Optical method for determining the mechanical properties of a material

DOEpatents

Maris, H.J.; Stoner, R.J.

1998-12-01

Disclosed is a method for characterizing a sample, comprising the steps of: (a) acquiring data from the sample using at least one probe beam wavelength to measure, for times less than a few nanoseconds, a change in the reflectivity of the sample induced by a pump beam; (b) analyzing the data to determine at least one material property by comparing a background signal component of the data with data obtained for a similar delay time range from one or more samples prepared under conditions known to give rise to certain physical and chemical material properties; and (c) analyzing a component of the measured time dependent reflectivity caused by ultrasonic waves generated by the pump beam using the at least one determined material property. The first step of analyzing may include a step of interpolating between reference samples to obtain an intermediate set of material properties. The material properties may include sound velocity, density, and optical constants. In one embodiment, only a correlation is made with the background signal, and at least one of the structural phase, grain orientation, and stoichiometry is determined. 14 figs.

Optical method for determining the mechanical properties of a material

DOEpatents

Maris, Humphrey J.; Stoner, Robert J.

1998-01-01

Disclosed is a method for characterizing a sample, comprising the steps of: (a) acquiring data from the sample using at least one probe beam wavelength to measure, for times less than a few nanoseconds, a change in the reflectivity of the sample induced by a pump beam; (b) analyzing the data to determine at least one material property by comparing a background signal component of the data with data obtained for a similar delay time range from one or more samples prepared under conditions known to give rise to certain physical and chemical material properties; and (c) analyzing a component of the measured time dependent reflectivity caused by ultrasonic waves generated by the pump beam using the at least one determined material property. The first step of analyzing may include a step of interpolating between reference samples to obtain an intermediate set of material properties. The material properties may include sound velocity, density, and optical constants. In one embodiment, only a correlation is made with the background signal, and at least one of the structural phase, grain orientation, and stoichiometry is determined.

High-temperature strain cell for tomographic imaging

DOEpatents

MacDowell, Alastair A.; Nasiatka, James; Haboub, Abdel; Ritchie, Robert O.; Bale, Hrishikesh A.

2015-06-16

This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to the high temperature mechanical testing of materials. In one aspect, a method includes providing an apparatus. The apparatus may include a chamber. The chamber may comprise a top portion and a bottom portion, with the top portion and the bottom portion each joined to a window material. A first cooled fixture and a second cooled fixture may be mounted to the chamber and configured to hold the sample in the chamber. A plurality of heating lamps may be mounted to the chamber and positioned to heat the sample. The sample may be placed in the first and the second cooled fixtures. The sample may be heated to a specific temperature using the heating lamps. Radiation may be directed though the window material, the radiation thereafter interacting with the sample and exiting the chamber through the window material.

Individualized Foreign Language Islands: Sample Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mountain View School District, CA.

Students at Mountain View High School, California, are participating in an experimental foreign language program which is based on individualized instruction within a modular schedule. This collection of sample materials which students and parents receive reflects the goals and requirements of the program. Materials include: (1) program…

Microfluidic device and method for focusing, segmenting, and dispensing of a fluid stream

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C [Knoxville, TN; Ramsey, J Michael [Knoxville, TN

2008-09-09

A microfluidic device and method for forming and dispensing minute volume segments of a material are described. In accordance with the present invention, a microfluidic device and method are provided for spatially confining the material in a focusing element. The device is also adapted for segmenting the confined material into minute volume segments, and dispensing a volume segment to a waste or collection channel. The device further includes means for driving the respective streams of sample and focusing fluids through respective channels into a chamber, such that the focusing fluid streams spatially confine the sample material. The device may also include additional means for driving a minute volume segment of the spatially confined sample material into a collection channel in fluid communication with the waste reservoir.

Microfluidic device and method for focusing, segmenting, and dispensing of a fluid stream

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C.; Ramsey, J. Michael

2004-09-14

A microfluidic device for forming and/or dispensing minute volume segments of a material is described. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a microfluidic device and method is provided for spatially confining the material in a focusing element. The device is also capable of segmenting the confined material into minute volume segments, and dispensing a volume segment to a waste or collection channel. The device further includes means for driving the respective streams of sample and focusing fluids through respective channels into a chamber, such that the focusing fluid streams spatially confine the sample material. The device may also include additional means for driving a minute volume segment of the spatially confined sample material into a collection channel in fluid communication with the waste reservoir.

Analytical instrument with apparatus and method for sample concentrating

DOEpatents

Zaromb, S.

1986-08-04

A system for analysis of trace concentrations of contaminants in air includes a portable liquid chromatograph and a preconcentrator for the contaminants to be analyzed. The preconcentrator includes a sample bag having an inlet valve and an outlet valve for collecting an air sample. When the sample is collected the sample bag is connected in series with a sorbing apparatus in a recirculation loop. The sorbing apparatus has an inner gas-permeable container containing a sorbent material and an outer gas-impermeable container. The sample is circulated through the outer container and around the inner container for trapping and preconcentrating the contaminants in the sorbent material. The sorbent material may be a liquid having the same composition as the mobile phase of the chromatograph for direct injection thereinto. Alternatively, the sorbent material may be a porous, solid body, to which mobile phase liquid is added after preconcentration of the contaminants for dissolving the contaminants, the liquid solution then being withdrawn for injection into the chromatograph.

Analytical instrument with apparatus for sample concentrating

DOEpatents

Zaromb, Solomon

1989-01-01

A system for analysis of trace concentrations of contaminants in air includes a portable liquid chromatograph and a preconcentrator for the contaminants to be analyzed. The preconcentrator includes a sample bag having an inlet valve and an outlet valve for collecting an air sample. When the sample is collected the sample bag is connected in series with a sorbing apparatus in a recirculation loop. The sorbing apparatus has an inner gas-permeable container containing a sorbent material and an outer gas-impermeable container. The sample is circulated through the outer container and around the inner container for trapping and preconcentrating the contaminants in the sorbent material. The sorbent material may be a liquid having the same composition as the mobile phase of the chromatograph for direct injection thereinto. Alternatively, the sorbent material may be a porous, solid body, to which mobile phase liquid is added after preconcentration of the contaminants for dissolving the contaminants, the liquid solution then being withdrawn for injection into the chromatograph.

Method for preconcentrating a sample for subsequent analysis

DOEpatents

Zaromb, Solomon

1990-01-01

A system for analysis of trace concentration of contaminants in air includes a portable liquid chromatograph and a preconcentrator for the contaminants to be analyzed. The preconcentrator includes a sample bag having an inlet valve and an outlet valve for collecting an air sample. When the sample is collected the sample bag is connected in series with a sorbing apparatus in a recirculation loop. The sorbing apparatus has an inner gas-permeable container containing a sorbent material and an outer gas-impermeable container. The sample is circulated through the outer container and around the inner container for trapping and preconcentrating the contaminants in the sorbent material. The sorbent material may be a liquid having the same composition as the mobile phase of the chromatograph for direct injection thereinto. Alternatively, the sorbent material may be a porous, solid body, to which mobile phase liquid is added after preconcentration of the contaminants for dissolving the contaminants, the liquid solution then being withdrawn for injection into the chromatograph.

Combinatorial Screening Of Inorganic And Organometallic Materials

DOEpatents

Li, Yi , Li, Jing , Britton, Ted W.

2002-06-25

A method for differentiating and enumerating nucleated red blood cells in a blood sample is described. The method includes the steps of lysing red blood cells of a blood sample with a lytic reagent, measuring nucleated blood cells by DC impedance measurement in a non-focused flow aperture, differentiating nucleated red blood cells from other cell types, and reporting nucleated red blood cells in the blood sample. The method further includes subtracting nucleated red blood cells and other interference materials from the count of remaining blood cells, and reporting a corrected white blood cell count of the blood sample. Additionally, the method further includes measuring spectrophotometric absorbance of the sample mixture at a predetermined wavelength of a hemoglobin chromogen formed upon lysing the blood sample, and reporting hemoglobin concentration of the blood sample.

High density grids

DOEpatents

Cohen, Aina E.; Baxter, Elizabeth L.

2018-01-16

An X-ray data collection grid device is provided that includes a magnetic base that is compatible with robotic sample mounting systems used at synchrotron beamlines, a grid element fixedly attached to the magnetic base, where the grid element includes at least one sealable sample window disposed through a planar synchrotron-compatible material, where the planar synchrotron-compatible material includes at least one automated X-ray positioning and fluid handling robot fiducial mark.

Atomic Oxygen and Space Environment Effects on Aerospace Materials Flown with EOIM-3 Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scialdone, John J.; Clatterbuck, Carroll H.; Ayres-Treusdell, Mary; Park, Gloria; Kolos, Diane

1996-01-01

Polymer materials samples mounted on a passive carrier tray were flown aboard the STS-46 Atlantis shuttle as complement to the EOIM-3 (Evaluation of Oxygen Interaction with Materials) experiment to evaluate the effects of atomic oxygen on the materials and to measure the gaseous shuttle bay environment. The morphological changes of the samples produced by the atomic oxygen fluence of 2.07 x 10(exp 20) atoms/cm(exp 2) are being reported. The changes have been verified using Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), gravimetric measurement, microscopic observations and thermo-optical measurements. The samples, including Kapton, Delrin, epoxies, Beta Cloth, Chemglaze Z306, silver Teflon, silicone coatings, 3M tape and Uralane and Ultem, PEEK, Victrex (PES), Polyethersulfone and Polymethylpentene thermoplastic, have been characterized by their oxygen reaction efficiency on the basis of their erosion losses and the oxygen fluence. Those efficiencies have been compared to results from other experiments, when available. The efficiencies of the samples are all in the range of E-24 g/atom. The results indicate that the reaction efficiencies of the reported materials can be grouped in about three ranges of values. The least affected materials which have efficiencies varying from 1 to 10(exp 25) g/atom, include silicones, epoxies, Uralane and Teflon. A second group with efficiency from 10 to 45(exp 25) g/atom includes additional silicone coatings, the Chemglaze Z306 paint and Kapton. The third range from 50 to 75(exp 25) includes organic compound such as Pentene, Peek, Ultem, Sulfone and a 3M tape. A Delrin sample had the highest reaction efficiency of 179(exp 25) g/atom. Two samples, the aluminum Beta cloth X389-7 and the epoxy fiberglass G-11 nonflame retardant, showed a slight mass increase.

Mars Sample Return: The Value of Depth Profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hausrath, E. M.; Navarre-Sitchler, A. K.; Moore, J.; Sak, P. B.; Brantley, S. L.; Golden, D. C.; Sutter, B.; Schroeder, C.; Socki, R.; Morris, R. V.;

Planning for the Collection and Analysis of Samples of Martian Granular Materials Potentially to be Returned by Mars Sample Return

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrier, B. L.; Beaty, D. W.

2017-12-01

NASA's Mars 2020 rover is scheduled to land on Mars in 2021 and will be equipped with a sampling system capable of collecting rock cores, as well as a specialized drill bit for collecting unconsolidated granular material. A key mission objective is to collect a set of samples that have enough scientific merit to justify returning to Earth. In the case of granular materials, we would like to catalyze community discussion on what we would do with these samples if they arrived in our laboratories, as input to decision-making related to sampling the regolith. Numerous scientific objectives have been identified which could be achieved or significantly advanced via the analysis of martian rocks, "regolith," and gas samples. The term "regolith" has more than one definition, including one that is general and one that is much more specific. For the purpose of this analysis we use the term "granular materials" to encompass the most general meaning and restrict "regolith" to a subset of that. Our working taxonomy includes the following: 1) globally sourced airfall dust (dust); 2) saltation-sized particles (sand); 3) locally sourced decomposed rock (regolith); 4) crater ejecta (ejecta); and, 5) other. Analysis of martian granular materials could serve to advance our understanding areas including habitability and astrobiology, surface-atmosphere interactions, chemistry, mineralogy, geology and environmental processes. Results of these analyses would also provide input into planning for future human exploration of Mars, elucidating possible health and mechanical hazards caused by the martian surface material, as well as providing valuable information regarding available resources for ISRU and civil engineering purposes. Results would also be relevant to matters of planetary protection and ground-truthing orbital observations. We will present a preliminary analysis of the following, in order to generate community discussion and feedback on all issues relating to: What are the specific reasons (and their priorities) for collecting samples of granular materials? How do those reasons translate to sampling priorities? In what condition would these samples be expected to be received? What is our best projection of the approach by which these samples would be divided, prepared, and analyzed to achieve our objectives?

Exposure of Polymer Film Thermal Control Materials on the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dever, Joyce; Miller, Sharon; Messer, Russell; Sechkar, Edward; Tollis, Greg

2002-01-01

Seventy-nine samples of polymer film thermal control (PFTC) materials have been provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Glenn Research Center (GRC) for exposure to the low Earth orbit environment on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE). MISSE is a materials flight experiment sponsored by the Air Force Research Lab/Materials Lab and NASA. This paper will describe background, objectives, and configurations for the GRC PFTC samples for MISSE. These samples include polyimides, fluorinated polyimides, and Teflon fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) with and without second-surface metallizing layers and/or surface coatings. Also included are polyphenylene benzobisoxazole (PBO) and a polyarylene ether benzimidazole (TOR-LM). On August 16, 2001, astronauts installed passive experiment carriers (PECs) on the exterior of the ISS in which were located twenty-eight of the GRC PFTC samples for 1-year space exposure. MISSE PECs for 3-year exposure, which will contain fifty-one GRC PFTC samples, will be installed on the ISS at a later date. Once returned from the ISS, MISSE GRC PFTC samples will be examined for changes in optical and mechanical properties and atomic oxygen (AO) erosion. Additional sapphire witness samples located on the AO exposed trays will be examined for deposition of contaminants.

Requirements for the Development of Bacillus Anthracis Spore Reference Materials Used to Test Detection Systems

PubMed Central

Almeida, Jamie L.; Wang, Lili; Morrow, Jayne B.; Cole, Kenneth D.

2006-01-01

Bacillus anthracis spores have been used as biological weapons and the possibility of their further use requires surveillance systems that can accurately and reliably detect their presence in the environment. These systems must collect samples from a variety of matrices, process the samples, and detect the spores. The processing of the sample may include removal of inhibitors, concentration of the target, and extraction of the target in a form suitable for detection. Suitable reference materials will allow the testing of each of these steps to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the detection systems. The development of uniform and well-characterized reference materials will allow the comparison of different devices and technologies as well as assure the continued performance of detection systems. This paper discusses the special requirements of reference materials for Bacillus anthracis spores that could be used for testing detection systems. The detection of Bacillus anthracis spores is based on recognition of specific characteristics (markers) on either the spore surface or in the nucleic acids (DNA). We have reviewed the specific markers and their relevance to characterization of reference materials. We have also included the approach for the characterization of candidate reference materials that we are developing at the NIST laboratories. Additional applications of spore reference materials would include testing sporicidal treatments, techniques for sampling the environment, and remediation of spore-contaminated environments. PMID:27274929

Thermal control materials on EOIM-3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria M.; Linton, Roger C.; Kamenetzky, Rachel R.; Vaughn, Jason A.

1995-01-01

Thermal control paints, anodized aluminum, and beta cloth samples were flown on STS-46 as part of the Evaluation of Oxygen Interaction with Materials Experiment (EOIM-3). The thermal control paints flown on EOIM-3 include ceramic and polyurethane-based paints. Passively exposed samples are compared to actively heated samples and controlled exposure samples. Optical property measurements of absorptivity, emissivity, and spectrofluorescence are presented for each paint. Several variations of anodized aluminum, including chromic acid anodize, sulfuric acid anodize, and boric/sulfuric acid anodize were flown on the actively heated trays and the passive exposure trays. The post-flight optical properties are within tolerances for these materials. Also flown were two samples of yellow anodized aluminum. The yellow anodized aluminum samples darkened noticeably. Samples of aluminized and unaluminized beta cloth, a fiberglass woven mat impregnated with TFE Teflon, were flown with passive exposure to the space environment. Data from this part of the experiment is correlated to observations from LDEF and erosion of the Teflon thin film samples also flown on EOIM-3 and LDEF.

User's manual for GAMNAS: Geometric and Material Nonlinear Analysis of Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitcomb, J. D.; Dattaguru, B.

1984-01-01

GAMNAS (Geometric and Material Nonlinear Analysis of Structures) is a two dimensional finite-element stress analysis program. Options include linear, geometric nonlinear, material nonlinear, and combined geometric and material nonlinear analysis. The theory, organization, and use of GAMNAS are described. Required input data and results for several sample problems are included.

Ultra-High Temperature Materials Characterization for Space and Missile Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, Jan; Hyers, Robert

2007-01-01

Numerous advanced space and missile technologies including propulsion systems require operations at high temperatures. Some very high-temperature materials are being developed to meet these needs, including refractory metal alloys, carbides, borides, and silicides. System design requires data for materials properties at operating temperatures. Materials property data are not available at the desired operating temperatures for many materials of interest. The objective of this work is to provide important physical property data at ultra-high temperatures. The MSFC Electrostatic Levitation (ESL) facility can provide measurements of thermophysical properties which include: creep strength, emissivity, density and thermal expansion. ESL uses electrostatic fields to position samples between electrodes during processing and characterization experiments. Samples float between the electrodes during studies and are free from any contact with a container or test apparatus. This provides a high purity environment for the study of high-temperature, reactive materials. ESL can be used to process a wide variety of materials including metals, alloys, ceramics, glasses and semiconductors. A system for the determination of total hemispherical emissivity is being developed for the MSFC ESL facility by AZ Technology Inc. The instrument has been designed to provide emissivity measurements for samples during ESL experiments over the temperature range 700-3400K. A novel non-contact technique for the determination of high-temperature creep strength has been developed. Data from selected ESL-based characterization studies will be presented. The ESL technique could advance space and missile technologies by advancing the knowledge base and the technology readiness level for ultra-high temperature materials. Applications include non-eroding nozzle materials and lightweight, high-temperature alloys for turbines and structures.

