. Our two key findings are that for head CT examinations performed at a constant CNR, the mAs can be substantially reduced when scanning infants, and that use of the lowest x-ray tube voltage will generally reduce patient doses.

Lithium-sulfur dioxide batteries on Mars rovers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ratnakumar, Bugga V.; Smart, M. C.; Ewell, R. C.; Whitcanack, L. D.; Kindler, A.; Narayanan, S. R.; Surampudi, S.

2004-01-01

NASA's 2003 Mars Exploration Rover (MER) missions, Spirit and Opportunity, have been performing exciting surface exploration studies for the past six months. These two robotic missions were aimed at examining the presence of water and, thus, any evidence of life, and at understanding the geological conditions of Mars, These rovers have been successfully assisted by primary lithium-sulfur dioxide batteries during the critical entry, descent, and landing (EDL) maneuvers. These batteries were located on the petals of the lander, which, unlike in the Mars Pathfinder mission, was designed only to carry the rover. The selection of the lithium-sulfur dioxide battery system for this application was based on its high specific energy and high rate discharge capability, combined with low heat evolution, as dictated by this application. Lithium-sulfur dioxide batteries exhibit voltage delay, which tends to increase at low discharge temperatures, especially after extended storage at warm temperatures, In the absence of a depassivation circuit, as provided on earlier missions, e.g., Galileo, we were required to depassivate the lander primary batteries in a unique manner. The batteries were brought onto a shunt-regulated bus set at pre-selected discharge voltages, thus affecting depassivation during constant discharge voltages. Several ground tests were preformed, on cells, cell strings and battery assembly with five parallel strings, to identify optimum shunt voltages and durations of depassivation. We also examined the repassivation of lithium anodes, subsequent to depassivation. In this paper, we will describe these studies, in detail, as well as the depassivation of the lander flight batteries on both Spirit and Opportunity rover prior to the EDL sequence and their performance during landing on Mars.

Apparatus and method for electrical insulation in plasma discharge systems

DOEpatents

Rhodes, Mark A [Redwood City, CA; Fochs, Scott N [Livermore, CA

2003-08-12

An apparatus and method to contain plasma at optimal fill capacity of a metallic container is disclosed. The invention includes the utilization of anodized layers forming the internal surfaces of the container volume. Bias resistors are calibrated to provide constant current at variable voltage conditions. By choosing the appropriate values of the bias resistors, the voltages of the metallic container relative to the voltage of an anode are adjusted to achieve optimal plasma fill while minimizing the chance of reaching the breakdown voltage of the anodized layer.

Automatic Control Of Length Of Welding Arc

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iceland, William F.

1991-01-01

Nonlinear relationships among current, voltage, and length stored in electronic memory. Conceptual microprocessor-based control subsystem maintains constant length of welding arc in gas/tungsten arc-welding system, even when welding current varied. Uses feedback of current and voltage from welding arc. Directs motor to set position of torch according to previously measured relationships among current, voltage, and length of arc. Signal paths marked "calibration" or "welding" used during those processes only. Other signal paths used during both processes. Control subsystem added to existing manual or automatic welding system equipped with automatic voltage control.

MATLAB implementation of a dynamic clamp with bandwidth >125 KHz capable of generating INa at 37°C

PubMed Central

Clausen, Chris; Valiunas, Virginijus; Brink, Peter R.; Cohen, Ira S.

2012-01-01

We describe the construction of a dynamic clamp with bandwidth >125 KHz that utilizes a high performance, yet low cost, standard home/office PC interfaced with a high-speed (16 bit) data acquisition module. High bandwidth is achieved by exploiting recently available software advances (code-generation technology, optimized real-time kernel). Dynamic-clamp programs are constructed using Simulink, a visual programming language. Blocks for computation of membrane currents are written in the high-level matlab language; no programming in C is required. The instrument can be used in single- or dual-cell configurations, with the capability to modify programs while experiments are in progress. We describe an algorithm for computing the fast transient Na+ current (INa) in real time, and test its accuracy and stability using rate constants appropriate for 37°C. We then construct a program capable of supplying three currents to a cell preparation: INa, the hyperpolarizing-activated inward pacemaker current (If), and an inward-rectifier K+ current (IK1). The program corrects for the IR drop due to electrode current flow, and also records all voltages and currents. We tested this program on dual patch-clamped HEK293 cells where the dynamic clamp controls a current-clamp amplifier and a voltage-clamp amplifier controls membrane potential, and current-clamped HEK293 cells where the dynamic clamp produces spontaneous pacing behavior exhibiting Na+ spikes in otherwise passive cells. PMID:23224681

Modular Battery Charge Controller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Button, Robert; Gonzalez, Marcelo

2009-01-01

A new approach to masterless, distributed, digital-charge control for batteries requiring charge control has been developed and implemented. This approach is required in battery chemistries that need cell-level charge control for safety and is characterized by the use of one controller per cell, resulting in redundant sensors for critical components, such as voltage, temperature, and current. The charge controllers in a given battery interact in a masterless fashion for the purpose of cell balancing, charge control, and state-of-charge estimation. This makes the battery system invariably fault-tolerant. The solution to the single-fault failure, due to the use of a single charge controller (CC), was solved by implementing one CC per cell and linking them via an isolated communication bus [e.g., controller area network (CAN)] in a masterless fashion so that the failure of one or more CCs will not impact the remaining functional CCs. Each micro-controller-based CC digitizes the cell voltage (V(sub cell)), two cell temperatures, and the voltage across the switch (V); the latter variable is used in conjunction with V(sub cell) to estimate the bypass current for a given bypass resistor. Furthermore, CC1 digitizes the battery current (I1) and battery voltage (V(sub batt) and CC5 digitizes a second battery current (I2). As a result, redundant readings are taken for temperature, battery current, and battery voltage through the summation of the individual cell voltages given that each CC knows the voltage of the other cells. For the purpose of cell balancing, each CC periodically and independently transmits its cell voltage and stores the received cell voltage of the other cells in an array. The position in the array depends on the identifier (ID) of the transmitting CC. After eight cell voltage receptions, the array is checked to see if one or more cells did not transmit. If one or more transmissions are missing, the missing cell(s) is (are) eliminated from cell-balancing calculations. The cell-balancing algorithm is based on the error between the cell s voltage and the other cells and is categorized into four zones of operation. The algorithm is executed every second and, if cell balancing is activated, the error variable is set to a negative low value. The largest error between the cell and the other cells is found and the zone of operation determined. If the error is zero or negative, then the cell is at the lowest voltage and no balancing action is needed. If the error is less than a predetermined negative value, a Cell Bad Flag is set. If the error is positive, then cell balancing is needed, but a hysteretic zone is added to prevent the bypass circuit from triggering repeatedly near zero error. This approach keeps the cells within a predetermined voltage range.

Discharging dynamics in an electrolytic cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feicht, Sarah E.; Frankel, Alexandra E.; Khair, Aditya S.

2016-07-01

We analyze the dynamics of a discharging electrolytic cell comprised of a binary symmetric electrolyte between two planar, parallel blocking electrodes. When a voltage is initially applied, ions in the electrolyte migrate towards the electrodes, forming electrical double layers. After the system reaches steady state and the external current decays to zero, the applied voltage is switched off and the cell discharges, with the ions eventually returning to a uniform spatial concentration. At voltages on the order of the thermal voltage VT=kBT /q ≃25 mV, where kB is Boltzmann's constant, T is temperature, and q is the charge of a proton, experiments on surfactant-doped nonpolar fluids observe that the temporal evolution of the external current during charging and discharging is not symmetric [V. Novotny and M. A. Hopper, J. Electrochem. Soc. 126, 925 (1979), 10.1149/1.2129195; P. Kornilovitch and Y. Jeon, J. Appl. Phys. 109, 064509 (2011), 10.1063/1.3554445]. In fact, at sufficiently large voltages (several VT), the current during discharging is no longer monotonic: it displays a "reverse peak" before decaying in magnitude to zero. We analyze the dynamics of discharging by solving the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations governing ion transport via asymptotic and numerical techniques in three regimes. First, in the "linear regime" when the applied voltage V is formally much less than VT, the charging and discharging currents are antisymmetric in time; however, the potential and charge density profiles during charging and discharging are asymmetric. The current evolution is on the R C timescale of the cell, λDL /D , where L is the width of the cell, D is the diffusivity of ions, and λD is the Debye length. Second, in the (experimentally relevant) thin-double-layer limit ɛ =λD/L ≪1 , there is a "weakly nonlinear" regime defined by VT≲V ≲VTln(1 /ɛ ) , where the bulk salt concentration is uniform; thus the R C timescale of the evolution of the current magnitude persists. However, nonlinear, voltage-dependent, capacitance of the double layer is responsible for a break in temporal antisymmetry of the charging and discharging currents. Third, the reverse peak in the discharging current develops in a "strongly nonlinear" regime V ≳VTln(1 /ɛ ) , driven by neutral salt adsorption into the double layers and consequent bulk depletion during charging. The strongly nonlinear regime features current evolution over three timescales. The current decays in magnitude on the double layer relaxation timescale, λD2/D ; then grows exponentially in time towards the reverse peak on the diffusion timescale, L2/D , indicating that the reverse peak is the results of fast diffusion of ions from the double layer layer to the bulk. Following the reverse peak, the current decays exponentially to zero on the R C timescale. Notably, the current at the reverse peak and the time of the reverse peak saturate at large voltages V ≫VTln(1 /ɛ ) . We provide semi-analytic expressions for the saturated reverse peak time and current, which can be used to infer charge carrier diffusivity and concentration from experiments.

Performance of Li-Ion Cells Under Battery Voltage Charge Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rao, Gopalakrishna M.; Vaidyanathan, Hari; Day, John H. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

A study consisting of electrochemical characterization and Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) cycling of Li-Ion cells from three vendors was initiated in 1999 to determine the cycling performance and to infuse the new technology in the future NASA missions. The 8-cell batteries included in this evaluation are prismatic cells manufactured by Mine Safety Appliances Company (MSA), cylindrical cells manufactured by SAFT and prismatic cells manufactured by Yardney Technical Products, Inc. (YTP). The three batteries were cycle tested in the LEO regime at 40% depth of discharge, and under a charge control technique that consists of battery voltage clamp with a current taper. The initial testing was conducted at 20 C; however, the batteries were cycled also intermittently at low temperatures. YTP 20 Ah cells consisted of mixed-oxide (Co and Ni) positive, graphitic carbon negative, LIPF6 salt mixed with organic carbonate solvents. The battery voltage clamp was 32 V. The low temperature cycling tests started after 4575 cycles at 20 C. The cells were not capable of cycling. at low temperature since the charge acceptance at battery level was poor. There was a cell in the battery that showed too high an end-of-charge (EOC) voltage thereby limiting the ability to charge the rest of the cells in the battery. The battery has completed 6714 cycles. SAFT 12 Ah cells consisted of mixed-oxide (Co and NO positive, graphitic carbon negative, LiPF6 salt mixed with organic carbonate solvents. The battery voltage clamp was for 30.8 V. The low temperature cycling tests started after 4594 cycles at 20 C. A cell that showed low end of discharge (EOD) and EOC voltages and three other cells that showed higher EOC voltages limited the charge acceptance at the selected voltage limit during charge. The cells were capable of cycling at 10 C and 0 C but the charge voltage limit had to be increased to 34.3 V (4.3 V per cell). The low temperature cycling may have induced poor chargeability since the voltage had to be increased to achieve the required charge input. The battery has completed 6226 cycles. MSA 10 Ah cells consisted of Co oxide positive, graphitic carbon negative, LiPF6 salt mixed with organic carbonate solvents. The battery voltage clamp was 30.8 V. The low temperature cycling tests were started after 2182 cycles at 20 C. The cells were capable of cycling at 10 C and 0 C. Like SAFT, the voltage limit on charge had to be increased to 36 V (4.5 V per cell). There was a cell (cell S/N 13) in the battery that showed poor performance features such as low EOD voltage and high EOC voltage. The battery has completed 3441 cycles. A reconditioning procedure that consisted of C15 charge to a taper current of C/100 and C/20 discharge improved the voltage behavior of SAFT and MSA cells with no significant effect on YTP cells. We have demonstrated that the charge operation with VT clamp at battery rather than at cell level is feasible for onboard Li-Ion battery operation.

Efficient Ionization Investigation for Flow Control and Energy Extraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, Steven J.; Kamhawi, Hani; Blankson, Isaiah M.

2009-01-01

Nonequilibrium ionization of air by nonthermal means is explored for hypersonic vehicle applications. The method selected for evaluation generates a weakly ionized plasma using pulsed nanosecond, high-voltage discharges sustained by a lower dc voltage. These discharges promise to provide a means of energizing and sustaining electrons in the air while maintaining a nearly constant ion/neutral molecule temperature. This paper explores the use of short approx.5 nsec, high-voltage approx.12 to 22 kV, repetitive (40 to 100 kHz) discharges in generating a weakly ionized gas sustained by a 1 kV dc voltage in dry air at pressures from 10 to 80 torr. Demonstrated lifetimes of the sustainer discharge current approx.10 to 25 msec are over three orders of magnitude longer than the 5 nsec pulse that generates the electrons. This life is adequate for many high speed flows, enabling the possibility of exploiting weakly ionized plasma phenomena in flow-fields such as those in hypersonic inlets, combustors, and nozzles. Results to date are obtained in a volume of plasma between electrodes in a bell jar. The buildup and decay of the visible emission from the pulser excited air is photographed on an ICCD camera with nanosecond resolution and the time constants for visible emission decay are observed to be between 10 to 15 nsec decreasing as pressure increases. The application of the sustainer voltage does not change the visible emission decay time constant. Energy consumption as indicated by power output from the power supplies is 194 to 669 W depending on pulse repetition rate.

Synaptic shot noise and conductance fluctuations affect the membrane voltage with equal significance.

PubMed

Richardson, Magnus J E; Gerstner, Wulfram

2005-04-01

The subthreshold membrane voltage of a neuron in active cortical tissue is a fluctuating quantity with a distribution that reflects the firing statistics of the presynaptic population. It was recently found that conductance-based synaptic drive can lead to distributions with a significant skew. Here it is demonstrated that the underlying shot noise caused by Poissonian spike arrival also skews the membrane distribution, but in the opposite sense. Using a perturbative method, we analyze the effects of shot noise on the distribution of synaptic conductances and calculate the consequent voltage distribution. To first order in the perturbation theory, the voltage distribution is a gaussian modulated by a prefactor that captures the skew. The gaussian component is identical to distributions derived using current-based models with an effective membrane time constant. The well-known effective-time-constant approximation can therefore be identified as the leading-order solution to the full conductance-based model. The higher-order modulatory prefactor containing the skew comprises terms due to both shot noise and conductance fluctuations. The diffusion approximation misses these shot-noise effects implying that analytical approaches such as the Fokker-Planck equation or simulation with filtered white noise cannot be used to improve on the gaussian approximation. It is further demonstrated that quantities used for fitting theory to experiment, such as the voltage mean and variance, are robust against these non-Gaussian effects. The effective-time-constant approximation is therefore relevant to experiment and provides a simple analytic base on which other pertinent biological details may be added.

High-Voltage Characterization for the Prototype Induction Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huacen, Wang; Kaizhi, Zhang; Long, Wen; Qinggui, Lai; Linwen, Zhang; Jianjun, Deng

2002-12-01

Two linear induction prototype cells expected to work at 250kV, 3kA,with accelerating voltage flattop (±1%) ⩾ 70ns, have been tested to determine their high-voltage characteristics. Each cell is composed of a ferrite core immersed in oil, a gap with curved stainless steel electrodes, a solenoid magnet, and a insulator. The experiments were carried out with full-scale cells. The high voltage pulses were applied to two cells using a 100ns, 12Ω pulse Blumlein. The tests were performed at various high-voltage levels ranging from -250kV to -350kV. No breakdown was observed during the test at vacuum level (7-10) ṡ10-4 Pa. The cell schematic, the experimental set up, and the measured voltage waveforms are presented in this paper.

Generation of constant-amplitude radio-frequency sweeps at a tunnel junction for spin resonance STM

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

Paul, William; Lutz, Christopher P.; Heinrich, Andreas J.

2016-07-15

We describe the measurement and successful compensation of the radio-frequency transfer function of a scanning tunneling microscope over a wide frequency range (15.5–35.5 GHz) and with high dynamic range (>50 dB). The precise compensation of cabling resonances and attenuations is critical for the production of constant-voltage frequency sweeps for electric-field driven electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments. We also demonstrate that a well-calibrated tunnel junction voltage is necessary to avoid spurious ESR peaks that can arise due to a non-flat transfer function.

VOLTAGE REGULATOR

DOEpatents

Von Eschen, R.L.; Scheele, P.F.

1962-04-24

A transistorized voltage regulator which provides very close voitage regulation up to about 180 deg F is described. A diode in the positive line provides a constant voltage drop from the input to a regulating transistor emitter. An amplifier is coupled to the positive line through a resistor and is connected between a difference circuit and the regulating transistor base which is negative due to the difference in voltage drop across thc diode and the resistor so that a change in the regulator output causes the amplifier to increase or decrease the base voltage and current and incrcase or decrease the transistor impedance to return the regulator output to normal. (AEC)

Manual. According to the Calculation of Wires and Cables,

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-23

Tpezxaaaro TON. As, C Kay: (1). Designation. t2). Designation. (3). Current (permanent. Voltage constant. (4). Currant ivariable/ alternating . Voltage is the...variable/ alternating , general designatior. (5). Current variable/ alternating three-phase 5C Hz. (6). Ez. (7). Zero line (neutral). It is allcwed/assumed...diagrams of powsr supply iz is allowed/assumed high-voltage switch to dapict, as it is shown. (10). iinuings by relay, contactor and magnetic starter. It

Lumped transmission line avalanche pulser

DOEpatents

Booth, R.

1995-07-18

A lumped linear avalanche transistor pulse generator utilizes stacked transistors in parallel within a stage and couples a plurality of said stages, in series with increasing zener diode limited voltages per stage and decreasing balanced capacitance load per stage to yield a high voltage, high and constant current, very short pulse. 8 figs.

Lumped transmission line avalanche pulser

DOEpatents

Booth, Rex

1995-01-01

A lumped linear avalanche transistor pulse generator utilizes stacked transistors in parallel within a stage and couples a plurality of said stages, in series with increasing zener diode limited voltages per stage and decreasing balanced capacitance load per stage to yield a high voltage, high and constant current, very short pulse.

Power conversion and control methods for renewable energy sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Dachuan

2005-07-01

In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of renewable energy due to the growing concern over the pollution caused by fossil-fuel-based energy. Renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic (PV) and fuel cell, can be used to enhance the safety, reliability, sustainability, and transmission efficiency of a power system. This dissertation focuses on the power conversion and control for two major renewable-energy sources: PV and fuel cell. Firstly, a current-based, maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is proposed for PV energy. An economical converter system using the above scheme for converting the output from PV panels into 60 Hz AC voltage is developed and built. Secondly, a novel circuit model for the Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel-cell stack that is useful in the design and analysis of fuel-cell-based power systems is proposed. This Pspice-based model uses elements available in the Pspice library with some modifications to represent both the static and dynamic responses of a PEM fuel-cell module. The accuracy of the model is verified by comparing the simulation and experimental results. Thirdly, a DSP-controlled three-phase induction-motor drive using constant voltage over frequency is built and can be used in a fuel-cell automobile. A hydrogen sensor is used in the drive to both sound an alarm and shut down the inverter trigger pulses through the DSP. Finally, a hybrid power system consisting of PV panels and fuel cell is proposed and built. In the proposed system, PV panels can supply most of the power when the sunlight is available, and the excess power required by the load is supplied by a fuel cell. Load sharing between a fuel cell (FC) and the PV panel is investigated by both simulation and experiments.

Development of a novel configuration for a MEMS transducer for low bias and high resolution imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emadi, Tahereh Arezoo; Buchanan, Douglas A.

2014-03-01

A robust capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer has been developed. In this novel configuration, a stack of two deflectable membranes are suspended over a fixed bottom electrode. Similar to conventional capacitive ultrasonic transducers, a generated electrostatic force between the electrodes causes the membranes to deflect and vibrate. However, in this new configuration the transducer effective cavity height is reduced due to the deflection of two membranes. Therefore, the transducer spring constant is more susceptible to bias voltage, which in return reduces the required bias voltage. The transducers have been produced employing a MEMS sacrificial technique where two different membrane anchoring (curved- and flat- anchors) structures, with similar membrane radii were fabricated. Highly doped polysilicon was used as the membrane material. The resonant frequencies of the two transducers have been investigated. It was found that the transducers with curved membrane anchors exhibits a larger resonant frequency shift compared to the transducers with flat membranes for a given bias voltage. Comparison has been made between the spring constant of the flat membrane transducer and that of a conventional single membrane transducer. It is shown that the multiple moving membrane transducer exhibits a larger reduction in the spring constant compared to the conventional transducer, when driven with the same bias voltage. This results in a transducer with a higher power generation capability and sensitivity.

Ultracapacitor-Based Uninterrupted Power Supply System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eichenberg, Dennis J.

2011-01-01

The ultracapacitor-based uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system enhances system reliability; reduces life-of-system, maintenance, and downtime costs; and greatly reduces environmental impact when compared to conventional UPS energy storage systems. This design provides power when required and absorbs power when required to smooth the system load and also has excellent low-temperature performance. The UPS used during hardware tests at Glenn is an efficient, compact, maintenance-free, rack-mount, pure sine-wave inverter unit. The UPS provides a continuous output power up to 1,700 W with a surge rating of 1,870 W for up to one minute at a nominal output voltage of 115 VAC. The ultracapacitor energy storage system tested in conjunction with the UPS is rated at 5.8 F. This is a bank of ten symmetric ultracapacitor modules. Each module is actively balanced using a linear voltage balancing technique in which the cell-to-cell leakage is dependent upon the imbalance of the individual cells. The ultracapacitors are charged by a DC power supply, which can provide up to 300 VDC at 4 A. A constant-voltage, constant-current power supply was selected for this application. The long life of ultracapacitors greatly enhances system reliability, which is significant in critical applications such as medical power systems and space power systems. The energy storage system can usually last longer than the application, given its 20-year life span. This means that the ultracapacitors will probably never need to be replaced and disposed of, whereas batteries require frequent replacement and disposal. The charge-discharge efficiency of rechargeable batteries is approximately 50 percent, and after some hundreds of charges and discharges, they must be replaced. The charge-discharge efficiency of ultracapacitors exceeds 90 percent, and can accept more than a million charges and discharges. Thus, there is a significant energy savings through the efficiency improvement, and there is far less downtime for applications and labor involved in replacing an ultracapacitor versus batteries. Also, the lengthy lifespan of this design would greatly reduce the disposal problems posed by lead acid, nickel cadmium, lithium, and nickel metal hydride batteries. This innovation is recyclable by nature, which further reduces system costs. The disposal of ultracapacitors is simple, as they are constructed of non-hazardous components. They are also safer than batteries in that they can be easily discharged, and left indefinitely in a safe, discharged state where batteries cannot.

Tl+-induced micros gating of current indicates instability of the MaxiK selectivity filter as caused by ion/pore interaction.

PubMed

Schroeder, Indra; Hansen, Ulf-Peter

2008-04-01

Patch clamp experiments on single MaxiK channels expressed in HEK293 cells were performed at high temporal resolution (50-kHz filter) in asymmetrical solutions containing 0, 25, 50, or 150 mM Tl+ on the luminal or cytosolic side with [K+] + [Tl+] = 150 mM and 150 mM K+ on the other side. Outward current in the presence of cytosolic Tl+ did not show fast gating behavior that was significantly different from that in the absence of Tl+. With luminal Tl+ and at membrane potentials more negative than -40 mV, the single-channel current showed a negative slope resistance concomitantly with a flickery block, resulting in an artificially reduced apparent single-channel current I(app). The analysis of the amplitude histograms by beta distributions enabled the estimation of the true single-channel current and the determination of the rate constants of a simple two-state O-C Markov model for the gating in the bursts. The voltage dependence of the gating ratio R = I(true)/I(app) = (k(CO) + k(OC))/k(CO) could be described by exponential functions with different characteristic voltages above or below 50 mM Tl(+). The true single-channel current I(true) decreased with Tl+ concentrations up to 50 mM and stayed constant thereafter. Different models were considered. The most likely ones related the exponential increase of the gating ratio to ion depletion at the luminal side of the selectivity filter, whereas the influence of [Tl+] on the characteristic voltage of these exponential functions and of the value of I(true) were determined by [Tl+] at the inner side of the selectivity filter or in the cavity.

Fuel Cell/Electrochemical Cell Voltage Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Arturo

2012-01-01

A concept has been developed for a new fuel cell individual-cell-voltage monitor that can be directly connected to a multi-cell fuel cell stack for direct substack power provisioning. It can also provide voltage isolation for applications in high-voltage fuel cell stacks. The technology consists of basic modules, each with an 8- to 16-cell input electrical measurement connection port. For each basic module, a power input connection would be provided for direct connection to a sub-stack of fuel cells in series within the larger stack. This power connection would allow for module power to be available in the range of 9-15 volts DC. The relatively low voltage differences that the module would encounter from the input electrical measurement connection port, coupled with the fact that the module's operating power is supplied by the same substack voltage input (and so will be at similar voltage), provides for elimination of high-commonmode voltage issues within each module. Within each module, there would be options for analog-to-digital conversion and data transfer schemes. Each module would also include a data-output/communication port. Each of these ports would be required to be either non-electrical (e.g., optically isolated) or electrically isolated. This is necessary to account for the fact that the plurality of modules attached to the stack will normally be at a range of voltages approaching the full range of the fuel cell stack operating voltages. A communications/ data bus could interface with the several basic modules. Options have been identified for command inputs from the spacecraft vehicle controller, and for output-status/data feeds to the vehicle.

Genetically-encoded fluorescent voltage sensors using the voltage-sensing domain of Nematostella and Danio phosphatases exhibit fast kinetics

PubMed Central

Baker, Bradley J.; Jin, Lei; Han, Zhou; Cohen, Lawrence B.; Popovic, Marko; Platisa, Jelena; Pieribone, Vincent

2012-01-01

A substantial increase in the speed of the optical response of genetically-encoded Fluorescent Protein voltage sensors (FP voltage sensors) was achieved by using the voltage-sensing phosphatase genes of Nematostella vectensis and Danio rerio. A potential N. vectensis voltage-sensing phosphatase was identified in silico. The voltage-sensing domain (S1–S4) of the N. vectensis homolog was used to create an FP voltage sensor called Nema. By replacing the phosphatase with a cerulean/citrine FRET pair, a new FP voltage sensor was synthesized with fast off kinetics (Tauoff <5 msec). However, the signal was small (ΔF/F= 0.6%/200 mV). FP voltage sensors using the D. rerio voltage-sensing phosphatase homolog, designated Zahra and Zahra 2, exhibited fast on and off kinetics within 2 msec of the time constants observed with the organic voltage-sensitive dye, di4-ANEPPS. Mutagenesis of the S4 region of the Danio FP voltage sensor shifted the voltage dependence to more negative potentials but did not noticeably affect the kinetics of the optical signal. PMID:22634212

Design techniques for a stable operation of cryogenic field-programmable gate arrays.

PubMed

Homulle, Harald; Visser, Stefan; Patra, Bishnu; Charbon, Edoardo

2018-01-01

In this paper, we show how a deep-submicron field-programmable gate array (FPGA) can be operated more stably at extremely low temperatures through special firmware design techniques. Stability at low temperatures is limited through long power supply wires and reduced performance of various printed circuit board components commonly employed at room temperature. Extensive characterization of these components shows that the majority of decoupling capacitor types and voltage regulators are not well behaved at cryogenic temperatures, asking for an ad hoc solution to stabilize the FPGA supply voltage, especially for sensitive applications. Therefore, we have designed a firmware that enforces a constant power consumption, so as to stabilize the supply voltage in the interior of the FPGA. The FPGA is powered with a supply at several meters distance, causing significant resistive voltage drop and thus fluctuations on the local supply voltage. To achieve the stabilization, the variation in digital logic speed, which directly corresponds to changes in supply voltage, is constantly measured and corrected for through a tunable oscillator farm, implemented on the FPGA. The impact of the stabilization technique is demonstrated together with a reconfigurable analog-to-digital converter (ADC), completely implemented in the FPGA fabric and operating at 15 K. The ADC performance can be improved by at most 1.5 bits (effective number of bits) thanks to the more stable supply voltage. The method is versatile and robust, enabling seamless porting to other FPGA families and configurations.

Design techniques for a stable operation of cryogenic field-programmable gate arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Homulle, Harald; Visser, Stefan; Patra, Bishnu; Charbon, Edoardo

2018-01-01

In this paper, we show how a deep-submicron field-programmable gate array (FPGA) can be operated more stably at extremely low temperatures through special firmware design techniques. Stability at low temperatures is limited through long power supply wires and reduced performance of various printed circuit board components commonly employed at room temperature. Extensive characterization of these components shows that the majority of decoupling capacitor types and voltage regulators are not well behaved at cryogenic temperatures, asking for an ad hoc solution to stabilize the FPGA supply voltage, especially for sensitive applications. Therefore, we have designed a firmware that enforces a constant power consumption, so as to stabilize the supply voltage in the interior of the FPGA. The FPGA is powered with a supply at several meters distance, causing significant resistive voltage drop and thus fluctuations on the local supply voltage. To achieve the stabilization, the variation in digital logic speed, which directly corresponds to changes in supply voltage, is constantly measured and corrected for through a tunable oscillator farm, implemented on the FPGA. The impact of the stabilization technique is demonstrated together with a reconfigurable analog-to-digital converter (ADC), completely implemented in the FPGA fabric and operating at 15 K. The ADC performance can be improved by at most 1.5 bits (effective number of bits) thanks to the more stable supply voltage. The method is versatile and robust, enabling seamless porting to other FPGA families and configurations.

Fuel cell stack monitoring and system control

DOEpatents

Keskula, Donald H.; Doan, Tien M.; Clingerman, Bruce J.

2005-01-25

A control method for monitoring a fuel cell stack in a fuel cell system in which the actual voltage and actual current from the fuel cell stack are monitored. A preestablished relationship between voltage and current over the operating range of the fuel cell is established. A variance value between the actual measured voltage and the expected voltage magnitude for a given actual measured current is calculated and compared with a predetermined allowable variance. An output is generated if the calculated variance value exceeds the predetermined variance. The predetermined voltage-current for the fuel cell is symbolized as a polarization curve at given operating conditions of the fuel cell. Other polarization curves may be generated and used for fuel cell stack monitoring based on different operating pressures, temperatures, hydrogen quantities.

An non-uniformity voltage model for proton exchange membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Kelei; Li, Yankun; Liu, Jiawei; Guo, Ai

2017-01-01

The fuel cell used in transportation has environmental protection, high efficiency and no line traction power system which can greatly reduce line construction investment. That makes it a huge potential. The voltage uniformity is one of the most important factors affecting the operation life of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). On the basis of principle and classical model of the PEMFC, single cell voltage is calculated and the location coefficients are introduced so as to establish a non-uniformity voltage model. These coefficients are estimated with the experimental datum at stack current 50 A. The model is validated respectively with datum at 60 A and 100 A. The results show that the model reflects the basic characteristics of voltage non-uniformity and provides the beneficial reference for fuel cell control and single cell voltage detection.

Multijunction high voltage concentrator solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valco, G. J.; Kapoor, V. J.; Evans, J. C.; Chai, A.-T.

1981-01-01

The standard integrated circuit technology has been developed to design and fabricate new innovative planar multi-junction solar cell chips for concentrated sunlight applications. This 1 cm x 1 cm cell consisted of several voltage generating regions called unit cells which were internally connected in series within a single chip resulting in high open circuit voltages. Typical open-circuit voltages of 3.6 V and short-circuit currents of 90 ma were obtained at 80 AM1 suns. A dramatic increase in both short circuit current and open circuit voltage with increased light levels was observed.

Voltage Support Study of Smart PV Inverters on a High-Photovoltaic Penetration Utility Distribution Feeder

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

Ding, Fei; Pratt, Annabelle; Bialek, Tom

2016-11-21

This paper reports on tools and methodologies developed to study the impact of adding rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems, with and without the ability to provide voltage support, on the voltage profile of distribution feeders. Simulation results are provided from a study of a specific utility feeder. The simulation model of the utility distribution feeder was built in OpenDSS and verified by comparing the simulated voltages to field measurements. First, we set all PV systems to operate at unity power factor and analyzed the impact on feeder voltages. Then we conducted multiple simulations with voltage support activated for all the smartmore » PV inverters. These included different constant power factor settings and volt/VAR controls.« less

Voltage controlled spintronic devices for logic applications

DOEpatents

You, Chun-Yeol; Bader, Samuel D.

2001-01-01

A reprogrammable logic gate comprising first and second voltage-controlled rotation transistors. Each transistor comprises three ferromagnetic layers with a spacer and insulating layer between the first and second ferromagnetic layers and an additional insulating layer between the second and third ferromagnetic layers. The third ferromagnetic layer of each transistor is connected to each other, and a constant external voltage source is applied to the second ferromagnetic layer of the first transistor. As input voltages are applied to the first ferromagnetic layer of each transistor, the relative directions of magnetization of the ferromagnetic layers and the magnitude of the external voltage determines the output voltage of the gate. By altering these parameters, the logic gate is capable of behaving as AND, OR, NAND, or NOR gates.

Electric charging/discharging characteristics of super capacitor, using de-alloying and anodic oxidized Ti-Ni-Si amorphous alloy ribbons.

PubMed

Fukuhara, Mikio; Sugawara, Kazuyuki

2014-01-01

Charging/discharging behaviors of de-alloyed and anodic oxidized Ti-Ni-Si amorphous alloy ribbons were measured as a function of current between 10 pA and 100 mA, using galvanostatic charge/discharging method. In sharp contrast to conventional electric double layer capacitor (EDLC), discharging behaviors for voltage under constant currents of 1, 10 and 100 mA after 1.8 ks charging at 100 mA show parabolic decrease, demonstrating direct electric storage without solvents. The supercapacitors, devices that store electric charge on their amorphous TiO2-x surfaces that contain many 70-nm sized cavities, show the Ragone plot which locates at lower energy density region near the 2nd cells, and RC constant of 800 s (at 1 mHz), which is 157,000 times larger than that (5 ms) in EDLC.