Analysis of International Space Station Vehicle Materials on MISSE 6

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria; Golden, Johnny; Kravchenko, Michael; O'Rourke, Mary Jane

2010-01-01

The International Space Station Materials and Processes team has multiple material samples on MISSE 6, 7 and 8 to observe Low Earth Orbit (LEO) environmental effects on Space Station materials. Optical properties, thickness/mass loss, surface elemental analysis, visual and microscopic analysis for surface change are some of the techniques employed in this investigation. Results for the following MISSE 6 samples materials will be presented: deionized water sealed anodized aluminum; Hyzod(tm) polycarbonate used to temporarily protect ISS windows; Russian quartz window material; Beta Cloth with Teflon(tm) reformulated without perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and electroless nickel. Discussion for current and future MISSE materials experiments will be presented. MISSE 7 samples are: more deionized water sealed anodized aluminum, including Photofoil(tm); indium tin oxide (ITO) over-coated Kapton(tm) used as thermo-optical surfaces; mechanically scribed tin-plated beryllium-copper samples for "tin pest" growth (alpha/beta transformation); and beta cloth backed with a black coating rather than aluminization. MISSE 8 samples are: exposed "scrim cloth" (fiberglass weave) from the ISS solar array wing material, protective fiberglass tapes and sleeve materials, and optical witness samples to monitor contamination.

Preparing to Receive and Handle Martian Samples When They Arrive on Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCubbin, Francis M.

2017-01-01

The Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) is responsible for curating all of NASA's extraterrestrial samples. Under the governing document, NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 7100.10F+ derivative NPR 'Curation of Extraterrestrial Materials', JSC is charged with 'The curation of all extraterrestrial material under NASA control, including future NASA missions. 'The Directive goes on to define Curation as including'...documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples for research, education, and public outreach."

Fabrication of high temperature materials by exothermic synthesis and subsequent dynamic consolidation

DOEpatents

Rabin, Barry H.; Korth, Gary E.; Wright, Richard N.; Williamson, Richard L.

1992-01-01

An apparatus for synthesizing a composite material such as titanium carbide and alumina from exothermic reaction of a sample followed by explosive induced consolidation of the reacted sample. The apparatus includes a lower base for holding a powdered composite sample, an igniter and igniter powder for igniting the sample to initiate an exothermic reaction and a piston for dynamically compressing the sample utilizing an explosive reaction.

Spacecraft materials studies on the Aerospace Corporation tray on EOIM-3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuckey, Wayne K.; Hemminger, Carol S.; Steckel, Gary L.; Hills, Malina M.; Hilton, Michael R.

1995-01-01

A passive tray was flown on the Effects of Oxygen Interaction with Materials experiment on STS-46 (EOIM-3) with 82 samples from The Aerospace Corporation. A variety of advanced materials related to potential uses on future spacecraft were included for evaluation representing optical coatings, lubricants, polymers, composites, carbon-carbon composite protective coatings, graphite protective coatings, thermal-control materials, and some samples of current materials. An overview of the available results from the investigations of these materials is presented.

System for characterizing semiconductor materials and photovoltaic devices through calibration

DOEpatents

Sopori, Bhushan L.; Allen, Larry C.; Marshall, Craig; Murphy, Robert C.; Marshall, Todd

1998-01-01

A method and apparatus for measuring characteristics of a piece of material, typically semiconductor materials including photovoltaic devices. The characteristics may include dislocation defect density, grain boundaries, reflectance, external LBIC, internal LBIC, and minority carrier diffusion length. The apparatus includes a light source, an integrating sphere, and a detector communicating with a computer. The measurement or calculation of the characteristics is calibrated to provide accurate, absolute values. The calibration is performed by substituting a standard sample for the piece of material, the sample having a known quantity of one or more of the relevant characteristics. The quantity measured by the system of the relevant characteristic is compared to the known quantity and a calibration constant is created thereby.

System for characterizing semiconductor materials and photovoltaic devices through calibration

DOEpatents

Sopori, B.L.; Allen, L.C.; Marshall, C.; Murphy, R.C.; Marshall, T.

1998-05-26

A method and apparatus are disclosed for measuring characteristics of a piece of material, typically semiconductor materials including photovoltaic devices. The characteristics may include dislocation defect density, grain boundaries, reflectance, external LBIC, internal LBIC, and minority carrier diffusion length. The apparatus includes a light source, an integrating sphere, and a detector communicating with a computer. The measurement or calculation of the characteristics is calibrated to provide accurate, absolute values. The calibration is performed by substituting a standard sample for the piece of material, the sample having a known quantity of one or more of the relevant characteristics. The quantity measured by the system of the relevant characteristic is compared to the known quantity and a calibration constant is created thereby. 44 figs.

Enhanced spot preparation for liquid extractive sampling and analysis

DOEpatents

Van Berkel, Gary J.; King, Richard C.

2015-09-22

A method for performing surface sampling of an analyte, includes the step of placing the analyte on a stage with a material in molar excess to the analyte, such that analyte-analyte interactions are prevented and the analyte can be solubilized for further analysis. The material can be a matrix material that is mixed with the analyte. The material can be provided on a sample support. The analyte can then be contacted with a solvent to extract the analyte for further processing, such as by electrospray mass spectrometry.

The Community College Foundation Manual & Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, James M., Comp.; Snyder, Tom, Comp.

This collection of resources and information about community college foundations includes brief articles, selected data, materials from foundations, sample mission statements and articles of incorporation, sample forms and correspondence, relevant educational legislation, and other related materials from specific active foundations at two-year…

EMAT enhanced dispersion of particles in liquid

DOEpatents

Kisner, Roger A.; Rios, Orlando; Melin, Alexander M.; Ludtka, Gerard Michael; Ludtka, Gail Mackiewicz; Wilgen, John B.

2016-11-29

Particulate matter is dispersed in a fluid material. A sample including a first material in a fluid state and second material comprising particulate matter are placed into a chamber. The second material is spatially dispersed in the first material utilizing EMAT force. The dispersion process continues until spatial distribution of the second material enables the sample to meet a specified criterion. The chamber and/or the sample is electrically conductive. The EMAT force is generated by placing the chamber coaxially within an induction coil driven by an applied alternating current and placing the chamber and induction coil coaxially within a high field magnetic. The EMAT force is coupled to the sample without physical contact to the sample or to the chamber, by another physical object. Batch and continuous processing are utilized. The chamber may be folded within the bore of the magnet. Acoustic force frequency and/or temperature may be controlled.

A highland sample strategy for Pathfinder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dehon, Rene A.

1994-01-01

Potential landing sites are confined to latitudes between 0 deg and 30 deg N and surfaces below 0 km elevation. The landing ellipse is 100 x 200 km oriented N 74 deg E. The constraints essentially eliminate the slopes of Elysium Mons, Olympus Mons, Tharsis Ridge, Lunae Plaunum, all the southern highlands, and almost all the Noachian material of Arabia Terra. Those areas that remain as potential landing sites are chiefly lowland plains of Amazonis Chryse, Isidis, and Elysium Planitia. Any attempt to sample highland material further constrains the possible landing sites by eliminating areas of Hesperian or Amazonian lavas and sediments. One possible sampling strategy is to sample materials within those few 'highland' terrains that extend to low elevations. A second strategy is to sample materials at the mouth of an outflow channel that drains from the highlands. Potential landing sites include outflow channel material at the edge of Chryse Planitia and highland materials bordering southern Amazonis Planitia.

Materials samples face rigors of space.

PubMed

Flinn, Edward D

2002-07-01

The Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) is described. This project is designed to conduct long duration materials tests on samples attached to the ISS. A batch of 750 material samples were delivered on STS-105 and attached to the ISS airlock. They will be exposed to the space environment for 18 months and are slated to return on STS-114. A second batch of 750 samples is being prepared. The experiment containers were used originally for the Mir Environmental Effects Payload, which tested a variety of substances, including some slated for use on the ISS. Researchers are particularly interested in the effects of atomic oxygen on the samples. Some samples are being tested to determine their use in radiation protection. As part of the MISSE project, ultrathin tether materials are being tested for use on the Propulsive Small Expendable Depoloyer System (ProSEDS), which will use a tether system to change a satellite's orbital altitude.

Arcjet Testing of Micro-Meteoroid Impacted Thermal Protection Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal, Parul; Munk, Michelle M.; Glaab, Louis J.

2013-01-01

There are several harsh space environments that could affect thermal protection systems and in turn pose risks to the atmospheric entry vehicles. These environments include micrometeoroid impact, extreme cold temperatures, and ionizing radiation during deep space cruise, all followed by atmospheric entry heating. To mitigate these risks, different thermal protection material samples were subjected to multiple tests, including hyper velocity impact, cold soak, irradiation, and arcjet testing, at various NASA facilities that simulated these environments. The materials included a variety of honeycomb packed ablative materials as well as carbon-based non-ablative thermal protection systems. The present paper describes the results of the multiple test campaign with a focus on arcjet testing of thermal protection materials. The tests showed promising results for ablative materials. However, the carbon-based non-ablative system presented some concerns regarding the potential risks to an entry vehicle. This study provides valuable information regarding the capability of various thermal protection materials to withstand harsh space environments, which is critical to sample return and planetary entry missions.

Theory of sampling: four critical success factors before analysis.

PubMed

Wagner, Claas; Esbensen, Kim H

2015-01-01

Food and feed materials characterization, risk assessment, and safety evaluations can only be ensured if QC measures are based on valid analytical data, stemming from representative samples. The Theory of Sampling (TOS) is the only comprehensive theoretical framework that fully defines all requirements to ensure sampling correctness and representativity, and to provide the guiding principles for sampling in practice. TOS also defines the concept of material heterogeneity and its impact on the sampling process, including the effects from all potential sampling errors. TOS's primary task is to eliminate bias-generating errors and to minimize sampling variability. Quantitative measures are provided to characterize material heterogeneity, on which an optimal sampling strategy should be based. Four critical success factors preceding analysis to ensure a representative sampling process are presented here.

Microfossils from the Local Marine Environment. A Learning Experience for Coastal and Oceanic Awareness Studies, No. 219. [Project COAST].

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Delaware Univ., Newark. Coll. of Education.

This unit on fossils is designed for junior high school students. Students collect a sediment sample, process the sample, and examine it for microfossils. The scientific classification and naming of microfossils is not stressed. Included in the materials are evaluation items, background materials for teachers, lists of needed materials, vocabulary…

Sourcebook for Sex Equality: In-Service Training. An Annotated Listing of Materials and Media for Affirmative Action In-Service Training. Bibliographic Series, 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hulme, Marylin A., Comp.

The materials contained in this annotated bibliography include films, slide shows, information resources, evaluation materials, sample workshop formats, and guidelines for sex-fair and race-fair materials and group activities. The bibliography is divided into four sections: (1) "General Resources" includes readings in sex role stereotyping,…

Systems and methods for sample analysis

DOEpatents

Cooks, Robert Graham; Li, Guangtao; Li, Xin; Ouyang, Zheng

2015-01-13

The invention generally relates to systems and methods for sample analysis. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a system for analyzing a sample that includes a probe including a material connected to a high voltage source, a device for generating a heated gas, and a mass analyzer.

Method and apparatus for measuring nuclear magnetic properties

DOEpatents

Weitekamp, D.P.; Bielecki, A.; Zax, D.B.; Zilm, K.W.; Pines, A.

1987-12-01

A method for studying the chemical and structural characteristics of materials is disclosed. The method includes placement of a sample material in a high strength polarizing magnetic field to order the sample nuclei. The condition used to order the sample is then removed abruptly and the ordering of the sample allowed to evolve for a time interval. At the end of the time interval, the ordering of the sample is measured by conventional nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. 5 figs.

Method and apparatus for measuring nuclear magnetic properties

DOEpatents

Weitekamp, Daniel P.; Bielecki, Anthony; Zax, David B.; Zilm, Kurt W.; Pines, Alexander

1987-01-01

A method for studying the chemical and structural characteristics of materials is disclosed. The method includes placement of a sample material in a high strength polarizing magnetic field to order the sample nucleii. The condition used to order the sample is then removed abruptly and the ordering of the sample allowed to evolve for a time interval. At the end of the time interval, the ordering of the sample is measured by conventional nuclear magnetic resonance techniques.

Relative toxicity of pyrolysis products of some synthetic polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hilado, C. J.; Slattengren, C. L.; Furst, A.; Kourtides, D. A.; Parker, J. A.

1976-01-01

Nineteen samples of synthetic polymers were evaluated for relative toxicity in the course of characterizing materials intended for aircraft interior applications. The generic polymers included ABS, chlorinated PVC, polycarbonate, polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene sulfide, polysulfone, polyaryl sulfone, polyether sulfone, polybismaleimide, and polyvinyl fluoride. Test results are presented, and compared in relative rankings with similar results on cellulosic materials and other synthetic polymers. Under these test conditions, the samples of synthetic polymers were either comparable to or significantly less toxic than the samples of commercial cellulosic materials.

Ultra-accelerated natural sunlight exposure testing

DOEpatents

Jorgensen, Gary J.; Bingham, Carl; Goggin, Rita; Lewandowski, Allan A.; Netter, Judy C.

2000-06-13

Process and apparatus for providing ultra accelerated natural sunlight exposure testing of samples under controlled weathering without introducing unrealistic failure mechanisms in exposed materials and without breaking reciprocity relationships between flux exposure levels and cumulative dose that includes multiple concurrent levels of temperature and relative humidity at high levels of natural sunlight comprising: a) concentrating solar flux uniformly; b) directing the controlled uniform sunlight onto sample materials in a chamber enclosing multiple concurrent levels of temperature and relative humidity to allow the sample materials to be subjected to accelerated irradiance exposure factors for a sufficient period of time in days to provide a corresponding time of about at least a years worth of representative weathering of the sample materials.

Sampling protocol, estimation, and analysis procedures for the down woody materials indicator of the FIA program

Treesearch

Christopher W. Woodall; Vicente J. Monleon

2008-01-01

The USDA Forest Service's Forest Inventory and Analysis program conducts an inventory of forests of the United States including down woody materials (DWM). In this report we provide the rationale and context for a national inventory of DWM, describe the components sampled, discuss the sampling protocol used and corresponding estimation procedures, and provide...

Annual radiological environmental operating report, Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, 1987

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

Not Available

1988-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring programs conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in 1987. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiation levels.more » Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts of plant operations. The vast majority of the exposures calculated from environmental samples were contributed by naturally occurring radioactive materials or from materials commonly found in the environment as a result of atmospheric nuclear weapons fallout. Small amounts of Co-60 were found in sediment samples downstreams from the plant. This activity in stream sediment would result in no measurable increase over background in the dose to the general public. 3 refs., 2 figs., 34 tabs.« less

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant annual radiological environmental operating report, 1990

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

Not Available

1991-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring program conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in 1990. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiation levels.more » Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts of plant operations. The vast majority of the exposures calculated from environmental samples were contributed by naturally occurring radioactive materials or from materials commonly found in the environment as a result of atmospheric nuclear weapons fallout. Small amounts of Co-60 were found in sediment samples downstream from the plant. This activity in stream sediment would result in no measurable increase over background in the dose to the general public. 4 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Annual radiological environmental operating report, Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, 1989

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

Not Available

1990-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring program conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant (BFN) in 1989. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiationmore » levels. Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts if plant operations. The vast majority of the exposures calculated from environmental samples were contributed by naturally occurring radioactive materials or from materials commonly found in the environment as a result of atmospheric nuclear weapons fallout. Small amounts of Co-60 were found in sediment samples downstream from the plant. This activity in river sediment would result in no measurable increase over background in the dose to the general public. 4 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Annual radiological environmental operating report, Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, 1988

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

Not Available

1989-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring program conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in 1988. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiation levels.more » Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts of plant operations. The vast majority of the exposures calculated from environmental samples were contributed by naturally occurring radioactive materials or from materials commonly found in the environment as a result of atmospheric nuclear weapons fallout. Small amounts of Co-60 were found in sediment samples downstream from the plant. This activity in stream sediment would result in no measurable increase over background in the dose to the general public. 3 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Non-destructive sampling of a comet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jessberger, H. L.; Kotthaus, M.

1991-04-01

Various conditions which must be met for the development of a nondestructive sampling and acquisition system are outlined and the development of a new robotic sampling system suited for use on a cometary surface is briefly discussed. The Rosetta mission of ESA will take samples of a comet nucleus and return both core and volatile samples to earth. Various considerations which must be taken into account for such a project are examined including the identification of design parameters for sample quality; the identification of the most probable site conditions; the development of a sample acquisition system with respect to these conditions; the production of model materials and model conditions; and the investigation of the relevant material properties. An adequate sampling system should also be designed and built, including various tools, and the system should be tested under simulated cometary conditions.

The Mass Spectrometric Ortho Effect Studied for All 209 PCB Congeners

EPA Science Inventory

A method for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in caulk was developed; with application to a set of caulk and window glazing material samples. This method was evaluated by analyzing a combination of 47 samples of caulk, glazing materials, and including quality...

An Analysis of Nondestructive Evaluation Techniques for Polymer Matrix Composite Sandwich Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cosgriff, Laura M.; Roberts, Gary D.; Binienda, Wieslaw K.; Zheng, Diahua; Averbeck, Timothy; Roth, Donald J.; Jeanneau, Philippe

2006-01-01

Structural sandwich materials composed of triaxially braided polymer matrix composite material face sheets sandwiching a foam core are being utilized for applications including aerospace components and recreational equipment. Since full scale components are being made from these sandwich materials, it is necessary to develop proper inspection practices for their manufacture and in-field use. Specifically, nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques need to be investigated for analysis of components made from these materials. Hockey blades made from sandwich materials and a flat sandwich sample were examined with multiple NDE techniques including thermographic, radiographic, and shearographic methods to investigate damage induced in the blades and flat panel components. Hockey blades used during actual play and a flat polymer matrix composite sandwich sample with damage inserted into the foam core were investigated with each technique. NDE images from the samples were presented and discussed. Structural elements within each blade were observed with radiographic imaging. Damaged regions and some structural elements of the hockey blades were identified with thermographic imaging. Structural elements, damaged regions, and other material variations were detected in the hockey blades with shearography. Each technique s advantages and disadvantages were considered in making recommendations for inspection of components made from these types of materials.

Determination of total carbohydrates in wine and wine-like beverages by HPLC with a refractive index detector: First Action 2013.12.

PubMed

Kupina, Steve; Roman, Mark

2014-01-01

An international collaborative study was conducted of an HPLC-refractive index (RI) detector method for the determination of the combined amounts of sugars, glycerol, organic acids, and phenolic compounds in wines and wine-like beverages. Nine collaborating laboratories representing major winery, contract laboratories, and government laboratories tested eight different materials as blind duplicates using the proposed method. Sample materials included red and white wines, port, wine cooler, and nonalcoholic wine. One material was a negative control, and one material was a reference material. Samples were either treated with an ion-exchange resin to remove interfering organic acids prior to analysis or left untreated to include organic acids and phenolics. Red wine samples were treated with polyvinylpolypyrrolidone to remove potential interferences from phenolics prior to analysis. The HPLC analyses were performed on a Bio-Rad Fast Acid Analysis Column using RI detection. Reproducibility (RSD(R)) for untreated samples (sugars + phenolics + organic acids) ranged from 6.6% for Titrivin AA4 reference material to 11.0% for dry red wine. RSD(R) for treated samples (sugars only) ranged from 6.8% for white zinfandel to 18.9% for dry white wine. RSD(R) for treated samples (sugars only) + glycerol ranged from 6.4% for white zinfandel to 19.8% for dry red wine. Based on these results, the method was adopted as Official First Action status for determination of total carbohydrates in wine and wine-like beverages.

USGS Digital Spectral Library splib05a

USGS Publications Warehouse

Clark, Roger N.; Swayze, Gregg A.; Wise, Richard K.; Livo, Eric; Hoefen, Todd M.; Kokaly, Raymond F.; Sutley, Steve J.

2003-01-01

We have assembled a digital reflectance spectral library of spectra that covers wavelengths from the ultraviolet to near-infrared along with sample documentation. The library includes samples of minerals, rocks, soils, physically constructed as well as mathematically computed mixtures, vegetation, microorganisms, and man-made materials. The samples and spectra collected were assembled for the purpose of using spectral features for the remote detection of these and similar materials.

Special report, diffuse reflectivity of the lunar surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fastie, W. G.

1972-01-01

The far ultraviolet diffuse reflectivity of samples of lunar dust material is determined. Equipment for measuring the diffuse reflectivity of materials (e.g. paint samples) is already in existence and requires only minor modification for the proposed experiment which will include the measurement of the polarizing properties of the lunar samples. Measurements can be made as a function of both illumination angle and angle of observation.

The Abundance and Distribution of Presolar Materials in Cluster IDPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Messenger, Scott; Keller, Lindsay; Nakamura-Messenger, Keiko; Ito, Motoo

2007-01-01

Presolar grains and remnants of interstellar organic compounds occur in a wide range of primitive solar system materials, including meteorites, interplanetary dust particles (IDPs), and comet Wild-2 samples. Among the most abundant presolar phases are silicate stardust grains and molecular cloud material. However, these materials have also been susceptible to destruction and alteration during parent body and nebular processing. In addition to their importance as direct samples of remote and ancient astrophysical environments, presolar materials thus provide a measure of how well different primitive bodies have preserved the original solar system starting materials.

Curating NASA's Past, Present, and Future Extraterrestrial Sample Collections

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCubbin, F. M.; Allton, J. H.; Evans, C. A.; Fries, M. D.; Nakamura-Messenger, K.; Righter, K.; Zeigler, R. A.; Zolensky, M.; Stansbery, E. K.

2016-01-01

The Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office (henceforth referred to herein as NASA Curation Office) at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) is responsible for curating all of NASA's extraterrestrial samples. Under the governing document, NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 7100.10E "Curation of Extraterrestrial Materials", JSC is charged with "...curation of all extra-terrestrial material under NASA control, including future NASA missions." The Directive goes on to define Curation as including "...documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples for research, education, and public outreach." Here we describe some of the past, present, and future activities of the NASA Curation Office.

Fissile material detector

DOEpatents

Ivanov, Alexander I.; Lushchikov, Vladislav I.; Shabalin, Eugeny P.; Maznyy, Nikita G.; Khvastunov, Michael M.; Rowland, Mark

2002-01-01

A detector for fissile materials which provides for integrity monitoring of fissile materials and can be used for nondestructive assay to confirm the presence of a stable content of fissile material in items. The detector has a sample cavity large enough to enable assay of large items of arbitrary configuration, utilizes neutron sources fabricated in spatially extended shapes mounted on the endcaps of the sample cavity, incorporates a thermal neutron filter insert with reflector properties, and the electronics module includes a neutron multiplicity coincidence counter.

Long Duration Exposure Facility experiment M0003 deintegration observation data base

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gyetvay, S. R.; Coggi, J. M.; Meshishnek, M. J.

1993-01-01

The four trays (2 leading edge and 2 trailing edge) of the M0003 materials experiment on the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) contained 1274 samples from 20 subexperiments. The complete sample complement represented a broad range of materials, including thin film optical coatings, paints, polymer sheets and tapes, adhesives, and composites, for use in various spacecraft applications, including thermal control, structures, optics, and solar power. Most subexperiments contained sets of samples exposed on both the leading and trailing edge trays of LDEF. Each individual sample was examined by high resolution optical microscope during the deintegration of the subexperiments from the M0003 trays. Observations of the post-flight condition of the samples made during this examination were recorded in a computer data base. The deintegration observation data base is available to requesters on floppy disk in 4th Dimension for the Macintosh format. Over 3,000 color macrographs and photomicrographs were shot to complement the observation records and to document the condition of the individual samples and of the M0003 trays. The photographs provide a visual comparison of the response of materials in leading and trailing edge LDEF environments. The Aerospace Corporate Archives is distributing photographs of the samples and hard copies of the database records to the general public upon request. Information on obtaining copies of the data base disks and for ordering photographs and records of specific samples or materials are given.

Free Teaching Materials: Classroom and Curriculum Aids for Elementary School Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raimist, Roger J.; Mester, Rose A.

Free teaching materials suitable for elementary school science available from 168 agencies and companies are listed. Materials include booklets, teacher's source books and guides, charts and posters, and concrete materials such as mineral samples. Suggestions and materials for student activities range from experiments to song sheets. Topics…

Apparatus configured for identification of a material and method of identifying a material

DOEpatents

Slater, John M.; Crawford, Thomas M.; Frickey, Dean A.

2001-01-01

The present invention relates to an apparatus configured for identification of a material and method of identifying a material. One embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus configured for identification of a material including a first region configured to receive a first sample and output a first spectrum responsive to exposure of the first sample to radiation; a signal generator configured to provide a reference signal having a reference frequency and a modulation signal having a modulation frequency; a modulator configured to selectively modulate the first spectrum using the modulation signal according to the reference frequency; a second region configured to receive a second sample and output a second spectrum responsive to exposure of the second sample to the first spectrum; and a detector configured to detect the second spectrum.

Chemical-quality reconnaissance of the water and surficial bed material in the Delaware River estuary and adjacent New Jersey tributaries, 1980-81

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hochreiter, Joseph J.

1982-01-01

This report presents chemical-quality data collected from May 1980 to January 1981 at several locations within the Delaware River estuary and selected New Jersey tributaries. Samples of surface water were analyzed Environmental Protection Agency ' priority pollutants, ' including acid extractable, base/neutral extractable and volatile organic compounds, in addition to selected dissolved inorganic constituents. Surficial bed material at selected locations was examined for trace metals, insecticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, and base/neutral extractable organic compounds. Trace levels (1-50 micrograms per liter) of purgeable organic compounds, particularly those associated with the occurrence of hydrocarbons, were found in about 60% of the water samples taken. DDT, DDD, DDE, PCB 's and chlordane are present in most surficial bed material samples. Diazinon was the only organophosphorous insecticide detected in the study (1.6 micrograms per kilogram at one location). High values for select trace metals in bed material were discovered at two locations. Of the 10 sites sampled, the surficial bed material containing the most contamination was found along one cross section of Raccoon Creek at Bridgeport. An additional analysis of Raccoon Creek revealed bed material containing toluene, oil and grease, and trace quantities of 15 base/neutral extractable organic compounds, including polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, phthalate esters, and chlorinated benzenes.

Quality of water and bed material in streams of Logan Township, Gloucester County, New Jersey, 1984

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hochreiter, J.J.; Kozinski, Jane

1985-01-01

The surface water and surficial-bed material at seven stations on three streams in Logan Township, Gloucester County, New Jersey, were sampled in the fall of 1984. Samples of water were analyzed for volatile organic compounds, trace metals, and organochlorine and organophosphorous compounds. Surficial-bed material was analyzed for extractable trace metals and organochlorine compounds. Water samples from two closely spaced sampling locations along Raccoon Creek contained elevated concentrations of methylene chloride (455 and 1800 micrograms/L, respectively), a volatile organic solvent. Bed-material samples taken from Little Timber and Birch Creeks contained elevated levels of trace metals and organochlorine compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). Contaminant concentrations in bed-material samples taken from Raccoon Creek were much lower than those found previously by the U.S. Geological Survey in 1980. Only a trace of PCB 's was detected in any bed material sample taken from Racoon Creek. Gas chromatographic flame-ionization detector scans, performed on solvent extracts of all water and sediment samples, were useful in characterizing the presence or absence of organic contaminants in those samples. Changes in the character of organic contamination along the reaches of two streams were apparent when the fingerprints of chromatograms representing upstream sites were compared to those representing downstream sites. (Author 's abstract)

Synthesis of macroporous structures

DOEpatents

Stein, Andreas; Holland, Brian T.; Blanford, Christopher F.; Yan, Hongwei

2004-01-20

The present application discloses a method of forming an inorganic macroporous material. In some embodiments, the method includes: providing a sample of organic polymer particles having a particle size distribution of no greater than about 10%; forming a colloidal crystal template of the sample of organic polymer particles, the colloidal crystal template including a plurality of organic polymer particles and interstitial spaces therebetween; adding an inorganic precursor composition including a noncolloidal inorganic precursor to the colloidal crystal template such that the precursor composition permeates the interstitial spaces between the organic polymer particles; converting the noncolloidal inorganic precursor to a hardened inorganic framework; and removing the colloidal crystal template from the hardened inorganic framework to form a macroporous material. Inorganic macroporous materials are also disclosed.

Methods for forming small-volume electrical contacts and material manipulations with fluid microchannels

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C [Knoxville, TN; Ramsey, J Michael [Knoxville, TN; Culbertson, Christopher T [Oak Ridge, TN; Whitten, William B [Lancing, TN; Foote, Robert S [Oak Ridge, TN

2011-12-27

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either ionic current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to a variety of processes, including electrokinetically induced pressure flow in a region of a microchannel that is not influenced by an electric field, sample concentration enhancement and injection, as well as improving the analysis of materials where it is desired to eliminate electrophoretic bias. Other applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Methods for forming small-volume electrical contacts and material manipulations with fluidic microchannels

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C [Knoxville, TN; Ramsey, J Michael [Knoxville, TN; Culbertson, Christopher T [Oak Ridge, TN; Whitten, William B [Lancing, TN; Foote, Robert S [Oak Ridge, TN

2011-04-26

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either ionic current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to a variety of processes, including electrokinetically induced pressure flow in a region of a microehannel that is not influenced by an electric field, sample concentration enhancement and injection, as well as improving the analysis of materials where it is desired to eliminate electrophoretic bias. Other applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Methods for forming small-volume electrical contacts and material manipulations with fluidic microchannels

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C [Knoxville, TN; Ramsey, J Michael [Knoxville, TN; Culbertson, Christopher T [Oak Ridge, TN; Whitten, William B [Lancing, TN; Foote, Robert S [Oak Ridge, TN

2011-03-22

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either ionic current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to a variety of processes, including electrokinetically induced pressure flow in a region of a microchannel that is not influenced by an electric field, sample concentration enhancement and injection, as well as improving the analysis of materials where it is desired to eliminate electrophoretic bias. Other applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Methods for forming small-volume electrical contacts and material manipulations with fluidic microchannels

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C.; Ramsey, J. Michael

2007-11-20

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either ionic current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to a variety of processes, including electrokinetically induced pressure flow in a region of a microchannel that is not influenced by an electric field, sample concentration enhancement and injection, as well as improving the analysis of materials where it is desired to eliminate electrophoretic bias. Other applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Methods for forming small-volume electrical contacts and material manipulations with fluidic microchannels

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C.; Ramsey, J. Michael; Culbertson, Christopher T.; Whitten, William B.; Foote, Robert S.

2004-02-03

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either ionic current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to a variety of processes, including electrokinetically induced pressure flow in a region of a microchannel that is not influenced by an electric field, sample concentration enhancement and injection, as well as improving the analysis of materials where it is desired to eliminate electrophoretic bias. Other applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Comparison of High-Performance Fiber Materials Properties in Simulated and Actual Space Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckernor, M. M.

2017-01-01

A variety of high-performance fibers, including Kevlar, Nomex, Vectran, and Spectra, have been tested for durability in the space environment, mostly the low Earth orbital environment. These materials have been tested in yarn, tether/cable, and fabric forms. Some material samples were tested in a simulated space environment, such as the Atomic Oxygen Beam Facility and solar simulators in the laboratory. Other samples were flown on the International Space Station as part of the Materials on International Space Station Experiment. Mass loss due to atomic oxygen erosion and optical property changes due to ultraviolet radiation degradation are given. Tensile test results are also presented, including where moisture loss in a vacuum had an impact on tensile strength.

Evaluation of Thermal Control Coatings and Polymeric Materials Exposed to Ground Simulated Atomic Oxygen and Vacuum Ultraviolet Radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kamenetzky, R. R.; Vaughn, J. A.; Finckenor, M. M.; Linton, R. C.

1995-01-01

Numerous thermal control and polymeric samples with potential International Space Station applications were evaluated for atomic oxygen and vacuum ultraviolet radiation effects in the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory 5 eV Neutral Atomic Oxygen Facility and in the MSFC Atomic Oxygen Drift Tube System. Included in this study were samples of various anodized aluminum samples, ceramic paints, polymeric materials, and beta cloth, a Teflon-impregnated fiberglass cloth. Aluminum anodizations tested were black duranodic, chromic acid anodize, and sulfuric acid anodize. Paint samples consisted of an inorganic glassy black paint and Z-93 white paint made with the original PS7 binder and the new K2130 binder. Polymeric samples evaluated included bulk Halar, bulk PEEK, and silverized FEP Teflon. Aluminized and nonaluminized Chemfab 250 beta cloth were also exposed. Samples were evaluated for changes in mass, thickness, solar absorptance, and infrared emittance. In addition to material effects, an investigation was made comparing diffuse reflectance/solar absorptance measurements made using a Beckman DK2 spectroreflectometer and like measurements made using an AZ Technology-developed laboratory portable spectroreflectometer.

Make Waves: Read! 1998 Summer Library Program Manual. Bulletin No. 98107.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roeber, Jane A., Ed.

This manual is designed to help individual libraries in Wisconsin plan and implement their summer library programs. The manual is divided into six sections. Section 1 covers planning and promoting programs, and includes reproducible promotional materials, sample letters to parents, and sample media materials. Section 2 provides decorating and…

Method and apparatus for implementing material thermal property measurement by flash thermal imaging

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

Sun, Jiangang

A method and apparatus are provided for implementing measurement of material thermal properties including measurement of thermal effusivity of a coating and/or film or a bulk material of uniform property. The test apparatus includes an infrared camera, a data acquisition and processing computer coupled to the infrared camera for acquiring and processing thermal image data, a flash lamp providing an input of heat onto the surface of a two-layer sample with an enhanced optical filter covering the flash lamp attenuating an entire infrared wavelength range with a series of thermal images is taken of the surface of the two-layer sample.

The Gulliver mission: Sample return from Deimos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Britt, D.