Electric charging/discharging characteristics of super capacitor, using de-alloying and anodic oxidized Ti-Ni-Si amorphous alloy ribbons

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Charging/discharging behaviors of de-alloyed and anodic oxidized Ti-Ni-Si amorphous alloy ribbons were measured as a function of current between 10 pA and 100 mA, using galvanostatic charge/discharging method. In sharp contrast to conventional electric double layer capacitor (EDLC), discharging behaviors for voltage under constant currents of 1, 10 and 100 mA after 1.8 ks charging at 100 mA show parabolic decrease, demonstrating direct electric storage without solvents. The supercapacitors, devices that store electric charge on their amorphous TiO2-x surfaces that contain many 70-nm sized cavities, show the Ragone plot which locates at lower energy density region near the 2nd cells, and RC constant of 800 s (at 1 mHz), which is 157,000 times larger than that (5 ms) in EDLC. PMID:24959106

Rapid relief of block by mecamylamine of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors of rat chromaffin cells in vitro: an electrophysiological and modeling study.

PubMed

Giniatullin, R A; Sokolova, E M; Di Angelantonio, S; Skorinkin, A; Talantova, M V; Nistri, A

2000-10-01

The mechanism responsible for the blocking action of mecamylamine on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) was studied on rat isolated chromaffin cells recorded under whole-cell patch clamp. Mecamylamine strongly depressed (IC(50) = 0.34 microM) inward currents elicited by short pulses of nicotine, an effect slowly reversible on wash. The mecamylamine block was voltage-dependent and promptly relieved by a protocol combining membrane depolarization with a nicotine pulse. Either depolarization or nicotine pulses were insufficient per se to elicit block relief. Block relief was transient; response depression returned in a use-dependent manner. Exposure to mecamylamine failed to block nAChRs if they were not activated by nicotine or if they were activated at positive membrane potentials. These data suggest that mecamylamine could not interact with receptors either at rest or at depolarized level. Other nicotinic antagonists like dihydro-beta-erythroidine or tubocurarine did not share this action of mecamylamine although proadifen partly mimicked it. Mecamylamine is suggested to penetrate and block open nAChRs that would subsequently close and trap this antagonist. Computer modeling indicated that the mechanism of mecamylamine blocking action could be described by assuming that 1) mecamylamine-blocked receptors possessed a much slower, voltage-dependent isomerization rate, 2) the rate constant for mecamylamine unbinding was large and poorly voltage dependent. Hence, channel reopening plus depolarization allowed mecamylamine escape and block relief. In the presence of mecamylamine, therefore, nAChRs acquire the new property of operating as coincidence detectors for concomitant changes in membrane potential and receptor occupancy.

Grid-connected wind and photovoltaic system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devabakthuni, Sindhuja

The objective of this thesis is to design a grid connected wind and photovoltaic system. A new model of converter control was designed which maintains the voltage of the bus to grid as constant when combined system of solar and wind is connected to AC bus. The model is designed to track maximum power at each point irrespective of changes in irradiance, temperature and wind speed which affects the power supplied to grid. Solar power from the sun is not constant as it is affected by changes in irradiances and temperature. Even the wind power is affected by wind speed. A MPPT controller was designed for both systems. A boost converter is designed which uses the pulses from MPPT controller to boost the output. Wind system consists of wind turbine block from the MATLAB with a pitch angle controller to maintain optimum pitch angle. The output from wind turbine is connected to a permanent magnet synchronous generator. The unregulated DC output from the photovoltaic system is directly given to boost converter. The AC output from the wind system is given to an uncontrolled rectifier to get a unregulated DC output. The unregulated DC output goes to the boost converter. A voltage source inverter was designed which converts the rectified DC output from the boost converter to AC power. The inverter is designed to maintain constant AC bus voltage irrespective of the disturbances in the power supply. Photovoltaic and wind systems are individually designed for 5KW each in MATLAB-Simulink environment. In this thesis, the models were subjected to changes in irradiance, temperature and wind speed and the results were interpreted. The model was successful in tracking maximum at every instant and the AC bus voltage was maintained constant throughout the simulation.

Galileo probe lithium-sulfur dioxide cell life testing

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

Hofland, L.M.; Stofel, E.J.; Taenaka, R.K.

Several hundred D-sized, Li/SO{sub 2} battery cells have been in a carefully controlled quiescent storage test for up to 14 years, starting at Honeywell but completing at the NASA Ames Research Center, in support of the Atmospheric Probe portion of the Galileo Mission to the planet Jupiter. This population of cells includes similar samples from 8 different manufacturing lots; the earliest from October 1981, the latest from October 1988. The baseline samples have been divided among several storage chambers, each having its own constant temperature, respectively set between 0 to 40 C. Non-invasive measurements have been made repeatedly of openmore » circuit voltage and internal resistance (at 1,000 Hz). At intervals, a small portion of the cells has been removed from storage and fully discharged under repetitive conditions, thus assessing any storage related loss of discharge capacity. The results show that for storage up to 20 C the cells have excellent stability. Above 20 C noticeable degradation occurs.« less

Performance characteristics of lithium primary cells after controlled storage. [on-orbit for energy power supply

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deligiannis, F.; Shen, D. H.; Halpert, G.; Ang, V.; Donley, S.

1991-01-01

A program was initiated to investigate the effects of storage on the performance of lithium primary cells. Two types of liquid cathode cells were chosen to investigate these effects. The cell types included Li-SOCl2/BCX cells, Li-SO2 cells from two different manufacturers, and a small sample size of 8-year-old Li-SO2 cells. The following measurements are performed at each test interval: open circuit voltage, resistance and weight, microcalorimetry, ac impedance, capacity, and voltage delay. The authors examine the performance characteristics of these cells after one year of controlled storage at two temperatures (10 and 30 C). The Li-SO2 cells experienced little to no voltage and capacity degradation after one year storage. The Li-SOCl2/BCX cells exhibited significant voltage and capacity degradation after 30 C storage. Predischarging shortly prior to use appears to be an effective method of reducing the initial voltage drop. Studies are in progress to correlate ac impedance and microcalorimetry measurements with capacity losses and voltage delay.

Measurement of the Boltzmann constant by Johnson noise thermometry using a superconducting integrated circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Urano, C.; Yamazawa, K.; Kaneko, N.-H.

2017-12-01

We report on our measurement of the Boltzmann constant by Johnson noise thermometry (JNT) using an integrated quantum voltage noise source (IQVNS) that is fully implemented with superconducting integrated circuit technology. The IQVNS generates calculable pseudo white noise voltages to calibrate the JNT system. The thermal noise of a sensing resistor placed at the temperature of the triple point of water was measured precisely by the IQVNS-based JNT. We accumulated data of more than 429 200 s in total (over 6 d) and used the Akaike information criterion to estimate the fitting frequency range for the quadratic model to calculate the Boltzmann constant. Upon detailed evaluation of the uncertainty components, the experimentally obtained Boltzmann constant was k=1.380 6436× {{10}-23} J K-1 with a relative combined uncertainty of 10.22× {{10}-6} . The value of k is relatively -3.56× {{10}-6} lower than the CODATA 2014 value (Mohr et al 2016 Rev. Mod. Phys. 88 035009).

Voltage gating by molecular subunits of Na+ and K+ ion channels: higher-dimensional cubic kinetics, rate constants, and temperature.

PubMed

Fohlmeister, Jürgen F

2015-06-01

The structural similarity between the primary molecules of voltage-gated Na and K channels (alpha subunits) and activation gating in the Hodgkin-Huxley model is brought into full agreement by increasing the model's sodium kinetics to fourth order (m(3) → m(4)). Both structures then virtually imply activation gating by four independent subprocesses acting in parallel. The kinetics coalesce in four-dimensional (4D) cubic diagrams (16 states, 32 reversible transitions) that show the structure to be highly failure resistant against significant partial loss of gating function. Rate constants, as fitted in phase plot data of retinal ganglion cell excitation, reflect the molecular nature of the gating transitions. Additional dimensions (6D cubic diagrams) accommodate kinetically coupled sodium inactivation and gating processes associated with beta subunits. The gating transitions of coupled sodium inactivation appear to be thermodynamically irreversible; response to dielectric surface charges (capacitive displacement) provides a potential energy source for those transitions and yields highly energy-efficient excitation. A comparison of temperature responses of the squid giant axon (apparently Arrhenius) and mammalian channel gating yields kinetic Q10 = 2.2 for alpha unit gating, whose transitions are rate-limiting at mammalian temperatures; beta unit kinetic Q10 = 14 reproduces the observed non-Arrhenius deviation of mammalian gating at low temperatures; the Q10 of sodium inactivation gating matches the rate-limiting component of activation gating at all temperatures. The model kinetics reproduce the physiologically large frequency range for repetitive firing in ganglion cells and the physiologically observed strong temperature dependence of recovery from inactivation. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Radiation Hardened Structured ASIC Platform with Compensation of Delay for Temperature and Voltage Variations for Multiple Redundant Temporal Voting Latch Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ardalan, Sasan (Inventor)

2018-01-01

The invention relates to devices and methods of maintaining the current starved delay at a constant value across variations in voltage and temperature to increase the speed of operation of the sequential logic in the radiation hardened ASIC design.

Measured radial dependence of the peak sheath voltages present in very high frequency capacitive discharges

DOE PAGES

Barnat, E. V.; Miller, P. A.; Hebner, G. A.; ...

2007-05-16

In this paper, the radial distribution of the measured voltage drop across a sheath formed between a 300mm electrode and an argon plasma discharge is shown to depend on the excitation radio frequency, under constant power and pressure conditions. At a lower frequency of 13.56MHz, the voltage drop across the sheath is uniform across the 300mm electrode, while at higher frequencies of 60 and 162MHz the voltage drop becomes radially nonuniform. Finally, the magnitude and spatial extent of the nonuniformity become greater with increasing frequency.

Simulation study on single event burnout in linear doping buffer layer engineered power VDMOSFET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yunpeng, Jia; Hongyuan, Su; Rui, Jin; Dongqing, Hu; Yu, Wu

2016-02-01

The addition of a buffer layer can improve the device's secondary breakdown voltage, thus, improving the single event burnout (SEB) threshold voltage. In this paper, an N type linear doping buffer layer is proposed. According to quasi-stationary avalanche simulation and heavy ion beam simulation, the results show that an optimized linear doping buffer layer is critical. As SEB is induced by heavy ions impacting, the electric field of an optimized linear doping buffer device is much lower than that with an optimized constant doping buffer layer at a given buffer layer thickness and the same biasing voltages. Secondary breakdown voltage and the parasitic bipolar turn-on current are much higher than those with the optimized constant doping buffer layer. So the linear buffer layer is more advantageous to improving the device's SEB performance. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 61176071), the Doctoral Fund of Ministry of Education of China (No. 20111103120016), and the Science and Technology Program of State Grid Corporation of China (No. SGRI-WD-71-13-006).

Preparation of ceramic coating on Ti substrate by Plasma electrolytic oxidation in different electrolytes and evaluation of its corrosion resistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shokouhfar, M.; Dehghanian, C.; Baradaran, A.

2011-01-01

Ceramic oxide coatings (titania) were produced on Ti by micro-arc oxidation in different aluminate and carbonate based electrolytes. This process was conducted under constant pulsed DC voltage condition. The effect of KOH and NaF in aluminate based solution was also studied. The surface morphology, growth and phase composition of coatings were investigated using scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. Corrosion behavior of the coatings was also examined by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. It was found that the sparking initiation voltage (spark voltage) had a significant effect on the form and properties of coatings. Coatings obtained from potassium aluminate based solution had a lower spark voltage, higher surface homogeneity and a better corrosion resistance than the carbonate based solution. Addition of NaF instead of KOH had improper effects on the homogeneity and adhesion of coatings which in turn caused a poor corrosion protection behavior of the oxide layer. AC impedance curves showed two time constants which is an indication of the coatings with an outer porous layer and an inner compact layer.

Low-voltage analog front-end processor design for ISFET-based sensor and H+ sensing applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chung, Wen-Yaw; Yang, Chung-Huang; Peng, Kang-Chu; Yeh, M. H.

2003-04-01

This paper presents a modular-based low-voltage analog-front-end processor design in a 0.5mm double-poly double-metal CMOS technology for Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor (ISFET)-based sensor and H+ sensing applications. To meet the potentiometric response of the ISFET that is proportional to various H+ concentrations, the constant-voltage and constant current (CVCS) testing configuration has been used. Low-voltage design skills such as bulk-driven input pair, folded-cascode amplifier, bootstrap switch control circuits have been designed and integrated for 1.5V supply and nearly rail-to-rail analog to digital signal processing. Core modules consist of an 8-bit two-step analog-digital converter and bulk-driven pre-amplifiers have been developed in this research. The experimental results show that the proposed circuitry has an acceptable linearity to 0.1 pH-H+ sensing conversions with the buffer solution in the range of pH2 to pH12. The processor has a potential usage in battery-operated and portable healthcare devices and environmental monitoring applications.

A High Sensitivity Preamplifier for Quartz Tuning Forks in QEPAS (Quartz Enhanced PhotoAcoustic Spectroscopy) Applications

PubMed Central

Starecki, Tomasz

2017-01-01

All the preamplifiers dedicated for Quartz Enhanced PhotoAcoustic Spectroscopy (QEPAS) applications that have so far been reported in the literature have been based on operational amplifiers working in transimpedance configurations. Taking into consideration that QEPAS sensors are based on quartz tuning forks, and that quartz has a relatively high voltage constant and relatively low charge constant, it seems that a transimpedance amplifier is not an optimal solution. This paper describes the design of a quartz QEPAS sensor preamplifier, implemented with voltage amplifier configuration. Discussion of an electrical model of the circuit and preliminary measurements are presented. Both theoretical analysis and experiments show that use of the voltage configuration allows for a substantial increase of the output signal in comparison to the transimpedance circuit with the same tuning fork working in identical conditions. Assuming that the sensitivity of the QEPAS technique depends directly on the properties of the preamplifier, use of the voltage amplifier configuration should result in an increase of QEPAS sensitivity by one to two orders of magnitude. PMID:29099765

A High Sensitivity Preamplifier for Quartz Tuning Forks in QEPAS (Quartz Enhanced PhotoAcoustic Spectroscopy) Applications.

PubMed

Starecki, Tomasz; Wieczorek, Piotr Z

2017-11-03

All the preamplifiers dedicated for Quartz Enhanced PhotoAcoustic Spectroscopy (QEPAS) applications that have so far been reported in the literature have been based on operational amplifiers working in transimpedance configurations. Taking into consideration that QEPAS sensors are based on quartz tuning forks, and that quartz has a relatively high voltage constant and relatively low charge constant, it seems that a transimpedance amplifier is not an optimal solution. This paper describes the design of a quartz QEPAS sensor preamplifier, implemented with voltage amplifier configuration. Discussion of an electrical model of the circuit and preliminary measurements are presented. Both theoretical analysis and experiments show that use of the voltage configuration allows for a substantial increase of the output signal in comparison to the transimpedance circuit with the same tuning fork working in identical conditions. Assuming that the sensitivity of the QEPAS technique depends directly on the properties of the preamplifier, use of the voltage amplifier configuration should result in an increase of QEPAS sensitivity by one to two orders of magnitude.

Thermally-induced voltage alteration for integrated circuit analysis

DOEpatents

Cole, Jr., Edward I.

2000-01-01

A thermally-induced voltage alteration (TIVA) apparatus and method are disclosed for analyzing an integrated circuit (IC) either from a device side of the IC or through the IC substrate to locate any open-circuit or short-circuit defects therein. The TIVA apparatus uses constant-current biasing of the IC while scanning a focused laser beam over electrical conductors (i.e. a patterned metallization) in the IC to produce localized heating of the conductors. This localized heating produces a thermoelectric potential due to the Seebeck effect in any conductors with open-circuit defects and a resistance change in any conductors with short-circuit defects, both of which alter the power demand by the IC and thereby change the voltage of a source or power supply providing the constant-current biasing. By measuring the change in the supply voltage and the position of the focused and scanned laser beam over time, any open-circuit or short-circuit defects in the IC can be located and imaged. The TIVA apparatus can be formed in part from a scanning optical microscope, and has applications for qualification testing or failure analysis of ICs.

Description of bipolar charge transport in polyethylene using a fluid model with a constant mobility: model prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LeRoy, S.; Segur, P.; Teyssedre, G.; Laurent, C.

2004-01-01

We present a conduction model aimed at describing bipolar transport and space charge phenomena in low density polyethylene under dc stress. In the first part we recall the basic requirements for the description of charge transport and charge storage in disordered media with emphasis on the case of polyethylene. A quick review of available conduction models is presented and our approach is compared with these models. Then, the bases of the model are described and related assumptions are discussed. Finally, results on external current, trapped and free space charge distributions, field distribution and recombination rate are presented and discussed, considering a constant dc voltage, a step-increase of the voltage, and a polarization-depolarization protocol for the applied voltage. It is shown that the model is able to describe the general features reported for external current, electroluminescence and charge distribution in polyethylene.

Motor power factor controller with a reduced voltage starter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nola, F. J. (Inventor)

1981-01-01

A power factor type motor controller is disclosed in which the conventional power factor constant voltage command signal is replaced during a starting interval with a graduated control voltage. This continuation-impart of a pending patent application (Serial No. 199, 765: Three Phase Factor Controller) provides a means for modifying the operation of the system for a motor start-up interval of 5 to 30 second. Using a ramp generators, an initial ramp-like signal replaces a constant power factor signal supplied by a potentiometer. The ramp-like signal is applied to a 15 terminal where it is summed with an operating power factor signal from phase detectors in order to obtain a control signal for ultimately controlling SCR devices. The SCR devices are turned on at an advancing rate with time responsive to the combination signal described rather than simply a function of a ramp-like signal alone.

High Voltage TAL Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobson, David T.; Jankovsky, Robert S.; Rawlin, Vincent K.; Manzella, David H.

2001-01-01

The performance of a two-stage, anode layer Hall thruster was evaluated. Experiments were conducted in single and two-stage configurations. In single-stage configuration, the thruster was operated with discharge voltages ranging from 300 to 1700 V. Discharge specific impulses ranged from 1630 to 4140 sec. Thruster investigations were conducted with input power ranging from 1 to 8.7 kW, corresponding to power throttling of nearly 9: 1. An extensive two-stage performance map was generated. Data taken with total voltage (sum of discharge and accelerating voltage) constant revealed a decrease in thruster efficiency as the discharge voltage was increased. Anode specific impulse values were comparable in the single and two-stage configurations showing no strong advantage for two-stage operation.

High voltage dc--dc converter with dynamic voltage regulation and decoupling during load-generated arcs

DOEpatents

Shimer, D.W.; Lange, A.C.

1995-05-23

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules. 5 Figs.

High voltage dc-dc converter with dynamic voltage regulation and decoupling during load-generated arcs

DOEpatents

Shimer, Daniel W.; Lange, Arnold C.

1995-01-01

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules.

Calcium-dependent inactivation of calcium channels in cochlear hair cells of the chicken.

PubMed

Lee, Seunghwan; Briklin, Olga; Hiel, Hakim; Fuchs, Paul

2007-09-15

Voltage-gated calcium channels support both spontaneous and sound-evoked neurotransmitter release from ribbon synapses of cochlear hair cells. A variety of regulatory mechanisms must cooperate to ensure the appropriate level of activity in the restricted pool of synaptic calcium channels ( approximately 100) available to each synaptic ribbon. One potential feedback mechanism, calcium-dependent inactivation (CDI) of voltage-gated, L-type calcium channels, can be modulated by calmodulin-like calcium-binding proteins. CDI of voltage-gated calcium current was studied in hair cells of the chicken's basilar papilla (analogous to the mammalian cochlea) after blocking the predominant potassium conductances. For inactivating currents produced by 2.5 s steps to the peak of the current-voltage relation (1 mm EGTA internal calcium buffer), single exponential fits yielded an average decay time constant of 1.92 +/- 0.18 s (mean +/- s.e.m., n = 12) at 20-22 degrees C, while recovery occurred with a half-time of approximately 10 s. Inactivation produced no change in reversal potential, arguing that the observed relaxation did not result from alternative processes such as calcium accumulation or activation of residual potassium currents. Substitution of external calcium with barium greatly reduced inactivation, while inhibition of endoplasmic calcium pumps with t-benzohydroquinone (BHQ) or thapsigargin made inactivation occur faster and to a greater extent. Raising external calcium 10-fold (from 2 to 20 mm) increased peak current 3-fold, but did not alter the extent or time course of CDI. However, increasing levels of internal calcium buffer consistently reduced the rate and extent of inactivation. With 1 mm EGTA buffering and in 2 mm external calcium, the available pool of calcium channels was half-inactivated near the resting membrane potential (-50 mV). CDI may be further regulated by calmodulin-like calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs). mRNAs for several CaBPs are expressed in chicken cochlear tissue, and antibodies to CaBP4 label hair cells, but not supporting cells, equivalent to the pattern seen in mammalian cochlea. Thus, molecular mechanisms that underlie CDI appeared to be conserved across vertebrate species, may provide a means to adjust calcium channel open probability, and could serve to maintain the set-point for spontaneous release from the ribbon synapse.

Calcium-dependent inactivation of calcium channels in cochlear hair cells of the chicken

PubMed Central

Lee, Seunghwan; Briklin, Olga; Hiel, Hakim; Fuchs, Paul

2007-01-01

Voltage-gated calcium channels support both spontaneous and sound-evoked neurotransmitter release from ribbon synapses of cochlear hair cells. A variety of regulatory mechanisms must cooperate to ensure the appropriate level of activity in the restricted pool of synaptic calcium channels (∼100) available to each synaptic ribbon. One potential feedback mechanism, calcium-dependent inactivation (CDI) of voltage-gated, L-type calcium channels, can be modulated by calmodulin-like calcium-binding proteins. CDI of voltage-gated calcium current was studied in hair cells of the chicken's basilar papilla (analogous to the mammalian cochlea) after blocking the predominant potassium conductances. For inactivating currents produced by 2.5 s steps to the peak of the current–voltage relation (1 mm EGTA internal calcium buffer), single exponential fits yielded an average decay time constant of 1.92 ± 0.18 s (mean ±s.e.m., n = 12) at 20–22°C, while recovery occurred with a half-time of ∼10 s. Inactivation produced no change in reversal potential, arguing that the observed relaxation did not result from alternative processes such as calcium accumulation or activation of residual potassium currents. Substitution of external calcium with barium greatly reduced inactivation, while inhibition of endoplasmic calcium pumps with t-benzohydroquinone (BHQ) or thapsigargin made inactivation occur faster and to a greater extent. Raising external calcium 10-fold (from 2 to 20 mm) increased peak current 3-fold, but did not alter the extent or time course of CDI. However, increasing levels of internal calcium buffer consistently reduced the rate and extent of inactivation. With 1 mm EGTA buffering and in 2 mm external calcium, the available pool of calcium channels was half-inactivated near the resting membrane potential (−50 mV). CDI may be further regulated by calmodulin-like calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs). mRNAs for several CaBPs are expressed in chicken cochlear tissue, and antibodies to CaBP4 label hair cells, but not supporting cells, equivalent to the pattern seen in mammalian cochlea. Thus, molecular mechanisms that underlie CDI appeared to be conserved across vertebrate species, may provide a means to adjust calcium channel open probability, and could serve to maintain the set-point for spontaneous release from the ribbon synapse. PMID:17656437

Optical and Electrical Performance of MOS-Structure Silicon Solar Cells with Antireflective Transparent ITO and Plasmonic Indium Nanoparticles under Applied Bias Voltage.

PubMed

Ho, Wen-Jeng; Sue, Ruei-Siang; Lin, Jian-Cheng; Syu, Hong-Jang; Lin, Ching-Fuh

2016-08-10

This paper reports impressive improvements in the optical and electrical performance of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS)-structure silicon solar cells through the incorporation of plasmonic indium nanoparticles (In-NPs) and an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode with periodic holes (perforations) under applied bias voltage. Samples were prepared using a plain ITO electrode or perforated ITO electrode with and without In-NPs. The samples were characterized according to optical reflectance, dark current voltage, induced capacitance voltage, external quantum efficiency, and photovoltaic current voltage. Our results indicate that induced capacitance voltage and photovoltaic current voltage both depend on bias voltage, regardless of the type of ITO electrode. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, MOS cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO, respectively, presented conversion efficiencies of 17.53% and 15.80%. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, the inclusion of In-NPs increased the efficiency of cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO to 17.80% and 16.87%, respectively.

Optical and Electrical Performance of MOS-Structure Silicon Solar Cells with Antireflective Transparent ITO and Plasmonic Indium Nanoparticles under Applied Bias Voltage

PubMed Central

Ho, Wen-Jeng; Sue, Ruei-Siang; Lin, Jian-Cheng; Syu, Hong-Jang; Lin, Ching-Fuh

2016-01-01

This paper reports impressive improvements in the optical and electrical performance of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS)-structure silicon solar cells through the incorporation of plasmonic indium nanoparticles (In-NPs) and an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode with periodic holes (perforations) under applied bias voltage. Samples were prepared using a plain ITO electrode or perforated ITO electrode with and without In-NPs. The samples were characterized according to optical reflectance, dark current voltage, induced capacitance voltage, external quantum efficiency, and photovoltaic current voltage. Our results indicate that induced capacitance voltage and photovoltaic current voltage both depend on bias voltage, regardless of the type of ITO electrode. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, MOS cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO, respectively, presented conversion efficiencies of 17.53% and 15.80%. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, the inclusion of In-NPs increased the efficiency of cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO to 17.80% and 16.87%, respectively. PMID:28773801

Preparation of porous lead from shape-controlled PbO bulk by in situ electrochemical reduction in ChCl-EG deep eutectic solvent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ru, Juanjian; Hua, Yixin; Xu, Cunying; Li, Jian; Li, Yan; Wang, Ding; Zhou, Zhongren; Gong, Kai

2015-12-01

Porous lead with different shapes was firstly prepared from controlled geometries of solid PbO bulk by in situ electrochemical reduction in choline chloride-ethylene glycol deep eutectic solvents at cell voltage 2.5 V and 353 K. The electrochemical behavior of PbO powders on cavity microelectrode was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. It is indicated that solid PbO can be directly reduced to metal in the solvent and a nucleation loop is apparent. Constant voltage electrolysis demonstrates that PbO pellet can be completely converted to metal for 13 h, and the current efficiency and specific energy consumption are about 87.79% and 736.82 kWh t-1, respectively. With the electro-deoxidation progress on the pellet surface, the reduction rate reaches the fastest and decreases along the distance from surface to inner center. The morphologies of metallic products are porous and mainly consisted of uniform particles which connect with each other by finer strip-shaped grains to remain the geometry and macro size constant perfectly. In addition, an empirical model of the electro-deoxidation process from spherical PbO bulk to porous lead is also proposed. These findings provide a novel and simple route for the preparation of porous metals from oxide precursors in deep eutectic solvents at room temperature.

Interaction of high voltage surfaces with the space plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaufman, H. R.; Robinson, R. S.

1980-01-01

High voltage solar arrays provide spacecraft power while optimizing mass and power efficiency. Operating such arrays in the space plasma environment can result in anomalously large currents being collected through insulation defects. Two thicknesses of the insulating material were tested, with no effect found due to insulator thickness. In these tests the polyimide thickness was always much less than the pinhole diameter. The pinhole area was varied over an area range of more than 30:1. It was found that the current collected was independent of the pinhole area for hole diameters from 0.35 to 2.0 mm. Two types of adhesives were tried in two different configurations. The adhesives were chosen for their extreme difference in vacuum qualifications. Neither adhesive types nor configuration made a significant difference in current collection. The temperature of the insulating material was also varied. It was found that current collection decreased with increasing temperature. Tests were conducted to see if pinhole current collection decreased with time, as was indicated by the effects of several short tests. Current was collected for over four hours while the conductor potential was held constant at 1000 volts. A smooth decrease with time was not observed, but rather a roughly constant current collection with brief surges to high values. Tests were also conducted with the simulated solar cell biased negative. The current was found to be proportional to pinhole area.

Multiplexed electronically programmable multimode ionization detector for chromatography

DOEpatents

Wise, M.B.; Buchanan, M.V.

1988-05-19

Method and apparatus for detecting and differentiating organic compounds based on their electron affinity. An electron capture detector cell (ECD) is operated in a plurality of multiplexed electronically programmable operating modes to alter the detector response during a single sampling cycle to acquire multiple simultaneous chromatograms corresponding to each of the different operating modes. The cell is held at a constant subatmospheric pressure while the electron collection bias voltage applied to the cell is modulated electronically to allow acquisition of multiple chromatograms for a single sample elution from a chromatograph representing three distinctly different response modes. A system is provided which automatically controls the programmed application of bias pulses at different intervals and/or amplitudes to switch the detector from an ionization mode to the electron capture mode and various degrees therebetween to provide an improved means of tuning an ECD for multimode detection and improved specificity. 6 figs.

Multiplexed electronically programmable multimode ionization detector for chromatography

DOEpatents

Wise, Marcus B.; Buchanan, Michelle V.

1989-01-01

Method and apparatus for detecting and differentiating organic compounds based on their electron affinity. An electron capture detector cell (ECD) is operated in a plurality of multiplexed electroncially programmable operating modes to alter the detector response during a single sampling cycle to acquire multiple simultaneous chromatograms corresponding to each of the different operating modes. The cell is held at a constant subatmospheric pressure while the electron collection bias voltage applied to the cell is modulated electronically to allow acquisition of multiple chromatograms for a single sample elution from a chromatograph representing three distinctly different response modes. A system is provided which automatically controls the programmed application of bias pulses at different intervals and/or amplitudes to switch the detector from an ionization mode to the electron capture mode and various degrees therebetween to provide an improved means of tuning an ECD for multimode detection and improved specificity.

Wide-bandgap epitaxial heterojunction windows for silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landis, Geoffrey A.; Loferski, Joseph J.; Beaulieu, Roland; Sekula-Moise, Patricia A.; Vernon, Stanley M.

1990-01-01

It is shown that the efficiency of a solar cell can be improved if minority carriers are confined by use of a wide-bandgap heterojunction window. For silicon (lattice constant a = 5.43 A), nearly lattice-matched wide-bandgap materials are ZnS (a = 5.41 A) and GaP (a = 5.45 A). Isotype n-n heterojuntions of both ZnS/Si and GaP/Si were grown on silicon n-p homojunction solar cells. Successful deposition processes used were metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MO-CVD) for GaP and ZnS, and vacuum evaporation of ZnS. Planar (100) and (111) and texture-etched - (111)-faceted - surfaces were used. A decrease in minority-carrier surface recombination compared to a bare surface was seen from increased short-wavelength spectral response, increased open-circuit voltage, and reduced dark saturation current, with no degradation of the minority carrier diffusion length.

Real Time Measures of Prestin Charge and Fluorescence during Plasma Membrane Trafficking Reveal Sub-Tetrameric Activity

PubMed Central

Bian, Shumin; Navaratnam, Dhasakumar; Santos-Sacchi, Joseph

2013-01-01

Prestin (SLC26a5) is the outer hair cell integral membrane motor protein that drives cochlear amplification, and has been described as an obligate tetramer. We studied in real time the delivery of YFP-prestin to the plasma membrane of cells from a tetracycline-inducible cell line. Following the release of temperature block to reinstate trans Golgi network delivery of the integral membrane protein, we measured nonlinear capacitance (NLC) and membrane fluorescence during voltage clamp. Prestin was delivered exponentially to the plasma membrane with a time constant of less than 10 minutes, with both electrical and fluorescence methods showing high temporal correlation. However, based on disparity between estimates of prestin density derived from either fluorescence or NLC, we conclude that sub-tetrameric forms of prestin contribute to our electrical and fluorescence measures. Thus, in agreement with previous observations we find that functional prestin is not an obligate tetramer. PMID:23762468

Novel Superdielectric Materials: Aqueous Salt Solution Saturated Fabric

PubMed Central

Phillips, Jonathan

2016-01-01

The dielectric constants of nylon fabrics saturated with aqueous NaCl solutions, Fabric-Superdielectric Materials (F-SDM), were measured to be >105 even at the shortest discharge times (>0.001 s) for which reliable data could be obtained using the constant current method, thus demonstrating the existence of a third class of SDM. Hence, the present results support the general theoretical SDM hypothesis, which is also supported by earlier experimental work with powder and anodized foil matrices: Any material composed of liquid containing dissolved, mobile ions, confined in an electrically insulating matrix, will have a very high dielectric constant. Five capacitors, each composed of a different number of layers of salt solution saturated nylon fabric, were studied, using a galvanostat operated in constant current mode. Capacitance, dielectric constant, energy density and power density as a function of discharge time, for discharge times from ~100 s to nearly 0.001 s were recorded. The roll-off rate of the first three parameters was found to be nearly identical for all five capacitors tested. The power density increased in all cases with decreasing discharge time, but again the observed frequency response was nearly identical for all five capacitors. Operational limitations found for F-SDM are the same as those for other aqueous solution SDM, particularly a low maximum operating voltage (~2.3 V), and dielectric “constants” that are a function of voltage, decreasing for voltages higher than ~0.8 V. Extrapolations of the present data set suggest F-SDM could be the key to inexpensive, high energy density (>75 J/cm3) capacitors. PMID:28774037

Investigation of a generator system for generating electrical power, to supply directly to the public network, using a windmill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tromp, C.

1979-01-01

A windpowered generator system is described which uses a windmill to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy for a three phase (network) voltage of constant amplitude and frequency. The generator system controls the windmill by the number of revolutions so that the power drawn from the wind for a given wind velocity is maximum. A generator revolution which is proportional to wind velocity is achieved. The stator of the generator is linked directly to the network and a feed converter at the rotor takes care of constant voltage and frequency at the stator.