The Martian moon Deimos has been accumulating material ejected from the Martian surface ever since the earliest periods of Martian history, over 4.4 Gyrs ago. Analysis of Martian ejecta, material accumulation, capture cross-section, regolith overturn, and Deimos's albedo suggest that Mars material may make up as much as 5-10% of Deimos's regolith. The Martian material on Deimos would be dominated by ejecta from the ancient crust of Mars, delivered during the Noachian Period of basin-forming impacts and heavy bombardment. Deimos is essentially a repository of samples from ancient Mars, which would include the full range of Martian crustal and upper mantle material from the early differentiation and crustal-forming epoch as well as samples from the era of high volatile flux, thick atmosphere, and possible surface water. The Gulliver Mission proposes to directly collect up to 10 kilograms of Deimos regolith and return it to Earth. This sample will contain up to 1000 grams of Martian material. Because of stochastic processes of regolith mixing over 4.4 Gyrs, the rock fragments, grains, and pebble-sized materials will likely sample the diversity of the Martian ancient surface. In addition to Martian ejecta, 90% of the Deimos sample will be spectral type D asteroidal material, thought to be highly primitive and originate in the outer asteroid belt. In essence, Gulliver represents two shortcuts, to Mars sample return and to the outer asteroid belt.

Determination of the reduced matrix of the piezoelectric, dielectric, and elastic material constants for a piezoelectric material with C∞ symmetry.

PubMed

Sherrit, Stewart; Masys, Tony J; Wiederick, Harvey D; Mukherjee, Binu K

2011-09-01

We present a procedure for determining the reduced piezoelectric, dielectric, and elastic coefficients for a C(∞) material, including losses, from a single disk sample. Measurements have been made on a Navy III lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramic sample and the reduced matrix of coefficients for this material is presented. In addition, we present the transform equations, in reduced matrix form, to other consistent material constant sets. We discuss the propagation of errors in going from one material data set to another and look at the limitations inherent in direct calculations of other useful coefficients from the data.

Neutron-Irradiated Samples as Test Materials for MPEX

DOE PAGES

Ellis, Ronald James; Rapp, Juergen

2015-10-09

Plasma Material Interaction (PMI) is a major concern in fusion reactor design and analysis. The Material-Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX) will explore PMI under fusion reactor plasma conditions. Samples with accumulated displacements per atom (DPA) damage produced by fast neutron irradiations in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) will be studied in the MPEX facility. This paper presents assessments of the calculated induced radioactivity and resulting radiation dose rates of a variety of potential fusion reactor plasma-facing materials (such as tungsten). The scientific code packages MCNP and SCALE were used to simulate irradiation of themore » samples in HFIR including the generation and depletion of nuclides in the material and the subsequent composition, activity levels, gamma radiation fields, and resultant dose rates as a function of cooling time. A challenge of the MPEX project is to minimize the radioactive inventory in the preparation of the samples and the sample dose rates for inclusion in the MPEX facility.« less

Nuclear forensics of a non-traditional sample: Neptunium

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

Doyle, Jamie L.; Schwartz, Daniel; Tandon, Lav

Recent nuclear forensics cases have focused primarily on plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U) materials. By definition however, nuclear forensics can apply to any diverted nuclear material. This includes neptunium (Np), an internationally safeguarded material like Pu and U, that could offer a nuclear security concern if significant quantities were found outside of regulatory control. This case study couples scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with quantitative analysis using newly developed specialized software, to evaluate a non-traditional nuclear forensic sample of Np. Here, the results of the morphological analyses were compared with another Np sample of known pedigree, as well as other traditionalmore » actinide materials in order to determine potential processing and point-of-origin.« less

Nuclear forensics of a non-traditional sample: Neptunium

DOE PAGES

Doyle, Jamie L.; Schwartz, Daniel; Tandon, Lav

2016-05-16

Recent nuclear forensics cases have focused primarily on plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U) materials. By definition however, nuclear forensics can apply to any diverted nuclear material. This includes neptunium (Np), an internationally safeguarded material like Pu and U, that could offer a nuclear security concern if significant quantities were found outside of regulatory control. This case study couples scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with quantitative analysis using newly developed specialized software, to evaluate a non-traditional nuclear forensic sample of Np. Here, the results of the morphological analyses were compared with another Np sample of known pedigree, as well as other traditionalmore » actinide materials in order to determine potential processing and point-of-origin.« less

Elemental analysis using a handheld X-Ray fluorescence spectrometer

USGS Publications Warehouse

Groover, Krishangi D.; Izbicki, John

2016-06-24

The U.S. Geological Survey is collecting geologic samples from local stream channels, aquifer materials, and rock outcrops for studies of trace elements in the Mojave Desert, southern California. These samples are collected because geologic materials can release a variety of elements to the environment when exposed to water. The samples are to be analyzed with a handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer to determine the concentrations of up to 27 elements, including chromium.

High throughput screening of ligand binding to macromolecules using high resolution powder diffraction

DOEpatents

Von Dreele, Robert B.; D'Amico, Kevin

2006-10-31

A process is provided for the high throughput screening of binding of ligands to macromolecules using high resolution powder diffraction data including producing a first sample slurry of a selected polycrystalline macromolecule material and a solvent, producing a second sample slurry of a selected polycrystalline macromolecule material, one or more ligands and the solvent, obtaining a high resolution powder diffraction pattern on each of said first sample slurry and the second sample slurry, and, comparing the high resolution powder diffraction pattern of the first sample slurry and the high resolution powder diffraction pattern of the second sample slurry whereby a difference in the high resolution powder diffraction patterns of the first sample slurry and the second sample slurry provides a positive indication for the formation of a complex between the selected polycrystalline macromolecule material and at least one of the one or more ligands.

Resilient modulus testing of materials from MN/Road : phase 1

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-09-01

The U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) conducted resilient modulus tests on materials from the MN/ROAD test site for the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Materials tested included samples of the lean clay subgra...

Experimental Design for a Sponge-Wipe Study to Relate the Recovery Efficiency and False Negative Rate to the Concentration of a Bacillus anthracis Surrogate for Six Surface Materials

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Amidan, Brett G.; Krauter, Paula

2011-05-01

Two concerns were raised by the Government Accountability Office following the 2001 building contaminations via letters containing Bacillus anthracis (BA). These included the: 1) lack of validated sampling methods, and 2) need to use statistical sampling to quantify the confidence of no contamination when all samples have negative results. Critical to addressing these concerns is quantifying the false negative rate (FNR). The FNR may depend on the 1) method of contaminant deposition, 2) surface concentration of the contaminant, 3) surface material being sampled, 4) sample collection method, 5) sample storage/transportation conditions, 6) sample processing method, and 7) sample analytical method.more » A review of the literature found 17 laboratory studies that focused on swab, wipe, or vacuum samples collected from a variety of surface materials contaminated by BA or a surrogate, and used culture methods to determine the surface contaminant concentration. These studies quantified performance of the sampling and analysis methods in terms of recovery efficiency (RE) and not FNR (which left a major gap in available information). Quantifying the FNR under a variety of conditions is a key aspect of validating sample and analysis methods, and also for calculating the confidence in characterization or clearance decisions based on a statistical sampling plan. A laboratory study was planned to partially fill the gap in FNR results. This report documents the experimental design developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) for a sponge-wipe method. The testing was performed by SNL and is now completed. The study investigated the effects on key response variables from six surface materials contaminated with eight surface concentrations of a BA surrogate (Bacillus atrophaeus). The key response variables include measures of the contamination on test coupons of surface materials tested, contamination recovered from coupons by sponge-wipe samples, RE, and FNR. The experimental design involves 16 test runs, performed in two blocks of eight runs. Three surface materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile) were tested in the first block, while three other surface materials (plastic, painted wood paneling, and faux leather) were tested in the second block. The eight surface concentrations of the surrogate were randomly assigned to test runs within each block. Some of the concentrations were very low and presented challenges for deposition, sampling, and analysis. However, such tests are needed to investigate RE and FNR over the full range of concentrations of interest. In each run, there were 10 test coupons of each of the three surface materials. A positive control sample was generated at the same time as each test sample. The positive control results will be used to 1) calculate RE values for the wipe sampling and analysis method, and 2) fit RE- and FNR-concentration equations, for each of the six surface materials. Data analyses will support 1) estimating the FNR for each combination of contaminant concentration and surface material, 2) estimating the surface concentrations and their uncertainties of the contaminant for each combination of concentration and surface material, 3) estimating RE (%) and their uncertainties for each combination of contaminant concentration and surface material, 4) fitting FNR-concentration and RE-concentration equations for each of the six surface materials, 5) assessing goodness-of-fit of the equations, and 6) quantifying the uncertainty in FNR and RE predictions made with the fitted equations.« less

Experimental Design for a Sponge-Wipe Study to Relate the Recovery Efficiency and False Negative Rate to the Concentration of a Bacillus anthracis Surrogate for Six Surface Materials

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Amidan, Brett G.; Krauter, Paula

2010-12-16

Two concerns were raised by the Government Accountability Office following the 2001 building contaminations via letters containing Bacillus anthracis (BA). These included the: 1) lack of validated sampling methods, and 2) need to use statistical sampling to quantify the confidence of no contamination when all samples have negative results. Critical to addressing these concerns is quantifying the probability of correct detection (PCD) (or equivalently the false negative rate FNR = 1 - PCD). The PCD/FNR may depend on the 1) method of contaminant deposition, 2) surface concentration of the contaminant, 3) surface material being sampled, 4) sample collection method, 5)more » sample storage/transportation conditions, 6) sample processing method, and 7) sample analytical method. A review of the literature found 17 laboratory studies that focused on swab, wipe, or vacuum samples collected from a variety of surface materials contaminated by BA or a surrogate, and used culture methods to determine the surface contaminant concentration. These studies quantified performance of the sampling and analysis methods in terms of recovery efficiency (RE) and not PCD/FNR (which left a major gap in available information). Quantifying the PCD/FNR under a variety of conditions is a key aspect of validating sample and analysis methods, and also for calculating the confidence in characterization or clearance decisions based on a statistical sampling plan. A laboratory study was planned to partially fill the gap in PCD/FNR results. This report documents the experimental design developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) for a sponge-wipe method. The study will investigate the effects on key response variables from six surface materials contaminated with eight surface concentrations of a BA surrogate (Bacillus atrophaeus). The key response variables include measures of the contamination on test coupons of surface materials tested, contamination recovered from coupons by sponge-wipe samples, RE, and PCD/FNR. The experimental design involves 16 test runs, to be performed in two blocks of eight runs. Three surface materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile) were tested in the first block, while three other surface materials (plastic, painted wood paneling, and faux leather) will be tested in the second block. The eight surface concentrations of the surrogate were randomly assigned to test runs within each block. Some of the concentrations will be very low and may present challenges for deposition, sampling, and analysis. However, such tests are needed to investigate RE and PCD/FNR over the full range of concentrations of interest. In each run, there will be 10 test coupons of each of the three surface materials. A positive control sample will be generated prior to each test sample. The positive control results will be used to 1) calculate RE values for the wipe sampling and analysis method, and 2) fit RE- and PCD-concentration equations, for each of the six surface materials. Data analyses will support 1) estimating the PCD for each combination of contaminant concentration and surface material, 2) estimating the surface concentrations and their uncertainties of the contaminant for each combination of concentration and surface material, 3) estimating RE (%) and their uncertainties for each combination of contaminant concentration and surface material, 4) fitting PCD-concentration and RE-concentration equations for each of the six surface materials, 5) assessing goodness-of-fit of the equations, and 6) quantifying the uncertainty in PCD and RE predictions made with the fitted equations.« less

36 CFR 9.82 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... may include aerial photography; remote sensing; hand-sampling of geologic materials; hand-sampling or....) and National Park Service policies concerning wilderness management and the use of motorized equipment...

Video Toroid Cavity Imager

DOEpatents

Gerald, II, Rex E.; Sanchez, Jairo; Rathke, Jerome W.

2004-08-10

A video toroid cavity imager for in situ measurement of electrochemical properties of an electrolytic material sample includes a cylindrical toroid cavity resonator containing the sample and employs NMR and video imaging for providing high-resolution spectral and visual information of molecular characteristics of the sample on a real-time basis. A large magnetic field is applied to the sample under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to simultaneously provide NMR spectroscopy and video imaging capabilities for investigating electrochemical transformations of materials or the evolution of long-range molecular aggregation during cooling of hydrocarbon melts. The video toroid cavity imager includes a miniature commercial video camera with an adjustable lens, a modified compression coin cell imager with a fiat circular principal detector element, and a sample mounted on a transparent circular glass disk, and provides NMR information as well as a video image of a sample, such as a polymer film, with micrometer resolution.

Concurrent Ultrasonic Tomography and Acoustic Emission in Solid Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chow, Thomas M.

A series of experiments were performed to detect stress induced changes in the elastic properties of various solid materials. A technique was developed where these changes were monitored concurrently by two methods, ultrasonic tomography and acoustic emission monitoring. This thesis discusses some experiments in which acoustic emission (AE) and ultrasonic tomography were performed on various samples of solid materials including rocks, concrete, metals, and fibre reinforced composites. Three separate techniques were used to induce stress in these samples. Disk shaped samples were subject to stress via diametral loading using an indirect tensile test geometry. Cylindrical samples of rocks and concrete were subject to hydraulic fracture tests, and rectangular samples of fibre reinforced composite were subject to direct tensile loading. The majority of the samples were elastically anisotropic. Full waveform acoustic emission and tomographic data were collected while these samples were under load to give information concerning changes in the structure of the material as it was undergoing stress change and/or failure. Analysis of this data indicates that AE and tomographic techniques mutually compliment each other to give a view of the stress induced elastic changes in the tested samples.

Improved explosive collection and detection with rationally assembled surface sampling materials

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

Chouyyok, Wilaiwan; Bays, J. Timothy; Gerasimenko, Aleksandr A.

Sampling and detection of trace explosives is a key analytical process in modern transportation safety. In this work we have explored some of the fundamental analytical processes for collection and detection of trace level explosive on surfaces with the most widely utilized system, thermal desorption IMS. The performance of the standard muslin swipe material was compared with chemically modified fiberglass cloth. The fiberglass surface was modified to include phenyl functional groups. When compared to standard muslin, the phenyl functionalized fiberglass sampling material showed better analyte release from the sampling material as well as improved response and repeatability from multiple usesmore » of the same swipe. The improved sample release of the functionalized fiberglass swipes resulted in a significant increase in sensitivity. Various physical and chemical properties were systematically explored to determine optimal performance. The results herein have relevance to improving the detection of other explosive compounds and potentially to a wide range of other chemical sampling and field detection challenges.« less

Detecting low levels of radionuclides in fluids

DOEpatents

Patch, Keith D.; Morgan, Dean T.

2000-01-01

An apparatus and method for detecting low levels of one or more radionuclides in a fluid sample uses a substrate that includes an ion exchange resin or other sorbent material to collect the radionuclides. A collecting apparatus includes a collecting chamber that exposes the substrate to a measured amount of the fluid sample such that radionuclides in the fluid sample are collected by the ion exchange resin. A drying apparatus, which can include a drying chamber, then dries the substrate. A measuring apparatus measures emissions from radionuclides collected on the substrate. The substrate is positioned in a measuring chamber proximate to a detector, which provides a signal in response to emissions from the radionuclides. Other analysis methods can be used to detect non-radioactive analytes, which can be collected with other types of sorbent materials.

Visible light laser voltage probing on thinned substrates

DOEpatents

Beutler, Joshua; Clement, John Joseph; Miller, Mary A.; Stevens, Jeffrey; Cole, Jr., Edward I.

2017-03-21

The various technologies presented herein relate to utilizing visible light in conjunction with a thinned structure to enable characterization of operation of one or more features included in an integrated circuit (IC). Short wavelength illumination (e.g., visible light) is applied to thinned samples (e.g., ultra-thinned samples) to achieve a spatial resolution for laser voltage probing (LVP) analysis to be performed on smaller technology node silicon-on-insulator (SOI) and bulk devices. Thinning of a semiconductor material included in the IC (e.g., backside material) can be controlled such that the thinned semiconductor material has sufficient thickness to enable operation of one or more features comprising the IC during LVP investigation.

Apparatus and method for critical current measurements

DOEpatents

Martin, Joe A.; Dye, Robert C.

1992-01-01

An apparatus for the measurement of the critical current of a superconductive sample, e.g., a clad superconductive sample, the apparatus including a conductive coil, a means for maintaining the coil in proximity to a superconductive sample, an electrical connection means for passing a low amplitude alternating current through the coil, a cooling means for maintaining the superconductive sample at a preselected temperature, a means for passing a current through the superconductive sample, and, a means for monitoring reactance of the coil, is disclosed, together with a process of measuring the critical current of a superconductive material, e.g., a clad superconductive material, by placing a superconductive material into the vicinity of the conductive coil of such an apparatus, cooling the superconductive material to a preselected temperature, passing a low amplitude alternating current through the coil, the alternating current capable of generating a magnetic field sufficient to penetrate, e.g., any cladding, and to induce eddy currents in the superconductive material, passing a steadily increasing current through the superconductive material, the current characterized as having a different frequency than the alternating current, and, monitoring the reactance of the coil with a phase sensitive detector as the current passed through the superconductive material is steadily increased whereby critical current of the superconductive material can be observed as the point whereat a component of impedance deviates.

Analysis of Environmental Contamination resulting from Catastrophic Incidents: Part two: Building Laboratory Capability by Selecting and Developing Analytical Methodologies

EPA Science Inventory

Catastrophic incidents can generate a large number of samples with analytically diverse types including forensic, clinical, environmental, food, and others. Environmental samples include water, wastewater, soil, air, urban building and infrastructure materials, and surface resid...

Compressive properties of passive skeletal muscle-the impact of precise sample geometry on parameter identification in inverse finite element analysis.

PubMed

Böl, Markus; Kruse, Roland; Ehret, Alexander E; Leichsenring, Kay; Siebert, Tobias

2012-10-11

Due to the increasing developments in modelling of biological material, adequate parameter identification techniques are urgently needed. The majority of recent contributions on passive muscle tissue identify material parameters solely by comparing characteristic, compressive stress-stretch curves from experiments and simulation. In doing so, different assumptions concerning e.g. the sample geometry or the degree of friction between the sample and the platens are required. In most cases these assumptions are grossly simplified leading to incorrect material parameters. In order to overcome such oversimplifications, in this paper a more reliable parameter identification technique is presented: we use the inverse finite element method (iFEM) to identify the optimal parameter set by comparison of the compressive stress-stretch response including the realistic geometries of the samples and the presence of friction at the compressed sample faces. Moreover, we judge the quality of the parameter identification by comparing the simulated and experimental deformed shapes of the samples. Besides this, the study includes a comprehensive set of compressive stress-stretch data on rabbit soleus muscle and the determination of static friction coefficients between muscle and PTFE. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Emergency Optically Stimulated Luminescence Dosimetry Using Different Materials

PubMed Central

Sholom, S; DeWitt, R; Simon, SL; Bouville, A; McKeever, SWS

2011-01-01

Several materials were tested as possible individual emergency dosimeters using Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) as means to assess the exposure. Materials investigated included human nails, business cards and plastic buttons. The OSL properties of these materials were studied in comparison with those of teeth. Most samples revealed OSL signals only after exposure to ionizing radiation; some samples of business cards, however, displayed a strong initial “native” signal (i.e. existing in the samples prior to irradiation). The sensitivity (minimum measurable dose) of the samples was found to vary significantly from sample to sample of the same material and was in the range from several tens of mGy to a few dozens of Gy. The dose response curves were linear for doses below 10 Gy. Fading of the OSL signals was estimated for different lenghts of times and found to be ~95%, 45%, 30% and 15% for samples of teeth, business cards, buttons and nails, respectively, following storage at room temperature in the dark for a period of 3 weeks after exposure. For samples stored under routine laboratory light, fading was much faster and the radiation-induced signals almost disappeared after a few hours of such illumination. It was concluded that the tested materials could be used in triage situations to detect and estimate the possible overexposure of individuals if the measurements can be performed soon enough after exposure. PMID:22125409

Emergency Optically Stimulated Luminescence Dosimetry Using Different Materials.

PubMed

Sholom, S; Dewitt, R; Simon, Sl; Bouville, A; McKeever, Sws

2011-12-01

Several materials were tested as possible individual emergency dosimeters using Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) as means to assess the exposure. Materials investigated included human nails, business cards and plastic buttons. The OSL properties of these materials were studied in comparison with those of teeth. Most samples revealed OSL signals only after exposure to ionizing radiation; some samples of business cards, however, displayed a strong initial "native" signal (i.e. existing in the samples prior to irradiation). The sensitivity (minimum measurable dose) of the samples was found to vary significantly from sample to sample of the same material and was in the range from several tens of mGy to a few dozens of Gy. The dose response curves were linear for doses below 10 Gy. Fading of the OSL signals was estimated for different lenghts of times and found to be ~95%, 45%, 30% and 15% for samples of teeth, business cards, buttons and nails, respectively, following storage at room temperature in the dark for a period of 3 weeks after exposure. For samples stored under routine laboratory light, fading was much faster and the radiation-induced signals almost disappeared after a few hours of such illumination. It was concluded that the tested materials could be used in triage situations to detect and estimate the possible overexposure of individuals if the measurements can be performed soon enough after exposure.

Portable Device Analyzes Rocks and Minerals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

inXitu Inc., of Mountain View, California, entered into a Phase II SBIR contract with Ames Research Center to develop technologies for the next generation of scientific instruments for materials analysis. The work resulted in a sample handling system that could find a wide range of applications in research and industrial laboratories as a means to load powdered samples for analysis or process control. Potential industries include chemical, cement, inks, pharmaceutical, ceramics, and forensics. Additional applications include characterizing materials that cannot be ground to a fine size, such as explosives and research pharmaceuticals.

Survey of techniques used to preserve biological materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feinler, E. J.; Hubbard, R. W.

1972-01-01

The techniques used to preserve biological materials are documented and summarized. The report is presented in a handbook format that categorizes the most important preservation techniques available, and includes a representative sampling of the thousands of applications of these techniques to biological materials and organisms. Details of the information coverage and method of approach are outlined. Data are given in tabular form, and an index and extensive bibliography are included.

Organic containment separator

DOEpatents

Del Mar, Peter

1995-01-01

A process of sample preparation prior to analysis for the concentration of an organic contaminant in an aqueous medium by (a) passing an initial aqueous medium including a minor amount of the organic contaminant through a composite tube including a polymeric base material selected from the group of polyolefins and polyfluorocarbons and particles of a carbon allotrope material adfixed to the inner wall of the polymeric base material, the composite tube having an internal diameter of from about 0.1 to about 2.0 millimeters and being of sufficient length to permit the organic contaminant to adhere to the composite tube, (b) passing a solvent through the composite tube, said solvent capable of separating the adhered organic contaminant from the composite tube. Further, an extraction apparatus for sample preparation prior to analysis for the concentration of an organic contaminant in an aqueous medium, said apparatus including a composite tube including a polymeric base material selected from the group of polyolefins and polyfluorocarbons and particles of a carbon allotrope material adfixed to the inner wall of the polymeric base material, the composite tube having an internal diameter of from about 0.1 to about 2.0 millimeters and being of sufficient length to permit an organic contaminant contained within an aqueous medium passed therethrough to adhere to the composite tube is disclosed.

Organic contaminant separator

DOEpatents

Mar, Peter D.

1994-01-01

A process of sample preparation prior to analysis for the concentration of an organic contaminant in an aqueous medium by (a) passing an initial aqueous medium including a minor amount of the organic contaminant through a composite tube including a polymeric base material selected from the group of polyolefins and polyfluorocarbons and particles of a carbon allotrope material adfixed to the inner wall of the polymeric base material, the composite tube having an internal diameter of from about 0.1 to about 2.0 millimeters and being of sufficient length to permit the organic contaminant to adhere to the composite tube, (b) passing a solvent through the composite tube, said solvent capable of separating the adhered organic contaminant from the composite tube. Further, an extraction apparatus for sample preparation prior to analysis for the concentration of an organic contaminant in an aqueous medium, said apparatus including a composite tube including a polymeric base material selected from the group of polyolefins and polyfluorocarbons and particles of a carbon allotrope material adfixed to the inner wall of the polymeric base material, the composite tube having an internal diameter of from about 0.1 to about 2.0 millimeters and being of sufficient length to permit an organic contaminant contained within an aqueous medium passed therethrough to adhere to the composite tube is disclosed.

Thermal Control Materials on MISSE-5 with Comparison to Earlier Flight Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria; Zwiener, James M.; Pippin, Gary

2007-01-01

A variety of thermal control materials were flown on the Materials on International Space Station Experiment (MISSE)-5. Several types of beta cloth, as used in multi-layer insulation blankets, were flown, including samples from the same batch as used on the International Space Station. Two candidate sunshade materials for the James Webb Space Telescope were also exposed on MISSE-5. The white thermal control coating AZ93 was applied to Kapton instead of aluminum; this sample maintained good solar absorptance and did not indicate any significant level of contamination to the MISSE-5 experiment. Marker coatings maintained their color. Thermo-optical properties are discussed, along with comparable data from MISSE-2 and the Passive Optical Sample Assembly (POSA) - I experiments.

Effectiveness of the training material in drug-dose calculation skills.

PubMed

Basak, Tulay; Aslan, Ozlem; Unver, Vesile; Yildiz, Dilek

2016-07-01

The aim of study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the training material based on low-level environmental fidelity simulation in drug-dose calculation skills in senior nursing students. A quasi-experimental design with one group. The sample included senior nursing students attending a nursing school in Turkey in the period December 2012-January 2013. Eighty-two senior nursing students were included in the sample. Data were obtained using a data collection form which was developed by the researchers. A paired-sample t-test was used to compare the pretest and post-test scores. The difference between the mean pretest score and the mean post-test score was statistically significant (P < 0.05). This study revealed that the training material based on low-level environmental fidelity simulation positively impacted accurate drug-dose calculation skills in senior nursing students. © 2016 Japan Academy of Nursing Science.

Annual radiological environmental operating report, Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, 1991

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

Not Available

1992-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring program conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in 1991. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiation levels.more » Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts of plant operations.« less

Curating NASA's Future Extraterrestrial Sample Collections: How Do We Achieve Maximum Proficiency?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCubbin, Francis; Evans, Cynthia; Zeigler, Ryan; Allton, Judith; Fries, Marc; Righter, Kevin; Zolensky, Michael

2016-01-01

The Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office (henceforth referred to herein as NASA Curation Office) at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) is responsible for curating all of NASA's extraterrestrial samples. Under the governing document, NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 7100.10E "Curation of Extraterrestrial Materials", JSC is charged with "The curation of all extraterrestrial material under NASA control, including future NASA missions." The Directive goes on to define Curation as including "... documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples for research, education, and public outreach." Here we describe some of the ongoing efforts to ensure that the future activities of the NASA Curation Office are working towards a state of maximum proficiency.

System for Packaging Planetary Samples for Return to Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Badescu, Mircea; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Backes, paul G.; Sherrit, Stewart; Bao, Xiaoqi; Scott, James S.

2010-01-01

A system is proposed for packaging material samples on a remote planet (especially Mars) in sealed sample tubes in preparation for later return to Earth. The sample tubes (Figure 1) would comprise (1) tubes initially having open tops and closed bottoms; (2) small, bellows-like collapsible bodies inside the tubes at their bottoms; and (3) plugs to be eventually used to close the tops of the tubes. The top inner surface of each tube would be coated with solder. The side of each plug, which would fit snugly into a tube, would feature a solder-filled ring groove. The system would include equipment for storing, manipulating, filling, and sealing the tubes. The containerization system (see Figure 2) will be organized in stations and will include: the storage station, the loading station, and the heating station. These stations can be structured in circular or linear pattern to minimize the manipulator complexity, allowing for compact design and mass efficiency. The manipulation of the sample tube between stations is done by a simple manipulator arm. The storage station contains the unloaded sample tubes and the plugs before sealing as well as the sealed sample tubes with samples after loading and sealing. The chambers at the storage station also allow for plug insertion into the sample tube. At the loading station the sample is poured or inserted into the sample tube and then the tube is topped off. At the heating station the plug is heated so the solder ring melts and seals the plug to the sample tube. The process is performed as follows: Each tube is filled or slightly overfilled with sample material and the excess sample material is wiped off the top. Then, the plug is inserted into the top section of the tube packing the sample material against the collapsible bellowslike body allowing the accommodation of the sample volume. The plug and the top of the tube are heated momentarily to melt the solder in order to seal the tube.

Above and Beyond: A Teacher Selected Bibliography of Instructional Materials for Use with Gifted and Talented Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Montgomery County Public Schools, Rockville, MD.

The bibliography includes references to approximately 1500 instructional materials for use with gifted and talented students. Entries usually include author's name, title, availability information and a brief annotation for the following areas (sample subtopics in parentheses): aesthetic education (recommended art and music textbooks); English…

Nanoconfinement platform for nanostructure quantification via grazing-transmission X-ray scattering

DOEpatents

Black, Charles T.; Yager, Kevin G.

2017-01-31

A nano-confinement platform that may allow improved quantification of the structural order of nanometer-scale systems. Sample-holder `chips` are designed for the GTSAXS experimental geometry. The platform involves fabricated nanostructured sample holders on and in one or more corners of a substrate support where the sample material of interest is positioned at the corner of the substrate support. In an embodiment, the substrate material making up the substrate support beneath the sample-holding area is removed. A scattering x-ray sample platform includes a substrate support arranged in a parallelepiped form, having a substantially flat base and a substantially flat top surface, the top surface being substantially parallel with the base, the parallelepiped having a plurality of corners. At least one corner of the substrate support has a sample holding area formed in the top surface of the substrate support and within a predetermined distance from the corner. The sample holding area includes a regular array of nano-wells formed in the top surface of the substrate support.

Steady-state low thermal resistance characterization apparatus: The bulk thermal tester

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

Burg, Brian R.; Kolly, Manuel; Blasakis, Nicolas

The reliability of microelectronic devices is largely dependent on electronic packaging, which includes heat removal. The appropriate packaging design therefore necessitates precise knowledge of the relevant material properties, including thermal resistance and thermal conductivity. Thin materials and high conductivity layers make their thermal characterization challenging. A steady state measurement technique is presented and evaluated with the purpose to characterize samples with a thermal resistance below 100 mm{sup 2} K/W. It is based on the heat flow meter bar approach made up by two copper blocks and relies exclusively on temperature measurements from thermocouples. The importance of thermocouple calibration is emphasizedmore » in order to obtain accurate temperature readings. An in depth error analysis, based on Gaussian error propagation, is carried out. An error sensitivity analysis highlights the importance of the precise knowledge of the thermal interface materials required for the measurements. Reference measurements on Mo samples reveal a measurement uncertainty in the range of 5% and most accurate measurements are obtained at high heat fluxes. Measurement techniques for homogeneous bulk samples, layered materials, and protruding cavity samples are discussed. Ultimately, a comprehensive overview of a steady state thermal characterization technique is provided, evaluating the accuracy of sample measurements with thermal resistances well below state of the art setups. Accurate characterization of materials used in heat removal applications, such as electronic packaging, will enable more efficient designs and ultimately contribute to energy savings.« less

Measurement of wood/plant cell or composite material attributes with computer assisted tomography

DOEpatents

West, Darrell C.; Paulus, Michael J.; Tuskan, Gerald A.; Wimmer, Rupert

2004-06-08

A method for obtaining wood-cell attributes from cellulose containing samples includes the steps of radiating a cellulose containing sample with a beam of radiation. Radiation attenuation information is collected from radiation which passes through the sample. The source is rotated relative to the sample and the radiation and collecting steps repeated. A projected image of the sample is formed from the collected radiation attenuation information, the projected image including resolvable features of the cellulose containing sample. Cell wall thickness, cell diameter (length) and cell vacoule diameter can be determined. A system for obtaining physical measures from cellulose containing samples includes a radiation source, a radiation detector, and structure for rotating the source relative to said sample. The system forms an image of the sample from the radiation attenuation information, the image including resolvable features of the sample.

Inorganic chemical analysis of environmental materials—A lecture series

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crock, J.G.; Lamothe, P.J.

2011-01-01

At the request of the faculty of the Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, the authors prepared and presented a lecture series to the students of a graduate level advanced instrumental analysis class. The slides and text presented in this report are a compilation and condensation of this series of lectures. The purpose of this report is to present the slides and notes and to emphasize the thought processes that should be used by a scientist submitting samples for analyses in order to procure analytical data to answer a research question. First and foremost, the analytical data generated can be no better than the samples submitted. The questions to be answered must first be well defined and the appropriate samples collected from the population that will answer the question. The proper methods of analysis, including proper sample preparation and digestion techniques, must then be applied. Care must be taken to achieve the required limits of detection of the critical analytes to yield detectable analyte concentration (above "action" levels) for the majority of the study's samples and to address what portion of those analytes answer the research question-total or partial concentrations. To guarantee a robust analytical result that answers the research question(s), a well-defined quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) plan must be employed. This QA/QC plan must include the collection and analysis of field and laboratory blanks, sample duplicates, and matrix-matched standard reference materials (SRMs). The proper SRMs may include in-house materials and/or a selection of widely available commercial materials. A discussion of the preparation and applicability of in-house reference materials is also presented. Only when all these analytical issues are sufficiently addressed can the research questions be answered with known certainty.

Simultaneous multi-beam planar array IR (pair) spectroscopy

DOEpatents

Elmore, Douglas L.; Rabolt, John F.; Tsao, Mei-Wei

2005-09-13

An apparatus and method capable of providing spatially multiplexed IR spectral information simultaneously in real-time for multiple samples or multiple spatial areas of one sample using IR absorption phenomena requires no moving parts or Fourier Transform during operation, and self-compensates for background spectra and degradation of component performance over time. IR spectral information and chemical analysis of the samples is determined by using one or more IR sources, sampling accessories for positioning the samples, optically dispersive elements, a focal plane array (FPA) arranged to detect the dispersed light beams, and a processor and display to control the FPA, and display an IR spectrograph. Fiber-optic coupling can be used to allow remote sensing. Portability, reliability, and ruggedness is enhanced due to the no-moving part construction. Applications include determining time-resolved orientation and characteristics of materials, including polymer monolayers. Orthogonal polarizers may be used to determine certain material characteristics.