Doubly Fed Induction Generator in an Offshore Wind Power Plant Operated at Rated V/Hz: Preprint

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

Muljadi, E.; Singh, M.; Gevorgian, V.

2012-06-01

This paper introduces the concept of constant Volt/Hz operation of offshore wind power plants. The deployment of offshore WPPs requires power transmission from the plant to the load center inland. Since this power transmission requires submarine cables, there is a need to use High-Voltage Direct Current transmission, which is economical for transmission distances longer than 50 kilometers. In the concept presented here, the onshore substation is operated at 60 Hz synced with the grid, and the offshore substation is operated at variable frequency and voltage, thus allowing the WPP to be operated at constant Volt/Hz.

State memory in solution gated epitaxial graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butko, A. V.; Butko, V. Y.; Lebedev, S. P.; Lebedev, A. A.; Davydov, V. Y.; Smirnov, A. N.; Eliseyev, I. A.; Dunaevskiy, M. S.; Kumzerov, Y. A.

2018-06-01

We studied electrical transport in transistors fabricated on a surface of high quality epitaxial graphene with density of defects as low as 5·1010 cm-2 and observed quasistatic hysteresis with a time constant in a scale of hours. This constant is in a few orders of magnitude greater than the constant previously reported in CVD graphene. The hysteresis observed here can be described as a shift of ∼+2V of the Dirac point measured during a gate voltage increase from the position of the Dirac point measured during a gate voltage decrease. This hysteresis can be characterized as a nonvolatile quasistatic state memory effect in which the state of the gated graphene is determined by its initial state prior to entering the hysteretic region. Due to this effect the difference in resistance of the gated graphene measured in the hysteretic region at the same applied voltages can be as high as 70%. The observed effect can be explained by assuming that charge carriers in graphene and oppositely charged molecular ions from the solution form quasistable interfacial complexes at the graphene interface. These complexes likely preserve the initial state by preventing charge carriers in graphene from discharging in the hysteretic region.

Rail-to-rail differential input amplification stage with main and surrogate differential pairs

DOEpatents

Britton, Jr., Charles Lanier; Smith, Stephen Fulton

2007-03-06

An operational amplifier input stage provides a symmetrical rail-to-rail input common-mode voltage without turning off either pair of complementary differential input transistors. Secondary, or surrogate, transistor pairs assume the function of the complementary differential transistors. The circuit also maintains essentially constant transconductance, constant slew rate, and constant signal-path supply current as it provides rail-to-rail operation.

Simulation of light-induced degradation of μc-Si in a-Si/μc-Si tandem solar cells by the diode equivalent circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weicht, J. A.; Hamelmann, F. U.; Behrens, G.

2016-02-01

Silicon-based thin film tandem solar cells consist of one amorphous (a-Si) and one microcrystalline (μc-Si) silicon solar cell. The Staebler - Wronski effect describes the light- induced degradation and temperature-dependent healing of defects of silicon-based solar thin film cells. The solar cell degradation depends strongly on operation temperature. Until now, only the light-induced degradation (LID) of the amorphous layer was examined in a-Si/μc-Si solar cells. The LID is also observed in pc-Si single function solar cells. In our work we show the influence of the light-induced degradation of the μc-Si layer on the diode equivalent circuit. The current-voltage-curves (I-V-curves) for the initial state of a-Si/pc-Si modules are measured. Afterwards the cells are degraded under controlled conditions at constant temperature and constant irradiation. At fixed times the modules are measured at standard test conditions (STC) (AM1.5, 25°C cell temperature, 1000 W/m2) for controlling the status of LID. After the degradation the modules are annealed at dark conditions for several hours at 120°C. After the annealing the dangling bonds in the amorphous layer are healed, while the degradation of the pc-Si is still present, because the healing of defects in pc-Si solar cells needs longer time or higher temperatures. The solar cells are measured again at STC. With this laboratory measured I-V-curves we are able to separate the values of the diode model: series Rs and parallel resistance Rp, saturation current Is and diode factor n.

Synergistic Inhibition of Delayed Rectifier K+ and Voltage-Gated Na+ Currents by Artemisinin in Pituitary Tumor (GH3) Cells.

PubMed

So, Edmund Cheung; Wu, Sheng-Nan; Wu, Ping-Ching; Chen, Hui-Zhen; Yang, Chia-Jung

2017-01-01

Artemisinin (ART) is an anti-malarial agent reported to influence endocrine function. Effects of ART on ionic currents and action potentials (APs) in pituitary tumor (GH3) cells were evaluated by patch clamp techniques. ART inhibited the amplitude of delayed-rectifier K+ current (IK(DR)) in response to membrane depolarization and accelerated the process of current inactivation. It exerted an inhibitory effect on IK(DR) with an IC50 value of 11.2 µM and enhanced IK(DR) inactivation with a KD value of 14.7 µM. The steady-state inactivation curve of IK(DR) was shifted to hyperpolarization by 10 mV. Pretreatment of chlorotoxin (1 µM) or iloprost (100 nM) did not alter the magnitude of ART-induced inhibition of IK(DR) in GH3 cells. ART also decreased the peak amplitude of voltage-gated Na+ current (INa) with a concentration-dependent slowing in inactivation rate. Application of KMUP-1, an inhibitor of late INa, was effective at reversing ART-induced prolongation in inactivation time constant of INa. Under current-clamp recordings, ART alone reduced the amplitude of APs and prolonged the duration of APs. Under ART exposure, the inhibitory actions on both IK(DR) and INa could be a potential mechanisms through which this drug influences membrane excitability of endocrine or neuroendocrine cells appearing in vivo. © 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Evaluation of a pilot-scale sewage biogas powered 2.8 kWe Solid Oxide Fuel Cell: Assessment of heat-to-power ratio and influence of oxygen content

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Arespacochaga, N.; Valderrama, C.; Peregrina, C.; Mesa, C.; Bouchy, L.; Cortina, J. L.

2015-12-01

Biogas from anaerobic digestion of organic matter is a promising renewable energy source and fuel cells appear as a breakthrough technology to improve the performance of the biogas-to-energy valorisation chain. The vast majority of studies addressing biogas energy recovery through Solid Oxide Fuel Cells published in recent years correspond to simulations and lab-scale performance with synthetic biogas. This paper assesses the pilot performance of a 2.8 kWe SOFC unit powered with cleaned sewage biogas for around 700 h in a Wastewater Treatment Plant. The biogas thorough treatment consisting of a biological desulphurisation with a biotrickling filter followed by a deep cleaning step based on adsorption is successful for removing sulphur compounds, siloxanes and hydrocarbons. The influence of the heat-to-power ratio on fuel cell performance is investigated operating the system at O/C ratio of 2, reforming temperature of 550 °C, stack temperature of 800 °C and at a constant voltage of 43 V. At optimized conditions for electrical production satisfying heat demand in the WWTP, system electrical and thermal efficiencies account for 34% and 28%. Cogeneration efficiency remains constant at around 59-62% for all the heat-to-power ratios tested. Furthermore, the impact of the oxygen content in the biogas is also studied.

Pulsed Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry for Operando Tracking of Interfacial Processes in Small-Time-Constant Electrochemical Devices such as Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Batisse, Nicolas; Raymundo-Piñero, Encarnación

2017-11-29

A more detailed understanding of the electrode/electrolyte interface degradation during the charging cycle in supercapacitors is of great interest for exploring the voltage stability range and therefore the extractable energy. The evaluation of the gas evolution during the charging, discharging, and aging processes is a powerful tool toward determining the stability and energy capacity of supercapacitors. Here, we attempt to fit the gas analysis resolution to the time response of a low-gas-generation power device by adopting a modified pulsed electrochemical mass spectrometry (PEMS) method. The pertinence of the method is shown using a symmetric carbon/carbon supercapacitor operating in different aqueous electrolytes. The differences observed in the gas levels and compositions as a function of the cell voltage correlate to the evolution of the physicochemical characteristics of the carbon electrodes and to the electrochemical performance, giving a complete picture of the processes taking place at the electrode/electrolyte interface.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, D.W.; Lange, A.C.

1996-10-15

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules. 5 figs.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, Daniel W.; Lange, Arnold C.

1996-01-01

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage put under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules.

48. VIEW LOOKING NORTHEAST AT EXCITER RESISTANCE GRIDS LOCATED UNDER ...

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

48. VIEW LOOKING NORTHEAST AT EXCITER RESISTANCE GRIDS LOCATED UNDER THE CONTROL ROOM ON SOUTH SIDE OF TURBINE HALL. THE GRIDS WERE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE CONTROL SYSTEM THAT MAINTAINED CONSTANT VOLTAGE ON THE RAILROAD POWER LINES. TIRRILL VOLTAGE REGULATORS (SEE CT-142A-100) SENSED VOLTAGE VARIATIONS AND INITIATED SWITCHING SEQUENCES TO REGULATE THE VOLTAGE AND MAINTAIN A SYSTEM STANDARD VOLTAGE. THE RESISTANCE GRIDS WERE SEQUENTIALLY ADDED TO OR REMOVED FROM THE GENERATOR FIELD COIL CIRCUITS. THIS RESISTANCE LOAD DISSIPATED EXCITIR GENERATOR POWER AS HEAT. THIS IN TURN WOULD VARY THE STRENGTH OF THE FIELD MAGNET AND CONSEQUENTLY RAISE OR LOWER THE OUTPUT VOLTAGE FROM THE MAIN GENERATOR ARMATURE. - New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, Cos Cob Power Plant, Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, Fairfield County, CT

Modelling of fluoride removal via batch monopolar electrocoagulation process using aluminium electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amri, N.; Hashim, M. I.; Ismail, N.; Rohman, F. S.; Bashah, N. A. A.

2017-09-01

Electrocoagulation (EC) is a promising technology that extensively used to remove fluoride ions efficiently from industrial wastewater. However, it has received very little consideration and understanding on mechanism and factors that affecting the fluoride removal process. In order to determine the efficiency of fluoride removal in EC process, the effect of operating parameters such as voltage and electrolysis time were investigated in this study. A batch experiment with monopolar aluminium electrodes was conducted to identify the model of fluoride removal using empirical model equation. The EC process was investigated using several parameters which include voltage (3 - 12 V) and electrolysis time (0 - 60 minutes) at a constant initial fluoride concentration of 25 mg/L. The result shows that the fluoride removal efficiency increased steadily with increasing voltage and electrolysis time. The best fluoride removal efficiency was obtained with 94.8 % removal at 25 mg/L initial fluoride concentration, voltage of 12 V and 60 minutes electrolysis time. The results indicated that the rate constant, k and number of order, n decreased as the voltage increased. The rate of fluoride removal model was developed based on the empirical model equation using the correlation of k and n. Overall, the result showed that EC process can be considered as a potential alternative technology for fluoride removal in wastewater.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 enhances rat skeletal muscle charge movement and L-type Ca2+ channel gene expression

PubMed Central

Wang, Zhong-Min; Laura Messi, María; Renganathan, Muthukrishnan; Delbono, Osvaldo

1999-01-01

We investigated whether insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), an endogenous potent activator of skeletal muscle proliferation and differentiation, enhances L-type Ca2+ channel gene expression resulting in increased functional voltage sensors in single skeletal muscle cells. Charge movement and inward Ca2+ current were recorded in primary cultured rat myoballs using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. Ca2+ current and maximum charge movement (Qmax) were potentiated in cells treated with IGF-1 without significant changes in their voltage dependence. Peak Ca2+ current in control and IGF-1-treated cells was -7·8 ± 0·44 and -10·5 ± 0·37 pA pF−1, respectively (P < 0·01), whilst Qmax was 12·9 ± 0·4 and 22·0 ± 0·3 nC μF−1, respectively (P < 0·01). The number of L-type Ca2+ channels was found to increase in the same preparation. The maximum binding capacity (Bmax) of the high-affinity radioligand [3H]PN200-110 in control and IGF-1-treated cells was 1·21 ± 0·25 and 3·15 ± 0·5 pmol (mg protein)−1, respectively (P < 0·01). No significant change in the dissociation constant for [3H]PN200-110 was found. Antisense RNA amplification showed a significant increase in the level of mRNA encoding the L-type Ca2+ channel α1-subunit in IGF-1-treated cells. This study demonstrates that IGF-1 regulates charge movement and the level of L-type Ca2+ channel α1-subunits through activation of gene expression in skeletal muscle cells. PMID:10087334

Disinfection by electrohydraulic treatment.

PubMed

Allen, M; Soike, K

1967-04-28

Electrohydraulic treatment was applied to suspensions of Escherichia coli, spores of Bacillus subtilis var. niger, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and bacteriophage T2 at an input energy that, in most cases, was below the energy required to sterilize. The input energy was held relatively constant for each of these microorganisms, but the capacitance and voltage were varied. Data are presented which show the degree of disinfection as a function of capacitance and voltage. In all cases, the degree of disinfection for a given input energy increases as both capacitance and voltage are lowered.

Bioelectrical coupling in multicellular domains regulated by gap junctions: A conceptual approach.

PubMed

Cervera, Javier; Pietak, Alexis; Levin, Michael; Mafe, Salvador

2018-04-21

We review the basic concepts involved in bioelectrically-coupled multicellular domains, focusing on the role of membrane potentials (V mem ). In the first model, single-cell V mem is modulated by two generic polarizing and depolarizing ion channels, while intercellular coupling is implemented via voltage-gated gap junctions. Biochemical and bioelectrical signals are integrated via a feedback loop between V mem and the transcription and translation of a protein forming an ion channel. The effective rate constants depend on the single-cell V mem because these potentials modulate the local concentrations of signaling molecules and ions. This electrochemically-based idealization of the complex biophysical problem suggests that the spatio-temporal map of single-cell potentials can influence downstream patterning processes by means of the voltage-gated gap junction interconnectivity, much as in the case of electronic devices where the control of electric potentials and currents allows the local modulation of the circuitry to achieve full functionality. An alternative theoretical approach, the BioElectrical Tissue Simulation Engine (BETSE), is also presented. The BETSE modeling environment utilizes finite volume techniques to simulate bioelectric states from the perspective of ion concentrations and fluxes. This model has been successfully applied to make predictions and explain experimental observations in a variety of embryonic, regenerative, and oncogenic contexts. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PEMFC development at Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.

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

Yoshitake, M.; Yanagisawa, E.; Naganuma, T.

2000-07-01

Perfluorinated ion exchange membranes were studied and the membrane technology for PEMFC has been developed. Thermal stability, mechanical strength, water content, AC specific resistance and gas permeability were measured. The influence of membrane thickness on gas permeability and the influence of incorporation of cations on water content and AC specific resistance of Flemion{reg_sign} and Nafion{reg_sign}117 were estimated. Gas permeation rates of the membranes decreased in inverse proportion to the increase of the membrane thickness and gas permeability coefficients were nearly constant and independent of the thickness. Hydrogen permeation rates of Flemion S at 70 C were converted to 2.1 mA/cm{supmore » 2} as current density. Flemion R-electrode assembly showed to maintain stable performance for over 3,500 hr. Furthermore, it was found that usage of thinner membranes of one with higher ion-exchange capacity gave not only lower internal cell voltage but also higher IR-free cell voltage. PTFE-yarn embedded type membrane (Flemion Mc and Sc) and PTFE-fibril dispersed type (Flemion Rf2) was examined to afford improvement in mechanical strength at moist and high temperature atmosphere. Flemion Sc (80{micro}m) was examined to give high cell performance of 0.67V at 0.5A/cm2, 80 C, 1 ata. Flemion Mc-electrode assembly was examined to keep stable performance during the life test of over 1,500 hr.« less

Laser beam apparatus and method for analyzing solar cells

DOEpatents

Staebler, David L.

1980-01-01

A laser beam apparatus and method for analyzing, inter alia, the current versus voltage curve at the point of illumination on a solar cell and the open circuit voltage of a solar cell. The apparatus incorporates a lock-in amplifier, and a laser beam light chopper which permits the measurement of the AC current of the solar cell at an applied DC voltage at the position on the solar cell where the cell is illuminated and a feedback scheme which permits the direct scanning measurements of the open circuit voltage. The accuracy of the measurement is a function of the intensity and wavelength of the laser light with respect to the intensity and wavelength distribution of sunlight and the percentage the dark current is at the open circuit voltage to the short circuit current of the solar cell.

Giga-seal formation alters properties of sodium channels of human myoballs.

PubMed

Fahlke, C; Rüdel, R

1992-03-01

The influence of giga-seal formation on the properties of the Na+ channels within the covered membrane patch was investigated with a whole-cell pipette and a patch pipette applied to the same cell. Current kinetics, current/voltage relation and channel densities were determined in three combinations: (i) voltage-clamping and current recording with the whole-cell pipette, (ii) voltage-clamping with the whole-cell pipette and current recording with the patch pipette and, (iii) voltage-clamping and current recording with the patch pipette. The Hodgkin-Huxley (1952) parameters tau m and tau h were smaller for the patch currents than for the whole cell, and the h infinity curve was shifted in the negative direction. The channel density was of the order of 10 times smaller. All effects were independent of the extracellular Ca2+ concentration. The capacitive current generated in the patch by the whole-cell Na+ current and its effect on the transmembrane voltage of the patch were evaluated. The kinetic parameters of the Na+ channels in the patch did not depend on whether the voltage was clamped with the whole-cell pipette or the patch pipette. Thus, the results are not due to spurious voltage.

Mechanism of block by tedisamil of transient outward current in human ventricular subepicardial myocytes

PubMed Central

Wettwer, Erich; Himmel, Herbert M; Amos, Gregory J; Li, Qi; Metzger, Franz; Ravens, Ursula

1998-01-01

Tedisamil is a new antiarrhythmic drug with predominant class III action. The aim of the present study was to investigate the blocking pattern of the compound on the transient outward current (Ito) in human subepicardial myocytes isolated from explanted left ventricles. Using the single electrode whole cell voltage clamp technique, Ito was analysed after appropriate voltage inactivation of sodium current and block of calcium current.Tedisamil reduced the amplitude of peak Ito, but did not affect the amplitude of non-inactivating outward current. The drug accelerated the apparent rate of Ito inactivation. The reduction in time constant of Ito inactivation depended on drug concentration, the apparent IC50 value was 4.4 μM.Tedisamil affected Ito amplitude in a use-dependent manner. After 2 min at −80 mV, maximum block of Ito was reached after 4–5 clamp steps either at the frequency of 0.2 or 2 Hz, indicating that the block was not frequency-dependent in an experimentally relevant range. Recovery from block was very slow and proceeded with a time constant of 12.1±1.8 s. Also in the presence of drug, a fraction of channels recovered from inactivation with a similar time constant as in control myocytes (i.e. 81±40 ms and 51±8 ms, respectively, n.s.).From the onset of fractional block of Ito by tedisamil during the initial 60 ms of a clamp step, we calculated k1=9×106 mol−1 s−1 for the association rate constant, and k2=23 s−1 for the dissociation rate constant. The resulting apparent KD was 2.6 μM and is similar to the IC50 value.The effects of tedisamil on Ito could be simulated by assuming a four state channel model where the drug binds to the channel in an open (activated) conformation. It is concluded that in human subepicardial myocytes tedisamil is an open channel blocker of Ito and that this effect probably contributes to the antiarrhythmic potential of this drug. PMID:9831899

Electrochemical capacitance voltage measurements in highly doped silicon and silicon-germanium alloys

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

Sermage, B.; Essa, Z.; Taleb, N.

2016-04-21

The electrochemical capacitance voltage technique has been used on highly boron doped SiGe and Si layers. Although the boron concentration is constant over the space charge depth, the 1/C{sup 2} versus voltage curves are not linear. They indeed present a negative curvature. This can be explained by the existence of deep acceptors which ionise under a high electric field (large inverse voltage) and not at a low inverse voltage. The measured doping concentration in the electrochemical capacitance voltage increases strongly as the inverse voltage increases. Thanks to a comparison with the boron concentration measured by secondary ions mass spectrometry, wemore » show that the relevant doping concentrations in device layers are obtained for small inverse voltage in agreement with the existence of deep acceptors. At the large inverse voltage, the measured doping can be more than twice larger than the boron concentration measured with a secondary ion mass spectroscopy.« less

Genetically encoded fluorescent voltage sensors using the voltage-sensing domain of Nematostella and Danio phosphatases exhibit fast kinetics.

PubMed

Baker, Bradley J; Jin, Lei; Han, Zhou; Cohen, Lawrence B; Popovic, Marko; Platisa, Jelena; Pieribone, Vincent

2012-07-15

A substantial increase in the speed of the optical response of genetically encoded fluorescent protein voltage sensors (FP voltage sensors) was achieved by using the voltage-sensing phosphatase genes of Nematostella vectensis and Danio rerio. A potential N. vectensis voltage-sensing phosphatase was identified in silico. The voltage-sensing domain (S1-S4) of the N. vectensis homolog was used to create an FP voltage sensor called Nema. By replacing the phosphatase with a cerulean/citrine FRET pair, a new FP voltage sensor was synthesized with fast off kinetics (Tau(off)<5ms). However, the signal was small (ΔF/F=0.4%/200mV). FP voltage sensors using the D. rerio voltage-sensing phosphatase homolog, designated Zahra and Zahra 2, exhibited fast on and off kinetics within 2ms of the time constants observed with the organic voltage-sensitive dye, di4-ANEPPS. Mutagenesis of the S4 region of the Danio FP voltage sensor shifted the voltage dependence to more negative potentials but did not noticeably affect the kinetics of the optical signal. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Biological X-ray irradiator characterization for use with small animals and cells.

PubMed

Bruno, A Colello; Mazaro, S J; Amaral, L L; Rego, E M; Oliveira, H F; Pavoni, J F

2017-03-02

This study presents the characterization of an X-ray irradiator through dosimetric tests, which confirms the actual dose rate that small animals and cells will be exposed to during radiobiological experiments. We evaluated the linearity, consistency, repeatability, and dose distribution in the positions in which the animals or cells are placed during irradiation. In addition, we evaluated the performance of the X-ray tube (voltage and tube operating current), the radiometric survey (leakage radiation) and safety devices. The irradiator default setting was established as 160 kV and 25 mA. Tests showed that the dose rate was linear overtime (R2=1) and remained stable for long (constant) and short (repeatability) intervals between readings. The mean dose rate inside the animal cages was 1.27±0.06 Gy/min with a uniform beam of 95.40% (above the minimum threshold guaranteed by the manufacturer). The mean dose rate inside the cell plates was 0.92±0.19 Gy/min. The dose rate dependence with tube voltage and current presented a quadratic and linear relationship, respectively. There was no observed mechanical failure during evaluation of the irradiator safety devices and the radiometric survey obtained a maximum ambient equivalent dose rate of 0.26 mSv/h, which exempts it from the radiological protection requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The irradiator characterization enables us to perform radiobiological experiments, and assists or even replaces traditional therapy equipment (e.g., linear accelerators) for cells and small animal irradiation, especially in early research stages.

Screening Fluorescent Voltage Indicators with Spontaneously Spiking HEK Cells

PubMed Central

Venkatachalam, Veena; Kralj, Joel M.; Dib-Hajj, Sulayman D.; Waxman, Stephen G.; Cohen, Adam E.

2013-01-01

Development of improved fluorescent voltage indicators is a key challenge in neuroscience, but progress has been hampered by the low throughput of patch-clamp characterization. We introduce a line of non-fluorescent HEK cells that stably express NaV 1.3 and KIR 2.1 and generate spontaneous electrical action potentials. These cells enable rapid, electrode-free screening of speed and sensitivity of voltage sensitive dyes or fluorescent proteins on a standard fluorescence microscope. We screened a small library of mutants of archaerhodopsin 3 (Arch) in spiking HEK cells and identified two mutants with greater voltage-sensitivity than found in previously published Arch voltage indicators. PMID:24391999

A Fresh Look at the Semiconductor Bandgap Using Constant Current Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ocaya, R. O.; Luhanga, P. V. C.

2011-01-01

It is shown that the well-known linear variation of p-n diode terminal voltage with temperature at different fixed forward currents allows easy and accurate determination of the semiconductor ideality factor and bandgap from only two data points. This is possible if the temperature difference required to maintain the same diode voltage drop can be…

Characterization and evaluation of an aeolian-photovoltaic system in operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonfatti, F.; Calzolari, P. U.; Cardinali, G. C.; Vivanti, G.; Zani, A.

Data management, analysis techniques and results of performance monitoring of a prototype combined photovoltaic (PV)-wind turbine farm power plant in northern Italy are reported. Emphasis is placed on the PV I-V characteristics and irradiance and cell temperatures. Automated instrumentation monitors and records meteorological data and generator variables such as voltages, currents, output, battery electrolyte temperature, etc. Analysis proceeds by automated selection of I-V data for specific intervals of the year when other variables can be treated as constants. The technique permits characterization of generator performance, adjusting the power plant set points for optimal output, and tracking performance degradation over time.

Voltage-independent inhibition of Ca(V)2.2 channels is delimited to a specific region of the membrane potential in rat SCG neurons.

PubMed

Vivas, Oscar; Arenas, Isabel; García, David E

2012-06-01

Neurotransmitters and hormones regulate Ca(V)2.2 channels through a voltage-independent pathway which is not well understood. It has been suggested that this voltage-independent inhibition is constant at all membrane voltages. However, changes in the percent of voltage-independent inhibition of Ca(V)2.2 have not been tested within a physiological voltage range. Here, we used a double-pulse protocol to isolate the voltage-independent inhibition of Ca(V)2.2 channels induced by noradrenaline in rat superior cervical ganglion neurons. To assess changes in the percent of the voltage-independent inhibition, the activation voltage of the channels was tested between -40 and +40 mV. We found that the percent of voltage-independent inhibition induced by noradrenaline changed with the activation voltage used. In addition, voltage-independent inhibition induced by oxo-M, a muscarinic agonist, exhibited the same dependence on activation voltage, which supports that this pattern is not exclusive for adrenergic activation. Our results suggested that voltage-independent inhibition of Ca(V)2.2 channels depends on the activation voltage of the channel in a physiological voltage range. This may have relevant implications in the understanding of the mechanism involved in voltage-independent inhibition.

Circuits and methods for impedance determination using active measurement cancelation

DOEpatents

Jamison, David K.

2016-12-13

A delta signal and opposite delta signal are generated such that a sum of the two signals is substantially zero. The delta signal is applied across a first set of electrochemical cells. The opposite delta signal is applied across a second set of electrochemical cells series connected to the first set. A first held voltage is established as the voltage across the first set. A second held voltage is established as the voltage across the second set. A first delta signal is added to the first held voltage and applied to the first set. A second delta signal is added to the second held voltage and applied to the second set. The current responses due to the added delta voltages travel only into the set associated with its delta voltage. The delta voltages and the current responses are used to calculate the impedances of their associated cells.

The tetravalent organic cation spermine causes the gating of the IRK1 channel expressed in murine fibroblast cells.

PubMed Central

Ishihara, K; Hiraoka, M; Ochi, R

1996-01-01

1. The activation kinetics of the IRK1 channel stably expressed in L cells (a murine fibroblast cell line) were studied under the whole-cell voltage clamp. Without polyamines or Mg2+ in the pipettes, inward currents showed an exponential activation on hyperpolarization. The steep inward rectification of the currents around the reversal potential (Erev) could be described by the open-close transition of the channel with first-order kinetics. 2. When the tetravalent organic cation spermine (Spm) was added in the pipettes, the activation kinetics changed; this was explicable by the increase in the closing rate constant. The activation of the currents observed without Spm or Mg2+ in the pipettes was ascribed to the unblocking of the 'endogenous-Spm block'. 3. In the presence of the divalent cation putrescine (Put) or of Mg2+ in the pipettes, a different non-conductive state suppressed the outward currents on depolarization; the channels instantaneously changed to the open state on repolarization. As the depolarization was prolonged, this non-conductive state was replaced by the non-conductive state that shows an exponential activation on repolarization. This phenomenon was attributed to the redistribution of the channels from the Put- or Mg(2+)-blocked state to the 'endogenous Spm-blocked state' during depolarization. 4. In the presence of the trivalent cation spermidine (Spd) in the pipettes, two different non-conductive states occurred, showing a faster and a slower activation on repolarization. The rectification around Erev was mainly due to the non-conductive state showing a faster activation, which appeared to be the Spd-blocked state. During depolarization, redistribution of the channels to the 'endogenous Spm-blocked state' also occurred. 5. In the presence of Spd, Put or Mg2+ in the pipettes, the voltage dependence of the activation time constant reflecting the unblocking of the 'endogenous Spm' was shifted in the hyperpolarizing direction. 6. Our results suggest that the 'intrinsic gating' that shows the time-dependent activation on repolarization, and that is responsible for the inward rectification around Erev, reflects the blocking kinetics of the tetravalent Spm. PMID:8866861

Blue copper model complexes with distorted tetragonal geometry acting as effective electron-transfer mediators in dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Hattori, Shigeki; Wada, Yuji; Yanagida, Shozo; Fukuzumi, Shunichi

2005-07-06

The electron self-exchange rate constants of blue copper model complexes, [(-)-sparteine-N,N'](maleonitriledithiolato-S,S')copper ([Cu(SP)(mmt)])(0/)(-), bis(2,9-dimethy-1,10-phenanthroline)copper ([Cu(dmp)(2)](2+/+)), and bis(1,10-phenanthroline)copper ([Cu(phen)(2)](2+/+)) have been determined from the rate constants of electron transfer from a homologous series of ferrocene derivatives to the copper(II) complexes in light of the Marcus theory of electron transfer. The resulting electron self-exchange rate constant increases in the order: [Cu(phen)(2)](2+/+) < [Cu(SP)(mmt)](0/)(-) < [Cu(dmp)(2)](2+/+), in agreement with the order of the smaller structural change between the copper(II) and copper(I) complexes due to the distorted tetragonal geometry. The dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) were constructed using the copper complexes as redox couples to compare the photoelectrochemical responses with those using the conventional I(3)(-)/I(-) couple. The light energy conversion efficiency (eta) values under illumination of simulated solar light irradiation (100 mW/cm(2)) of DSSCs using [Cu(phen)(2)](2+/+), [Cu(dmp)(2)](2+/+), and [Cu(SP)(mmt)](0/)(-) were recorded as 0.1%, 1.4%, and 1.3%, respectively. The maximum eta value (2.2%) was obtained for a DSSC using the [Cu(dmp)(2)](2+/+) redox couple under the light irradiation of 20 mW/cm(2) intensity, where a higher open-circuit voltage of the cell was attained as compared to that of the conventional I(3)(-)/I(-) couple.

Transient Performance Improvement Circuit (TPIC)s for DC-DC converter applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Sungkeun

Gordon Moore famously predicted the exponential increase in transistor integration and computing power that has been witnessed in recent decades [1]. In the near future, it is expected that more than one billion transistors will be integrated per chip, and advanced microprocessors will require clock speeds in excess of several GHz. The increasing number of transistors and high clock speeds will necessitate the consumption of more power. By 2014, it is expected that the maximum power consumption of the microprocessor will reach approximately 150W, and the maximum load current will be around 150A. Today's trend in power and thermal management is to reduce supply voltage as low as possible to reduce delivered power. It is anticipated that the Intel cores will operate on 0.8V of supply voltage by 2014 [2]. A significant challenge in Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) development for next generation microprocessors is to regulate the supply voltage within a certain tolerance band during high slew rate load transitions, since the required supply voltage tolerance band will be much narrower than the current requirement. If VR output impedance is maintained at a constant value from DC to high frequency, large output voltage spikes can be avoided during load cur- rent transients. Based on this, the Adaptive Voltage Position (AVP) concept was developed to achieve constant VR output impedance to improve transient response performance [3]. However, the VR output impedance can not be made constant over the entire frequency range with AVP design, because the AVP design makes the VR output impedance constant only at low frequencies. To make the output impedance constant at high frequencies, many bulk capacitors and ceramic capacitors are required. The tight supply voltage tolerance for the next generation of microprocessors during high slew rate load transitions requires fast transient response power supplies. A VRM can not follow the high slew rate load current transients, because of the slow inductor current slew rate which is determined by the input voltage, output voltage, and the inductance. The remaining inductor current in the power delivery path will charge the output capacitors and develop a voltage across the ESR. As a result, large output voltage spikes occur during load current transients. Due to their limited control bandwidth, traditional VRs can not sufficiently respond rapidly to certain load transients. As a result, a large output voltage spike can occur during load transients, hence requiring a large amount of bulk capacitance to decouple the VR from the load [2]. If the remaining inductor current is removed from the power stage or the inductor current slew rate is changed, the output voltage spikes can be clamped, allowing the output capacitance to be reduced. A new design methodology for a Transient Performance Improvement Circuit(TPIC) based on controlling the output impedance of a regulator is presented. The TPIC works in parallel with a voltage regulator (VR)'s ceramic capacitors to achieve faster voltage regulation without the need for a large bulk capacitance, and can serve as a replacement for bulk capacitors. The specific function of the TPIC is to mimic the behavior of the bulk capacitance in a traditional VRM by sinking and sourcing large currents during transients, allowing the VR to respond quickly to current transients without the need for a large bulk capacitance. This will allow fast transient response without the need for a large bulk capacitor. The main challenge in applying the TPIC is creating a design which will not interfere with VR operation. A TPIC for a 4 Switch Buck-Boost (4SBB) converter is presented which functions by con- trolling the inductor current slew rate during load current transients. By increasing the inductor current slew rate, the remaining inductor current can be removed from the 4SBB power delivery path and the output voltage spike can be clamped. A second TPIC is presented which is designed to improve the performance of an LDO regulator during output current transients. A TPIC for a LDO regulator is proposed to reduce the over voltage spike settling time. During a load current step down transient, the only current discharging path is a light load current. However, it takes a long time to discharge the current charged in the output capacitors with the light load current. The proposed TPIC will make an additional current discharging path to reduce the long settling time. By reducing the settling time, the load current transient frequency of the LDO regulator can be increased. A Ripple Cancellation Circuit (RCC) is proposed to reduce the output voltage ripple. The RCC has a very similar concept with the TPIC which is sinking or injecting additional current to the power stage to compensate the inductor ripple current. The proposed TPICs and RCC have been implemented with a 0.6m CMOS process. A single-phase VR, a 4SBB converter, and a LDO regulator have been utilized with the proposed TPIC to evaluate its performance. The theoretical analysis will be confirmed by Cadence simulation results and experimental results.