Cutaway line drawing of STS-34 middeck experiment Polymer Morphology (PM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

Cutaway line drawing shows components of STS-34 middeck experiment Polymer Morphology (PM). Components include the EAC, heat exchanger, sample cell control (SCC), sample cells, source, interferometer, electronics, carousel drive, infrared (IR) beam, and carousel. PM, a 3M-developed organic materials processing experiment, is designed to explore the effects of microgravity on polymeric materials as they are processed in space. The samples of polymeric materials being studied in the PM experiment are thin films (25 microns or less) approximately 25mm in diameter. The samples are mounted between two infrared transparent windows in a specially designed infrared cell that provides the capability of thermally processing the samples to 200 degrees Celsius with a high degree of thermal control. The samples are mounted on a carousel that allows them to be positioned, one at a time, in the infrared beam where spectra may be acquired. The Generic Electronics Module (GEM) provides all carousel and

Evaluation of Space Power Materials Flown on the Passive Optical Sample Assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jaworske, Donald A.; deGroh, Kim K.; Skowronski, Timothy J.; McCollum, Tim; Pippin, Gary; Bungay, Corey

1999-01-01

Evaluating the performance of materials on the exterior of spacecraft is of continuing interest, particularly in anticipation of those applications that will require a long duration in low Earth orbit. The Passive Optical Sample Assembly (POSA) experiment flown on the exterior of Mir as a risk mitigation experiment for the International Space Station was designed to better understand the interaction of materials with the low Earth orbit environment and to better understand the potential contamination threats that may be present in the vicinity of spacecraft. Deterioration in the optical performance of candidate space power materials due to the low Earth orbit environment, the contamination environment, or both, must be evaluated in order to propose measures to mitigate such deterioration. The thirty two samples of space power materials studied here include solar array blanket materials such as polyimide Kapton H and SiO(x) coated polyimide Kapton H, front surface aluminized sapphire, solar dynamic concentrator materials such as silver on spin coated polyimide and aluminum on spin coated polyimide, CV 1144 silicone, and the thermal control paint Z-93-P. The physical and optical properties that were evaluated prior to and after the POSA flight include mass, total, diffuse, and specular reflectance, solar absorptance, and infrared emittance. Additional post flight evaluation included scanning electron microscopy to observe surface features caused by the low Earth orbit environment and the contamination environment, and variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry to identify contaminant type and thickness. This paper summarizes the results of pre- and post-flight measurements, identifies the mechanisms responsible for optical properties deterioration, and suggests improvements for the durability of materials in future missions.

Materials and Nondestructive Evaluation Laboratoriers: User Test Planning Guide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaschl, Leslie

2011-01-01

The Materials and Nondestructive Evaluation Laboratory process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users. The Materials and Nondestructive Evaluation Laboratory Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non- NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware developers. It is intended to assist their project engineering personnel in materials analysis planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the analysis process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, products, and inputs necessary to define scope of analysis, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

Advanced Curation Preparation for Mars Sample Return and Cold Curation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fries, M. D.; Harrington, A. D.; McCubbin, F. M.; Mitchell, J.; Regberg, A. B.; Snead, C.

2017-01-01

NASA Curation is tasked with the care and distribution of NASA's sample collections, such as the Apollo lunar samples and cometary material collected by the Stardust spacecraft. Curation is also mandated to perform Advanced Curation research and development, which includes improving the curation of existing collections as well as preparing for future sample return missions. Advanced Curation has identified a suite of technologies and techniques that will require attention ahead of Mars sample return (MSR) and missions with cold curation (CCur) requirements, perhaps including comet sample return missions.

Morphological effects on sensitivity of heterogeneous energetic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, Sidhartha; Rai, Nirmal; Sen, Oishik; Udaykumar, H. S.

2017-06-01

The mesoscale physical response under shock loading in heterogeneous energetics is inherently linked to the microstructural characteristics. The current work demonstrates the connection between the microstructural features of porous energetic material and its sensitivity. A unified levelset based framework is developed to characterize the microstructures of a given sample. Several morphological metrics describing the mesoscale geometry of the materials are extracted using the current tool including anisotropy, tortuosity, surface to volume, nearest neighbors, size and curvature distributions. The relevant metrics among the ones extracted are identified and correlated to the mesoscale response of the energetic materials under shock loading. Two classes of problems are considered here: (a) field of idealized voids embedded in the HMX material and (b) real samples of pressed HMX. The effects of stochasticity associated with void arrangements on the sensitivity of the energetic material samples are shown. In summary, this work demonstrates the relationship between the mesoscale morphology and shock response of heterogeneous energetic materials using a levelset based framework.

Correlation between von Mises strain and material thinning in a hydroformed sample of Ti35A aerospace grade titanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bell, Colin; Jump, Ellen; Kerr, William; Corney, Jonathan; Zuelli, Nicola; Savings, David

2017-10-01

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the strain measured on a sample of Ti35A (commercially pure) titanium that was formed past the point of failure in a hydroforming operation. The sample was etched prior to forming to allow for a strain map of the exterior to be created and examined by using a circle grid analysis (CGA) technique. The sample was scanned post forming with precise optical inspection to ascertain an accurate model of its geometry. This paper discusses the results of the analyses including the full geometric and surface strain measurements. This paper then compares material thinning properties to strain values and finds a linear relationship of approximately 3:1 between Von Mises strain and material thinning percentage throughout the sample. The slope of the line appears to correlate strongly with the material's Poisson's ratio and could have potential uses in process planning.

Solar wind radiation damage effects in lunar material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hapke, B.; Cohen, A. J.; Cassidy, W. A.

1971-01-01

The research on solar wind radiation damage and other effects in lunar samples which was conducted to understand the optical properties of lunar materials is reported. Papers presented include: solar radiation effects in lunar samples, albedo of the moon, radiation effects in lunar crystalline rocks, valence states of 3rd transition elements in Apollo 11 and 12 rocks, and trace ferric iron in lunar and meteoritic titanaugites.

High throughput liquid absorption preconcentrator sampling instrument

DOEpatents

Zaromb, Solomon; Bozen, Ralph M.

1992-01-01

A system for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container comprising a wettable material. The wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid which flows from one part of the container to a lower end. Sampled air flows through the container in contact with the wetted material with a swirling motion which results in efficient transfer of analyte vapors or aerosol particles to the sorbing liquid and preconcentration of traces of analyte in the liquid. The preconcentrated traces of analyte may be either detected within the container or removed therefrom for injection into a separate detection means or for subsequent analysis.

High-throughput liquid-absorption preconcentrator sampling methods

DOEpatents

Zaromb, Solomon

1994-01-01

A system for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container comprising a wettable material. The wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid which flows from one part of the container to a lower end. Sampled air flows through the container in contact with the wetted material with a swirling motion which results in efficient transfer of analyte vapors or aerosol particles to the sorbing liquid and preconcentration of traces of analyte in the liquid. The preconcentrated traces of analyte may be either detected within the container or removed therefrom for injection into a separate detection means or for subsequent analysis.

High throughput liquid absorption preconcentrator sampling instrument

DOEpatents

Zaromb, S.; Bozen, R.M.

1992-12-22

A system for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container comprising a wettable material. The wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid which flows from one part of the container to a lower end. Sampled air flows through the container in contact with the wetted material with a swirling motion which results in efficient transfer of analyte vapors or aerosol particles to the sorbing liquid and preconcentration of traces of analyte in the liquid. The preconcentrated traces of analyte may be either detected within the container or removed therefrom for injection into a separate detection means or for subsequent analysis. 12 figs.

High-throughput liquid-absorption preconcentrator sampling methods

DOEpatents

Zaromb, S.

1994-07-12

A system for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container comprising a wettable material. The wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid which flows from one part of the container to a lower end. Sampled air flows through the container in contact with the wetted material with a swirling motion which results in efficient transfer of analyte vapors or aerosol particles to the sorbing liquid and preconcentration of traces of analyte in the liquid. The preconcentrated traces of analyte may be either detected within the container or removed therefrom for injection into a separate detection means or for subsequent analysis. 12 figs.

Inverse Analysis of Irradiated NuclearMaterial Gamma Spectra via Nonlinear Optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dean, Garrett James

Nuclear forensics is the collection of technical methods used to identify the provenance of nuclear material interdicted outside of regulatory control. Techniques employed in nuclear forensics include optical microscopy, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and alpha, beta, and gamma spectrometry. This dissertation focuses on the application of inverse analysis to gamma spectroscopy to estimate the history of pulse irradiated nuclear material. Previous work in this area has (1) utilized destructive analysis techniques to supplement the nondestructive gamma measurements, and (2) been applied to samples composed of spent nuclear fuel with long irradiation and cooling times. Previous analyses have employed local nonlinear solvers, simple empirical models of gamma spectral features, and simple detector models of gamma spectral features. The algorithm described in this dissertation uses a forward model of the irradiation and measurement process within a global nonlinear optimizer to estimate the unknown irradiation history of pulse irradiated nuclear material. The forward model includes a detector response function for photopeaks only. The algorithm uses a novel hybrid global and local search algorithm to quickly estimate the irradiation parameters, including neutron fluence, cooling time and original composition. Sequential, time correlated series of measurements are used to reduce the uncertainty in the estimated irradiation parameters. This algorithm allows for in situ measurements of interdicted irradiated material. The increase in analysis speed comes with a decrease in information that can be determined, but the sample fluence, cooling time, and composition can be determined within minutes of a measurement. Furthermore, pulse irradiated nuclear material has a characteristic feature that irradiation time and flux cannot be independently estimated. The algorithm has been tested against pulse irradiated samples of pure special nuclear material with cooling times of four minutes to seven hours. The algorithm described is capable of determining the cooling time and fluence the sample was exposed to within 10% as well as roughly estimating the relative concentrations of nuclides present in the original composition.

Methods for determination of inorganic substances in water and fluvial sediments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fishman, Marvin J.; Friedman, Linda C.

1989-01-01

Chapter Al of the laboratory manual contains methods used by the U.S. Geological Survey to analyze samples of water, suspended sediments, and bottom material for their content of inorganic constituents. Included are methods for determining the concentration of dissolved constituents in water, the total recoverable and total of constituents in water-suspended sediment samples, and the recoverable and total concentrations of constituents in samples of bottom material. The introduction to the manual includes essential definitions and a brief discussion of the use of significant figures in calculating and reporting analytical results. Quality control in the water-analysis laboratory is discussed, including the accuracy and precision of analyses, the use of standard-reference water samples, and the operation of an effective quality-assurance program. Methods for sample preparation and pretreatment are given also. A brief discussion of the principles of the analytical techniques involved and their particular application to water and sediment analysis is presented. The analytical methods of these techniques are arranged alphabetically by constituent. For each method, the general topics covered are the application, the principle of the method, the interferences, the apparatus and reagents required, a detailed description of the analytical procedure, reporting results, units and significant figures, and analytical precision data, when available. More than 126 methods are given for the determination of 70 inorganic constituents and physical properties of water, suspended sediment, and bottom material.

Methods for determination of inorganic substances in water and fluvial sediments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fishman, Marvin J.; Friedman, Linda C.

1985-01-01

Chapter Al of the laboratory manual contains methods used by the Geological Survey to analyze samples of water, suspended sediments, and bottom material for their content of inorganic constituents. Included are methods for determining the concentration of dissolved constituents in water, total recoverable and total of constituents in water-suspended sediment samples, and recoverable and total concentrations of constituents in samples of bottom material. Essential definitions are included in the introduction to the manual, along with a brief discussion of the use of significant figures in calculating and reporting analytical results. Quality control in the water-analysis laboratory is discussed, including accuracy and precision of analyses, the use of standard reference water samples, and the operation of an effective quality assurance program. Methods for sample preparation and pretreatment are given also.A brief discussion of the principles of the analytical techniques involved and their particular application to water and sediment analysis is presented. The analytical methods involving these techniques are arranged alphabetically according to constituent. For each method given, the general topics covered are application, principle of the method, interferences, apparatus and reagents required, a detailed description of the analytical procedure, reporting results, units and significant figures, and analytical precision data, when available. More than 125 methods are given for the determination of 70 different inorganic constituents and physical properties of water, suspended sediment, and bottom material.

The Southwest Research Institute ultraviolet reflectance chamber (SwURC): a far ultraviolet reflectometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winters, Gregory S.; Retherford, Kurt D.; Davis, Michael W.; Escobedo, Stephen M.; Bassett, Eric C.; Patrick, Edward L.; Nagengast, Maggie E.; Fairbanks, Matthew H.; Miles, Paul F.; Parker, Joel W.; Gladstone, G. Randall; Slater, David C.; Stern, S. Alan

2012-10-01

We designed and assembled a highly capable UV reflectometer chamber and data acquisition system to provide bidirectional scattering data of various surfaces and materials. This chamber was initially conceived to create laboratory-based UV reflectance measurements of water frost on lunar soil/regolith simulants, to support interpretation of UV reflectance data from the Lyman Alpha Mapping Project ("LAMP") instrument on-board the NASA Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter spacecraft. A deuterium lamp illuminates surfaces and materials at a fixed 45° incident beam angle over the 115 to 200 nm range via a monochromator, while a photomultiplier tube detector is scanned to cover emission angles -85° to +85° (with a gap from -60° to -30°, due to the detector blocking the incident beam). Liquid nitrogen cools the material/sample mount when desired. The chamber can be configured to test a wide range of samples and materials using sample trays and holders. Test surfaces to date include aluminum mirrors, water ice, reflectance standards, and frozen mixtures of water and lunar soil/regolith stimulant. Future UV measurements planned include Apollo lunar samples, meteorite samples, other ices, minerals, and optical surfaces. Since this chamber may well be able to provide useful research data for groups outside Southwest Research Institute, we plan to take requests from and collaborate with others in the UV and surface reflection research community.

Mechanical properties of ion-beam-textured surgical implant alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weigand, A. J.

1977-01-01

An electron-bombardment Hg ion thruster was used as an ion source to texture surfaces of materials used to make orthopedic and/or dental prostheses or implants. The materials textured include 316 stainless steel, titanium-6% aluminum, 4% vanadium, and cobalt-20% chromium, 15% tungsten. To determine the effect of ion texturing on the ultimate strength and yield strength, stainless steel and Co-Cr-W alloy samples were tensile tested to failure. Three types of samples of both materials were tested. One type was ion-textured (the process also heats each sample to 300 C), another type was simply heated to 300 C in an oven, and the third type was untreated. Stress-strain diagrams, 0.2% offset yield strength data, total elongation data, and area reduction data are presented. Fatigue specimens of ion textured and untextured 316 stainless steel and Ti-6% Al-4% V were tested. Included as an ion textured sample is a Ti-6% Al-4% V sample which was ion machined by means of Ni screen mask so as to produce an array of 140 mu m x 140 mu m x 60 mu m deep pits. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the ion textured surfaces.

Nematocarcinus Milne Edwards, 1881 (Crustacea, Decapoda) from Southwestern Atlantic, including the Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge area.

PubMed

Cardoso, Irene A; Burukovsky, Rudolf N

2014-11-26

The deep sea shrimp genus Nematocarcinus Milne Edwards, 1881 includes 47 species, ten of them have been recorded from the Atlantic Ocean. Herein, material sampled during three scientific projects (REVIZEE Central Fishery project; Campos Basin Deep Sea Environmental Project; Evaluation of Environmental Heterogeneity in the Campos Basin) made in the Southwestern Atlantic, off Brazil, is examined. In addition, material sampled from the South Mid Atlantic Ridge (MAR-ECO Project) was also examined. Four species are recorded for the first time to the southwestern Atlantic Ocean including Mid Atlantic Ridge area: Nematocarcinus faxoni Burukovsky, 2001; N. gracilipes Filhol, 1884; N. rotundus Crosnier & Forest, 1973 and N. tenuipes Spence-Bate, 1888.

Frontiers of in situ electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Zheng, Haimei; Zhu, Yimei; Meng, Shirley Ying

2015-01-01

In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has become an increasingly important tool for materials characterization. It provides key information on the structural dynamics of a material during transformations and the correlation between structure and properties of materials. With the recent advances in instrumentation, including aberration corrected optics, sample environment control, the sample stage, and fast and sensitive data acquisition, in situ TEM characterization has become more and more powerful. In this article, a brief review of the current status and future opportunities of in situ TEM is included. It also provides an introduction to the six articles covered by inmore » this issue of MRS Bulletin explore the frontiers of in situ electron microscopy, including liquid and gas environmental TEM, dynamic four-dimensional TEM, nanomechanics, ferroelectric domain switching studied by in situ TEM, and state-of-the-art atomic imaging of light elements (i.e., carbon atoms) and individual defects.« less

Commutability of food microbiology proficiency testing samples.

PubMed

Abdelmassih, M; Polet, M; Goffaux, M-J; Planchon, V; Dierick, K; Mahillon, J

2014-03-01

Food microbiology proficiency testing (PT) is a useful tool to assess the analytical performances among laboratories. PT items should be close to routine samples to accurately evaluate the acceptability of the methods. However, most PT providers distribute exclusively artificial samples such as reference materials or irradiated foods. This raises the issue of the suitability of these samples because the equivalence-or 'commutability'-between results obtained on artificial vs. authentic food samples has not been demonstrated. In the clinical field, the use of noncommutable PT samples has led to erroneous evaluation of the performances when different analytical methods were used. This study aimed to provide a first assessment of the commutability of samples distributed in food microbiology PT. REQUASUD and IPH organized 13 food microbiology PTs including 10-28 participants. Three types of PT items were used: genuine food samples, sterile food samples and reference materials. The commutability of the artificial samples (reference material or sterile samples) was assessed by plotting the distribution of the results on natural and artificial PT samples. This comparison highlighted matrix-correlated issues when nonfood matrices, such as reference materials, were used. Artificially inoculated food samples, on the other hand, raised only isolated commutability issues. In the organization of a PT-scheme, authentic or artificially inoculated food samples are necessary to accurately evaluate the analytical performances. Reference materials, used as PT items because of their convenience, may present commutability issues leading to inaccurate penalizing conclusions for methods that would have provided accurate results on food samples. For the first time, the commutability of food microbiology PT samples was investigated. The nature of the samples provided by the organizer turned out to be an important factor because matrix effects can impact on the analytical results. © 2013 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Preparation of a Carbon Doped Tissue-Mimicking Material with High Dielectric Properties for Microwave Imaging Application

PubMed Central

Lan, Siang-Wen; Weng, Min-Hang; Yang, Ru-Yuan; Chang, Shoou-Jinn; Chung, Yaoh-Sien; Yu, Tsung-Chih; Wu, Chun-Sen

2016-01-01

In this paper, the oil-in-gelatin based tissue-mimicking materials (TMMs) doped with carbon based materials including carbon nanotube, graphene ink or lignin were prepared. The volume percent for gelatin based mixtures and oil based mixtures were both around 50%, and the doping amounts were 2 wt %, 4 wt %, and 6 wt %. The effect of doping material and amount on the microwave dielectric properties including dielectric constant and conductivity were investigated over an ultra-wide frequency range from 2 GHz to 20 GHz. The coaxial open-ended reflection technology was used to evaluate the microwave dielectric properties. Six measured values in different locations of each sample were averaged and the standard deviations of all the measured dielectric properties, including dielectric constant and conductivity, were less than one, indicating a good uniformity of the prepared samples. Without doping, the dielectric constant was equal to 23 ± 2 approximately. Results showed with doping of carbon based materials that the dielectric constant and conductivity both increased about 5% to 20%, and the increment was dependent on the doping amount. By proper selection of doping amount of the carbon based materials, the prepared material could map the required dielectric properties of special tissues. The proposed materials were suitable for the phantom used in the microwave medical imaging system. PMID:28773678

Sediment sources in the Lake Tahoe Basin, California-Nevada; preliminary results of a four-year study, August 1983-September 1987

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hill, B.R.; Hill, J.R.; Nolan, K.M.

1988-01-01

Data were collected during a 4-yr study of sediment sources in four drainage basins tributary to Lake Tahoe, California-Nevada. The study areas include the Blackwood, General, Edgewood, and Logan House Creek basins. Data include changes in bank and bed positions at channel cross sections; results of stream-channel mapping; analyses of bank and bed material samples; tabulations of bed material point counts; measured rates of hillslope erosion; dimensions of gullies; suspended-sediment data collected during synoptic snowmelt sampling; and physiographic data for the four study basins. (USGS)

Sediment-source data for four basins tributary to Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada; August 1983-June 1988

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hill, B.R.; Hill, J.R.; Nolan, K.M.

1990-01-01

Data were collected during a 5-year study of sediment sources in four drainage basins tributary to Lake Tahoe, California-Nevada. The study areas include the Blackwood Creek, General Creek, Edgewood Creek, and Logan House Creek basins. Data include changes in bank and bed positions at channel cross sections; results of stream-channel inventories; analyses of bank and bed material samples; tabulations of bed-material pebble counts; measured rates of hillslope erosion; dimensions of gullies; suspended-sediment data collected during synoptic snowmelt sampling; and physiographic data for the four study basins. (USGS)

The Lewis Research Center geomagnetic substorm simulation facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berkopec, F. D.; Stevens, N. J.; Sturman, J. C.

1977-01-01

A simulation facility was established to determine the response of typical spacecraft materials to the geomagnetic substorm environment and to evaluate instrumentation that will be used to monitor spacecraft system response to this environment. Space environment conditions simulated include the thermal-vacuum conditions of space, solar simulation, geomagnetic substorm electron fluxes and energies, and the low energy plasma environment. Measurements for spacecraft material tests include sample currents, sample surface potentials, and the cumulative number of discharges. Discharge transients are measured by means of current probes and oscilloscopes and are verified by a photomultiplier. Details of this facility and typical operating procedures are presented.

Physical-property, water-quality, plankton, and bottom-material data for Devils Lake and East Devils Lake, North Dakota, September 1988 through October 1990

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sando, Steven K.; Sether, Bradley A.

1993-01-01

Physical-properties were measured and water-quality, plankton, and bottom-material samples were collected at 10 sites in Devils Lake and East Devils Lake during September 1988 through October 1990 to study water-quality variability and water-quality and plankton relations in Devils Lake and East Devils Lake. Physical properties measured include specific conductance, pH, water temperature, dissolved-oxygen concentration, water transparency, and light transmission. Water-quality samples were analyzed for concentrations of major ions, selected nutrients, and selected trace elements. Plankton samples were examined for identification and enumeration of phytoplankton and zooplankton species, and bottom-material samples were analyzed for concentrations of selected nutrients. Data-collection procedures are discussed and the data are presented in tabular form.

Sample Curation in Support of the OSIRIS-REx Asteroid Sample Return Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Righter, Kevin; Nakamura-Messenger, Keiko

2017-01-01

The OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission launched to asteroid Bennu Sept. 8, 2016. The spacecraft will arrive at Bennu in late 2019, orbit and map the asteroid, and perform a touch and go (TAG) sampling maneuver in July 2020. After sample is stowed and confirmed the spacecraft will return to Earth, and the sample return capsule (SRC) will land in Utah in September 2023. Samples will be recovered from Utah [2] and then transported and stored in a new sample cleanroom at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston [3]. The materials curated for the mission are described here. a) Materials Archive and Witness Plate Collection: The SRC and TAGSAM were built between March 2014 and Summer of 2015, and instruments (OTES,OVIRS, OLA, OCAMS, REXIS) were integrated from Summer 2015 until May 2016. A total of 395 items were received for the materials archive at NASA-JSC, with archiving finishing 30 days after launch (with the final archived items being related to launch operations)[4]. The materials fall into several general categories including metals (stainless steel, aluminum, titanium alloys, brass and BeCu alloy), epoxies, paints, polymers, lubricants, non-volatile-residue samples (NVR), sapphire, and various miscellaneous materials. All through the ATLO process (from March 2015 until late August 2016) contamination knowledge witness plates (Si wafer and Al foil) were deployed in the various cleanrooms in Denver and KSC to provide an additional record of particle counts and volatiles that is archived for current and future scientific studies. These plates were deployed in roughly monthly increments with each unit containing 4 Si wafers and 4 Al foils. We archived 128 individual witness plates (64 Si wafers and 64 Al foils); one of each witness plate (Si and Al) was analyzed immediately by the science team after archiving, while the remaining 3 of each are archived indefinitely. Information about each material archived is stored in an extensive database at NASA-JSC, and key summary information for each will be presented in an online catalog. b) Bulk Asteroid sample: The Touch and Go Sampling Mechanism (TAGSAM) head will contain up to 1.5 kg of asteroid material. Upon return to Earth, the TAGSAM head with the sample canister will be subjected to a nitrogen purge and then opened in a nitrogen cabinet in Houston. Once the TAGSAM head is removed from the canister, it will be dis-assembled slowly and carefully under nitrogen until the sample can be removed for processing in a dedicated nitrogen glovebox. Bennu surface samples are expected to be sub-cm sized, based on thermal infrared and radar polarization ratio measurements [1]. The upper limit on material collected by the TAGSAM head is 2 cm. Therefore, we will be prepared to handle, subdivide, and characterize materials of a wide grain size (from 10 ?m to 2 cm), and for both organic (UV fluorescence) and inorganic (SEM, FTIR, optical) properties. Representative portions of the bulk sample will be prepared for JAXA (0.5 %; see also [5]) and Canadian Space Agency (4%), with the remaining divided between the science team (<25%) and archived for future studies (NASA) (>75%). c) Contact Pad samples: The base of the TAGSAM head contains 24 contact pads that are designed to trap the upper surface layer of material and thus offer an opportunity to study asteroid samples that have resided at the very top surface of the regolith. Asteroid material is trapped on the pads in spring steel Velcro hooks, and material will have to be removed from these pads by curation specialists in the lab. d) Hardware: Some canister and SRC hardware items will contain information that will be important to understanding the collected samples, including the canister gas filter, temperature strips, flight witness plates, and the TAGSAM and canister parts that might have adhering dust grains. Some challenges remaining for both bulk sample and contact pad samples include: i) working with intermediate size range (200 to 500 micron) samples - a size range NASA has not previously worked in such detail; ii) techniques for removal of contact pad material from the spring steel hooks, iii) static electrical effects of dust sized particles during sample handling and curation is likely to be significant, and iv) the TAGSAM head and associated canister hardware will undoubtedly be coated with fine adhering dust grains from Bennu. In the case of collection of a large bulk sample mass, the adhering dust grains may be of lower priority. If a small sample mass is returned, the adhering dust may attain a higher priority, so recovery of adhering dust grains is an additional challenge to consider. In the year leading up to sample return we plan a variety of sample handling rehearsals that will enables the curation team to be prepared for many new aspects posed by this sample suite.

Uranium Enrichment Safeguards

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

Demuth, Scott F.; Trahan, Alexis Chanel

2017-06-26

DIV of facility layout, material flows, and other information provided in the DIQ. Material accountancy through an annual PIV and a number of interim inventory verifications, including UF6 cylinder identification and counting, NDA of cylinders, and DA on a sample collection of UF6. Application of C/S technologies utilizing seals and tamper-indicating devices (TIDs) on cylinders, containers, storage rooms, and IAEA instrumentation to provide continuity of knowledge between inspection. Verification of the absence of undeclared material and operations, especially HEU production, through SNRIs, LFUA of cascade halls, and environmental swipe sampling

An Experimental Study of Launch Vehicle Propellant Tank Fragmentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, Erin; Jackson, Austin; Hays, Michael; Bangham, Mike; Blackwood, James; Skinner, Troy; Richman, Ben

2014-01-01

In order to better understand launch vehicle abort environments, Bangham Engineering Inc. (BEi) built a test assembly that fails sample materials (steel and aluminum plates of various alloys and thicknesses) under quasi-realistic vehicle failure conditions. Samples are exposed to pressures similar to those expected in vehicle failure scenarios and filmed at high speed to increase understanding of complex fracture mechanics. After failure, the fragments of each test sample are collected, catalogued and reconstructed for further study. Post-test analysis shows that aluminum samples consistently produce fewer fragments than steel samples of similar thickness and at similar failure pressures. Video analysis shows that there are several failure 'patterns' that can be observed for all test samples based on configuration. Fragment velocities are also measured from high speed video data. Sample thickness and material are analyzed for trends in failure pressure. Testing is also done with cryogenic and noncryogenic liquid loading on the samples. It is determined that liquid loading and cryogenic temperatures can decrease material fragmentation for sub-flight thicknesses. A method is developed for capture and collection of fragments that is greater than 97 percent effective in recovering sample mass, addressing the generation of tiny fragments. Currently, samples tested do not match actual launch vehicle propellant tank material thicknesses because of size constraints on test assembly, but test findings are used to inform the design and build of another, larger test assembly with the purpose of testing actual vehicle flight materials that include structural components such as iso-grid and friction stir welds.

High temperature flow-through device for rapid solubilization and analysis

DOEpatents

West, Jason A. A. [Castro Valley, CA; Hukari, Kyle W [San Ramon, CA; Patel, Kamlesh D [Dublin, CA; Peterson, Kenneth A [Albuquerque, NM; Renzi, Ronald F [Tracy, CA

2009-09-22

Devices and methods for thermally lysing of biological material, for example vegetative bacterial cells and bacterial spores, are provided. Hot solution methods for solubilizing bacterial spores are described. Systems for direct analysis are disclosed including thermal lysers coupled to sample preparation stations. Integrated systems capable of performing sample lysis, labeling and protein fingerprint analysis of biological material, for example, vegetative bacterial cells, bacterial spores and viruses are provided.

High temperature flow-through device for rapid solubilization and analysis

DOEpatents

West, Jason A. A.; Hukari, Kyle W.; Patel, Kamlesh D.; Peterson, Kenneth A.; Renzi, Ronald F.

2013-04-23

Devices and methods for thermally lysing of biological material, for example vegetative bacterial cells and bacterial spores, are provided. Hot solution methods for solubilizing bacterial spores are described. Systems for direct analysis are disclosed including thermal lysers coupled to sample preparation stations. Integrated systems capable of performing sample lysis, labeling and protein fingerprint analysis of biological material, for example, vegetative bacterial cells, bacterial spores and viruses are provided.

Abundant Solar Nebula Solids in Comets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Messenger, S.; Keller, L. P.; Nakamura-Messenger, K.; Nguyen, A. N.; Clemett, S.

2016-01-01

Comets have been proposed to consist of unprocessed interstellar materials together with a variable amount of thermally annealed interstellar grains. Recent studies of cometary solids in the laboratory have shown that comets instead consist of a wide range of materials from across the protoplanetary disk, in addition to a minor complement of interstellar materials. These advances were made possible by the return of direct samples of comet 81P/Wild 2 coma dust by the NASA Stardust mission and recent advances in microscale analytical techniques. Isotopic studies of 'cometary' chondritic porous interplanetary dust particles (CP-IDPs) and comet 81P/Wild 2 Stardust samples show that preserved interstellar materials are more abundant in comets than in any class of meteorite. Identified interstellar materials include sub-micron-sized presolar silicates, oxides, and SiC dust grains and some fraction of the organic material that binds the samples together. Presolar grain abundances reach 1 weight percentage in the most stardust-rich CP-IDPs, 50 times greater than in meteorites. Yet, order of magnitude variations in presolar grain abundances among CP-IDPs suggest cometary solids experienced significant variations in the degree of processing in the solar nebula. Comets contain a surprisingly high abundance of nebular solids formed or altered at high temperatures. Comet 81P/Wild 2 samples include 10-40 micron-sized, refractory Ca- Al-rich inclusion (CAI)-, chondrule-, and ameboid olivine aggregate (AOA)-like materials. The O isotopic compositions of these refractory materials are remarkably similar to their meteoritic counterparts, ranging from 5 percent enrichments in (sup 16) O to near-terrestrial values. Comet 81P/Wild 2 and CP-IDPs also contain abundant Mg-Fe crystalline and amorphous silicates whose O isotopic compositions are also consistent with Solar System origins. Unlike meteorites, that are dominated by locally-produced materials, comets appear to be composed of materials that were formed across a wide swath of the early protoplanetary disk.

Nondestructive Evaluation of Airport Pavements. Volume I. Program References,

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-09-01

greater than its original capacity (see test 13 on Fig. 2.5). During the material tests by Majidzadeh, the dynamic E-value of frozen subgrade soil was...Sample the base and subbase material by conventional spoon and identify the material by standard soil -aggregate classification and penetration...such as shaker table. The new testing specification is designed for all paving materials including subgrade soils . The specifications of material

On wiping the interior walls of 37-mm closed-face cassettes: an OSHA perspective.

PubMed

Hendricks, Warren; Stones, Fern; Lillquist, Dean

2009-12-01

As early as 1976, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) methods for analyzing metal samples collected using 37-mm polystyrene closed-face cassettes specified that any loose dust be transferred from the cassette to the digestion vessel, that the cassette be rinsed, and that, if necessary, the cassette be wiped out to help ensure that all particles that enter the cassette are included along with the filter as part of the sample for analysis. OSHA analytical methods for metal analysis were recently revised to explicitly require cassette wiping for all metal samples. This change was based on policy that any material entering the collection device constitutes part of the sample and on OSHA Salt Lake Technical Center research showing that invisible residue on the cassette walls can significantly contribute to the total sample results reported. OSHA procedures are consistent with guidance given in the NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods. This guidance concludes that internal deposits in sampling cassettes should be included in the analysis and that one way to accomplish this would be to wipe or wash the internal surfaces of the cassette and include the material along with the filter for analysis.

Near-Infrared Fluorescent Materials for Sensing of Biological Targets

PubMed Central

Amiot, Carrie L.; Xu, Shuping; Liang, Song; Pan, Lingyun; Zhao, Julia Xiaojun

2008-01-01

Near-infrared fluorescent (NIRF) materials are promising labeling reagents for sensitive determination and imaging of biological targets. In the near-infrared region biological samples have low background fluorescence signals, providing high signal to noise ratio. Meanwhile, near-infrared radiation can penetrate into sample matrices deeply due to low light scattering. Thus, in vivo and in vitro imaging of biological samples can be achieved by employing the NIRF probes. To take full advantage of NIRF materials in the biological and biomedical field, one of the key issues is to develop intense and biocompatible NIRF probes. In this review, a number of NIRF materials are discussed including traditional NIRF dye molecules, newly developed NIRF quantum dots and single-walled carbon nanotubes, as well as rare earth metal compounds. The use of some NIRF materials in various nanostructures is illustrated. The enhancement of NIRF using metal nanostructures is covered as well. The fluorescence mechanism and bioapplications of each type of the NIRF materials are discussed in details. PMID:27879867

Characterization of Lone Pine, California, tremolite asbestos and preparation of research material

USGS Publications Warehouse

Harper, Martin; Van Gosen, Bradley S.; Crankshaw, Owen S; Doorn, Stacy S; Ennis, J. Todd; Harrison, Sara E

2014-01-01

Well-characterized amphibole asbestos mineral samples are required for use as analytical standards and in future research projects. Currently, the National Institute for Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material samples of asbestos are listed as ‘Discontinued’. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a goal under the Asbestos Roadmap of locating and characterizing research materials for future use. Where an initial characterization analysis determines that a collected material is appropriate for use as a research material in terms of composition and asbestiform habit, sufficient amounts of the material will be collected to make it publicly available. An abandoned mine near Lone Pine, California, contains a vein of tremolite asbestos, which was the probable source of a reference material that has been available for the past 17 years from the Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) in the UK. Newly collected fibrous vein material from this mine was analyzed at Research Triangle Institute (RTI International) with some additional analysis by the US Geological Survey’s Denver Microbeam Laboratory. The analysis at RTI International included: (i) polarized light microscopy (PLM) with a determination of principal optical properties; (ii) X-ray diffraction; (iii) transmission electron microscopy, including energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and selected-area electron diffraction; and (iv) spindle stage analysis using PLM to determine whether individual fibers and bundles of the samples were polycrystalline or single-crystal cleavage fragments. The overall findings of the study indicated that the material is tremolite asbestos with characteristics substantially similar to the earlier distributed HSL reference material. A larger quantity of material was prepared by sorting, acid-washing and mixing for sub-division into vials of ~10g each. These vials have been transferred from NIOSH to RTI International, from where they can be obtained on request.