Polymer solar cells with enhanced open-circuit voltage and efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Hsiang-Yu; Hou, Jianhui; Zhang, Shaoqing; Liang, Yongye; Yang, Guanwen; Yang, Yang; Yu, Luping; Wu, Yue; Li, Gang

2009-11-01

Following the development of the bulk heterojunction structure, recent years have seen a dramatic improvement in the efficiency of polymer solar cells. Maximizing the open-circuit voltage in a low-bandgap polymer is one of the critical factors towards enabling high-efficiency solar cells. Study of the relation between open-circuit voltage and the energy levels of the donor/acceptor in bulk heterojunction polymer solar cells has stimulated interest in modifying the open-circuit voltage by tuning the energy levels of polymers. Here, we show that the open-circuit voltage of polymer solar cells constructed based on the structure of a low-bandgap polymer, PBDTTT, can be tuned, step by step, using different functional groups, to achieve values as high as 0.76 V. This increased open-circuit voltage combined with a high short-circuit current density results in a polymer solar cell with a power conversion efficiency as high as 6.77%, as certified by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Use of multi-functional flexible micro-sensors for in situ measurement of temperature, voltage and fuel flow in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell.

PubMed

Lee, Chi-Yuan; Chan, Pin-Cheng; Lee, Chung-Ju

2010-01-01

Temperature, voltage and fuel flow distribution all contribute considerably to fuel cell performance. Conventional methods cannot accurately determine parameter changes inside a fuel cell. This investigation developed flexible and multi-functional micro sensors on a 40 μm-thick stainless steel foil substrate by using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) and embedded them in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) to measure the temperature, voltage and flow. Users can monitor and control in situ the temperature, voltage and fuel flow distribution in the cell. Thereby, both fuel cell performance and lifetime can be increased.

Mitigation of chemical membrane degradation in fuel cells: understanding the effect of cell voltage and iron ion redox cycle.

PubMed

Wong, Ka Hung; Kjeang, Erik

2015-03-01

Chemical membrane degradation through the Fenton's reaction is one of the main lifetime-limiting factors for polymer-electrolyte fuel cells. In this work, a comprehensive, transient membrane degradation model is developed to capture and elucidate the complex in situ degradation mechanism. A redox cycle of iron ions is discovered within the membrane electrolyte assembly, which sustains the Fe(II) concentration and results in the most severe chemical degradation at open circuit voltage. The cycle strength is critically reduced at lower cell voltages, which leads to an exponential decrease in Fe(II) concentration and associated membrane degradation rate. When the cell voltage is held below 0.7 V, a tenfold reduction in cumulative fluoride release is achieved, which suggests that intermediate cell voltage operation would efficiently mitigate chemical membrane degradation and extend the fuel cell lifetime. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fuel cell system

DOEpatents

Early, Jack; Kaufman, Arthur; Stawsky, Alfred

1982-01-01

A fuel cell system is comprised of a fuel cell module including sub-stacks of series-connected fuel cells, the sub-stacks being held together in a stacked arrangement with cold plates of a cooling means located between the sub-stacks to function as electrical terminals. The anode and cathode terminals of the sub-stacks are connected in parallel by means of the coolant manifolds which electrically connect selected cold plates. The system may comprise a plurality of the fuel cell modules connected in series. The sub-stacks are designed to provide a voltage output equivalent to the desired voltage demand of a low voltage, high current DC load such as an electrolytic cell to be driven by the fuel cell system. This arrangement in conjunction with switching means can be used to drive a DC electrical load with a total voltage output selected to match that of the load being driven. This arrangement eliminates the need for expensive voltage regulation equipment.

Carbon nanotubes for voltage reduction and throughput enhancement of electrical cell lysis on a lab-on-a-chip.

PubMed

Shahini, Mehdi; Yeow, John T W

2011-08-12

We report on the enhancement of electrical cell lysis using carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Electrical cell lysis systems are widely utilized in microchips as they are well suited to integration into lab-on-a-chip devices. However, cell lysis based on electrical mechanisms has high voltage requirements. Here, we demonstrate that by incorporating CNTs into microfluidic electrolysis systems, the required voltage for lysis is reduced by half and the lysis throughput at low voltages is improved by ten times, compared to non-CNT microchips. In our experiment, E. coli cells are lysed while passing through an electric field in a microchannel. Based on the lightning rod effect, the electric field strengthened at the tip of the CNTs enhances cell lysis at lower voltage and higher throughput. This approach enables easy integration of cell lysis with other on-chip high-throughput sample-preparation processes.

Electrochemical behaviors of wax-coated Li powder/Li 4Ti 5O 12 cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Han Eol; Seong, Il Won; Yoon, Woo Young

The wax-coated Li powder specimen was effectively synthesized using the drop emulsion technique (DET). The wax layer on the powder was verified by SEM, Focused Ion Beam (FIB), EDX and XPS. The porosity of a sintered wax-coated Li electrode was measured by linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and compared with that of a bare, i.e., un-coated Li electrode. The electrochemical behavior of the wax-coated Li powder anode cell was examined by the impedance analysis and cyclic testing methods. The cyclic behavior of the wax-coated Li powder anode with the Li 4Ti 5O 12 (LTO) cathode cell was examined at a constant current density of 0.35 mA cm -2 with the cut-off voltages of 1.2-2.0 V at 25 °C. Over 90% of the initial capacity of the cell remained even after the 300th cycle. The wax-coated Li powder was confirmed to be a stable anode material.

Pulsed Direct Current Electrospray: Enabling Systematic Analysis of Small Volume Sample by Boosting Sample Economy.

PubMed

Wei, Zhenwei; Xiong, Xingchuang; Guo, Chengan; Si, Xingyu; Zhao, Yaoyao; He, Muyi; Yang, Chengdui; Xu, Wei; Tang, Fei; Fang, Xiang; Zhang, Sichun; Zhang, Xinrong

2015-11-17

We had developed pulsed direct current electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (pulsed-dc-ESI-MS) for systematically profiling and determining components in small volume sample. Pulsed-dc-ESI utilized constant high voltage to induce the generation of single polarity pulsed electrospray remotely. This method had significantly boosted the sample economy, so as to obtain several minutes MS signal duration from merely picoliter volume sample. The elongated MS signal duration enable us to collect abundant MS(2) information on interested components in a small volume sample for systematical analysis. This method had been successfully applied for single cell metabolomics analysis. We had obtained 2-D profile of metabolites (including exact mass and MS(2) data) from single plant and mammalian cell, concerning 1034 components and 656 components for Allium cepa and HeLa cells, respectively. Further identification had found 162 compounds and 28 different modification groups of 141 saccharides in a single Allium cepa cell, indicating pulsed-dc-ESI a powerful tool for small volume sample systematical analysis.

Dynamic Response during PEM Fuel Cell Loading-up

PubMed Central

Pei, Pucheng; Yuan, Xing; Gou, Jun; Li, Pengcheng

2009-01-01

A study on the effects of controlling and operating parameters for a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell on the dynamic phenomena during the loading-up process is presented. The effect of the four parameters of load-up amplitudes and rates, operating pressures and current levels on gas supply or even starvation in the flow field is analyzed based accordingly on the transient characteristics of current output and voltage. Experiments are carried out in a single fuel cell with an active area of 285 cm2. The results show that increasing the loading-up amplitude can inevitably increase the possibility of gas starvation in channels when a constant flow rate has been set for the cathode; With a higher operating pressure, the dynamic performance will be improved and gas starvations can be relieved. The transient gas supply in the flow channel during two loading-up mode has also been discussed. The experimental results will be helpful for optimizing the control and operation strategies for PEM fuel cells in vehicles.

Cadmium telluride solar cells: Record-breaking voltages

DOE PAGES

Poplawsky, Jonathan D.

2016-01-01

Here, the performance of CdTe solar cells — cheaper alternatives to silicon photovoltaics — is hampered by their low output voltages, which are normally well below the theoretical limit. Now, record voltages of over 1 V have been reported in single-crystal CdTe heterostructure solar cells, which are close to those of benchmark GaAs cells.

Low-Voltage Bypass Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, J. P.

1994-01-01

Improved bypass device provides low-resistance current shunt around low-voltage power cell when cell fails in open-circuit condition during operation. In comparison with older bypass devices for same application, this one weighs less, generates less heat, and has lower voltage drop (less resistance). Bypass device connected in parallel with power cell. Draws very little current during normal operation of cell.

Batteryless magneto-driven portable radiac

DOEpatents

Waechter, D.A.; Bjarke, G.O.; Trujillo, F.; Wolf, M.A.; Umbarger, C.J.

1984-10-19

A hand-powerd alternator for generating an alternating voltage provides same through a rectifier to a high capacity capacitor which stores the resultant dc voltage and drives a voltage regulator to provide a constant low voltage output for a portable radiation detection instrument. The instrument includes a Geiger-Mueller detector tube whose output is fed to a pulse detector and then through an event counter and LCD driver circuit to an LCD bar graph for visual display. An audio driver and an audio output is also provided. All circuitry used is low power so that the capacitor can be readily charged to a sufficient level to provide power for at least 30 minutes. A low voltage indicator is provided on the LCD display to indicate the need for manual recharging.

Apparatus and method for maximizing power delivered by a photovoltaic array

DOEpatents

Muljadi, Eduard; Taylor, Roger W.

1998-01-01

A method and apparatus for maximizing the electric power output of a photovoltaic array connected to a battery where the voltage across the photovoltaic array is adjusted through a range of voltages to find the voltage across the photovoltaic array that maximizes the electric power generated by the photovoltaic array and then is held constant for a period of time. After the period of time has elapsed, the electric voltage across the photovoltaic array is again adjusted through a range of voltages and the process is repeated. The electric energy and the electric power generated by the photovoltaic array is delivered to the battery which stores the electric energy and the electric power for later delivery to a load.

PEAK READING VOLTMETER

DOEpatents

Dyer, A.L.

1958-07-29

An improvement in peak reading voltmeters is described, which provides for storing an electrical charge representative of the magnitude of a transient voltage pulse and thereafter measuring the stored charge, drawing oniy negligible energy from the storage element. The incoming voltage is rectified and stored in a condenser. The voltage of the capacitor is applied across a piezoelectric crystal between two parallel plates. Amy change in the voltage of the capacitor is reflected in a change in the dielectric constant of the crystal and the capacitance between a second pair of plates affixed to the crystal is altered. The latter capacitor forms part of the frequency determlning circuit of an oscillator and means is provided for indicating the frequency deviation which is a measure of the peak voltage applied to the voltmeter.

Apparatus and method for maximizing power delivered by a photovoltaic array

DOEpatents

Muljadi, E.; Taylor, R.W.

1998-05-05

A method and apparatus for maximizing the electric power output of a photovoltaic array connected to a battery where the voltage across the photovoltaic array is adjusted through a range of voltages to find the voltage across the photovoltaic array that maximizes the electric power generated by the photovoltaic array and then is held constant for a period of time. After the period of time has elapsed, the electric voltage across the photovoltaic array is again adjusted through a range of voltages and the process is repeated. The electric energy and the electric power generated by the photovoltaic array is delivered to the battery which stores the electric energy and the electric power for later delivery to a load. 20 figs.

Batteryless magneto-driven portable radiac

DOEpatents

Waechter, David A.; Bjarke, George O.; Trujillo, Faustin; Wolf, Michael A.; Umbarger, C. John

1986-01-01

A hand-powered alternator for generating an alternating voltage provides same through a rectifier to a high capacity capacitor which stores the resultant dc voltage and drives a voltage regulator to provide a constant low voltage output for a portable radiation detection instrument. The instrument includes a Geiger-Muller detector tube whose output is fed to a pulse detector and then through an event counter and LCD driver circuit to an LCD bar graph for visual display. An audio driver and an audio output is also provided. All circuitry used is low power so that the capacitor can be readily charged to a sufficient level to provide power for at least 30 minutes. A low voltage indicator is provided on the LCD display to indicate the need for manual recharging.

Voltage droop Coordinating Control applied in UPFC and STATCOM system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junhui, Huang; Zhuyi, Peng; Chengjie, Ni; Yiqing, Xu; Jiliang, Xue

2018-04-01

When UPFC, unified power flow controller is applied with other FACTS into power grid, it is possible that the voltage controlled vibrates constantly to response to a sudden reactive power turbulent in grid if the parameters of these FACTS are not coordinating reasonably. Moreover, the reactive power generated by these equipment will intertwine unexpectedly. The article proposes a method named voltage-reactive power droop control to allow the reference voltage fluctuating around the rating voltage so that the vibration is reduced and the power distribution is improved. Finally, the article cite a electric-magnetic simulation by EMTDC models of east-China power grid to prove it effective when applied to improve the response characteristics to sudden turbulence in power grid.

Switched-capacitor isolated LED driver

DOEpatents

Sanders, Seth R.; Kline, Mitchell

2016-03-22

A switched-capacitor voltage converter which is particularly well-suited for receiving a line voltage from which to drive current through a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs). Input voltage is rectified in a multi-level rectifier network having switched capacitors in an ascending-bank configuration for passing voltages in uniform steps between zero volts up to full received voltage V.sub.DC. A regulator section, operating on V.sub.DC, comprises switched-capacitor stages of H-bridge switching and flying capacitors. A current controlled oscillator drives the states of the switched-capacitor stages and changes its frequency to maintain a constant current to the load. Embodiments are described for isolating the load from the mains, utilizing an LC tank circuit or a multi-primary-winding transformer.

Beam-energy-spread minimization using cell-timing optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rose, C. R.; Ekdahl, C.; Schulze, M.

2012-04-01

Beam energy spread, and related beam motion, increase the difficulty in tuning for multipulse radiographic experiments at the dual-axis radiographic hydrodynamic test facility’s axis-II linear induction accelerator (LIA). In this article, we describe an optimization method to reduce the energy spread by adjusting the timing of the cell voltages (both unloaded and loaded), either advancing or retarding, such that the injector voltage and summed cell voltages in the LIA result in a flatter energy profile. We developed a nonlinear optimization routine which accepts as inputs the 74 cell-voltage, injector voltage, and beam current waveforms. It optimizes cell timing per user-selected groups of cells and outputs timing adjustments, one for each of the selected groups. To verify the theory, we acquired and present data for both unloaded and loaded cell-timing optimizations. For the unloaded cells, the preoptimization baseline energy spread was reduced by 34% and 31% for two shots as compared to baseline. For the loaded-cell case, the measured energy spread was reduced by 49% compared to baseline.

Inactivation of the cloned potassium channel mouse Kv1.1 by the human Kv3.4 'ball' peptide and its chemical modification.

PubMed Central

Stephens, G J; Robertson, B

1995-01-01

1. This study used the whole-cell patch clamp technique to investigate the action of a 28-mer 'inactivation peptide' based on part of the N-terminal sequence of the human Kv3.4 K+ channel (hKv3.4 peptide) on the cloned mouse brain K+ channel mKv1.1 expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and compared this with the inactivation produced by Shaker B inactivation peptide (ShB peptide). 2. Inclusion of the hKv3.4 peptide in the patch electrode (320 microM) transformed non-inactivating mKv1.1 into a rapidly inactivating current. The voltage dependence of time constants of decay and steady-state inactivation induced by hKv3.4 peptide were characteristic of an 'A-type' K+ current. 3. The hKv3.4 peptide had no effect on the voltage dependence of activation of mKv1.1, with a mid-point of activation of -8 mV, and a slope factor of 15 mV. Steady-state inactivation curves had a mid-point of inactivation of -36 mV and a slope factor of -7 mV; the time constant of recovery from inactivation at -90 mV was 1.3 s. 4. The chemical modification reagents N-bromoacetamide (NBA, 100 microM) and chloramine-T (CL-T, 500 microM) had no effect on the fast inactivation of mKv1.1 induced by ShB peptide. In contrast, the inactivation caused by hKv3.4 peptide was removed by brief exposure to NBA and CL-T. 5. Chemical modification resulted in a hyperpolarizing shift of -8 mV (CL-T) and -11 mV (NBA) in the voltage dependence of activation of mKv1.1 in the presence of hKv3.4 peptide. 6. Chemical modification was critically dependent on the presence of a cysteine residue at position 6, and not position 24, of hKv3.4 peptide. 7. NBA and CL-T caused only a slight inhibition of unmodified mKv1.1 current with no significant effect on the voltage dependence of mKv1.1 activation, and also had no effect on channel deactivation at -90 mV. 8. Chemical modification experiments were consistent with a selective action on the hKv3.4 peptide itself, specifically at the cysteine residue at position 6. PMID:7602512

Hafnium transistor process design for neural interfacing.

PubMed

Parent, David W; Basham, Eric J

2009-01-01

A design methodology is presented that uses 1-D process simulations of Metal Insulator Semiconductor (MIS) structures to design the threshold voltage of hafnium oxide based transistors used for neural recording. The methodology is comprised of 1-D analytical equations for threshold voltage specification, and doping profiles, and 1-D MIS Technical Computer Aided Design (TCAD) to design a process to implement a specific threshold voltage, which minimized simulation time. The process was then verified with a 2-D process/electrical TCAD simulation. Hafnium oxide films (HfO) were grown and characterized for dielectric constant and fixed oxide charge for various annealing temperatures, two important design variables in threshold voltage design.

Voltage-Induced Nonlinear Conduction Properties of Epoxy Resin/Micron-Silver Particles Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhaoming; Lu, Pin; Yuan, Yang; Wang, Qingguo

2018-01-01

The nonlinear conduction properties of epoxy resin (ER)/micron-silver particles (MP) composites were investigated. Under sufficient high intensity applied constant voltage, the obvious nonlinear conduction properties of the samples with volume fraction 25% were found. With increments in the voltage, the conductive switching effect was observed. The nonlinear conduction mechanism of the ER/MP composites under high applied voltages could be attributed to the electrical current conducted via discrete paths of conductive particles induced by the electric field. The test results show that the ER/MP composites with nonlinear conduction properties are of great potential application in electromagnetic protection of electron devices and systems.

Breakdown voltage mapping through voltage dependent ReBEL intensity imaging of multi-crystalline Si solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dix-Peek, RM.; van Dyk, EE.; Vorster, FJ.; Pretorius, CJ.

2018-04-01

Device material quality affects both the efficiency and the longevity of photovoltaic (PV) cells. Therefore, identifying these defects can be beneficial in the development of more efficient and longer lasting PV cells. In this study, a combination of spatially-resolved, electroluminescence (EL), and light beam induced current (LBIC) measurements, were used to identify specific defects and features of a multi-crystalline Si PV cells. In this study, a novel approach is used to map the breakdown voltage of a PV cell through voltage dependent Reverse Bias EL (ReBEL) intensity imaging.

Real Time Computer Control of Neutral Beam Energy and Current During a DIII-D Tokamak Shot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pawley, C. J.; Pace, D. C.; Rauch, J. M.; Scoville, J. T.

2017-10-01

A new control system has been implemented on DIII-D neutral beams which has been used during the 2016 and 2017 experimental campaign to directly change the beam acceleration voltage (V) and beam current (I) by the Plasma Control System (PCS) during a shot. Small changes in the beam voltage of 1-2 kV can be made in 1 msec or larger changes of up to 20kV in 0.5 seconds. The beam current can be modified by as much as +/-20% at a fixed beam voltage. Since both can be independently and simultaneously changed it is possible to change beam power (IV) at fixed voltage, keep constant power while sweeping beam voltage, or to maintain minimum beam divergence during a beam voltage sweep by changing I simultaneously to keep a constant beam perveance. The limitations of the variability will be presented with required changes in equipment to extend either the speed or range of the controls. Some of the effects on fast ion plasma instabilities or other plasma mode changes made possible by this control will also be presented (see also D.C. Pace, this conference). Design and changes to the control system was performed under General Atomics Internal Research and Development support, while plasma experiments on DIII-D were supported in part by the US Department of Energy under Award No. DE-FC02-04ER54698.

Battery Capacity Fading Estimation Using a Force-Based Incremental Capacity Analysis

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

Samad, Nassim A.; Kim, Youngki; Siegel, Jason B.

Traditionally health monitoring techniques in lithium-ion batteries rely on voltage and current measurements. A novel method of using a mechanical rather than electrical signal in the incremental capacity analysis (ICA) method is introduced in this paper. This method derives the incremental capacity curves based onmeasured force (ICF) instead of voltage (ICV). The force ismeasured on the surface of a cell under compression in a fixture that replicates a battery pack assembly and preloading. The analysis is performed on data collected from cycling encased prismatic Lithium-ion Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt Oxide (NMC) cells. For the NMC chemistry, the ICF method can complement or replacemore » the ICV method for the following reasons. The identified ICV peaks are centered around 40% of state of charge (SOC) while the peaks of the ICF method are centered around 70% of SOC indicating that the ICF can be used more often because it is more likely that an electric vehicle (EV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will traverse the 70% SOC range than the 40% SOC. In addition the Signal to Noise ratio (SNR) of the force signal is four times larger than the voltage signal using laboratory grade sensors. The proposed ICF method is shown to achieve 0.42% accuracy in capacity estimation during a low C-rate constant current discharge. Future work will investigate the application of the capacity estimation technique under charging and operation under high C-rates by addressing the transient behavior of force so that an online methodology for capacity estimation is developed.« less

Battery Capacity Fading Estimation Using a Force-Based Incremental Capacity Analysis

DOE PAGES

Samad, Nassim A.; Kim, Youngki; Siegel, Jason B.; ...

2016-05-27

Traditionally health monitoring techniques in lithium-ion batteries rely on voltage and current measurements. A novel method of using a mechanical rather than electrical signal in the incremental capacity analysis (ICA) method is introduced in this paper. This method derives the incremental capacity curves based onmeasured force (ICF) instead of voltage (ICV). The force ismeasured on the surface of a cell under compression in a fixture that replicates a battery pack assembly and preloading. The analysis is performed on data collected from cycling encased prismatic Lithium-ion Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt Oxide (NMC) cells. For the NMC chemistry, the ICF method can complement or replacemore » the ICV method for the following reasons. The identified ICV peaks are centered around 40% of state of charge (SOC) while the peaks of the ICF method are centered around 70% of SOC indicating that the ICF can be used more often because it is more likely that an electric vehicle (EV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) will traverse the 70% SOC range than the 40% SOC. In addition the Signal to Noise ratio (SNR) of the force signal is four times larger than the voltage signal using laboratory grade sensors. The proposed ICF method is shown to achieve 0.42% accuracy in capacity estimation during a low C-rate constant current discharge. Future work will investigate the application of the capacity estimation technique under charging and operation under high C-rates by addressing the transient behavior of force so that an online methodology for capacity estimation is developed.« less

Hydroxide Self-Feeding High-Temperature Alkaline Direct Formate Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Li, Yinshi; Sun, Xianda; Feng, Ying

2017-05-22

Conventionally, both the thermal degradation of the anion-exchange membrane and the requirement of additional hydroxide for fuel oxidation reaction hinder the development of the high-temperature alkaline direct liquid fuel cells. The present work addresses these two issues by reporting a polybenzimidazole-membrane-based direct formate fuel cell (DFFC). Theoretically, the cell voltage of the high-temperature alkaline DFFC can be as high as 1.45 V at 90 °C. It has been demonstrated that a proof-of-concept alkaline DFFC without adding additional hydroxide yields a peak power density of 20.9 mW cm -2 , an order of magnitude higher than both alkaline direct ethanol fuel cells and alkaline direct methanol fuel cells, mainly because the hydrolysis of formate provides enough OH - ions for formate oxidation reaction. It was also found that this hydroxide self-feeding high-temperature alkaline DFFC shows a stable 100 min constant-current discharge at 90 °C, proving the conceptual feasibility. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Voltage-Gated Lipid Ion Channels

PubMed Central

Blicher, Andreas; Heimburg, Thomas

2013-01-01

Synthetic lipid membranes can display channel-like ion conduction events even in the absence of proteins. We show here that these events are voltage-gated with a quadratic voltage dependence as expected from electrostatic theory of capacitors. To this end, we recorded channel traces and current histograms in patch-experiments on lipid membranes. We derived a theoretical current-voltage relationship for pores in lipid membranes that describes the experimental data very well when assuming an asymmetric membrane. We determined the equilibrium constant between closed and open state and the open probability as a function of voltage. The voltage-dependence of the lipid pores is found comparable to that of protein channels. Lifetime distributions of open and closed events indicate that the channel open distribution does not follow exponential statistics but rather power law behavior for long open times. PMID:23823188

Effects of anodic oxidation parameters on a modified titanium surface.

PubMed

Park, Il Song; Lee, Min Ho; Bae, Tae Sung; Seol, Kyeong Won

2008-02-01

Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical treatment that can be used to control the thickness of an oxide layer formed on a titanium surface. This procedure has the advantage of allowing the ions contained in an electrolyte to deposit onto the oxide layer. The characteristics of a layer treated with anodic oxidation can vary according to the type and concentration of the electrolytes as well as the processing variables used during anodic oxidation. In this study, the constant electrolyte for anodic oxidation was a mixed solution containing 0.02 M DL-alpha-glycerophosphate disodium salt and 0.2M calcium acetate. Anodic oxidation was carried out at different voltages, current densities, and duration of anodic oxidation. The results showed that the current density and variation in the duration of anodic oxidation did not have a large effect on the change in the characteristics of the layer. On the other hand, the size of the micropores was increased with increasing voltage of anodic oxidation, and anatase and rutile phases were found to co-exist in the porous titanium dioxide layer. In addition, the thickness of the oxide layer on titanium and the characteristic of corrosion resistance increased with increasing voltage. The MTT test showed that the cell viability was increased considerably as a result of anodic oxidation. The anodizing voltage is an important parameter that determines the characteristics of the anodic oxide layer of titanium. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Potential role of voltage-sensing phosphatases in regulation of cell structure through the production of PI(3,4)P2.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Shinji; Kurokawa, Tatsuki; Taira, Ikuko; Aoki, Naoya; Sakata, Souhei; Okamura, Yasushi; Homma, Koichi J

2014-04-01

Voltage-sensing phosphatase, VSP, consists of the transmembrane domain, operating as the voltage sensor, and the cytoplasmic domain with phosphoinositide-phosphatase activities. The voltage sensor tightly couples with the cytoplasmic phosphatase and membrane depolarization induces dephosphorylation of several species of phosphoinositides. VSP gene is conserved from urochordate to human. There are some diversities among VSP ortholog proteins; range of voltage of voltage sensor motions as well as substrate selectivity. In contrast with recent understandings of biophysical mechanisms of VSPs, little is known about its physiological roles. Here we report that chick ortholog of VSP (designated as Gg-VSP) induces morphological feature of cell process outgrowths with round cell body in DF-1 fibroblasts upon its forced expression. Expression of the voltage sensor mutant, Gg-VSPR153Q with shifted voltage dependence to a lower voltage led to more frequent changes of cell morphology than the wild-type protein. Coexpression of PTEN that dephosphorylates PI(3,4)P2 suppressed this effect by Gg-VSP, indicating that the increase of PI(3,4)P2 leads to changes of cell shape. In addition, visualization of PI(3,4)P2 with the fluorescent protein fused with the TAPP1-derived pleckstrin homology (PH) domain suggested that Gg-VSP influenced the distribution of PI(3,4)P2 . These findings raise a possibility that one of the VSP's functions could be to regulate cell morphology through voltage-sensitive tuning of phosphoinositide profile. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Electrical quantum standards and their role in the SI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robinson, Ian; Georgakopoulos, Dimitrios

2012-12-01

The International System of Units, SI, is poised to make a quantum change and become a measurement system based entirely on the fundamental properties of the natural world. In the next version of the SI, the Planck constant h, the elementary charge e, the Avogadro constant NA and the Boltzmann constant k will be fixed, in addition to the already fixed values of the speed of light c and the ground state hyperfine splitting in caesium-133. As a result, six out of the seven base units of the SI will be based directly on true invariants of nature. A major part of this change has been enabled by the ready availability of electrical quantum standards of exquisite precision and mechanisms for using them to make measurements outside the electrical arena. The overall effect will be to eliminate the remaining imprecise definitions of physical units associated with the use of artefact standards and aid direct SI measurements without problems of scaling. Fixing the Planck constant and the elementary charge will have the effect of incorporating the best physical realizations of electrical quantities into the SI, providing a system of units fit for the 21st century. The purpose of this special feature is to review the status of electrical quantum standards and report the latest developments in those areas and their applications to other areas of metrology. The special feature coincides with the 50th anniversary of the seminal paper of Josephson, 'Possible new effects in superconductive tunnelling' [1], which established the basic physical principle upon which the quantum voltage standards are based. Josephson voltage standards are based on the inverse Josephson effect. When a junction of two superconducting electrodes, weakly linked through a thin insulator or a normal metal, is irradiated with a radiofrequency electromagnetic field of frequency f and is biased by a dc current, then the voltage across the junction is quantized (i.e. small changes in either the dc current or the power of the rf irradiation, or both, do not change the voltage). The value of this quantized Josephson voltage is equal to nfh/2e, where n is the quantum step of the current-voltage characteristic curve. In this special feature there are three papers on dc Josephson voltage standards. Solve and Stock review the programme conducted by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) to perform on-site comparisons of Josephson voltage standards, and give a comprehensive analysis of the possible sources of errors of such comparisons. Behr et al summarize the developments of Josephson voltage standards at Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and their applications in dc voltage and other areas of metrology. Finally, Georgakopoulos et al report a reduction, by a factor of a thousand, in the smallest voltage that can be generated by dc Josephson voltage standards. Although dc voltage standards are well established, significant challenges exist when extending this extremely precise technology to ac. There are two approaches to producing accurate ac voltages using the inverse Josephson effect: the programmable Josephson voltage standard (PJVS) and the pulse-driven ac voltage standard. The PJVS contains an array of Josephson junctions, organized into independently biased segments. By biasing chosen, binary-related, segments on the first quantum step (positive or negative) or zero, the array can be made to behave as a quantum digital to analogue converter. The PJVS approach can produce stepwise approximated sine waves with rms values of some volts, but it suffers from parasitic capacitances and inductances distributed in the different parts of the system and, more importantly, the voltage is not quantized during the finite transition time between successive voltage levels. Hence the output frequency of PJVS-based systems is limited to a few kilohertz. In this special feature, Jeanneret et al review the Josephson locked synthesizer, a PJVS-based system where the effect of transients between successive steps on the output voltage is reduced. This special feature also presents two applications of PJVS-based quantum voltage standards: the evaluation of conventional ac voltage standards based on thermal converters (Budovsky et al) and the measurement of the settling time of a high resolution digital voltmeter (Henderson et al). In the pulse-driven ac voltage standard, arbitrary voltages can be produced by modulating the rf irradiation of an array of Josephson junctions by a series of high frequency pulses, usually by means of Δ-Σ modulation. The output voltage of the array of junctions is a series of quantized voltage pulses that correspond to the desired waveform after the high frequency components are removed. The pulse-driven standard can operate at much higher frequencies than the PJVS. Eliminating the effects of parasitic impedances of the, necessarily long, connecting leads therefore becomes a significant challenge. In this special feature, van den Brom and Houtzager report a voltage lead correction technique. Quantum resistance standards are based on the quantum Hall effect in which the resistance of a two-dimensional electron gas in a strong magnetic field is quantized. The value of the quantized Hall resistance is h/ie2, where i is the number of the quantum step in the resistance-magnetic field curve. Quantum Hall resistance devices can be combined in series to form a resistive voltage divider with low uncertainty in the ratio. In this special feature, Domae et al report the realization of such a resistive voltage divider on a chip. Quantum Hall resistance standards have been routinely used at dc for over two decades. However, the operation of quantum Hall devices at ac is complicated by the flow of current in capacitances around the device, which can compromise measurement of its resistance. Schurr et al review the status of ac quantum Hall resistance standards and their role in the SI. Ohm's law can be applied to quantum realizations of voltage, resistance and current to test their consistency. Active research into this 'metrological triangle' is underway and, at present, there is no evidence to indicate a discrepancy at any level. However, work is continuing on current sources which utilize a countable flow of electrons (the electric current produced is proportional to ef, f being the operating frequency of the device), but the work has some way to go before the question of consistency can be resolved at levels approaching 1 part in 109. In this special feature, Scherer and Camarota review the state-of-the-art of metrological triangle experiments and Devoille et al report on the status of the metrological triangle experiment at the Laboratoire National de Métrologie et d'Essais (LNE), France. The availability of precise representations of the volt and the ohm based on quantum mechanics has enabled the watt balance, an apparatus which relates electrical and mechanical power, to link the kilogram to the Planck constant. This has paved the way for the proposed redefinition of the kilogram, the last artefact standard in the SI, in terms of a fixed value of the Planck constant. In the past few years a number of papers, e.g. [2, 3], have been published describing the working principles of the watt balance and the characteristics of the existing implementations of the experiment. The measurements of the principal quantities—mass, velocity, gravitational acceleration, resistance and voltage—are reasonably well documented but the ultimate precision of the apparatus depends on a number of techniques that are required to eliminate second-order effects. In this special feature, Robinson provides details of these general alignment techniques with special reference to the NPL Mark II watt balance. Acknowledgments We would like to thank the authors for supporting the special feature with their excellent contributions; the guardians of the quality of a scientific paper, the referees, for their valuable comments and suggestions; Professor Wuqiang Yang and the members of the editorial board of Measurement Science and Technology for their support. Finally, we would like to thank Dr Sharon D'Souza, James Dimond and all the editorial and publication staff at Measurement Science and Technology, for their help in making the special feature a reality. References [1] Josephson B D 1962 Possible new effects in superconductive tunnelling Phys. Lett. 1 251-3 [2] Li S, Han B, Li Z and Lan J 2012 Precisely measuring the Planck constant by electromechanical balances Measurement 45 1-13 [3] Stock M 2011 The watt balance: determination of the Planck constant and redefinition of the kilogram Phil. Trans. R. Soc. A 369 3936-53

Beyond voltage-gated ion channels: Voltage-operated membrane proteins and cellular processes.

PubMed

Zhang, Jianping; Chen, Xingjuan; Xue, Yucong; Gamper, Nikita; Zhang, Xuan

2018-04-18

Voltage-gated ion channels were believed to be the only voltage-sensitive proteins in excitable (and some non-excitable) cells for a long time. Emerging evidence indicates that the voltage-operated model is shared by some other transmembrane proteins expressed in both excitable and non-excitable cells. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about voltage-operated proteins, which are not classic voltage-gated ion channels as well as the voltage-dependent processes in cells for which single voltage-sensitive proteins have yet to be identified. Particularly, we will focus on the following. (1) Voltage-sensitive phosphoinositide phosphatases (VSP) with four transmembrane segments homologous to the voltage sensor domain (VSD) of voltage-gated ion channels; VSPs are the first family of proteins, other than the voltage-gated ion channels, for which there is sufficient evidence for the existence of the VSD domain; (2) Voltage-gated proton channels comprising of a single voltage-sensing domain and lacking an identified pore domain; (3) G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate the depolarization-evoked potentiation of Ca 2+ mobilization; (4) Plasma membrane (PM) depolarization-induced but Ca 2+ -independent exocytosis in neurons. (5) Voltage-dependent metabolism of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns[4,5]P 2 , PIP 2 ) in the PM. These recent discoveries expand our understanding of voltage-operated processes within cellular membranes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A method for analyzing electrical impedance spectroscopy data from breast cancer patients

PubMed Central

Kim, Bong Seok; Isaacson, David; Xia, Hongjun; Kao, Tzu-Jen; Newell, Jonathan C; Saulnier, Gary J

2008-01-01

Research on freshly-excised malignant breast tissues and surrounding normal tissues in an in vitro impedance cell has shown that breast tumors have different conductivity and permittivity from normal or non-malignant tissues. This contrast may provide a basis for breast cancer detection using electrical impedance imaging. This paper describes a procedure for collecting electrical impedance spectroscopy data simultaneously and in register with tomosynthesis data from patients. We describe the methods used to analyze the data in order to determine if the electrodes are making contact with the breast of the patient. Canonical voltage patterns are applied and used to synthesize the data that would have resulted from constant voltage patterns applied to each of two parallel mammography plates. A type of Cole–Cole plot is generated and displayed from each of the currents measured on each of the electrodes for each of the frequencies (5, 10, 30, 100 and 300 kHz) of applied voltages. We illustrate the potential usefulness of these displays in distinguishing breast cancer from benign lesions with the Cole–Cole plots for two patients—one having cancer and one having a benign lesion—by comparing these graphs with electrical impedance spectra previously found by Jossinet and Schmitt in tissue samples taken from a variety of patients. PMID:17664638

A method for analyzing electrical impedance spectroscopy data from breast cancer patients.

PubMed

Kim, Bong Seok; Isaacson, David; Xia, Hongjun; Kao, Tzu-Jen; Newell, Jonathan C; Saulnier, Gary J

2007-07-01

Research on freshly-excised malignant breast tissues and surrounding normal tissues in an in vitro impedance cell has shown that breast tumors have different conductivity and permittivity from normal or non-malignant tissues. This contrast may provide a basis for breast cancer detection using electrical impedance imaging. This paper describes a procedure for collecting electrical impedance spectroscopy data simultaneously and in register with tomosynthesis data from patients. We describe the methods used to analyze the data in order to determine if the electrodes are making contact with the breast of the patient. Canonical voltage patterns are applied and used to synthesize the data that would have resulted from constant voltage patterns applied to each of two parallel mammography plates. A type of Cole-Cole plot is generated and displayed from each of the currents measured on each of the electrodes for each of the frequencies (5, 10, 30, 100 and 300 kHz) of applied voltages. We illustrate the potential usefulness of these displays in distinguishing breast cancer from benign lesions with the Cole-Cole plots for two patients--one having cancer and one having a benign lesion--by comparing these graphs with electrical impedance spectra previously found by Jossinet and Schmitt in tissue samples taken from a variety of patients.

Time-dependent deformation of polymer network in polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystals (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kyung Min; Tondiglia, Vincent P.; Bunning, Timothy J.; White, Timothy J.

2017-02-01

Recently, we reported direct current (DC) field controllable electro-optic (EO) responses of negative dielectric anisotropy polymer stabilized cholesteric liquid crystals (PSCLCs). A potential mechanism is: Ions in the liquid crystal mixtures are trapped in/on the polymer network during the fast photopolymerization process, and the movement of ions by the application of the DC field distorts polymer network toward the negative electrode, inducing pitch variation through the cell thickness, i.e., pitch compression on the negative electrode side and pitch expansion on positive electrode side. As the DC voltage is directly applied to a target voltage, charged polymer network is deformed and the reflection band is tuned. Interestingly, the polymer network deforms further (red shift of reflection band) with time when constantly applied DC voltage, illustrating DC field induced time dependent deformation of polymer network (creep-like behavior). This time dependent reflection band changes in PSCLCs are investigated by varying the several factors, such as type and concentration of photoinitiators, liquid crystal monomer content, and curing condition (UV intensity and curing time). In addition, simple linear viscoelastic spring-dashpot models, such as 2-parameter Kelvin and 3-parameter linear models, are used to investigate the time-dependent viscoelastic behaviors of polymer networks in PSCLC.

Two Components of Voltage-Dependent Inactivation in Cav1.2 Channels Revealed by Its Gating Currents

PubMed Central

Ferreira, Gonzalo; Ríos, Eduardo; Reyes, Nicolás

2003-01-01

Voltage-dependent inactivation (VDI) was studied through its effects on the voltage sensor in Cav1.2 channels expressed in tsA 201 cells. Two kinetically distinct phases of VDI in onset and recovery suggest the presence of dual VDI processes. Upon increasing duration of conditioning depolarizations, the half-distribution potential (V1/2) of intramembranous mobile charge was negatively shifted as a sum of two exponential terms, with time constants 0.5 s and 4 s, and relative amplitudes near 50% each. This kinetics behavior was consistent with that of increment of maximal charge related to inactivation (Qn). Recovery from inactivation was also accompanied by a reduction of Qn that varied with recovery time as a sum of two exponentials. The amplitudes of corresponding exponential terms were strongly correlated in onset and recovery, indicating that channels recover rapidly from fast VDI and slowly from slow VDI. Similar to charge “immobilization,” the charge moved in the repolarization (OFF) transient became slower during onset of fast VDI. Slow VDI had, instead, hallmarks of interconversion of charge. Confirming the mechanistic duality, fast VDI virtually disappeared when Li+ carried the current. A nine-state model with parallel fast and slow inactivation pathways from the open state reproduces most of the observations. PMID:12770874

Radio-frequency powered glow discharge device and method with high voltage interface

DOEpatents

Duckworth, D.C.; Marcus, R.K.; Donohue, D.L.; Lewis, T.A.

1994-06-28

A high voltage accelerating potential, which is supplied by a high voltage direct current power supply, is applied to the electrically conducting interior wall of an RF powered glow discharge cell. The RF power supply desirably is electrically grounded, and the conductor carrying the RF power to the sample held by the probe is desirably shielded completely excepting only the conductor's terminal point of contact with the sample. The high voltage DC accelerating potential is not supplied to the sample. A high voltage capacitance is electrically connected in series between the sample on the one hand and the RF power supply and an impedance matching network on the other hand. The high voltage capacitance isolates the high DC voltage from the RF electronics, while the RF potential is passed across the high voltage capacitance to the plasma. An inductor protects at least the RF power supply, and desirably the impedance matching network as well, from a short that might occur across the high voltage capacitance. The discharge cell and the probe which holds the sample are configured and disposed to prevent the probe's components, which are maintained at ground potential, from bridging between the relatively low vacuum region in communication with the glow discharge maintained within the cell on the one hand, and the relatively high vacuum region surrounding the probe and cell on the other hand. The probe and cell also are configured and disposed to prevent the probe's components from electrically shorting the cell's components. 11 figures.

Radio-frequency powered glow discharge device and method with high voltage interface

DOEpatents

Duckworth, Douglas C.; Marcus, R. Kenneth; Donohue, David L.; Lewis, Trousdale A.

1994-01-01

A high voltage accelerating potential, which is supplied by a high voltage direct current power supply, is applied to the electrically conducting interior wall of an RF powered glow discharge cell. The RF power supply desirably is electrically grounded, and the conductor carrying the RF power to the sample held by the probe is desirably shielded completely excepting only the conductor's terminal point of contact with the sample. The high voltage DC accelerating potential is not supplied to the sample. A high voltage capacitance is electrically connected in series between the sample on the one hand and the RF power supply and an impedance matching network on the other hand. The high voltage capacitance isolates the high DC voltage from the RF electronics, while the RF potential is passed across the high voltage capacitance to the plasma. An inductor protects at least the RF power supply, and desirably the impedance matching network as well, from a short that might occur across the high voltage capacitance. The discharge cell and the probe which holds the sample are configured and disposed to prevent the probe's components, which are maintained at ground potential, from bridging between the relatively low vacuum region in communication with the glow discharge maintained within the cell on the one hand, and the relatively high vacuum region surrounding the probe and cell on the other hand. The probe and cell also are configured and disposed to prevent the probe's components from electrically shorting the cell's components.

Voltage and Current Clamp Transients with Membrane Dielectric Loss

PubMed Central

Fitzhugh, R.; Cole, K. S.

1973-01-01

Transient responses of a space-clamped squid axon membrane to step changes of voltage or current are often approximated by exponential functions of time, corresponding to a series resistance and a membrane capacity of 1.0 μF/cm2. Curtis and Cole (1938, J. Gen. Physiol. 21:757) found, however, that the membrane had a constant phase angle impedance z = z1(jωτ)-α, with a mean α = 0.85. (α = 1.0 for an ideal capacitor; α < 1.0 may represent dielectric loss.) This result is supported by more recently published experimental data. For comparison with experiments, we have computed functions expressing voltage and current transients with constant phase angle capacitance, a parallel leakage conductance, and a series resistance, at nine values of α from 0.5 to 1.0. A series in powers of tα provided a good approximation for short times; one in powers of t-α, for long times; for intermediate times, a rational approximation matching both series for a finite number of terms was used. These computations may help in determining experimental series resistances and parallel leakage conductances from membrane voltage or current clamp data. PMID:4754194

Computer acquired performance data from a chemically vapor-deposited-rhenium, niobium planar diode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manista, E. J.; Morris, J. F.; Smith, A. L.; Lancashire, R. B.

1973-01-01

Performance data from a chemically vapor-deposited-rhenium, niobium thermionic converter are presented. The planar converter has a guard-ringed collector and a nominal fixed spacing of 0.25 mm (10 mils). The data were obtained by using a computerized acquisition system and are available on request to one of the authors on microfiche as individual and composite parametric current, voltage curves. The parameters are the temperatures of the emitter T sub E collector T sub C, and cesium reservoir T sub R. The composite plots have constant T sub E and varying T sub C or T sub R, or both. Current, voltage envelopes having constant T sub E with and without fixed T sub C appear in the present report. The diode was tested at increments between 1600 and 2000 K for the emitter Hohlraum, 800 to 1100 K for the collector, and 540 and 650 K for the reservoir. A total of 312 current, voltage curves were obtained in the present performance evaluation. Current, voltage envelopes from three rhenium emitter converters evaluated in the present program are also given. The data are compared at commom emitter Hohlraum temperatures.

Use of Multi-Functional Flexible Micro-Sensors for in situ Measurement of Temperature, Voltage and Fuel Flow in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

PubMed Central

Lee, Chi-Yuan; Chan, Pin-Cheng; Lee, Chung-Ju

2010-01-01

Temperature, voltage and fuel flow distribution all contribute considerably to fuel cell performance. Conventional methods cannot accurately determine parameter changes inside a fuel cell. This investigation developed flexible and multi-functional micro sensors on a 40 μm-thick stainless steel foil substrate by using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) and embedded them in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) to measure the temperature, voltage and flow. Users can monitor and control in situ the temperature, voltage and fuel flow distribution in the cell. Thereby, both fuel cell performance and lifetime can be increased. PMID:22163545

Charging system and method for multicell storage batteries

DOEpatents

Cox, Jay A.

1978-01-01

A battery-charging system includes a first charging circuit connected in series with a plurality of battery cells for controlled current charging. A second charging circuit applies a controlled voltage across each individual cell for equalization of the cells to the fully charged condition. This controlled voltage is determined at a level above the fully charged open-circuit voltage but at a sufficiently low level to prevent corrosion of cell components by electrochemical reaction. In this second circuit for cell equalization, a transformer primary receives closely regulated, square-wave voltage which is coupled to a plurality of equal secondary coil windings. Each secondary winding is connected in parallel to each cell of a series-connected pair of cells through half-wave rectifiers and a shared, intermediate conductor.

Mechanism of blue-light-induced plasma-membrane depolarization in etiolated cucumber hypocotyls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spalding, E. P.; Cosgrove, D. J.

1992-01-01

A large, transient depolarization of the plasma membrane precedes the rapid blue-light (BL)-induced growth suppression in etiolated seedlings of Cucumis sativus L. The mechanism of this voltage transient was investigated by applying inhibitors of ion channels and the plasma-membrane H(+)-ATPase, by manipulating extracellular ion concentrations, and by measuring cell input resistance and ATP levels. The depolarizing phase was not affected by Ca(2+)-channel blockers (verapamil, La3+) or by reducing extracellular free Ca2+ by treatment with ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA). However, these treatments did reduce the rate of repolarization, indicating an inward movement of Ca2+ is involved. No effects of the K(+)-channel blocker tetraethylammonium (TEA+) were detected. Vanadate and KCN, used to inhibit the H(+)-ATPase, reduced or completely inhibited the BL-induced depolarization. Levels of ATP increased by 11-26% after 1-2 min of BL. Input resistance of trichrome cells, measured with double-barreled microelectrodes, remained constant during the onset of the depolarization but decreased as the membrane voltage became more positive than -90 mV. The results indicate that the depolarization mechanism initially involves inactivation of the H(+)-ATPase with subsequent transient activation of one or more types of ion channels.

Iodide-free ionic liquid with dual redox couples for dye-sensitized solar cells with high open-circuit voltage.

PubMed

Li, Chun-Ting; Lee, Chuan-Pei; Lee, Chi-Ta; Li, Sie-Rong; Sun, Shih-Sheng; Ho, Kuo-Chuan

2015-04-13

A novel ionic-liquid mediator, 1-butyl-3-{2-oxo-2-[(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-4-yl)amino]ethyl}-1H-imidazol-3-ium selenocyanate (ITSeCN), has been successfully synthesized for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). ITSeCN possesses dual redox channels, imidazolium-functionalized 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine N-oxyl (TEMPO) and selenocyanate, which can serve as the cationic redox mediator and the anionic redox mediator, respectively. Therefore, ITSeCN has a favorable redox nature, which results in a more positive standard potential, larger diffusivity, and better kinetic heterogeneous rate constant than those of iodide. The DSSC with the ITSeCN electrolyte shows an efficiency of 8.38 % with a high open-current voltage (VOC ) of 854.3 mV, and this VOC value is about 150 mV higher than that for the iodide-based DSSC. Moreover, different electrocatalytic materials were employed to trigger the redox reaction of ITSeCN. The ITSeCN-based DSSC with the CoSe counter electrode achieved the best performance of 9.01 %, which suggested that transition-metal compound-type materials would be suitable for our newly synthesized ITSeCN mediator. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Constant Switching Frequency DTC for Matrix Converter Fed Speed Sensorless Induction Motor Drive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mir, Tabish Nazir; Singh, Bhim; Bhat, Abdul Hamid

2018-05-01

The paper presents a constant switching frequency scheme for speed sensorless Direct Torque Control (DTC) of Matrix Converter fed Induction Motor Drive. The use of matrix converter facilitates improved power quality on input as well as motor side, along with Input Power Factor control, besides eliminating the need for heavy passive elements. Moreover, DTC through Space Vector Modulation helps in achieving a fast control over the torque and flux of the motor, with added benefit of constant switching frequency. A constant switching frequency aids in maintaining desired power quality of AC mains current even at low motor speeds, and simplifies input filter design of the matrix converter, as compared to conventional hysteresis based DTC. Further, stator voltage estimation from sensed input voltage, and subsequent stator (and rotor) flux estimation is done. For speed sensorless operation, a Model Reference Adaptive System is used, which emulates the speed dependent rotor flux equations of the induction motor. The error between conventionally estimated rotor flux (reference model) and the rotor flux estimated through the adaptive observer is processed through PI controller to generate the rotor speed estimate.

Planar multijunction high voltage solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, J. C., Jr.; Chai, A. T.; Goradia, C.

1980-01-01

Technical considerations, preliminary results, and fabrication details are discussed for a family of high-voltage planar multi-junction (PMJ) solar cells which combine the attractive features of planar cells with conventional or interdigitated back contacts and the vertical multijunction (VMJ) solar cell. The PMJ solar cell is internally divided into many voltage-generating regions, called unit cells, which are internally connected in series. The key to obtaining reasonable performance from this device was the separation of top surface field regions over each active unit cell. Using existing solar cell fabricating methods, output voltages in excess of 20 volts per linear centimeter are possible. Analysis of the new device is complex, and numerous geometries are being studied which should provide substantial benefits in both normal sunlight usage as well as with concentrators.

Estimating the effects of harmonic voltage fluctuations on the temperature rise of squirrel-cage motors

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

Emanuel, A.E.

1991-03-01

This article presents a preliminary analysis of the effect of randomly varying harmonic voltages on the temperature rise of squirrel-cage motors. The stochastic process of random variations of harmonic voltages is defined by means of simple statistics (mean, standard deviation, type of distribution). Computational models based on a first-order approximation of the motor losses and on the Monte Carlo method yield results which prove that equipment with large thermal time-constant is capable of withstanding for a short period of time larger distortions than THD = 5%.

Impact of operating conditions on the acetylene contamination in the cathode of proton exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhai, Yunfeng; St-Pierre, Jean

2017-12-01

Realistically, proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are operated under varying operating conditions that potentially impact the acetylene contamination reactions. In this paper, the effects of the cell operating conditions on the acetylene contamination in PEMFCs are investigated under different current densities and temperatures with different acetylene concentrations in the cathode. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is applied during the constant-current operation to analyze the impacts of the operating conditions on the acetylene electrochemical reactions. The experimental results indicate that higher acetylene concentrations, higher current densities and lower cell temperatures decrease the cell performance more. In particular, cathode poisoning becomes more severe at medium cell current densities. The cell cathode potentials at such current densities are not sufficient to completely oxidize the intermediate or sufficiently low to completely reduce the adsorbed acetylene. Based on these investigations, the possible condition-dependent limitations of the acetylene concentration and cell operating voltage are proposed for insight into the acetylene contamination mitigation stratagem. Regarding the barrier conditions, the acetylene reactions change abruptly, and adjusting the cell operation parameters to change the acetylene adsorbate and intermediate accumulation conditions to induce complete oxidation or reduction conditions may mitigate the severe acetylene contamination effects on PEMFCs.

A new fast-cycling system for AMS at ANU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Cesare, M.; Fifield, L. K.; Weisser, D. C.; Tsifakis, D.; Cooper, A.; Lobanov, N. R.; Tunningley, T. B.; Tims, S. G.; Wallner, A.

2015-10-01

In order to perform higher precision measurements, an upgrade of the ANU accelerator is underway. Fast switching times on the low-energy side, with maximum settling times of 30 ms, are achieved by holding the injector magnet field constant while changing the energy of the different isotopes by changing the pre-acceleration voltage after the ion source. Because ions of the different isotopes then have different energies before injection, it is necessary to adjust the strength and steering of the electrostatic quadrupole lens that focusses the beam before entry into the accelerator. First tests of the low-energy system will be reported. At the high energy end, a larger vacuum box in the analyzing magnet has been designed, manufactured and installed to allow the transport of differences in mass as large as 10% at constant terminal voltage. For the cases where more than one isotope must be transported to the detector an additional refinement is necessary. If the accelerator voltage is to be kept constant, then the trajectories of the different isotopes around both the analyzing and switching magnets must be modified. This will be achieved using bounced electrostatic steerers before and after the magnets. Simulations have been performed with the ion optic code COSY Infinity to determine the optimal positions and sizes of these steerers.

Advanced Bode Plot Techniques for Ultrasonic Transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DeAngelis, D. A.; Schulze, G. W.

The Bode plot, displayed as either impedance or admittance versus frequency, is the most basic test used by ultrasonic transducer designers. With simplicity and ease-of-use, Bode plots are ideal for baseline comparisons such as spacing of parasitic modes or impedance, but quite often the subtleties that manifest as poor process control are hard to interpret or are nonexistence. In-process testing of transducers is time consuming for quantifying statistical aberrations, and assessments made indirectly via the workpiece are difficult. This research investigates the use of advanced Bode plot techniques to compare ultrasonic transducers with known "good" and known "bad" process performance, with the goal of a-priori process assessment. These advanced techniques expand from the basic constant voltage versus frequency sweep to include constant current and constant velocity interrogated locally on transducer or tool; they also include up and down directional frequency sweeps to quantify hysteresis effects like jumping and dropping phenomena. The investigation focuses solely on the common PZT8 piezoelectric material used with welding transducers for semiconductor wire bonding. Several metrics are investigated such as impedance, displacement/current gain, velocity/current gain, displacement/voltage gain and velocity/voltage gain. The experimental and theoretical research methods include Bode plots, admittance loops, laser vibrometry and coupled-field finite element analysis.

Controllable transition from positive space charge to negative space charge in an inverted cylindrical magnetron

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

Rane, R., E-mail: ramu@ipr.res.in; Ranjan, M.; Mukherjee, S.

2016-01-15

The combined effect of magnetic field (B), gas pressure (P), and the corresponding discharge voltage on the discharge properties of argon in inverted cylindrical magnetron has been investigated. In the experiment, anode is biased with continuous 10 ms sinusoidal half wave. It is observed that at a comparatively higher magnetic field (i.e., >200 gauss) and lower operating pressure (i.e., <1 × 10{sup −3} mbar), the discharge extinguishes and demands a high voltage to reignite. Discharge current increases with increase in magnetic field and starts reducing at sufficiently higher magnetic field for a particular discharge voltage due to restricted electron diffusion towards the anode.more » It is observed that B/P ratio plays an important role in sustaining the discharge and is constant for a discharge voltage. The discharge is transformed to negative space charge regime from positive space charge regime at certain B/P ratio and this ratio varies linearly with the discharge voltage. The space charge reversal is indicated by the radial profile of the floating potential and plasma potential in between two electrodes for different magnetic fields. At a particular higher magnetic field (beyond 100 gauss), the floating potential increases gradually with the radial distance from cathode, whereas it remains almost constant at lower magnetic field.« less

Method and Apparatus for In-Situ Health Monitoring of Solar Cells in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krasowski, Michael J. (Inventor); Prokop, Norman F. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

Some embodiments of the present invention describe an apparatus that includes an oscillator, a ramp generator, and an inverter. The apparatus includes an oscillator, an inverter, and a ramp generator. The oscillator is configured to generate a waveform comprising a low time and a high time. The inverter is configured to receive the waveform generated by the oscillator, and invert the waveform. The ramp generator configured to increase a gate control voltage of a transistor connected to a solar cell, and rapidly decrease the gate control voltage of the transistor. During the low time of the waveform, a measurement of a current and a voltage of the solar cell is performed as the current and voltage of the solar cell are transmitted through a first channel and to a second channel. During the high time of the waveform, a measurement of a current of a shorted cell and a voltage reference is performed as the current of the shorted cell and the voltage reference are transmitted through the first channel and the second channel.

Parameter estimation of extended free-burning electric arc within 1 kA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Qiuqin; Liu, Hao; Wang, Feng; Chen, She; Zhai, Yujia

2018-05-01

A long electric arc, as a common phenomenon in the power system, not only damages the electrical equipment but also threatens the safety of the system. In this work, a series of tests on a long electric arc in free air have been conducted. The arc voltage and current data were obtained, and the arc trajectories were captured using a high speed camera. The arc images were digitally processed by means of edge detection, and the length is formulated and achieved. Based on the experimental data, the characteristics of the long arc are discussed. It shows that the arc voltage waveform is close to the square wave with high-frequency components, whereas the current is almost sinusoidal. As the arc length elongates, the arc voltage and the resistance increase sharply. The arc takes a spiral shape with the effect of magnetic forces. The arc length will shorten briefly with the occurrence of the short-circuit phenomenon. Based on the classical Mayr model, the parameters of the long electric arc, including voltage gradient and time constant, with different lengths and current amplitudes are estimated using the linear least-square method. To reduce the computational error, segmentation interpolation is also employed. The results show that the voltage gradient of the long arc is mainly determined by the current amplitude but almost independent of the arc length. However, the time constant is jointly governed by these two variables. The voltage gradient of the arc with the current amplitude at 200-800 A is in the range of 3.9 V/cm-20 V/cm, and the voltage gradient decreases with the increase in current.

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

Bean, Bruce Palmer

The effects of ether and halothane on membrane currents in the voltage clamped crayfish giant axon membrane were investigated. Concentrations of ether up to 300 mM and of halothane up to 32 mM had no effect on resting potential or leakage conductance. Ether and halothane reduced the size of sodium currents without changing the voltage dependence of the peak currents or their reversal potential. Ether and halothane also produced a reversible, dose-dependent speeding of sodium current decay at all membrane potentials. Ether reduced the time constants for inactivation, and also shifted the midpoint of the steady-state inactivation curve in themore » hyperpolarizing direction. Potassium currents were smaller with ether present, with no change in the voltage dependence of steady-state currents. The activation of potassium channels was faster with ether present. There was no apparent change in the capacitance of the crayfish giant axon membrane with ether concentrations of up to 100 mM. Experiments on sodium channel inactivation kinetics were performed using 4-aminopyridine to block potassium currents. Sodium currents decayed with a time course generally fit well by a single exponential. The time constant of decay was a steep function of voltage, especially in the negative resistance region of the peak current vs voltage relation.The time course of inactivation was very similar to that of the decay of the current at the same potential. The measurement of steady-state inactivation curves with different test pulses showed no shifts along the voltage asix. The voltage-dependence of the integral of sodium conductance was measured to test models of sodium channel inactivation in which channels must open before inactivating; the results appear inconsistent with some of the simplest cases of such models.« less

On the Relativistic Correction of Particles Trajectory in Tandem Type Electrostatic Accelerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minárik, Stanislav

2015-08-01

A constant potential is applied to the acceleration of the ion-beam in the tandem type electrostatic accelerator. However, not just one voltage is applied, but instead a number of applications can be made in succession by means of the tandem arrangement of high voltage tubes. This number of voltage applications, which is the number of so-called "stages" of a tandem accelerator, may be two, three, or four, depending on the chosen design. Electrostatic field with approximately constant intensity acts on ions in any stage. In general, non-relativistic dynamics is used for the description of the ion transport in tandem accelerator. Energies of accelerated ions are too low and relativistic effects cannot be commonly observed by standard experimental technique. Estimation of possible relativistic correction of ion trajectories is therefore only a matter of calculation. In this note, we briefly present such calculation. Our aim is to show how using the relativistic dynamics modifies the particles trajectory in tandem type accelerator and what parameters determine this modification.

Analysis of pre-flight modulator voltage calibration data for the Voyager plasma science experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nastov, Ognen

1988-01-01

The Voyager Plasma Science (PLS) modulator calibration (MVM) data analysis was undertaken in order to check the correctness of the fast A/D converter formulas that connect low voltage monitor signals (MV) with digital outputs (DN), to determine the proportionality constants between the actual modulator grid potential (V) and the monitor voltage (MV), and to establish an algorithm to link the digitized readouts (DN) with the actual grid potential (V). The analysis results are surprising in that the derived conversion constants deviate by fairly significant amounts from their nominal values. However, it must be kept in mind that the test results which were used for analysis may be very imprecise. Even if it is assumed that the test result errors are very large, they do no appear to be capable to account for all discrepancies between the theoretical expectations and the results of the analysis. Measurements with the flight spare instrument appear to be the only means of investigating these effects further.

A Constant Energy-Per-Cycle Ring Oscillator Over a Wide Frequency Range for Wireless Sensor Nodes

PubMed Central

Lee, Inhee; Sylvester, Dennis; Blaauw, David

2016-01-01

This paper presents an energy-efficient oscillator for wireless sensor nodes (WSNs). It avoids short-circuit current by minimizing the time spent in the input voltage range from Vthn to [Vdd − |Vthp|]. A current-feeding scheme with gate voltage control enables the oscillator to operate over a wide frequency range. A test chip is fabricated in a 0.18 μm CMOS process. The measurements show that the proposed oscillator achieves a constant energy-per-cycle (EpC) of 0.8 pJ/cycle over the 21–60 MHz frequency range and is more efficient than a conventional current-starved ring oscillator (CSRO) below 300 kHz at 1.8 V supply voltage. As an application example, the proposed oscillator is implemented in a switched-capacitor DC–DC converter. The converter is 11%–56% more efficient for load power values ranging from 583 pW to 2.9 nW than a converter using a conventional CSRO. PMID:27546899

A Constant Energy-Per-Cycle Ring Oscillator Over a Wide Frequency Range for Wireless Sensor Nodes.

PubMed

Lee, Inhee; Sylvester, Dennis; Blaauw, David

2016-03-01

This paper presents an energy-efficient oscillator for wireless sensor nodes (WSNs). It avoids short-circuit current by minimizing the time spent in the input voltage range from V thn to [ V dd - | V thp |]. A current-feeding scheme with gate voltage control enables the oscillator to operate over a wide frequency range. A test chip is fabricated in a 0.18 μm CMOS process. The measurements show that the proposed oscillator achieves a constant energy-per-cycle (EpC) of 0.8 pJ/cycle over the 21-60 MHz frequency range and is more efficient than a conventional current-starved ring oscillator (CSRO) below 300 kHz at 1.8 V supply voltage. As an application example, the proposed oscillator is implemented in a switched-capacitor DC-DC converter. The converter is 11%-56% more efficient for load power values ranging from 583 pW to 2.9 nW than a converter using a conventional CSRO.

Measurement and analysis of solar cell current-voltage characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olsen, Larry C.; Addis, F. William; Doyle, Dan H.; Miller, Wesley A.

1985-01-01

Approaches to measurement and analysis of solar cell current-voltage characteristics under dark and illuminated conditions are discussed. Measurements are taken with a computer based data acquisition system for temperatures in the range of -100 to +100 C. In the fitting procedure, the various I(oi) and C(i) as well as R(S) and R(SH) are determined. Application to current-voltage analyses of high efficiency silicon cells and Boeing CdS/CuInSe2 are discussed. In silicon MINP cells, it is found that at low voltages a tunneling mechanism is dominant, while at larger voltages the I-V characteristics are usually dominated by emitter recombination. In the case of Boeing cells, a current transport model based on a tunneling mechanism and interface recombination acting in series has been developed as a result of I-V analyses.

Power management circuits for self-powered systems based on micro-scale solar energy harvesting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Eun-Jung; Yu, Chong-Gun

2016-03-01

In this paper, two types of power management circuits for self-powered systems based on micro-scale solar energy harvesting are proposed. First, if a solar cell outputs a very low voltage, less than 0.5 V, as in miniature solar cells or monolithic integrated solar cells, such that it cannot directly power the load, a voltage booster is employed to step up the solar cell's output voltage, and then a power management unit (PMU) delivers the boosted voltage to the load. Second, if the output voltage of a solar cell is enough to drive the load, the PMU directly supplies the load with solar energy. The proposed power management systems are designed and fabricated in a 0.18-μm complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor process, and their performances are compared and analysed through measurements.

Study on Control Scheme for the Inverters in Low Voltage Microgrid with Nonlinear Loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Jiqiang; Lu, Wenzhou; Wu, Lei

2017-05-01

There are a lot of nonlinear loads in real low voltage microgrid system. It will cause serious output voltage and grid current harmonic distortions problems in island and grid-connected modes, respectively. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a droop control scheme with quasi-proportion and resonant (quasi-PR) controller based on αβ stationary reference frame to make microgrid smoothly switch between grid-connected and island modes without changing control method. Moreover, in island mode, not only stable output voltage and frequency, but also reduced output voltage harmonics with added nonlinear loads can be achieved; In grid-connected mode, not only constant power, but also reduced grid current harmonics can be achieved. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.

Lightweight Battery Charge Regulator Used to Track Solar Array Peak Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soeder, James F.; Button, Robert M.

1999-01-01

A battery charge regulator based on the series-connected boost regulator (SCBR) technology has been developed for high-voltage spacecraft applications. The SCBR regulates the solar array power during insolation to prevent battery overcharge or undercharge conditions. It can also be used to provide regulated battery output voltage to spacecraft loads if necessary. This technology uses industry-standard dc-dc converters and a unique interconnection to provide size, weight, efficiency, fault tolerance, and modularity benefits over existing systems. The high-voltage SCBR shown in the photograph has demonstrated power densities of over 1000 watts per kilogram (W/kg). Using four 150-W dc-dc converter modules, it can process 2500 W of power at 120 Vdc with a minimum input voltage of 90 Vdc. Efficiency of the SCBR was 94 to 98 percent over the entire operational range. Internally, the unit is made of two separate SCBR s, each with its own analog control circuitry, to demonstrate the modularity of the technology. The analog controllers regulate the output current and incorporate the output voltage limit with active current sharing between the two units. They also include voltage and current telemetry, on/off control, and baseplate temperature sensors. For peak power tracking, the SCBR was connected to a LabView-based data acquisition system for telemetry and control. A digital control algorithm for tracking the peak power point of a solar array was developed using the principle of matching the source impedance with the load impedance for maximum energy transfer. The algorithm was successfully demonstrated in a simulated spacecraft electrical system at the Boeing PhantomWorks High Voltage Test Facility in Seattle, Washington. The system consists of a 42-string, high-voltage solar array simulator, a 77-cell, 80-ampere-hour (A-hr) nickel-hydrogen battery, and a constant power-load module. The SCBR and the LabView control algorithm successfully tracked the solar array peak power point through various load transients, including sunlight discharge transients when the total load exceeded the maximum solar array output power.

Factors affecting the open-circuit voltage and electrode kinetics of some iron/titanium redox flow cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, M. A.; Gahn, R. F.

1977-01-01

Performance of the iron-titanium redox flow cell was studied as a function of acid concentration. Anion permeable membranes separated the compartments. Electrodes were graphite cloth. Current densities ranged up to 25 mA/square centimeter. Open-circuit and load voltages decreased as the acidity was increased on the iron side as predicted. On the titanium side, open-circuit voltages decreased as the acidity was increased in agreement with theory, but load voltages increased due to decreased polarization with increasing acidity. High acidity on the titanium side coupled with low acidity on the iron side gives the best load voltage, but such cells show voltage losses as they are repeatedly cycled. Analyses show that the bulk of the voltage losses are due to diffusion of acid through the membrane.

Overcharge and overdischarge protection of ambient temperature secondary lithium cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, Chen-Kuo (Inventor); Surampudi, Subbarao (Inventor); Attia, Alan I. (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A cathode additive is provided for protecting an ambient temperature secondary lithium cell from overcharging or overdischarging. The cathode additive is chosen to create an upper voltage plateau which is slightly higher than a characteristic charge cutoff voltage of the cathode of the cell. The cathode additive additionally creates a lower voltage plateau which is slightly lower than the characteristic discharge cutoff voltage of the cell. Preferably, the cathode additive is a transition metal oxide or a sulfide and may, for example, include a mixture of Li2Mn2O4 and Li(0.1)MoO2.

Absolute Determination of High DC Voltages by Means of Frequency Measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peier, Dirk; Schulz, Bernd

1983-01-01

A novel absolute measuring procedure is presented for the definition of fixed points of the voltage in the 100 kV range. The method is based on transit time measurements with accelerated electrons. By utilizing the selective interaction of a monoenergetic electron beam with the electromagnetic field of a special cavity resonator, the voltage is referred to fundamental constants and the base unit second. Possible balance voltages are indicated by a current detector. Experimental investigations are carried out with resonators in the normal conducting range. With a copper resonator operating at the temperature of boiling nitrogen (77 K), the relative uncertainty of the voltage points is estimated to be +/- 4 × 10-4. The technically realizable uncertainty can be reduced to +/- 1 × 10-5 by the proposed application of a superconducting niobium resonator. Thus this measuring device becomes suitable as a primary standard for the high-voltage range.

Load insensitive electrical device. [power converters for supplying direct current at one voltage from a source at another voltage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwarz, F. C. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

A class of power converters is described for supplying direct current at one voltage from a source at another voltage. It includes a simple passive circuit arrangement of solid-state switches, inductors, and capacitors by which the output voltage of the converter tends to remain constant in spite of changes in load. The switches are sensitive to the current flowing in the circuit and are employed to permit the charging of capacitance devices in accordance with the load requirements. Because solid-state switches (such as SCR's) may be used with relatively high voltage and because of the inherent efficiency of the invention that permits relatively high switching frequencies, power supplies built in accordance with the invention, together with their associated cabling, can be substantially lighter in weight for a given output power level and efficiency of operation than systems of the prior art.

High-voltage solar-cell chip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kapoor, V. J.; Valco, G. J.; Skebe, G. G.; Evans, J. C., Jr.

1985-01-01

Integrated circuit technology has been successfully applied to the design and fabrication of 0.5 x 0.5-cm planar multijunction solar-cell chips. Each of these solar cells consisted of six voltage-generating unit cells monolithically connected in series and fabricated on a 75-micron-thick, p-type, single crystal, silicon substrate. A contact photolithic process employing five photomask levels together with a standard microelectronics batch-processing technique were used to construct the solar-cell chip. The open-circuit voltage increased rapidly with increasing illumination up to 5 AM1 suns where it began to saturate at the sum of the individual unit-cell voltages at a maximum of 3.0 V. A short-circuit current density per unit cell of 240 mA/sq cm was observed at 10 AM1 suns.

Bio-wave change photo-voltages of the solar cells at same changed rate by probability effect of spacetime structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Dayong

In our experiment, when light (of ``lamp LED'' 3W, 20cm away from the solar cells) simultaneous radiated on four solar cells, they would produce their photo-voltages which are called as background photo-voltages. And then, the author used thought wave to remotely (wireless) act on the four solar cells and increase four background photo-voltages at the same rates which is about 64%. After that, Adding the other light (of ``lamp CFL'') to simultaneous radiate on the four solar cells to changed their background photo-voltages. But there are different changed rates which will appear in the general experiments because the luminous sensitivities of the solar cell are different and the photo-voltages is a nonlinear function. The probability effects of the spacetime structure (of Confined Structural non-Newtonian Fluids) of brain wave (because the wave is spacetime) to change a balance structure between Electron Clouds and electron holes of P-N Junction, and change the background photo-voltages of the solar cells. In the experiments, the consciousness effect, and the relationship between brain wave and consciousness effect will be considered. After the decade of the brain research and the ``BRAIN'' Initiative, a decade of the consciousness need be taken. http://meetings.aps.org/Meeting/APR16/Session/M13.8 AEEA.

Reactive power and voltage control strategy based on dynamic and adaptive segment for DG inverter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhai, Jianwei; Lin, Xiaoming; Zhang, Yongjun

2018-03-01

The inverter of distributed generation (DG) can support reactive power to help solve the problem of out-of-limit voltage in active distribution network (ADN). Therefore, a reactive voltage control strategy based on dynamic and adaptive segment for DG inverter is put forward to actively control voltage in this paper. The proposed strategy adjusts the segmented voltage threshold of Q(U) droop curve dynamically and adaptively according to the voltage of grid-connected point and the power direction of adjacent downstream line. And then the reactive power reference of DG inverter can be got through modified Q(U) control strategy. The reactive power of inverter is controlled to trace the reference value. The proposed control strategy can not only control the local voltage of grid-connected point but also help to maintain voltage within qualified range considering the terminal voltage of distribution feeder and the reactive support for adjacent downstream DG. The scheme using the proposed strategy is compared with the scheme without the reactive support of DG inverter and the scheme using the Q(U) control strategy with constant segmented voltage threshold. The simulation results suggest that the proposed method has a significant improvement on solving the problem of out-of-limit voltage, restraining voltage variation and improving voltage quality.

Improved High/Low Junction Silicon Solar Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Neugroschel, A.; Pao, S. C.; Lindholm, F. A.; Fossum, J. G.

1986-01-01

Method developed to raise value of open-circuit voltage in silicon solar cells by incorporating high/low junction in cell emitter. Power-conversion efficiency of low-resistivity silicon solar cell considerably less than maximum theoretical value mainly because open-circuit voltage is smaller than simple p/n junction theory predicts. With this method, air-mass-zero opencircuit voltage increased from 600 mV level to approximately 650 mV.

Pulsed source ion implantation apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Leung, Ka-Ngo

1996-01-01

A new pulsed plasma-immersion ion-implantation apparatus that implants ions in large irregularly shaped objects to controllable depth without overheating the target, minimizing voltage breakdown, and using a constant electrical bias applied to the target. Instead of pulsing the voltage applied to the target, the plasma source, for example a tungsten filament or a RF antenna, is pulsed. Both electrically conducting and insulating targets can be implanted.

A novel electro-driven membrane for removal of chromium ions using polymer inclusion membrane under constant D.C. electric current.

PubMed

Kaya, Ahmet; Onac, Canan; Alpoguz, H Korkmaz

2016-11-05

In this study, the use of polymer inclusion membrane under constant electric current for the removal of Cr(VI) from water has investigated for the first time. Transport of Cr(VI) is performed by an electric current from the donor phase to the acceptor phase with a constant electric current of 0.5A. The optimized membrane includes of 12.1% 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (2-NPOE), 77.6% cellulose triacetate (CTA), 10.3% tricapryl-methylammonium chloride (Aliquat 336) as a carrier. We tested the applicability of the selected membrane for Cr(VI) removal in real environmental water samples and evaluated its reusability. Electro membrane experiments were carried out under various parameters, such as the effect of electro membrane voltage at constant DC electric current; electro membrane current at constant voltage, acceptor phase pH, and stable electro membrane; and a comparison of polymer inclusion membrane and electro membrane transport studies. The Cr(VI) transport was achieved 98.33% after 40min under optimized conditions. An alternative method has been employed that eliminates the changing of electrical current by the application of constant electric current for higher reproducibility of electro membrane extraction experiments by combining the excellent selective and long-term use features of polymer inclusion membrane. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Effect of carvedilol on T-type calcium current in myocytes of non-infarcted area of the rabbit healed myocardial infarction].

PubMed

Lin, Min; Zhu, Cai-Xing; Liu, Yan; Gao, Jin-Liao; Xu, Bin; Fu, Yi-Cheng; Lan, Yun-Feng; Li, Yang; Zhang, Jian-Cheng

2012-02-01

This article reports the investigation of the effect of carvedilol (Car) on T-type calcium current (I(Ca,T)) of noninfarcted ventricular myocytes in rabbit models of healed myocardial infarction (HMI). Rabbits with left anterior descending artery ligation were prepared and allowed to recover for 8 weeks, as HMI group. Animals undergoing an identical surgical procedure without coronary ligation were served as the sham-operated group (sham group). Whole cell voltage-clamp techniques were used to measure and compare currents in cells from the different groups. Noting that I(Ca,T) density in HMI cells increased markedly to -2.36 +/- 0.12 pA/pF (at -30 mV) compared with cells of sham, where little I(Ca,T) (-0.35 +/- 0.02 pA/pF) was observed. Meanwhile, further analysis revealed a significant hyperpolarizing shift of steady-state activation curve of I(Ca,T) in HMI cells, where the time constants of deactivation were prolonged and the time of recovery from inactivation was shortened. Finally, the amplitude of I(Ca,T) was increased. Carvedilol (1 micromol x L(-1)) was found to decrease the amplitude of I(Ca,T) to -1.38 +/- 0.07 pA/pF through inhibiting process of I(Ca,T) activation. Furthermore, carvedilol delayed recovery from inactivation of I(Ca,T) and shortened the time constants of deactivation in HMI cells. This study suggested that the application of carvedilol in HMI cells contributes to the dynamic changes in I(Ca,T) and may account for reduction of incidence of arrhythmia after myocardial infarction.

The Voltage Boost Enabled by Luminescence Extraction in Solar Cells

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

Ganapati, Vidya; Steiner, Myles A.; Yablonovitch, Eli

A new physical principle has emerged to produce record voltages and efficiencies in photovoltaic cells, 'luminescence extraction.' This is exemplified by the mantra 'a good solar cell should also be a good LED.' Luminescence extraction is the escape of internal photons out of the front surface of a solar cell. Basic thermodynamics says that the voltage boost should be related to concentration ratio, C, of a resource by ..delta..V=(kT/q)ln{C}. In light trapping, (i.e. when the solar cell is textured and has a perfect back mirror) the concentration ratio of photons C={4n2}, so one would expect a voltage boost of ..delta..V=kTmore » ln{4n2} over a solar cell with no texture and zero back reflectivity, where n is the refractive index. Nevertheless, there has been ambiguity over the voltage benefit to be expected from perfect luminescence extraction. Do we gain an open circuit voltage boost of ..delta..V=(kT/q)ln{n2}, ..delta..V=(kT/q)ln{2n2}, or ..delta..V=(kT/q)ln{4n2}? What is responsible for this voltage ambiguity ..delta..V=(kT/q)ln{4}=36mVolts? We show that different results come about, depending on whether the photovoltaic cell is optically thin or thick to its internal luminescence. In realistic intermediate cases of optical thickness the voltage boost falls in between; ln{n2}q..delta..V/kT)<;ln{4n2}.« less

Polarization and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling in anodized Al-Al2O3-Au diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hickmott, T. W.

2000-06-01

Polarization in anodic Al2O3 films is measured by using quasi-dc current-voltage (I-V) curves of Al-Al2O3-Au diodes. A reproducible polarization state is established by applying a negative voltage to the Au electrode of a rectifying Al-Al2O3-Au diode. The difference between subsequent I-V curves with Au positive is a measure of polarization in the sample. The magnitude of polarization charge in Al2O3 depends on the anodizing electrolyte. Al2O3 films formed in H2O-based electrolytes have approximately ten times the polarization charge of Al2O3 films formed in ethylene glycol-based electrolyte. Anodizing conditions that produce greater polarizing charge in anodic Al2O3 result in voltage-time curves during anodization under galvanostatic conditions that are nonlinear. Anodic films with greater polarizing charge also have a greater apparent interface capacitance which is independent of Al2O3 thickness. I-V curves of Al-Al2O3-Au diodes for increasing voltage are dominated by polarization. I-V curves for decreasing voltage are reproducible and parallel but depend on the maximum current and voltage reached during the measurement. There is no single current corresponding to a given voltage. I-V curves for decreasing voltage are analyzed assuming that the conduction mechanism is Fowler-Nordheim (FN) tunneling. There is a qualitative difference between the FN tunneling parameters for Al2O3 films formed in H2O-based electrolytes and those formed in ethylene glycol-based electrolyte. For the former the value of the exponential term in the FN analysis increases as the value of maximum voltage and current in an I-V characteristic increases, while the value of the pre-exponential term is nearly constant. For the latter, the exponential term is nearly constant as maximum voltage and current increase, but the pre-exponential term decreases by about 5 decades. Thus polarization charge incorporated during formation of anodized Al2O3 strongly affects the formation of the insulating film, the stability of the films under bias, and their conduction characteristics.

Nonlinear empirical model of gas humidity-related voltage dynamics of a polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cell stack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meiler, M.; Andre, D.; Schmid, O.; Hofer, E. P.

Intelligent energy management is a cost-effective key path to realize efficient automotive drive trains [R. O'Hayre, S.W. Cha, W. Colella, F.B. Prinz. Fuel Cell Fundamentals, John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, 2006]. To develop operating strategy in fuel cell drive trains, precise and computational efficient models of all system components, especially the fuel cell stack, are needed. Should these models further be used in diagnostic or control applications, then some major requirements must be fulfilled. First, the model must predict the mean fuel cell voltage very precisely in all possible operating conditions, even during transients. The model output should be as smooth as possible to support best efficient optimization strategies of the complete system. At least, the model must be computational efficient. For most applications, a difference between real fuel cell voltage and model output of less than 10 mV and 1000 calculations per second will be sufficient. In general, empirical models based on system identification offer a better accuracy and consume less calculation resources than detailed models derived from theoretical considerations [J. Larminie, A. Dicks. Fuel Cell Systems Explained, John Wiley & Sons, West Sussex, 2003]. In this contribution, the dynamic behaviour of the mean cell voltage of a polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack due to variations in humidity of cell's reactant gases is investigated. The validity of the overall model structure, a so-called general Hammerstein model (or Uryson model), was introduced recently in [M. Meiler, O. Schmid, M. Schudy, E.P. Hofer. Dynamic fuel cell stack model for real-time simulation based on system identification, J. Power Sources 176 (2007) 523-528]. Fuel cell mean voltage is calculated as the sum of a stationary and a dynamic voltage component. The stationary component of cell voltage is represented by a lookup-table and the dynamic voltage by a parallel placed, nonlinear transfer function. A suitable experimental setup to apply fast variations of gas humidity is introduced and is used to investigate a 10 cell PEMFC stack under various operation conditions. Using methods like stepwise multiple-regression a good mathematical description with reduced free parameters is achieved.

Fabrication of high performance bioanode based on fruitful association of dendrimer and carbon nanotube used for design O2/glucose membrane-less biofuel cell with improved bilirubine oxidase biocathode.

PubMed

Korani, Aazam; Salimi, Abdollah

2013-12-15

In this study, the preparation of an integrated modified electrode based on the covalent attachment of glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) enzyme and safranin O to amine-derivative multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-NH2) modified glassy carbon (GC) electrode using G2.5-carboxylated PAMAM dendrimer (Den) as linking agent is reported. The obtained results indicated that the proposed system has effective bioelectrocatalytic activity toward glucose oxidation at 100 mV with onset potential of -130 mV (vs. Ag/AgCl). The performance of the prepared hybrid system of GC/MWCNTs-NH2/Den/GDH/Safranin as anode in a membraneless enzyme-based glucose/O2 biofuel cell is further evaluated. The biocathode in this system was composed of bilirubin oxidase (BOX) enzyme immobilized onto a bilirubin modified carbon nanotube GC electrode. Immobilized BOX onto CNTs/bilirubin not only show direct electron transfer but also it has excellent electrocatalytic activity toward oxygen reduction at a positive potential of 610 mV. The open circuit voltage of the cell was 590 mV. The maximum current density was 0.5 mA cm(-2), while maximum power density of 108 μW cm(-2) was achieved at voltage of 330 mV. The immobilized enzymes in anode and cathode are very stable and output power of the BFC is approximately constant after 12 h continues operation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Encapsulating Non-Human Primate Multipotent Stromal Cells in Alginate via High Voltage for Cell-Based Therapies and Cryopreservation

PubMed Central

Gryshkov, Oleksandr; Pogozhykh, Denys; Hofmann, Nicola; Pogozhykh, Olena; Mueller, Thomas; Glasmacher, Birgit

2014-01-01

Alginate cell-based therapy requires further development focused on clinical application. To assess engraftment, risk of mutations and therapeutic benefit studies should be performed in an appropriate non-human primate model, such as the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus). In this work we encapsulated amnion derived multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) from Callithrix jacchus in defined size alginate beads using a high voltage technique. Our results indicate that i) alginate-cell mixing procedure and cell concentration do not affect the diameter of alginate beads, ii) encapsulation of high cell numbers (up to 10×106 cells/ml) can be performed in alginate beads utilizing high voltage and iii) high voltage (15–30 kV) does not alter the viability, proliferation and differentiation capacity of MSCs post-encapsulation compared with alginate encapsulated cells produced by the traditional air-flow method. The consistent results were obtained over the period of 7 days of encapsulated MSCs culture and after cryopreservation utilizing a slow cooling procedure (1 K/min). The results of this work show that high voltage encapsulation can further be maximized to develop cell-based therapies with alginate beads in a non-human primate model towards human application. PMID:25259731

Anode reactive bleed and injector shift control strategy

DOEpatents

Cai, Jun [Rochester, NY; Chowdhury, Akbar [Pittsford, NY; Lerner, Seth E [Honeoye Falls, NY; Marley, William S [Rush, NY; Savage, David R [Rochester, NY; Leary, James K [Rochester, NY

2012-01-03

A system and method for correcting a large fuel cell voltage spread for a split sub-stack fuel cell system. The system includes a hydrogen source that provides hydrogen to each split sub-stack and bleed valves for bleeding the anode side of the sub-stacks. The system also includes a voltage measuring device for measuring the voltage of each cell in the split sub-stacks. The system provides two levels for correcting a large stack voltage spread problem. The first level includes sending fresh hydrogen to the weak sub-stack well before a normal reactive bleed would occur, and the second level includes sending fresh hydrogen to the weak sub-stack and opening the bleed valve of the other sub-stack when the cell voltage spread is close to stack failure.

Giant voltage-induced deformation of a dielectric elastomer under a constant pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godaba, Hareesh; Foo, Choon Chiang; Zhang, Zhi Qian; Khoo, Boo Cheong; Zhu, Jian

2014-09-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators coupled with liquid have recently been developed as soft pumps, soft lenses, Braille displays, etc. In this paper, we investigate the performance of a dielectric elastomer actuator, which is coupled with water. The experiments demonstrate that the membrane of a dielectric elastomer can achieve a giant voltage-induced area strain of 1165%, when subject to a constant pressure. Both theory and experiment show that the pressure plays an important role in determining the electromechanical behaviour. The experiments also suggest that the dielectric elastomer actuators, when coupled with liquid, may suffer mechanical instability and collapse after a large amount of liquid is enclosed by the membrane. This failure mode needs to be taken into account in designing soft actuators.

Gating kinetics of batrachotoxin-modified Na+ channels in the squid giant axon. Voltage and temperature effects.

PubMed Central

Correa, A M; Bezanilla, F; Latorre, R

1992-01-01

The gating kinetics of batrachotoxin-modified Na+ channels were studied in outside-out patches of axolemma from the squid giant axon by means of the cut-open axon technique. Single channel kinetics were characterized at different membrane voltages and temperatures. The probability of channel opening (Po) as a function of voltage was well described by a Boltzmann distribution with an equivalent number of gating particles of 3.58. The voltage at which the channel was open 50% of the time was a function of [Na+] and temperature. A decrease in the internal [Na+] induced a shift to the right of the Po vs. V curve, suggesting the presence of an integral negative fixed charge near the activation gate. An increase in temperature decreased Po, indicating a stabilization of the closed configuration of the channel and also a decrease in entropy upon channel opening. Probability density analysis of dwell times in the closed and open states of the channel at 0 degrees C revealed the presence of three closed and three open states. The slowest open kinetic component constituted only a small fraction of the total number of transitions and became negligible at voltages greater than -65 mV. Adjacent interval analysis showed that there is no correlation in the duration of successive open and closed events. Consistent with this analysis, maximum likelihood estimation of the rate constants for nine different single-channel models produced a preferred model (model 1) having a linear sequence of closed states and two open states emerging from the last closed state. The effect of temperature on the rate constants of model 1 was studied. An increase in temperature increased all rate constants; the shift in Po would be the result of an increase in the closing rates predominant over the change in the opening rates. The temperature study also provided the basis for building an energy diagram for the transitions between channel states. PMID:1318096

Non-linear Membrane Properties in Entorhinal Cortical Stellate Cells Reduce Modulation of Input-Output Responses by Voltage Fluctuations

PubMed Central

Fernandez, Fernando R.; Malerba, Paola; White, John A.

2015-01-01

The presence of voltage fluctuations arising from synaptic activity is a critical component in models of gain control, neuronal output gating, and spike rate coding. The degree to which individual neuronal input-output functions are modulated by voltage fluctuations, however, is not well established across different cortical areas. Additionally, the extent and mechanisms of input-output modulation through fluctuations have been explored largely in simplified models of spike generation, and with limited consideration for the role of non-linear and voltage-dependent membrane properties. To address these issues, we studied fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses in medial entorhinal cortical (MEC) stellate cells of rats, which express strong sub-threshold non-linear membrane properties. Using in vitro recordings, dynamic clamp and modeling, we show that the modulation of input-output responses by random voltage fluctuations in stellate cells is significantly limited. In stellate cells, a voltage-dependent increase in membrane resistance at sub-threshold voltages mediated by Na+ conductance activation limits the ability of fluctuations to elicit spikes. Similarly, in exponential leaky integrate-and-fire models using a shallow voltage-dependence for the exponential term that matches stellate cell membrane properties, a low degree of fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses can be attained. These results demonstrate that fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses is not a universal feature of neurons and can be significantly limited by subthreshold voltage-gated conductances. PMID:25909971

Non-linear Membrane Properties in Entorhinal Cortical Stellate Cells Reduce Modulation of Input-Output Responses by Voltage Fluctuations.

PubMed

Fernandez, Fernando R; Malerba, Paola; White, John A

2015-04-01

The presence of voltage fluctuations arising from synaptic activity is a critical component in models of gain control, neuronal output gating, and spike rate coding. The degree to which individual neuronal input-output functions are modulated by voltage fluctuations, however, is not well established across different cortical areas. Additionally, the extent and mechanisms of input-output modulation through fluctuations have been explored largely in simplified models of spike generation, and with limited consideration for the role of non-linear and voltage-dependent membrane properties. To address these issues, we studied fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses in medial entorhinal cortical (MEC) stellate cells of rats, which express strong sub-threshold non-linear membrane properties. Using in vitro recordings, dynamic clamp and modeling, we show that the modulation of input-output responses by random voltage fluctuations in stellate cells is significantly limited. In stellate cells, a voltage-dependent increase in membrane resistance at sub-threshold voltages mediated by Na+ conductance activation limits the ability of fluctuations to elicit spikes. Similarly, in exponential leaky integrate-and-fire models using a shallow voltage-dependence for the exponential term that matches stellate cell membrane properties, a low degree of fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses can be attained. These results demonstrate that fluctuation-based modulation of input-output responses is not a universal feature of neurons and can be significantly limited by subthreshold voltage-gated conductances.

Effect of electrode mass ratio on aging of activated carbon based supercapacitors utilizing organic electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cericola, D.; Kötz, R.; Wokaun, A.

2011-03-01

The accelerated degradation of carbon based supercapacitors utilizing 1 M Et4NBF4 in acetonitrile and in propylene carbonate as electrolyte is investigated for a constant cell voltage of 3.5 V as a function of the positive over total electrode mass ratio. The degradation rate of the supercapacitor using acetonitrile as a solvent can be decreased by increasing the mass of the positive electrode. With a mass ratio (positive electrode mass/total electrode mass) of 0.65 the degradation rate is minimum. For the capacitor utilizing propylene carbonate as a solvent a similar effect was observed. The degradation rate was smallest for a mass ratio above 0.5.

Voltage Profiles for the Lead-Acid Cell: Experiment and Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haaser, Robert; Ross, Joseph H.; Saslow, Wayne M.

1999-10-01

Using platinum electrodes we have measured the voltage profile in space across a lead-acid cell, for slow, steady processes. Once in the slow, steady charge or discharge regime, the experimental voltage profile is quadratic, as predicted by recent theory.^1 However, even without current flow, in the slow, steady regime the voltage profile also is quadratic, rather than a straight line with zero slope. This other quadratic voltage profile is due to nonfaradaic chemical reactions at the working electrodes, which slowly discharge the cell without drawing any current. Such a quadratic voltage profile follows from theory. The voltage jump profiles (change in voltage profile on sudden change in current) on starting or ending a charge or discharge, are linear in space, with slope consistent with the measured resistivity of battery acid. This is as expected if charge on the electrodes, but not in the electrolyte, has time to move. 1. W.M.Saslow, Phys.Rev.Lett.76, 4849 (1996).

Dynamical characterization of inactivation path in voltage-gated Na+ ion channel by non-equilibrium response spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Pal, Krishnendu; Gangopadhyay, Gautam

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Inactivation path of voltage gated sodium channel has been studied here under various voltage protocols as it is the main governing factor for the periodic occurrence and shape of the action potential. These voltage protocols actually serve as non-equilibrium response spectroscopic tools to study the ion channel in non-equilibrium environment. In contrast to a lot of effort in finding the crystal structure based molecular mechanism of closed-state(CSI) and open-state inactivation(OSI); here our approach is to understand the dynamical characterization of inactivation. The kinetic flux as well as energetic contribution of the closed and open- state inactivation path is compared here for voltage protocols, namely constant, pulsed and oscillating. The non-equilibrium thermodynamic quantities used in response to these voltage protocols serve as improved characterization tools for theoretical understanding which not only agrees with the previously known kinetic measurements but also predict the energetically optimum processes to sustain the auto-regulatory mechanism of action potential and the consequent inactivation steps needed. The time dependent voltage pattern governs the population of the conformational states which when couple with characteristic rate parameters, the CSI and OSI selectivity arise dynamically to control the inactivation path. Using constant, pulsed and continuous oscillating voltage protocols we have shown that during depolarization the OSI path is more favored path of inactivation however, in the hyper-polarized situation the CSI is favored. It is also shown that the re-factorisation of inactivated sodium channel to resting state occurs via CSI path. Here we have shown how the subtle energetic and entropic cost due to the change in the depolarization magnitude determines the optimum path of inactivation. It is shown that an efficient CSI and OSI dynamical profile in principle can characterize the open-state drug blocking phenomena. PMID:27367642

Report on Contract W911NF-05-1-0339 (Clarkson University)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-11-30

voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy: voltage dependent parameters of a silicon solar cell under controlled illumination and temperature, Energy...voltammetry for quantitative evaluation of temperature and voltage dependent parameters of a silicon solar cell , Solar Energy, (11 2011): 0. doi: 10.1016...characterization of silicon solar cells in the electro-analytical approach: Combined measurements of temperature and voltage dependent electrical

Understanding capacity fade in silicon based electrodes for lithium-ion batteries using three electrode cells and upper cut-off voltage studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beattie, Shane D.; Loveridge, M. J.; Lain, Michael J.; Ferrari, Stefania; Polzin, Bryant J.; Bhagat, Rohit; Dashwood, Richard

2016-01-01

Commercial Li-ion batteries are typically cycled between 3.0 and 4.2 V. These voltages limits are chosen based on the characteristics of the cathode (e.g. lithium cobalt oxide) and anode (e.g. graphite). When alternative anode/cathode chemistries are studied the same cut-off voltages are often, mistakenly, used. Silicon (Si) based anodes are widely studied as a high capacity alternative to graphite for Lithium-ion batteries. When silicon-based anodes are paired with high capacity cathodes (e.g. Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide; NCA) the cell typically suffers from rapid capacity fade. The purpose of this communication is to understand how the choice of upper cut-off voltage affects cell performance in Si/NCA cells. A careful study of three-electrode cell data will show that capacity fade in Si/NCA cells is due to an ever-evolving silicon voltage profile that pushes the upper voltage at the cathode to >4.4 V (vs. Li/Li+). This behaviour initially improves cycle efficiency, due to liberation of new lithium, but ultimately reduces cycling efficiency, resulting in rapid capacity fade.

COTS Li-Ion Cells in High Voltage Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davies, Francis; Darcy, Eric; Jeevarajan, Judy; Cowles, Phil

2003-01-01

Testing at NASA JSC and COMDEV shows that Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS) Li Ion cells can not be used in high voltage batteries safely without considering the voltage stresses that may be put on the protective devices in them during failure modes.

Chlorbromuron urea herbicide removal by electro-Fenton reaction in aqueous effluents.

PubMed

Martínez, Susana Silva; Bahena, Cristina Lizama

2009-01-01

The removal of low concentration of chlorbromuron herbicide in aqueous systems was carried out by electro-Fenton process comprised of three-electrode divided and undivided cell with a reticulated vitreous carbon cathode and platinum anode. The electro-Fenton was also carried out in a two-electrode undivided cell in which ferrous ion forms from a sacrificial iron anode. It was observed that the total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiency was influenced by the cell voltage, the pH of the solution and initial herbicide concentration during the electro-Fenton treatment with a stainless steel anode. The Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) activity in the Fenton chemistry (regardless if it is hydroxyl radical or ferryl ion) was improved by the electrochemical catalysis leading to a TOC analysis below the detection limit (0.2 mg l(-1)) corresponding to a TOC removal over 98%. It was found that TOC removal during chlorbromuron degradation followed apparent first order kinetics. The rate constant was increased by decreasing the initial concentration of chlorbromuron.

High voltage power supply

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruitberg, A. P.; Young, K. M. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

A high voltage power supply is formed by three discrete circuits energized by a battery to provide a plurality of concurrent output signals floating at a high output voltage on the order of several tens of kilovolts. In the first two circuits, the regulator stages are pulse width modulated and include adjustable ressistances for varying the duty cycles of pulse trains provided to corresponding oscillator stages while the third regulator stage includes an adjustable resistance for varying the amplitude of a steady signal provided to a third oscillator stage. In the first circuit, the oscillator, formed by a constant current drive network and a tuned resonant network included a step up transformer, is coupled to a second step up transformer which, in turn, supplies an amplified sinusoidal signal to a parallel pair of complementary poled rectifying, voltage multiplier stages to generate the high output voltage.

A Computational Model of the Ionic Currents, Ca2+ Dynamics and Action Potentials Underlying Contraction of Isolated Uterine Smooth Muscle

PubMed Central

Tong, Wing-Chiu; Choi, Cecilia Y.; Karche, Sanjay; Holden, Arun V.; Zhang, Henggui; Taggart, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Uterine contractions during labor are discretely regulated by rhythmic action potentials (AP) of varying duration and form that serve to determine calcium-dependent force production. We have employed a computational biology approach to develop a fuller understanding of the complexity of excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling of uterine smooth muscle cells (USMC). Our overall aim is to establish a mathematical platform of sufficient biophysical detail to quantitatively describe known uterine E-C coupling parameters and thereby inform future empirical investigations of physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms governing normal and dysfunctional labors. From published and unpublished data we construct mathematical models for fourteen ionic currents of USMCs: currents (L- and T-type), current, an hyperpolarization-activated current, three voltage-gated currents, two -activated current, -activated current, non-specific cation current, - exchanger, - pump and background current. The magnitudes and kinetics of each current system in a spindle shaped single cell with a specified surface area∶volume ratio is described by differential equations, in terms of maximal conductances, electrochemical gradient, voltage-dependent activation/inactivation gating variables and temporal changes in intracellular computed from known fluxes. These quantifications are validated by the reconstruction of the individual experimental ionic currents obtained under voltage-clamp. Phasic contraction is modeled in relation to the time constant of changing . This integrated model is validated by its reconstruction of the different USMC AP configurations (spikes, plateau and bursts of spikes), the change from bursting to plateau type AP produced by estradiol and of simultaneous experimental recordings of spontaneous AP, and phasic force. In summary, our advanced mathematical model provides a powerful tool to investigate the physiological ionic mechanisms underlying the genesis of uterine electrical E-C coupling of labor and parturition. This will furnish the evolution of descriptive and predictive quantitative models of myometrial electrogenesis at the whole cell and tissue levels. PMID:21559514

Fabrication and Properties of a Metal-Insulator - Type Oxygen Sensor Using Lanthanum Trifluoride as the Sole Dielectric.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattingly, William Brashear, III

1995-01-01

Oxygen sensors were fabricated using a metal-insulator -semiconductor construction where the sole 'insulator' is a thin film of LaF_3, an ionic conductor. The typical oxide or nitride layers were eliminated producing a simple Pt/LaF_3/Si design. LaF_3 films, 200-300nm thick, were directly deposited on n-type Si(111) using a high temperature effusion cell in an ultra high vacuum MBE chamber. The film morphology could be controlled from polycrystalline to near single crystal epitaxy. Epitaxial films exhibited a single relaxed variant with the LaF _3 c-axis normal to the silicon surface and the in-plane LaF_3(10^ -10) parallel to Si(110). Polycrystalline films also showed a high degree of LaF_3 c-axis normal texture. Films doped with strontium were also produced. Polycrystalline films were more robust and fabricated into MIS (metal-insulator-semiconductor) capacitors. Capacitance voltage tests of the devices demonstrate nearly ideal MIS capacitor behavior. The flatband voltages were typically within 300mV of the calculated value. Bias challenge tests developed in the lab showed less than 70mV flatband voltage shift. The dielectric constant of undoped LaF_3 films measured close to 14. Doped films, rm Sr_{x}La_ {1-x}F_3 x =.06, showed a dielectric constant of 275, at 100kHz. Oxygen partial pressure tests were performed with mixtures of dry nitrogen and dry oxygen. Oxygen partial pressures were varied between 2.5 times 10^{-4} and 1.0 atmosphere. The steady state data are consistent with a Pt/LaF _3 interface adsorption mechanism, where the work function of the platinum gate metal is modulated. The mechanism is not a half-cell Nernst-type response. Langmiur isotherm fitted data indicate the response range for undoped devices is 0.3 V. Signal drift was less than 5 mV/day. The metal free-surface reactions and the dipole species at the Pt/LaF_3 interface are yet to be determined. Device kinetic studies show the time required for full equilibration after a step in oxygen partial pressure is 24 hours at 90^circC. Initial response kinetics to downward steps in oxygen show the activation energy of the process is 0.54 eV.

Electrolysis of metal oxides in MgCl2 based molten salts with an inert graphite anode.

PubMed

Yuan, Yating; Li, Wei; Chen, Hualin; Wang, Zhiyong; Jin, Xianbo; Chen, George Z

2016-08-15

Electrolysis of solid metal oxides has been demonstrated in MgCl2-NaCl-KCl melt at 700 °C taking the electrolysis of Ta2O5 as an example. Both the cathodic and anodic processes have been investigated using cyclic voltammetry, and potentiostatic and constant voltage electrolysis, with the cathodic products analysed by XRD and SEM and the anodic products by GC. Fast electrolysis of Ta2O5 against a graphite anode has been realized at a cell voltage of 2 V, or a total overpotential of about 400 mV. The energy consumption was about 1 kW h kgTa(-1) with a nearly 100% Ta recovery. The cathodic product was nanometer Ta powder with sizes of about 50 nm. The main anodic product was Cl2 gas, together with about 1 mol% O2 gas and trace amounts of CO. The graphite anode was found to be an excellent inert anode. These results promise an environmentally-friendly and energy efficient method for metal extraction by electrolysis of metal oxides in MgCl2 based molten salts.

Enhanced stability of Bi-doped Ge2Sb2Te5 amorphous films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyussembayev, S.; Prikhodko, O.; Tsendin, K.; Timoshenkov, S.; Korobova, N.

2014-09-01

Although, several reviews have appeared on various physical properties and applications of chalcogenide glasses, there is no thorough study of local atomic structure and its modification for eutectic Ge-Sb-Te alloys doped with Bi. Ge2Sb2Te5 pure and Bi-doped films were deposited by ion-plasma sputtering method of synthesized GTS material on Si (100) and glass substrates coated with a conductive Al layer which was used as a bottom electrode. Current-voltage characteristics of different points of the same samples have been measured. Random distribution of inclusions within the sample made it possible to investigate the dependence of switching and memory effects on the phase composition at a constant value of other parameters. Measurements in the current controlled mode clearly showed that the memory state formation voltage does not depend on current in a wide range. Results indicate that the development of imaging technologies phase memory cells need to pay special attention to the conditions of Ge-Sb-Te film preparation. To increase the number of cycles "write - erase" should be additional prolonged annealing of the synthesized films.

Rectification of Acetylcholine-Elicited Currents in PC12 Pheochromocytoma Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ifune, C. K.; Steinbach, J. H.

1990-06-01

The current-voltage (I-V) relationship for acetylcholine-elicited currents in the rat pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 is nonlinear. Two voltage-dependent processes that could account for the whole-cell current rectification were examined, receptor channel gating and single receptor channel permeation. We found that both factors are involved in the rectification of the whole-cell currents. The voltage dependence of channel gating determines the shape of the I-V curve at negative potentials. The single-channel I-V relationship is inwardly rectifying and largely responsible for the characteristic shape of the whole-cell I-V curve at positive potentials. The rectification of the single-channel currents is produced by the voltage-dependent block of outward currents by intracellular Mg2+ ions.

Factors affecting the open-circuit voltage and electrode kinetics of some iron/titanium/redox flow cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, M. A.; Gahn, R. F.

1977-01-01

The effect of acid concentration on the performance of the iron-titanium redox flow cell was studied. When the acidity was increased, open-circuit voltages decreased on the titanium side but load voltages increased due to decreased polarization. The best load voltage occurs when there is high acidity on the titanium side coupled with low acidity on the iron side, but such cells show voltage losses with repeated cycling because of the diffusion of acid through the membrane. No membrane tested has been found capable of maintaining the differences in acidity. Chelating agents show some promise in reducing polarization at the Ti electrode and thus improving energy efficiency.

Effect of Alkali Metal Cations on Slow Inactivation of Cardiac Na+ Channels

PubMed Central

Townsend, Claire; Horn, Richard

1997-01-01

Human heart Na+ channels were expressed transiently in both mammalian cells and Xenopus oocytes, and Na+ currents measured using 150 mM intracellular Na+. The kinetics of decaying outward Na+ current in response to 1-s depolarizations in the F1485Q mutant depends on the predominant cation in the extracellular solution, suggesting an effect on slow inactivation. The decay rate is lower for the alkali metal cations Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ than for the organic cations Tris, tetramethylammonium, N-methylglucamine, and choline. In whole cell recordings, raising [Na+]o from 10 to 150 mM increases the rate of recovery from slow inactivation at −140 mV, decreases the rate of slow inactivation at relatively depolarized voltages, and shifts steady-state slow inactivation in a depolarized direction. Single channel recordings of F1485Q show a decrease in the number of blank (i.e., null) records when [Na+]o is increased. Significant clustering of blank records when depolarizing at a frequency of 0.5 Hz suggests that periods of inactivity represent the sojourn of a channel in a slow-inactivated state. Examination of the single channel kinetics at +60 mV during 90-ms depolarizations shows that neither open time, closed time, nor first latency is significantly affected by [Na+]o. However raising [Na+]o decreases the duration of the last closed interval terminated by the end of the depolarization, leading to an increased number of openings at the depolarized voltage. Analysis of single channel data indicates that at a depolarized voltage a single rate constant for entry into a slow-inactivated state is reduced in high [Na+]o, suggesting that the binding of an alkali metal cation, perhaps in the ion-conducting pore, inhibits the closing of the slow inactivation gate. PMID:9234168

Electrochemistry in a Nutshell: A General Chemistry Experiment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baca, Glenn; Lewis, Dennis A.

1978-01-01

This experiment uses a nine-chambered plexiglas unit to facilitate rapid construction of galvanic cells and measurement of cell voltage. Using this procedure, a pair of students can construct and obtain the cell voltages of two precipitation cells, three concentration cells, and six redox cells in 30-40 minutes. (BB)

Precision linear ramp function generator

DOEpatents

Jatko, W.B.; McNeilly, D.R.; Thacker, L.H.

1984-08-01

A ramp function generator is provided which produces a precise linear ramp function which is repeatable and highly stable. A derivative feedback loop is used to stabilize the output of an integrator in the forward loop and control the ramp rate. The ramp may be started from a selected baseline voltage level and the desired ramp rate is selected by applying an appropriate constant voltage to the input of the integrator.

Precision linear ramp function generator

DOEpatents

Jatko, W. Bruce; McNeilly, David R.; Thacker, Louis H.

1986-01-01

A ramp function generator is provided which produces a precise linear ramp unction which is repeatable and highly stable. A derivative feedback loop is used to stabilize the output of an integrator in the forward loop and control the ramp rate. The ramp may be started from a selected baseline voltage level and the desired ramp rate is selected by applying an appropriate constant voltage to the input of the integrator.

Pulsed source ion implantation apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Leung, K.N.

1996-09-24

A new pulsed plasma-immersion ion-implantation apparatus that implants ions in large irregularly shaped objects to controllable depth without overheating the target, minimizing voltage breakdown, and using a constant electrical bias applied to the target. Instead of pulsing the voltage applied to the target, the plasma source, for example a tungsten filament or a RF antenna, is pulsed. Both electrically conducting and insulating targets can be implanted. 16 figs.

Research on the response characteristics of solenoid valve of the air-jet loom by simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Yuzhen; Deng, Ruoyu; Jin, Yingzi; Hu, Xudong

2013-12-01

Solenoid valve is one of the executive parts of weft insertion control system. According to the response characteristics of the solenoid valve, an improved design becomes a necessity. Firstly, the numerical model was established after analyzing the solenoid valve during its start-up and shut-down. Comparing the simulation data with the practical data, it is verified that the numerical simulation model has a high feasibility. Secondly, excitation voltage and spring pre-compression were adjusted respectively, and the response rules after adjusting were investigated. The research of the study shows: the response time tends to be inverse proportional to the excitation voltage during start-up, and it becomes a constant value with the increase of the excitation voltage; the response time is proportional to the spring pre-compression when the solenoid valve starts up, it is inverse proportional to spring pre-compression when the solenoid valve shuts down. And the total response time is a constant value with the increase of the spring pre-compression. Therefore, the value of the excitation voltage and the spring pre-compression should be selected when the curve is becoming flatten. The results of the research can provide the reference to the further development of the solenoid valve.

Investigation of Dielectric Breakdown Characteristics for Double-break Vacuum Interrupter and Dielectric Breakdown Probability Distribution in Vacuum Interrupter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shioiri, Tetsu; Asari, Naoki; Sato, Junichi; Sasage, Kosuke; Yokokura, Kunio; Homma, Mitsutaka; Suzuki, Katsumi

To investigate the reliability of equipment of vacuum insulation, a study was carried out to clarify breakdown probability distributions in vacuum gap. Further, a double-break vacuum circuit breaker was investigated for breakdown probability distribution. The test results show that the breakdown probability distribution of the vacuum gap can be represented by a Weibull distribution using a location parameter, which shows the voltage that permits a zero breakdown probability. The location parameter obtained from Weibull plot depends on electrode area. The shape parameter obtained from Weibull plot of vacuum gap was 10∼14, and is constant irrespective non-uniform field factor. The breakdown probability distribution after no-load switching can be represented by Weibull distribution using a location parameter. The shape parameter after no-load switching was 6∼8.5, and is constant, irrespective of gap length. This indicates that the scatter of breakdown voltage was increased by no-load switching. If the vacuum circuit breaker uses a double break, breakdown probability at low voltage becomes lower than single-break probability. Although potential distribution is a concern in the double-break vacuum cuicuit breaker, its insulation reliability is better than that of the single-break vacuum interrupter even if the bias of the vacuum interrupter's sharing voltage is taken into account.

The Voltage Boost Enabled by Luminescence Extraction in Solar Cells

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

Ganapati, Vidya; Steiner, Myles A.; Yablonovitch, Eli

Over the past few years, the application of the physical principle, i.e., 'luminescence extraction,' has produced record voltages and efficiencies in photovoltaic cells. Luminescence extraction is the use of optical design, such as a back mirror or textured surfaces, to help internal photons escape out of the front surface of a solar cell. The principle of luminescence extraction is exemplified by the mantra 'a good solar cell should also be a good LED.' Basic thermodynamics says that the voltage boost should be related to concentration ratio C of a resource by ΔV = (kT/q) ln{C}. In light trapping (i.e., when the solar cell is textured and has a perfect back mirror), the concentration ratio of photons C = {4n 2}; therefore, one would expect a voltage boost of ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4n 2} over a solar cell with no texture and zero back reflectivity, where n is the refractive index. Nevertheless, there has been ambiguity over the voltage benefit to be expected from perfect luminescence extraction. Do we gain an open-circuit voltage boost of ΔV = (kT/q) ln{n 2}, ΔV = (kT/q) ln{2 n 2}, or ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4 n 2}? What is responsible for this voltage ambiguity ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4}more » $${\\asymp}$$ 36 mV? Finally, we show that different results come about, depending on whether the photovoltaic cell is optically thin or thick to its internal luminescence. In realistic intermediate cases of optical thickness, the voltage boost falls in between: ln{n 2} < (qΔV/kT) < ln{4n 2}.« less

The Voltage Boost Enabled by Luminescence Extraction in Solar Cells

DOE PAGES

Ganapati, Vidya; Steiner, Myles A.; Yablonovitch, Eli

2016-07-01

Over the past few years, the application of the physical principle, i.e., 'luminescence extraction,' has produced record voltages and efficiencies in photovoltaic cells. Luminescence extraction is the use of optical design, such as a back mirror or textured surfaces, to help internal photons escape out of the front surface of a solar cell. The principle of luminescence extraction is exemplified by the mantra 'a good solar cell should also be a good LED.' Basic thermodynamics says that the voltage boost should be related to concentration ratio C of a resource by ΔV = (kT/q) ln{C}. In light trapping (i.e., when the solar cell is textured and has a perfect back mirror), the concentration ratio of photons C = {4n 2}; therefore, one would expect a voltage boost of ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4n 2} over a solar cell with no texture and zero back reflectivity, where n is the refractive index. Nevertheless, there has been ambiguity over the voltage benefit to be expected from perfect luminescence extraction. Do we gain an open-circuit voltage boost of ΔV = (kT/q) ln{n 2}, ΔV = (kT/q) ln{2 n 2}, or ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4 n 2}? What is responsible for this voltage ambiguity ΔV = (kT/q) ln{4}more » $${\\asymp}$$ 36 mV? Finally, we show that different results come about, depending on whether the photovoltaic cell is optically thin or thick to its internal luminescence. In realistic intermediate cases of optical thickness, the voltage boost falls in between: ln{n 2} < (qΔV/kT) < ln{4n 2}.« less

Interactions of high-affinity cationic blockers with the translocation pores of B. anthracis, C. botulinum, and C. perfringens binary toxins.

PubMed

Bezrukov, Sergey M; Liu, Xian; Karginov, Vladimir A; Wein, Alexander N; Leppla, Stephen H; Popoff, Michel R; Barth, Holger; Nestorovich, Ekaterina M

2012-09-19

Cationic β-cyclodextrin derivatives were recently introduced as highly effective, potentially universal blockers of three binary bacterial toxins: anthrax toxin of Bacillus anthracis, C2 toxin of Clostridium botulinum, and iota toxin of Clostridium perfringens. The binary toxins are made of two separate components: the enzymatic A component, which acts on certain intracellular targets, and the binding/translocation B component, which forms oligomeric channels in the target cell membrane. Here we studied the voltage and salt dependence of the rate constants of binding and dissociation reactions of two structurally different β-cyclodextrins (AmPrβCD and AMBnTβCD) in the PA(63), C2IIa, and Ib channels (B components of anthrax, C2, and iota toxins, respectively). With all three channels, the blocker carrying extra hydrophobic aromatic groups on the thio-alkyl linkers of positively charged amino groups, AMBnTβCD, demonstrated significantly stronger binding compared with AmPrβCD. This effect is seen as an increased residence time of the blocker in the channels, whereas the time between blockages characterizing the binding reaction on-rate stays practically unchanged. Surprisingly, the voltage sensitivity, expressed as a slope of the logarithm of the blocker residence time as a function of voltage, turned out to be practically the same for all six cases studied, suggesting structural similarities among the three channels. Also, the more-effective AMBnTβCD blocker shows weaker salt dependence of the binding and dissociation rate constants compared with AmPrβCD. By estimating the relative contributions of the applied transmembrane field, long-range Coulomb, and salt-concentration-independent, short-range forces, we found that the latter represent the leading interaction, which accounts for the high efficiency of blockage. In a search for the putative groups in the channel lumen that are responsible for the short-range forces, we performed measurements with the F427A mutant of PA(63), which lacks the functionally important phenylalanine clamp. We found that the on-rates of the blockage were virtually conserved, but the residence times and, correspondingly, the binding constants dropped by more than an order of magnitude, which also reduced the difference between the efficiencies of the two blockers. Copyright © 2012 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhanced charge efficiency and reduced energy use in capacitive deionization by increasing the discharge voltage.

PubMed

Kim, T; Dykstra, J E; Porada, S; van der Wal, A; Yoon, J; Biesheuvel, P M

2015-05-15

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an electrochemical method for water desalination using porous carbon electrodes. A key parameter in CDI is the charge efficiency, Λ, which is the ratio of salt adsorption over charge in a CDI-cycle. Values for Λ in CDI are typically around 0.5-0.8, significantly less than the theoretical maximum of unity, due to the fact that not only counterions are adsorbed into the pores of the carbon electrodes, but at the same time coions are released. To enhance Λ, ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) can be implemented. With membranes, Λ can be close to unity because the membranes only allow passage for the counterions. Enhancing the value of Λ is advantageous as this implies a lower electrical current and (at a fixed charging voltage) a reduced energy use. We demonstrate how, without the need to include IEMs, the charge efficiency can be increased to values close to the theoretical maximum of unity, by increasing the cell voltage during discharge, with only a small loss of salt adsorption capacity per cycle. In separate constant-current CDI experiments, where after some time the effluent salt concentration reaches a stable value, this value is reached earlier with increased discharge voltage. We compare the experimental results with predictions of porous electrode theory which includes an equilibrium Donnan electrical double layer model for salt adsorption in carbon micropores. Our results highlight the potential of modified operational schemes in CDI to increase charge efficiency and reduce energy use of water desalination. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Binding modes and functional surface of anti-mammalian scorpion α-toxins to sodium channels.

PubMed

Chen, Rong; Chung, Shin-Ho

2012-10-02

Scorpion α-toxins bind to the voltage-sensing domains of voltage-gated sodium (Na(V)) channels and interfere with the inactivation mechanisms. The functional surface of α-toxins has been shown to contain an NC-domain consisting of the five-residue turn (positions 8-12) and the C-terminus (positions 56-64) and a core-domain centered on the residue 18. The NC- and core-domains are interconnected by the linker-domain (positions 8-18). Here with atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, we examine the binding modes between two α-toxins, the anti-mammalian AahII and the anti-insect LqhαIT, and the voltage-sensing domain of rat Na(V)1.2, a subtype of Na(V) channels expressed in nerve cells. Both toxins are docked to the extracellular side of the voltage-sensing domain of Na(V)1.2 using molecular dynamics simulations, with the linker-domain assumed to wedge into the binding pocket. Several salt bridges and hydrophobic clusters are observed to form between the NC- and core-domains of the toxins and Na(V)1.2 and stabilize the toxin-channel complexes. The binding modes predicted are consistent with available mutagenesis data and can readily explain the relative affinities of AahII and LqhαIT for Na(V)1.2. The dissociation constants for the two toxin-channel complexes are derived, which compare favorably with experiment. Our models demonstrate that the functional surface of anti-mammalian scorpion α-toxins is centered on the linker-domain, similar to that of β-toxins.

Three-Level 48-Pulse STATCOM with Pulse Width Modulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Bhim; Srinivas, Kadagala Venkata

2016-03-01

In this paper, a new control strategy of a three-level 48-pulse static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is proposed with a constant dc link voltage and pulse width modulation at fundamental frequency switching. The proposed STATCOM is realized using eight units of three-level voltage source converters (VSCs) to form a three-level 48-pulse STATCOM. The conduction angle of each three-level VSC is modulated to control the ac converter output voltage, which controls the reactive power of the STATCOM. A fuzzy logic controller is used to control the STATCOM. The dynamic performance of the STATCOM is studied for the control of the reference reactive power, the reference terminal voltage and under the switching of inductive and capacitive loads.

Method for improving fuel cell performance

DOEpatents

Uribe, Francisco A.; Zawodzinski, Thomas

2003-10-21

A method is provided for operating a fuel cell at high voltage for sustained periods of time. The cathode is switched to an output load effective to reduce the cell voltage at a pulse width effective to reverse performance degradation from OH adsorption onto cathode catalyst surfaces. The voltage is stepped to a value of less than about 0.6 V to obtain the improved and sustained performance.

A Hybrid Maximum Power Point Tracking Method for Automobile Exhaust Thermoelectric Generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quan, Rui; Zhou, Wei; Yang, Guangyou; Quan, Shuhai

2017-05-01

To make full use of the maximum output power of automobile exhaust thermoelectric generator (AETEG) based on Bi2Te3 thermoelectric modules (TEMs), taking into account the advantages and disadvantages of existing maximum power point tracking methods, and according to the output characteristics of TEMs, a hybrid maximum power point tracking method combining perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm, quadratic interpolation and constant voltage tracking method was put forward in this paper. Firstly, it searched the maximum power point with P&O algorithms and a quadratic interpolation method, then, it forced the AETEG to work at its maximum power point with constant voltage tracking. A synchronous buck converter and controller were implemented in the electric bus of the AETEG applied in a military sports utility vehicle, and the whole system was modeled and simulated with a MATLAB/Simulink environment. Simulation results demonstrate that the maximum output power of the AETEG based on the proposed hybrid method is increased by about 3.0% and 3.7% compared with that using only the P&O algorithm and the quadratic interpolation method, respectively. The shorter tracking time is only 1.4 s, which is reduced by half compared with that of the P&O algorithm and quadratic interpolation method, respectively. The experimental results demonstrate that the tracked maximum power is approximately equal to the real value using the proposed hybrid method,and it can preferentially deal with the voltage fluctuation of the AETEG with only P&O algorithm, and resolve the issue that its working point can barely be adjusted only with constant voltage tracking when the operation conditions change.

Self-tuning bandpass filter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deboo, G. J.; Hedlund, R. C. (Inventor)

1973-01-01

An electronic filter is described which simultaneously maintains a constant bandwidth and a constant center frequency gain as the input signal frequency varies, and remains self-tuning to that center frequency over a decade range. The filter utilizes a field effect transistor (FET) as a voltage variable resistance in the bandpass frequency determining circuit. The FET is responsive to a phase detector to achieve self-tuning.

Applicability of the Child-Langmuir laws versions for describing the glow discharge cathode sheath in CO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lisovskiy, Valeriy; Krol, Hennadii; Osmayev, Ruslan; Yegorenkov, Vladimir

2016-09-01

This work is devoted to the determination of the law that may be applicable to the description of the cathode sheath in CO2. To this end three versions of the Child-Langmuir law have been considered - a collision free one (for the ions moving through a cathode sheath without collisions with gas molecules) as well as two collision- related versions- one for a constant mean free path of positive ions and one for a constant mobility of positive ions. The current-voltage characteristics and the cathode sheath thickness of the glow discharge in carbon oxide have been simultaneously measured in the pressure range from 0.05 to 1 Torr and with the discharge current values up to 80 mA. The inter-electrode distance has been chosen such that the discharge consists only of the cathode sheath and a small portion of the negative glow, i.e. the experiments have been performed in short tubes. In this case the voltage drop across the cathode sheath is equal approximately to the voltage drop across the electrodes. In the whole range of the discharge conditions we have studied the cathode sheath characteristics are found to obey correctly only to the Child-Langmuir law version with a constant ion mobility. The reason for this phenomenon may be related with a significant conversion of carbon dioxide molecules.

Voltage controlling mechanisms in low resistivity silicon solar cells: A unified approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weizer, V. G.; Swartz, C. K.; Hart, R. E.; Godlewski, M. P.

1984-01-01

An experimental technique capable of resolving the dark saturation current into its base and emitter components is used as the basis of an analysis in which the voltage limiting mechanisms were determined for a variety of high voltage, low resistivity silicon solar cells. The cells studied include the University of Florida hi-low emitter cell, the NASA and the COMSAT multi-step diffused cells, the Spire Corporation ion-implanted emitter cell, and the University of New South Wales MINMIS and MINP cells. The results proved to be, in general, at variance with prior expectations. Most surprising was the finding that the MINP and the MINMIS voltage improvements are due, to a considerable extent, to a previously unrecognized optimization of the base component of the saturation current. This result is substantiated by an independent analysis of the material used to fabricate these devices.

Voltage controlling mechanisms in low resistivity silicon solar cells - A unified approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weizer, V. G.; Swartz, C. K.; Hart, R. E.; Godlewski, M. P.

1984-01-01

An experimental technique capable of resolving the dark saturation current into its base and emitter components is used as the basis of an analysis in which the voltage limiting mechanisms were determined for a variety of high voltage, low resistivity silicon solar cells. The cells studied include the University of Florida hi-low emitter cell, the NASA and the COMSAT multi-step diffused cells, the Spire Corporation ion-implanted emitter cell, and the University of New South Wales MINMIS and MINP cells. The results proved to be, in general, at variance with prior expectations. Most surprising was the finding that the MINP and the MINMIS voltage improvements are due, to a considerable extent, to a previously unrecognized optimization of the base component of the saturation current. This result is substantiated by an independent analysis of the material used to fabricate these devices.

Transient voltage-dependent potassium currents are reduced in NTS neurons isolated from renal wrap hypertensive rats.

PubMed

Belugin, Sergei; Mifflin, Steve

2005-12-01

Whole cell patch-clamp measurements were made in neurons enzymatically dispersed from the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) to determine if alterations occur in voltage-dependent potassium channels from rats made hypertensive (HT) by unilateral nephrectomy/renal wrap for 4 wk. Some rats had the fluorescent tracer DiA applied to the aortic nerve before the experiment to identify NTS neurons receiving monosynaptic baroreceptor afferent inputs. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was greater in 4-wk HT (165 +/- 5 mmHg, n = 26, P < 0.001) rats compared with normotensive (NT) rats (109 +/- 3 mmHg measured in 10 of 69 rats). Transient outward currents (TOCs) were observed in 67-82% of NTS neurons from NT and HT rats. At activation voltages from -10 to +10 mV, TOCs were significantly less in HT neurons compared with those observed in NT neurons (P < 0.001). There were no differences in the voltage-dependent activation kinetics, the voltage dependence of steady-state inactivation, and the rise and decay time constants of the TOCs comparing neurons isolated from NT and HT rats. The 4-aminopyridine-sensitive component of the TOC was significantly less in neurons from HT compared with NT rats (P < 0.001), whereas steady-state outward currents, whether or not sensitive to 4-aminopyridine or tetraethylammonium, were not different. Delayed excitation, studied under current clamp, was observed in 60-80% of NTS neurons from NT and HT rats and was not different comparing neurons from NT and HT rats. However, examination of the subset of NTS neurons exhibiting somatic DiA fluorescence revealed that DiA-labeled neurons from HT rats had a significantly shorter duration delayed excitation (n = 8 cells, P = 0.022) than DiA-labeled neurons from NT rats (n = 7 cells). Neurons with delayed excitation from HT rats had a significantly broader first action potential (AP) and a slower maximal downstroke velocity of repolarization compared with NT neurons with delayed excitation (P = 0.016 and P = 0.014, respectively). The number of APs in the first 200 ms of a sustained depolarization was greater in HT than NT neurons (P = 0.012). These results suggest that HT of 4-wk duration reduces TOCs in NTS neurons, and this contributes to reduced delayed excitation and increased AP responses to depolarizing inputs. Such changes could alter baroreflex function in hypertension.

NREL Collaboration Breaks 1-Volt Barrier in CdTe Solar Technology

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

2016-05-01

NREL scientists have worked with Washington State University and the University of Tennessee to improve the maximum voltage available from CdTe solar cells. Changes in dopants, stoichiometry, interface design, and defect chemistry improved the CdTe conductivity and carrier lifetime by orders of magnitude, thus enabling CdTe solar cells with open-circuit voltages exceeding 1 volt for the first time. Values of current density and fill factor for CdTe solar cells are already at high levels, but sub-par voltages has been a barrier to improved efficiencies. With voltages pushed beyond 1 volt, CdTe cells have a path to produce electricity at costsmore » less than fossil fuels.« less

Single-Cell Electric Lysis on an Electroosmotic-Driven Microfluidic Chip with Arrays of Microwells

PubMed Central

Jen, Chun-Ping; Amstislavskaya, Tamara G.; Liu, Ya-Hui; Hsiao, Ju-Hsiu; Chen, Yu-Hung

2012-01-01

Accurate analysis at the single-cell level has become a highly attractive tool for investigating cellular content. An electroosmotic-driven microfluidic chip with arrays of 30-μm-diameter microwells was developed for single-cell electric lysis in the present study. The cellular occupancy in the microwells when the applied voltage was 5 V (82.4%) was slightly higher than that at an applied voltage of 10 V (81.8%). When the applied voltage was increased to 15 V, the cellular occupancy in the microwells dropped to 64.3%. More than 50% of the occupied microwells contain individual cells. The results of electric lysis experiments at the single-cell level indicate that the cells were gradually lysed as the DC voltage of 30 V was applied; the cell was fully lysed after 25 s. Single-cell electric lysis was demonstrated in the proposed microfluidic chip, which is suitable for high-throughput cell lysis. PMID:22969331

Gating by Cyclic Gmp and Voltage in the α Subunit of the Cyclic Gmp–Gated Channel from Rod Photoreceptors

PubMed Central

Benndorf, Klaus; Koopmann, Rolf; Eismann, Elisabeth; Kaupp, U. Benjamin

1999-01-01

Gating by cGMP and voltage of the α subunit of the cGMP-gated channel from rod photoreceptor was examined with a patch-clamp technique. The channels were expressed in Xenopus oocytes. At low [cGMP] (<20 μM), the current displayed strong outward rectification. At low and high (700 μM) [cGMP], the channel activity was dominated by only one conductance level. Therefore, the outward rectification at low [cGMP] results solely from an increase in the open probability, P o. Kinetic analysis of single-channel openings revealed two exponential distributions. At low [cGMP], the larger P o at positive voltages with respect to negative voltages is caused by an increased frequency of openings in both components of the open-time distribution. In macroscopic currents, depolarizing voltage steps, starting from −100 mV, generated a time-dependent current that increased with the step size (activation). At low [cGMP] (20 μM), the degree of activation was large and the time course was slow, whereas at saturating [cGMP] (7 mM) the respective changes were small and fast. The dose–response relation at −100 mV was shifted to the right and saturated at significantly lower P o values with respect to that at +100 mV (0.77 vs. 0.96). P o was determined as function of the [cGMP] (at +100 and −100 mV) and voltage (at 20, 70, and 700 μM, and 7 mM cGMP). Both relations could be fitted with an allosteric state model consisting of four independent cGMP-binding reactions and one voltage-dependent allosteric opening reaction. At saturating [cGMP] (7 mM), the activation time course was monoexponential, which allowed us to determine the individual rate constants for the allosteric reaction. For the rapid rate constants of cGMP binding and unbinding, lower limits are determined. It is concluded that an allosteric model consisting of four independent cGMP-binding reactions and one voltage-dependent allosteric reaction, describes the cGMP- and voltage-dependent gating of cGMP-gated channels adequately. PMID:10498668

Open channel block of A-type, kv4.3, and delayed rectifier K+ channels, Kv1.3 and Kv3.1, by sibutramine.

PubMed

Kim, Sung Eun; Ahn, Hye Sook; Choi, Bok Hee; Jang, Hyun-Jong; Kim, Myung-Jun; Rhie, Duck-Joo; Yoon, Shin-Hee; Jo, Yang-Hyeok; Kim, Myung-Suk; Sung, Ki-Wug; Hahn, Sang June

2007-05-01

The effects of sibutramine on voltage-gated K+ channel (Kv)4.3, Kv1.3, and Kv3.1, stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, were investigated using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Sibutramine did not significantly decrease the peak Kv4.3 currents, but it accelerated the rate of decay of current inactivation in a concentration-dependent manner. This phenomenon was effectively characterized by integrating the total current over the duration of a depolarizing pulse to +40 mV. The IC50 value for the sibutramine block of Kv4.3 was 17.3 microM. Under control conditions, the inactivation of Kv4.3 currents could be fit to a biexponential function, and the time constants for the fast and slow components were significantly decreased after the application of sibutramine. The association (k+1) and dissociation (k-1) rate constants for the sibutramine block of Kv 4.3 were 1.51 microM-1s-1 and 27.35 s-1, respectively. The theoretical KD value, derived from k-1/k+1, yielded a value of 18.11 microM. The block of Kv4.3 by sibutramine displayed a weak voltage dependence, increasing at more positive potentials, and it was use-dependent at 2 Hz. Sibutramine did not affect the time course for the deactivating tail currents. Neither steady-state activation and inactivation nor the recovery from inactivation was affected by sibutramine. Sibutramine caused the concentration-dependent block of the Kv1.3 and Kv3.1 currents with an IC50 value of 3.7 and 32.7 microM, respectively. In addition, sibutramine reduced the tail current amplitude and slowed the deactivation of the tail currents of Kv1.3 and Kv3.1, resulting in a crossover phenomenon. These results indicate that sibutramine acts on Kv4.3, Kv1.3, and Kv3.1 as an open channel blocker.

Inert gas rejection device for zinc-halogen battery systems

DOEpatents

Hammond, Michael J.; Arendell, Mark W.

1981-01-01

An electrolytic cell for separating chlorine gas from other (foreign) gases, having an anode, a cathode assembly, an aqueous electrolyte, a housing, and a constant voltage power supply. The cathode assembly is generally comprised of a dense graphite electrode having a winding channel formed in the face opposing the anode, a gas impermeable (but liquid permeable) membrane sealed into the side of the cathode electrode over the channel, and a packing of graphite particles contained in the channel of the cathode electrode. The housing separates and parallelly aligns the anode and cathode assembly, and provides a hermetic seal for the cell. In operation, a stream of chlorine and foreign gases enters the cell at the beginning of the cathode electrode channel. The chlorine gas is dissolved into the electrolyte and electrochemically reduced into chloride ions. The chloride ions disfuse through the gas impermeable membrane, and are electrochemically oxidized at the anode into purified chlorine gas. The foreign gases do not participate in the above electrochemical reactions, and are vented from the cell at the end of the cathode electrode channel.

Six different roles for crossover inhibition in the retina: correcting the nonlinearities of synaptic transmission.

PubMed

Werblin, Frank S

2010-03-01

Early retinal studies categorized ganglion cell behavior as either linear or nonlinear and rectifying as represented by the familiar X- and Y-type ganglion cells in cat. Nonlinear behavior is in large part a consequence of the rectifying nonlinearities inherent in synaptic transmission. These nonlinear signals underlie many special functions in retinal processing, including motion detection, motion in motion, and local edge detection. But linear behavior is also required for some visual processing tasks. For these tasks, the inherently nonlinear signals are "linearized" by "crossover inhibition." Linearization utilizes a circuitry whereby nonlinear ON inhibition adds with nonlinear OFF excitation or ON excitation adds with OFF inhibition to generate a more linear postsynaptic voltage response. Crossover inhibition has now been measured in most bipolar, amacrine, and ganglion cells. Functionally crossover inhibition enhances edge detection, allows ganglion cells to recognize luminance-neutral patterns with their receptive fields, permits ganglion cells to distinguish contrast from luminance, and maintains a more constant conductance during the light response. In some cases, crossover extends the operating range of cone-driven OFF ganglion cells into the scotopic levels. Crossover inhibition is also found in neurons of the lateral geniculate nucleus and V1.

The Sheath-less Planar Langmuir Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooke, D. L.

2017-12-01

The Langmuir probe is one of the oldest plasma diagnostics, provided the plasma density and species temperature from analysis of a current-voltage curve as the voltage is swept over a practically chosen range. The analysis depends on a knowledge or theory of the many factors that influence the current-voltage curve including, probe shape, size, nearby perturbations, and the voltage reference. For applications in Low Earth Orbit, the Planar Langmuir Probe, PLP, is an attractive geometry because the ram ion current is very constant over many Volts of a sweep, allowing the ion density and electron temperature to be determined independently with the same instrument, at different points on the sweep. However, when the physical voltage reference is itself small and electrically floating as with a small spacecraft, the spacecraft and probe system become a double probe where the current collection theory depends on the interaction of the spacecraft with the plasma which is generally not as simple as the probe itself. The Sheath-less PLP, SPLP, interlaces on a single ram facing surface, two variably biased probe elements, broken into many small and intertwined segments on a scale smaller than the plasma Debye length. The SPLP is electrically isolated from the rest of the spacecraft. For relative bias potentials of a few volts, the ion current to all segments of each element will be constant, while the electron currents will vary as a function of the element potential and the electron temperature. Because the segments are small, intertwined, and floating, the assembly will always present the same floating potential to the plasma, with minimal growth as a function of voltage, thus sheath-less and still planar. This concept has been modelled with Nascap, and tested with a physical model inserted into a Low Earth Orbit-like chamber plasma. Results will be presented.

Analysis of whole-cell currents by patch clamp of guinea-pig myenteric neurones in intact ganglia

PubMed Central

Rugiero, François; Gola, Maurice; Kunze, Wolf A A; Reynaud, Jean-Claude; Furness, John B; Clerc, Nadine

2002-01-01

Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings taken from guinea-pig duodenal myenteric neurones within intact ganglia were used to determine the properties of S and AH neurones. Major currents that determine the states of AH neurones were identified and quantified. S neurones had resting potentials of −47 ± 6 mV and input resistances (Rin) of 713 ± 49 MΩ at voltages ranging from −90 to −40 mV. At more negative levels, activation of a time-independent, caesium-sensitive, inward-rectifier current (IKir) decreased Rin to 103 ± 10 MΩ. AH neurones had resting potentials of −57 ± 4 mV and Rin was 502 ± 27 MΩ. Rin fell to 194 ± 16 MΩ upon hyperpolarization. This decrease was attributable mainly to the activation of a cationic h current, Ih, and to IKir. Resting potential and Rin exhibited a low sensitivity to changes in [K+]o in both AH and S neurones. This indicates that both cells have a low background K+ permeability. The cationic current, Ih, contributed about 20 % to the resting conductance of AH neurones. It had a half-activation voltage of −72 ± 2 mV, and a voltage sensitivity of 8.2 ± 0.7 mV per e-fold change. Ih has relatively fast, voltage-dependent kinetics, with on and off time constants in the range of 50–350 ms. AH neurones had a previously undescribed, low threshold, slowly inactivating, sodium-dependent current that was poorly sensitive to TTX. In AH neurones, the post-action-potential slow hyperpolarizing current, IAHP, displayed large variation from cell to cell. IAHP appeared to be highly Ca2+ sensitive, since its activation with either membrane depolarization or caffeine (1 mm) was not prevented by perfusing the cell with 10 mm BAPTA. We determined the identity of the Ca2+ channels linked to IAHP. Action potentials of AH neurones that were elongated by TEA (10 mm) were similarly shortened and IAHP was suppressed with each of the three Ω-conotoxins GVIA, MVIIA and MVIIC (0.3–0.5 μm), but not with Ω-agatoxin IVA (0.2 μm). There was no additivity between the effects of the three conotoxins, which indicates the presence of N- but not of P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. A residual Ca2+ current, resistant to all toxins, but blocked by 0.5 mm Cd2+, could not generate IAHP. This patch-clamp study, performed on intact ganglia, demonstrates that the AH neurones of the guinea-pig duodenum are under the control of four major currents, IAHP, Ih, an N-type Ca2+ current and a slowly inactivating Na+ current. PMID:11790812

Electrospun poly(methyl methacrylate) fibrous mat showing piezoelectric properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nobeshima, Taiki; Ishii, Yuya; Sakai, Heisuke; Uemura, Sei; Yoshida, Manabu

2018-05-01

A piezoelectric effect, such as actuation behavior with voltage application, could be observed from a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) fibrous mat fabricated by electrospinning. This fibrous mat increased or decreased its thickness in accordance with the polarity of the applied voltage, which appears to be an inverse piezoelectric effect. The appearance d T constant was as large as 8.5 nm/V owing to the softness of the fibrous structure, and the coupling constant K T = 0.31 indicated its efficient piezoelectric property. This piezoelectric behavior was repeatedly observed to be stable at room temperature. In addition, the polarization components of the fibrous mat, which are considered to be the origin of its piezoelectric effect, and its relaxation behavior were confirmed from the results of thermally stimulated current measurements.

Design and simulation of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) system on solar module system using constant voltage (CV) method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhatara, Sevty Satria; Iskandar, Reza Fauzi; Kirom, M. Ramdlan

2016-02-01

Solar energy is one of renewable energy resource where needs a photovoltaic module to convert it into electrical energy. One of the problems on solar energy conversion is the process of battery charging. To improve efficiency of energy conversion, PV system needs another control method on battery charging called maximum power point tracking (MPPT). This paper report the study on charging optimation using constant voltage (CV) method. This method has a function of determining output voltage of the PV system on maximal condition, so PV system will always produce a maximal energy. A model represented a PV system with and without MPPT was developed using Simulink. PV system simulation showed a different outcome energy when different solar radiation and numbers of solar module were applied in the model. On the simulation of solar radiation 1000 W/m2, PV system with MPPT produces 252.66 Watt energy and PV system without MPPT produces 252.66 Watt energy. The larger the solar radiation, the greater the energy of PV modules was produced.

Flight Demonstration of a Shock Location Sensor Using Constant Voltage Hot-Film Anemometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moes, Timothy R.; Sarma, Garimella R.; Mangalam, Siva M.

1997-01-01

Flight tests have demonstrated the effectiveness of an array of hot-film sensors using constant voltage anemometry to determine shock position on a wing or aircraft surface at transonic speeds. Flights were conducted at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center using the F-15B aircraft and Flight Test Fixture (FTF). A modified NACA 0021 airfoil was attached to the side of the FTF, and its upper surface was instrumented to correlate shock position with pressure and hot-film sensors. In the vicinity of the shock-induced pressure rise, test results consistently showed the presence of a minimum voltage in the hot-film anemometer outputs. Comparing these results with previous investigations indicate that hot-film anemometry can identify the location of the shock-induced boundary layer separation. The flow separation occurred slightly forward of the shock- induced pressure rise for a laminar boundary layer and slightly aft of the start of the pressure rise when the boundary layer was tripped near the airfoil leading edge. Both minimum mean output and phase reversal analyses were used to identify the shock location.

Rotating flux-focusing eddy current probe for flaw detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A. (Inventor); Fulton, James P. (Inventor); Nath, Shridhar C. (Inventor); Simpson, John W. (Inventor); Namkung, Min (Inventor)

1997-01-01

A flux-focusing electromagnetic sensor which uses a ferromagnetic flux-focusing lens simplifies inspections and increases detectability of fatigue cracks about circular fasteners and other circular inhomogeneities in high conductivity material. The unique feature of the device is the ferrous shield isolating a high-turn pick-up coil from an excitation coil, The use of the magnetic shield is shown to produce a null voltage output across the receiving coil in the presence of an unflawed sample. A redistribution of the current flow in the sample caused by the presence of flaws, however, eliminates the shielding condition and a large output voltage is produced, yielding a clear unambiguous flaw signal. By rotating the probe in a path around a circular fastener such as a rivet while maintaining a constant distance between the probe and the center of a rivet, the signal due to current flow about the rivet can be held constant. Any further changes in the current distribution, such as due to a fatigue crack at the rivet joint, can be detected as an increase in the output voltage above that due to the flow about the rivet head.

Voltage equalization of an ultracapacitor module by cell grouping using number partitioning algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oyarbide, E.; Bernal, C.; Molina, P.; Jiménez, L. A.; Gálvez, R.; Martínez, A.

2016-01-01

Ultracapacitors are low voltage devices and therefore, for practical applications, they need to be used in modules of series-connected cells. Because of the inherent manufacturing tolerance of the capacitance parameter of each cell, and as the maximum voltage value cannot be exceeded, the module requires inter-cell voltage equalization. If the intended application suffers repeated fast charging/discharging cycles, active equalization circuits must be rated to full power, and thus the module becomes expensive. Previous work shows that a series connection of several sets of paralleled ultracapacitors minimizes the dispersion of equivalent capacitance values, and also the voltage differences between capacitors. Thus the overall life expectancy is improved. This paper proposes a method to distribute ultracapacitors with a number partitioning-based strategy to reduce the dispersion between equivalent submodule capacitances. Thereafter, the total amount of stored energy and/or the life expectancy of the device can be considerably improved.

Performance of a Dual Anode Nickel-Hydrogen Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gahn, Randall F.

1991-01-01

Nickel-hydrogen batteries are presently being used for energy storage on satellites in low Earth orbit and in geosynchronous orbit, and have also been selected for use on the proposed Space Station Freedom. Development continues on the cell technology in order to improve the specific energy and lengthen the cycle life. An experimental study was conducted to compare the voltage performance of a nickel-hydrogen cell containing a dual anode with the standard cell design which uses a single hydrogen electrode. Since the principle voltage loss in a nickel-hydrogen cell is attributed to the mass transport and resistive polarization parameters of the nickel electrode, addition of a hydrogen electrode on the other side of the nickel electrode should reduce the electrochemical polarizations by a factor of two. A 3.5 in. diameter boilerplate cell with a single 30 mils thick nickel electrode was cycled under various current conditions to evaluate its performance with a single anode and then with a double anode. A layered separator consisting of one Zircar cloth separator and one radiation-grafted polyethylene separator were used between the electrodes. The electrolyte was 26% KOH, and the tests were done at room temperature. The discharge voltage characteristics were determined as a function of current and depth-of-discharge. At the 4C discharge rate and 50% DOD, the voltage of the dual anode cell was 100 mV higher than the single anode cell. At 75% DOD the dual anode cell voltage was about 130 mV higher than the standard cell design. Resistances of the two c ell designs obtained from the slope of the mid-discharge voltages plotted against various currents indicated that the dual anode cell resistance was one-half of the state-of-the-art cell.

Pancreatic acinar cells: ionic dependence of acetylcholine-induced membrane potential and resistance change.

PubMed Central

Nishiyama, A; Petersen, O H

1975-01-01

1. Intracellular recordings of membrane potential, input resistance and time constant have been made in vitro from the exocrine acinar cells of the mouse pancreas using glass micro-electrodes. The acinar cells were stimulated by acetylcholine (ACh). In some cases ACh was simply directly added to the tissue superfusion bath, in other experiments ACh was applied locally to pancreatic acini by micro-iontophoresis. 2. Current-voltage relations were investigated by injecting rectangular de- or hyperpolarizing current pulses through the recording micro-electrode. Within a relatively wide range (-20 to -70 mV) there was a linear relation between injected current and change in membrane potential. The slope of such linear curves corresponded to an input resistance of about 3-8 M omega. The membrane time constant was about 5-10 msec. 3. ACh depolarized the cell membrane and caused a marked reduction of input resistance and time constant. The minimum latency of the ACh-induced depolarization (microiontophoretic application) was 100-300 msec. Maximal depolarization was about 20 mV. The effect of this local ACh application was abolished by atropine (1-4 x 10-6 M). The blocking effect of atropine was fully reversible. 4. Stimulating with ACh during the passage of large depolarizing current pulses made it possible simultaneously to observe the effect of ACh at two different levels of resting potential (RP). At the spontaneous RP of about minus 40 mV ACh evoked a depolarization of usual magnitude (15-20 mV) while at the artificially displaced level of about -10 mV a small hyperpolarization (about 5 mV) was observed. It therefore appears that the reversal potential of the transmitter equilibrium potential is about -20 mV. 5. Replacement of the superfusion fluid C1 by sulphate or methylsulphate caused an initial short-lasting depolarization, thereafter the normal resting potential was reassumed... PMID:1142124

Imaging Neuronal Seal Resistance on Silicon Chip using Fluorescent Voltage-Sensitive Dye

PubMed Central

Braun, Dieter; Fromherz, Peter

2004-01-01

The electrical sheet resistance between living cells grown on planar electronic contacts of semiconductors or metals is a crucial parameter for bioelectronic devices. It determines the strength of electrical signal transduction from cells to chips and from chips to cells. We measured the sheet resistance by applying AC voltage to oxidized silicon chips and by imaging the voltage change across the attached cell membrane with a fluorescent voltage-sensitive dye. The phase map of voltage change was fitted with a planar core-coat conductor model using the sheet resistance as a free parameter. For nerve cells from rat brain on polylysine as well as for HEK293 cells and MDCK cells on fibronectin we find a similar sheet resistance of 10 MΩ. Taking into account the independently measured distance of 50 nm between chip and membrane for these cells, we obtain a specific resistance of 50 Ωcm that is indistinguishable from bulk electrolyte. On the other hand, the sheet resistance for erythrocytes on polylysine is far higher, at ∼1.5 GΩ. Considering the distance of 10 nm, the specific resistance in the narrow cleft is enhanced to 1500 Ωcm. We find this novel optical method to be a convenient tool to optimize the interface between cells and chips for bioelectronic devices. PMID:15298937

Imaging neuronal seal resistance on silicon chip using fluorescent voltage-sensitive dye.

PubMed

Braun, Dieter; Fromherz, Peter

2004-08-01

The electrical sheet resistance between living cells grown on planar electronic contacts of semiconductors or metals is a crucial parameter for bioelectronic devices. It determines the strength of electrical signal transduction from cells to chips and from chips to cells. We measured the sheet resistance by applying AC voltage to oxidized silicon chips and by imaging the voltage change across the attached cell membrane with a fluorescent voltage-sensitive dye. The phase map of voltage change was fitted with a planar core-coat conductor model using the sheet resistance as a free parameter. For nerve cells from rat brain on polylysine as well as for HEK293 cells and MDCK cells on fibronectin we find a similar sheet resistance of 10 MOmega. Taking into account the independently measured distance of 50 nm between chip and membrane for these cells, we obtain a specific resistance of 50 Omegacm that is indistinguishable from bulk electrolyte. On the other hand, the sheet resistance for erythrocytes on polylysine is far higher, at approximately 1.5 GOmega. Considering the distance of 10 nm, the specific resistance in the narrow cleft is enhanced to 1500 Omegacm. We find this novel optical method to be a convenient tool to optimize the interface between cells and chips for bioelectronic devices.

Liquid-Solid Dual-Gate Organic Transistors with Tunable Threshold Voltage for Cell Sensing.

PubMed

Zhang, Yu; Li, Jun; Li, Rui; Sbircea, Dan-Tiberiu; Giovannitti, Alexander; Xu, Junling; Xu, Huihua; Zhou, Guodong; Bian, Liming; McCulloch, Iain; Zhao, Ni

2017-11-08

Liquid electrolyte-gated organic field effect transistors and organic electrochemical transistors have recently emerged as powerful technology platforms for sensing and simulation of living cells and organisms. For such applications, the transistors are operated at a gate voltage around or below 0.3 V because prolonged application of a higher voltage bias can lead to membrane rupturing and cell death. This constraint often prevents the operation of the transistors at their maximum transconductance or most sensitive regime. Here, we exploit a solid-liquid dual-gate organic transistor structure, where the threshold voltage of the liquid-gated conduction channel is controlled by an additional gate that is separated from the channel by a metal-oxide gate dielectric. With this design, the threshold voltage of the "sensing channel" can be linearly tuned in a voltage window exceeding 0.4 V. We have demonstrated that the dual-gate structure enables a much better sensor response to the detachment of human mesenchymal stem cells. In general, the capability of tuning the optimal sensing bias will not only improve the device performance but also broaden the material selection for cell-based organic bioelectronics.

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

Arita, M.; Wada, A.; Takara, H.

In bovine adrenal medullary cells we investigated the effects of antidepressants on ionic channels and secretion of catecholamines. Tricyclic (imipramine, amitriptyline and nortriptyline) and tetracyclic (maprotiline and mianserin) antidepressants inhibited carbachol-induced influx of /sup 22/Na, /sup 45/Ca and secretion of catecholamines (IC50, 14-96 microM). Influx of /sup 22/Na, /sup 45/Ca and secretion of catecholamines due to veratridine also were inhibited by these drugs (IC50, 10-17 microM). However, antidepressants did not suppress high concentration of K-induced 45Ca influx and catecholamine secretion, suggesting that antidepressants do not inhibit voltage-dependent Ca channels. (/sup 3/H)Imipramine bound specifically to adrenal medullary cells. Binding was saturable,more » reversible and with two different equilibrium dissociation constants (13.3 and 165.0 microM). Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants competed for the specific binding of (/sup 3/H)imipramine at the same concentrations as they inhibited /sup 22/Na influx caused by carbachol or veratridine. Carbachol, d-tubocurarine, hexamethonium, tetrodotoxin, veratridine and scorpion venom did not inhibit the specific binding of (/sup 3/H)imipramine. These results suggest that tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants bind to two populations of binding sites which are functionally associated with nicotinic receptor-associated ionic channels and with voltage-dependent Na channels, and inhibit Na influx. Inhibition of Na influx leads to the reduction of Ca influx and catecholamine secretion caused by carbachol or veratridine.« less

Temperature Dependences of Torque Generation and Membrane Voltage in the Bacterial Flagellar Motor

PubMed Central

Inoue, Yuichi; Baker, Matthew A.B.; Fukuoka, Hajime; Takahashi, Hiroto; Berry, Richard M.; Ishijima, Akihiko

2013-01-01

In their natural habitats bacteria are frequently exposed to sudden changes in temperature that have been shown to affect their swimming. With our believed to be new methods of rapid temperature control for single-molecule microscopy, we measured here the thermal response of the Na+-driven chimeric motor expressed in Escherichia coli cells. Motor torque at low load (0.35 μm bead) increased linearly with temperature, twofold between 15°C and 40°C, and torque at high load (1.0 μm bead) was independent of temperature, as reported for the H+-driven motor. Single cell membrane voltages were measured by fluorescence imaging and these were almost constant (∼120 mV) over the same temperature range. When the motor was heated above 40°C for 1–2 min the torque at high load dropped reversibly, recovering upon cooling below 40°C. This response was repeatable over as many as 10 heating cycles. Both increases and decreases in torque showed stepwise torque changes with unitary size ∼150 pN nm, close to the torque of a single stator at room temperature (∼180 pN nm), indicating that dynamic stator dissociation occurs at high temperature, with rebinding upon cooling. Our results suggest that the temperature-dependent assembly of stators is a general feature of flagellar motors. PMID:24359752

An Novel Continuation Power Flow Method Based on Line Voltage Stability Index

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jianfang; He, Yuqing; He, Hongbin; Jiang, Zhuohan

2018-01-01

An novel continuation power flow method based on line voltage stability index is proposed in this paper. Line voltage stability index is used to determine the selection of parameterized lines, and constantly updated with the change of load parameterized lines. The calculation stages of the continuation power flow decided by the angle changes of the prediction of development trend equation direction vector are proposed in this paper. And, an adaptive step length control strategy is used to calculate the next prediction direction and value according to different calculation stages. The proposed method is applied clear physical concept, and the high computing speed, also considering the local characteristics of voltage instability which can reflect the weak nodes and weak area in a power system. Due to more fully to calculate the PV curves, the proposed method has certain advantages on analysing the voltage stability margin to large-scale power grid.

A multi-GHz chaotic optoelectronic oscillator based on laser terminal voltage

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

Chang, C. Y., E-mail: cychang@gatech.edu; UMI 2958 Georgia Tech-CNRS, Georgia Tech Lorraine, 2 Rue Marconi, F-57070 Metz; Choi, Daeyoung

2016-05-09

A multi-GHz chaotic optoelectronic oscillator based on an external cavity semiconductor laser (ECL) is demonstrated. Unlike the standard optoelectronic oscillators for microwave applications, we do not employ the dynamic light output incident on a photodiode to generate the microwave signal, but instead generate the microwave signal directly by measuring the terminal voltage V(t) of the laser diode of the ECL under constant-current operation, thus obviating the photodiode entirely.

Closed-loop pulsed helium ionization detector

DOEpatents

Ramsey, Roswitha S.; Todd, Richard A.

1987-01-01

A helium ionization detector for gas chromatography is operated in a constant current, pulse-modulated mode by configuring the detector, electrometer and a high voltage pulser in a closed-loop control system. The detector current is maintained at a fixed level by varying the frequency of fixed-width, high-voltage bias pulses applied to the detector. An output signal proportional to the pulse frequency is produced which is indicative of the charge collected for a detected species.

Cell buffer with built-in test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ott, William E. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

A cell buffer with built-in testing mechanism is provided. The cell buffer provides the ability to measure voltage provided by a power cell. The testing mechanism provides the ability to test whether the cell buffer is functioning properly and thus providing an accurate voltage measurement. The testing mechanism includes a test signal-provider to provide a test signal to the cell buffer. During normal operation, the test signal is disabled and the cell buffer operates normally. During testing, the test signal is enabled and changes the output of the cell buffer in a defined way. The change in the cell buffer output can then be monitored to determine if the cell buffer is functioning correctly. Specifically, if the voltage output of the cell buffer changes in a way that corresponds to the provided test signal, then the functioning of the cell buffer is confirmed. If the voltage output of the cell buffer does not change correctly, then the cell buffer is known not to be operating correctly. Thus, the built in testing mechanism provides the ability to quickly and accurately determine if the cell buffer is operating correctly. Furthermore, the testing mechanism provides this functionality without requiring excessive device size and complexity.

The effect of realistic heavy particle induced secondary electron emission coefficients on the electron power absorption dynamics in single- and dual-frequency capacitively coupled plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daksha, M.; Derzsi, A.; Wilczek, S.; Trieschmann, J.; Mussenbrock, T.; Awakowicz, P.; Donkó, Z.; Schulze, J.

2017-08-01

In particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collisions (PIC/MCC) simulations of capacitively coupled plasmas (CCPs), the plasma-surface interaction is generally described by a simple model in which a constant secondary electron emission coefficient (SEEC) is assumed for ions bombarding the electrodes. In most PIC/MCC studies of CCPs, this coefficient is set to γ = 0.1, independent of the energy of the incident particle, the electrode material, and the surface conditions. Here, the effects of implementing energy-dependent secondary electron yields for ions, fast neutrals, and taking surface conditions into account in PIC/MCC simulations is investigated. Simulations are performed using self-consistently calculated effective SEECs, {γ }* , for ‘clean’ (e.g., heavily sputtered) and ‘dirty’ (e.g., oxidized) metal surfaces in single- and dual-frequency discharges in argon and the results are compared to those obtained by assuming a constant secondary electron yield of γ =0.1 for ions. In single-frequency (13.56 MHz) discharges operated under conditions of low heavy particle energies at the electrodes, the pressure and voltage at which the transition between the α- and γ-mode electron power absorption occurs are found to strongly depend on the surface conditions. For ‘dirty’ surfaces, the discharge operates in α-mode for all conditions investigated due to a low effective SEEC. In classical dual-frequency (1.937 MHz + 27.12 MHz) discharges {γ }* significantly increases with increasing low-frequency voltage amplitude, {V}{LF}, for dirty surfaces. This is due to the effect of {V}{LF} on the heavy particle energies at the electrodes, which negatively influences the quality of the separate control of ion properties at the electrodes. The new results on the separate control of ion properties in such discharges indicate significant differences compared to previous results obtained with different constant values of γ.

Pressurised electro-osmotic dewatering of activated and anaerobically digested sludges: electrical variables analysis.

PubMed

Citeau, M; Olivier, J; Mahmoud, A; Vaxelaire, J; Larue, O; Vorobiev, E

2012-09-15

Pressurised electro-osmotic dewatering (PEOD) of two sewage sludges (activated and anaerobically digested) was studied under constant electric current (C.C.) and constant voltage (C.V.) with a laboratory chamber simulating closely an industrial filter. The influence of sludge characteristics, process parameters, and electrode/filter cloth position was investigated. The next parameters were tested: 40 and 80 A/m², 20, 30, and 50 V-for digested sludge dewatering; and 20, 40 and 80 A/m², 20, 30, and 50 V-for activated sludge dewatering. Effects of filter cloth electric resistance and initial cake thickness were also investigated. The application of PEOD provides a gain of 12 points of dry solids content for the digested sludge (47.0% w/w) and for the activated sludge (31.7% w/w). In PEOD processed at C.C. or at C.V., the dewatering flow rate was similar for the same electric field intensity. In C.C. mode, both the electric resistance of cake and voltage increase, causing a temperature rise by ohmic effect. In C.V. mode, a current intensity peak was observed in the earlier dewatering period. Applying at first a constant current and later on a constant voltage, permitted to have better control of ohmic heating effect. The dewatering rate was not significantly affected by the presence of filter cloth on electrodes, but the use of a thin filter cloth reduced remarkably the energy consumption compared to a thicker one: 69% of reduction energy input at 45% w/w of dry solids content. The reduction of the initial cake thickness is advantageous to increase the final dry solids content. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Controlling hazardous reactions during voltage reversal of high energy lithium cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Domeniconi, M.

1983-01-01

The roll of general cell design characteristics in preventing hazardous reactions during voltage reversal of lithium cells is discussed. Anode limited versus cathode limited design and case positive versus case negative design are addressed.

Evaluation program for secondary spacecraft cells: Initial evaluation tests of General Electric Company 6.0 ampere hour nickel-cadmium spacecraft cells with auxiliary electrodes for the atmospheric Explorer satellite C and D. [quality control testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harkness, J. D.

1974-01-01

The capacity of the cells ranged from 6.6 to 7.6 ampere hours during the three capacity tests. No voltage requirements or limits were exceeded during any portion of the test. All cells recovered to a voltage in excess of 1.193 volts during the 24-hour open-circuit portion of the internal short test. All the cells reached a pressure of 20 psia before reaching the voltage limit of 1.550 volts during the pressure versus capacity test. The average ampere/hours in and voltages at this pressure were 9.1 and 1.513, respectively. All cells exhibited pressure decay in the range of 1 to 5 psia during the last 30 minutes of the 1-hour open circuit stand. Average capacity out was 7.2 ampere/hours.

In-situ Monitoring of Internal Local Temperature and Voltage of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

PubMed Central

Lee, Chi-Yuan; Fan, Wei-Yuan; Hsieh, Wei-Jung

2010-01-01

The distribution of temperature and voltage of a fuel cell are key factors that influence performance. Conventional sensors are normally large, and are also useful only for making external measurements of fuel cells. Centimeter-scale sensors for making invasive measurements are frequently unable to accurately measure the interior changes of a fuel cell. This work focuses mainly on fabricating flexible multi-functional microsensors (for temperature and voltage) to measure variations in the local temperature and voltage of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) that are based on micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The power density at 0.5 V without a sensor is 450 mW/cm2, and that with a sensor is 426 mW/cm2. Since the reaction area of a fuel cell with a sensor is approximately 12% smaller than that without a sensor, but the performance of the former is only 5% worse. PMID:22163556

In-situ monitoring of internal local temperature and voltage of proton exchange membrane fuel cells.

PubMed

Lee, Chi-Yuan; Fan, Wei-Yuan; Hsieh, Wei-Jung

2010-01-01

The distribution of temperature and voltage of a fuel cell are key factors that influence performance. Conventional sensors are normally large, and are also useful only for making external measurements of fuel cells. Centimeter-scale sensors for making invasive measurements are frequently unable to accurately measure the interior changes of a fuel cell. This work focuses mainly on fabricating flexible multi-functional microsensors (for temperature and voltage) to measure variations in the local temperature and voltage of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) that are based on micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The power density at 0.5 V without a sensor is 450 mW/cm(2), and that with a sensor is 426 mW/cm(2). Since the reaction area of a fuel cell with a sensor is approximately 12% smaller than that without a sensor, but the performance of the former is only 5% worse.

Voltage effects on cells cultured on metallic biomedical implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haerihosseini, Seyed Morteza

Electrochemical voltage shifts in metallic biomedical implants occur in-vivo due to a number of processes including mechanically assisted corrosion. Surface potential of biomedical implants and excursions from resting open circuit potential (OCP), which is the voltage they attain while in contact with an electrolyte, can significantly change the interfacial properties of the metallic surfaces and alter the behavior of the surrounding cells, compromising the biocompatibility of metallic implants. Voltages can also be controlled to modulate cell function and fate. To date, the details of the physico-chemical phenomena and the role of different biomaterial parameters involved in the interaction between cells and metallic surfaces under cathodic bias have not been fully elucidated. In this work, changes in the interfacial properties of a CoCrMo biomedical alloy (ASTM F-1537) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (pH 7.4) at different voltages was studied. Step polarization impedance spectroscopy technique was used to apply 50 mV voltage steps to samples, and the time-based current transients were recorded. A new equation was derived based on capacitive discharge through a Tafel element and generalized to deal with non-ideal impedance behavior. The new function compared to the KWW-Randles function, better matched the time-transient response. The results also showed a voltage dependent oxide resistance and capacitance behavior. Additionally, the in-vitro effect of static voltages on the behavior of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts cultured on CoCrMo alloy (ASTM-1537) was studied to determine the range of cell viability and mode of cell death beyond the viable range. Cell viability and morphology, changes in actin cytoskeleton, adhesion complexes and nucleus, and mode of cell death (necrosis, or intrinsic or extrinsic apoptosis) were characterized at different voltages ranging from -1000 to +500 mV (Ag/AgCl). Moreover, electrochemical currents and metal ion concentrations at each voltage were measured and related to the observed responses. Results show that cathodic and anodic voltages outside the voltage viability range (-400 < V < +500) lead to primarily intrinsic apoptotic and necrotic cell death, respectively. Cell death is associated with cathodic current densities of 0.1 uAcm-2 and anodic current densities of 10 uAcm-2. Significant increase in metallic ions (Co, Cr, Ni, Mo) was seen at +500 mV, and -1000 mV (Cr only) compared to open circuit potential. The number and total projected area of adhesion complexes was also lower on the polarized alloy (p < 0.05). These results show that reduction reactions on CoCrMo alloys leads to apoptosis of cells on the surface and may be a relevant mode of cell death for metallic implants in-vivo. . On the other hand, we studied how surface oxide thickness of Ti affects its voltage viability range and cellular response and whether anodic oxidation can serve as a means to extend this range. Cellular behavior (cell viability, cytoskeletal organization, and cellular adhesion) on bare and anodized Ti samples, potentiostatically held at voltages at the cathodic edge of the viability range, were assessed. Surfaces were characterized using contact angle (CA) measurement technique and atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the observed cellular response was related to the changes in the electrochemical properties (electrochemical currents, open circuit potential, and impedance spectra) of the samples. Results show that anodization at a low voltage (9 V) in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) generates a compact surface oxide with comparable surface roughness and energy to the starting native oxide on the bare surface. The anodized surface extends the viability range at 24 hours by about a 100 mV in the cathodic region, and preserved the cytoskeletal integrity and cell adhesion. Broadening of the viability range corresponds to an increase in impedance of the anodized surface at -400 mV(Ag/AgCl) and the resulting low average currents (below 0.1 uAcm-2) at the interface, which diminish the harmful cathodic reactions. Finally, cellular dynamics (size, polarity, movement) and temporal changes in the number and total area of focal adhesions in transiently transfected MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts cultured on a CoCrMo alloy polarized at the cathodic and anodic edges of its voltage viability range (-400 and +500 mV(Ag/AgCl) respectively) were studied. Nucleus dynamics (size, circularity, movement) and the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also studied on the polarized metal at -1000, -400, and +500 mV(Ag/AgCl). The results show that at -400 mV(Ag/AgCl) a gradual loss of adhesion occurs over 24 hours while cells shrink in size during this time. At +500 mV, cells become non-viable after 5 hours without showing any significant changes in adhesion behavior right before cell death. Nucleus size of cells at -1000 mV decreased sharply within 15 minutes after electrochemical polarization, which rendered the cells completely non-viable. No significant amount of ROS was released by cells on the polarized CoCrMo at any of these voltages.