Characterization of Lone Pine, California, Tremolite Asbestos and Preparation of Research Material

PubMed Central

Harper, Martin; Van Gosen, Bradley; Crankshaw, Owen S.; Doorn, Stacy S.; Ennis, Todd J.; Harrison, Sara E.

2016-01-01

Well-characterized amphibole asbestos mineral samples are required for use as analytical standards and in future research projects. Currently, the National Institute for Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material samples of asbestos are listed as ‘Discontinued’. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a goal under the Asbestos Roadmap of locating and characterizing research materials for future use. Where an initial characterization analysis determines that a collected material is appropriate for use as a research material in terms of composition and asbestiform habit, sufficient amounts of the material will be collected to make it publicly available. An abandoned mine near Lone Pine, California, contains a vein of tremolite asbestos, which was the probable source of a reference material that has been available for the past 17 years from the Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) in the UK. Newly collected fibrous vein material from this mine was analyzed at Research Triangle Institute (RTI International) with some additional analysis by the US Geological Survey’s Denver Microbeam Laboratory. The analysis at RTI International included: (i) polarized light microscopy (PLM) with a determination of principal optical properties; (ii) X-ray diffraction; (iii) transmission electron microscopy, including energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and selected-area electron diffraction; and (iv) spindle stage analysis using PLM to determine whether individual fibers and bundles of the samples were polycrystalline or single-crystal cleavage fragments. The overall findings of the study indicated that the material is tremolite asbestos with characteristics substantially similar to the earlier distributed HSL reference material. A larger quantity of material was prepared by sorting, acid-washing and mixing for sub-division into vials of ~10 g each. These vials have been transferred from NIOSH to RTI International, from where they can be obtained on request. PMID:25268000

NASA-STD-6001B Test 1 Upward Flame Propagation; Sample Length Impact on MOC Investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harper, Susana Tapia; Juarez, Alfredo; Woods, Brenton L.; Beeson, Harold D.

2017-01-01

Understanding the combustion behavior of materials in the elevated oxygen environments of habitable spacecraft is of utmost importance to crew safety and mission success. Currently, certification for unrestricted flight usage of a material with respect to flammability involves passing the Upward Flame Propagation Test of NASA-STD-6001B (Test 1). This test evaluates materials in a standardized test configuration for two failure criteria: self-extinguishment within 15 cm (6 in.) and the propensity of flame propagation by means of flaming material transfer. By the NASA standard, full-length samples are 30 cm (12 in.) in length; however, factors independent of the test method such as limited material availability or various nonstandard test configurations limit the full pretest sample lengths available for test. This paper characterizes the dependence, if any, of pretest sample length on NASA-STD-6001B Test 1 results. Testing was performed using the Maximum Oxygen Concentration (MOC) Threshold Method to obtain a data set for each sample length tested. In addition, various material types, including cloth (Nomex), foam (TA-301) and solids (Ultem), were tested to investigate potential effects of test specimen types. Though additional data needs to be generated to provide statistical confidence, preliminary findings are that use of variable sample lengths has minimal impact on NASA-STD-6001B flammability performance and MOC determination.

Dielectric Spectroscopy Analysis of Aged EVOH films with Application to Deterioration of Food Packaging Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoeller, Timothy

2007-06-01

Samples of EVOH films from compositions of 29 - 44 mol% ethylene content were exposed to thermal aging with and without light exposure. The results of Dielectric Spectroscopy on select samples showed Cole-Cole plots of skewed dielectric constant indicating multiple distributions of dipole relaxation times. The onset for decreases in dielectric response occurs earlier in samples exposed to elevated temperature under light exposure. Lower permittivity is exhibited in samples of higher ethylene content. Results from heat exposed samples are presented. Colorimetric analysis indicates only a slight film yellowing in one case. Raman spectroscopy on untreated films discerns changes in the C-C-O stretch associated with the alcohol. The effects of aging on microstructure may cause hindrance of molecular motion from moisture desorption. Slight material degradation occurs from film hardening presumably due to crosslinking. An electrical circuit model of the conduction processes associated with the EVOH films is presented. Dielectric analysis shows promise for monitoring material changes related to deterioration. We are also using these methods to understand Fluorescence Imaging which has been recently released for paper and plastic materials analysis. Future work may include refinement of these techniques for identification of changes in material properties correlated to packaging material barrier resistance.

Hayabusa2 Sampler: Collection of Asteroidal Surface Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sawada, Hirotaka; Okazaki, Ryuji; Tachibana, Shogo; Sakamoto, Kanako; Takano, Yoshinori; Okamoto, Chisato; Yano, Hajime; Miura, Yayoi; Abe, Masanao; Hasegawa, Sunao; Noguchi, Takaaki

2017-07-01

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched the asteroid exploration probe "Hayabusa2" in December 3rd, 2014, following the 1st Hayabusa mission. With technological and scientific improvements from the Hayabusa probe, we plan to visit the C-type asteroid 162137 Ryugu (1999 JU3), and to sample surface materials of the C-type asteroid that is likely to be different from the S-type asteroid Itokawa and contain more pristine materials, including organic matter and/or hydrated minerals, than S-type asteroids. We developed the Hayabusa2 sampler to collect a minimum of 100 mg of surface samples including several mm-sized particles at three surface locations without any severe terrestrial contamination. The basic configuration of the sampler design is mainly as same as the 1st Hayabusa (Yano et al. in Science, 312(5778):1350-1353, 2006), with several minor but important modifications based on lessons learned from the Hayabusa to fulfill the scientific requirements and to raise the scientific value of the returned samples.

Millimeter Wave Sensor For On-Line Inspection Of Thin Sheet Dielectrics

DOEpatents

Bakhtiari, Sasan; Gopalsami, Nachappa; Raptis, Apostolos C.

1999-03-23

A millimeter wave sensor is provided for non-destructive inspection of thin sheet dielectric materials. The millimeter wave sensor includes a Gunn diode oscillator (GDO) source generating a mill meter wave electromagnetic energy signal having a single frequency. A heater is coupled to the GDO source for stabilizing the single frequency. A small size antenna is coupled to the GDO source for transmitting the millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal to a sample material and for receiving a reflected millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal from the sample material. Ferrite circulator isolators coupled between the GDO source and the antenna separate the millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal into transmitted and received electromagnetic energy signal components and a detector detects change in both amplitude and phase of the transmitted and received electromagnetic energy signal components. A millimeter wave sensor is provided for non-destructive inspection of thin sheet dielectric materials. The millimeter wave sensor includes a Gunn diode oscillator (GDO) source generating a mill meter wave electromagnetic energy signal having a single frequency. A heater is coupled to the GDO source for stabilizing the single frequency. A small size antenna is coupled to the GDO source for transmitting the millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal to a sample material and for receiving a reflected millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal from the sample material. Ferrite circulator isolators coupled between the GDO source and the antenna separate the millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signal into transmitted and received electromagnetic energy signal components and a detector detects change in both amplitude and phase of the transmitted and received electromagnetic energy signal components.

Production and distribution of dilute species in semiconducting materials

DOEpatents

James, Ralph B.; Camarda, Giuseppe; Bolotnikov, Aleksey E.; Hossain, Anwar; Yang, Ge; Kim, Kihyun

2016-09-06

Technologies are described effective to implement systems and methods of producing a material. The methods comprise receiving a tertiary semiconductor sample with a dilute species. The sample has two ends. The first end of the sample includes a first concentration of the dilute species lower than a second concentration of the dilute species in the second end of the sample. The method further comprises heating the sample in a chamber. The chamber has a first zone and a second zone. The first zone having a first temperature higher than a second temperature in the second zone. The sample is orientated such that the first end is in the first zone and the second end is in the second zone.

Criteria and Planning Guidance for Ex-Plant Harvesting to Support Subsequent License Renewal

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

Ramuhalli, Pradeep; Devanathan, Ram; Meyer, Ryan M.

As U.S. nuclear power plants look to subsequent license renewal (SLR) to operate for a 20-year period beyond 60 years, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the industry will be addressing technical issues around the capability of long-lived passive components to meet their functionality objectives. A key challenge will be to better understand likely materials degradation mechanisms in these components and their impacts on component functionality and margins to safety. Research addressing many of the remaining technical gaps in these areas for SLR may greatly benefit from materials sampled from plants (decommissioned or operating). Because of the cost and inefficiencymore » of piecemeal sampling, there is a need for a strategic and systematic approach to sampling materials from structures, systems, and components (SSC) in both operating and decommissioned plants. This document describes a potential approach for sampling (harvesting) materials that focuses on prioritizing materials for sampling using a number of criteria. These criteria are based on an evaluation of technical gaps identified in the literature, research needs to address these technical gaps, and lessons learned from previous harvesting campaigns. The document also describes a process for planning future harvesting campaigns; such a plan would include an understanding of the harvesting priorities, available materials, and the planned use of the materials to address the technical gaps.« less

Writing for Distance Education. Samples Booklet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

International Extension Coll., Cambridge (England).

Approaches to the format, design, and layout of printed instructional materials for distance education are illustrated in 36 samples designed to accompany the manual, "Writing for Distance Education." Each sample is presented on a single page with a note pointing out its key features. Features illustrated include use of typescript layout, a comic…

Method and apparatus for processing a test sample to concentrate an analyte in the sample from a solvent in the sample

DOEpatents

Turner, Terry D.; Beller, Laurence S.; Clark, Michael L.; Klingler, Kerry M.

1997-01-01

A method of processing a test sample to concentrate an analyte in the sample from a solvent in the sample includes: a) boiling the test sample containing the analyte and solvent in a boiling chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the solvent boiling temperature and less than the analyte boiling temperature to form a rising sample vapor mixture; b) passing the sample vapor mixture from the boiling chamber to an elongated primary separation tube, the separation tube having internal sidewalls and a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis being angled between vertical and horizontal and thus having an upper region and a lower region; c) collecting the physically transported liquid analyte on the internal sidewalls of the separation tube; and d) flowing the collected analyte along the angled internal sidewalls of the separation tube to and pass the separation tube lower region. The invention also includes passing a turbulence inducing wave through a vapor mixture to separate physically transported liquid second material from vaporized first material. Apparatus are also disclosed for effecting separations. Further disclosed is a fluidically powered liquid test sample withdrawal apparatus for withdrawing a liquid test sample from a test sample container and for cleaning the test sample container.

Method and apparatus for processing a test sample to concentrate an analyte in the sample from a solvent in the sample

DOEpatents

Turner, T.D.; Beller, L.S.; Clark, M.L.; Klingler, K.M.

1997-10-14

A method of processing a test sample to concentrate an analyte in the sample from a solvent in the sample includes: (a) boiling the test sample containing the analyte and solvent in a boiling chamber to a temperature greater than or equal to the solvent boiling temperature and less than the analyte boiling temperature to form a rising sample vapor mixture; (b) passing the sample vapor mixture from the boiling chamber to an elongated primary separation tube, the separation tube having internal sidewalls and a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis being angled between vertical and horizontal and thus having an upper region and a lower region; (c) collecting the physically transported liquid analyte on the internal sidewalls of the separation tube; and (d) flowing the collected analyte along the angled internal sidewalls of the separation tube to and pass the separation tube lower region. The invention also includes passing a turbulence inducing wave through a vapor mixture to separate physically transported liquid second material from vaporized first material. Apparatus is also disclosed for effecting separations. Further disclosed is a fluidically powered liquid test sample withdrawal apparatus for withdrawing a liquid test sample from a test sample container and for cleaning the test sample container. 8 figs.

230Th-U dating of surficial deposits using the ion microprobe (SHRIMP-RG): A microstratigraphic perspective

USGS Publications Warehouse

Maher, K.; Wooden, J.L.; Paces, J.B.; Miller, D.M.

2007-01-01

We used the sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe reverse-geometry (SHRIMP-RG) to date pedogenic opal using the 230Th-U system. Due to the high-spatial resolution of an ion microprobe (typically 30 ??m), regions of pure opal within a sample can be targeted and detrital material can be avoided. In addition, because the technique is non-destructive, the sample can be preserved for other types of analyses including electron microprobe or other stable isotope or trace element ion microprobe measurements. The technique is limited to material with U concentrations greater than ???50 ppm. However, the high spatial resolution, small sample requirements, and the ability to avoid detrital material make this technique a suitable technique for dating many Pleistocene deposits formed in semi-arid environments. To determine the versatility of the method, samples from several different deposits were analyzed, including silica-rich pebble coatings from pedogenic carbonate horizons, a siliceous sinter deposit, and opaline silica deposited as a spring mound. U concentrations for 30-??m-diameter spots ranged from 50 to 1000 ppm in these types of materials. The 230Th/232Th activity ratios also ranged from ???100 to 106, eliminating the need for detrital Th corrections that reduce the precision of traditional U-Th ages for many milligram- and larger-sized samples. In pedogenic material, layers of high-U opal (ca. 500 ppm) are commonly juxtaposed next to layers of calcite with much lower U concentrations (1-2 ppm). If these types of samples are not analyzed using a technique with the appropriate spatial resolution, the ages may be strongly biased towards the age of the opal. Comparison with standard TIMS (Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry) measurements from separate microdrilled samples suggests that although the analytical precision of the ion microprobe (SHRIMP-RG) measurements is less than TIMS, the high spatial resolution results in better accuracy in the age determination for finely layered or complex deposits. The ion microprobe approach also may be useful for pre-screening samples to determine the age and degree of post-depositional alteration, analyzing finely layered samples or samples with complex growth histories, and obtaining simultaneous measurements of trace elements.

Electron Microscopy and Image Analysis for Selected Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, George

1999-01-01

This particular project was completed in collaboration with the metallurgical diagnostics facility. The objective of this research had four major components. First, we required training in the operation of the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) for imaging of selected materials including biological specimens. The types of materials range from cyanobacteria and diatoms to cloth, metals, sand, composites and other materials. Second, to obtain training in surface elemental analysis technology using energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis, and in the preparation of x-ray maps of these same materials. Third, to provide training for the staff of the metallurgical diagnostics and failure analysis team in the area of image processing and image analysis technology using NIH Image software. Finally, we were to assist in the sample preparation, observing, imaging, and elemental analysis for Mr. Richard Hoover, one of NASA MSFC's solar physicists and Marshall's principal scientist for the agency-wide virtual Astrobiology Institute. These materials have been collected from various places around the world including the Fox Tunnel in Alaska, Siberia, Antarctica, ice core samples from near Lake Vostoc, thermal vents in the ocean floor, hot springs and many others. We were successful in our efforts to obtain high quality, high resolution images of various materials including selected biological ones. Surface analyses (EDX) and x-ray maps were easily prepared with this technology. We also discovered and used some applications for NIH Image software in the metallurgical diagnostics facility.

[Study on material base of Carthamus tinctorius with antioxidant effect based on selective knock-out].

PubMed

Wang, Lin-Yan; Tang, Yu-Ping; Liu, Xin; Ge, Ya-Hui; Li, Shu-Jiao; Shang, Er-Xin; Duan, Jin-Ao

2014-04-01

To establish a method for studying efficacious materials of traditional Chinese medicines from an overall perspective. Carthamus tinctorius was taken the example. Its major components were depleted by preparing liquid chromatography. Afterwards, the samples with major components depleted were evaluated for their antioxidant effect, so as to compare and analyze the major efficacious materials of C. tinctorius with antioxidant activity and the contributions. Seven major components were depleted from C. tinctorius samples, and six of them were identified with MS data and control comparison. After all of the samples including depleted materials are compared and evaluated for their antioxidant effect, the findings showed that hydroxysafflor yellow A, anhydrosafflor yellow B and 6-hydroxykaempferol-3, 6-di-O-glucoside-7-O-glucuronide were the major efficacious materials. This study explored a novel and effective method for studying efficacious materials of traditional Chinese medicines. Through this method, we could explain the direct and indirect contributions of different components to the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicines, and make the efficacious material expression of traditional Chinese medicines clearer.

Life Science Research Facility materials management requirements and concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Catherine C.

1986-01-01

The Advanced Programs Office at NASA Ames Research Center has defined hypothetical experiments for a 90-day mission on Space Station to allow analysis of the materials necessary to conduct the experiments and to assess the impact on waste processing of recyclable materials and storage requirements of samples to be returned to earth for analysis as well as of nonrecyclable materials. The materials include the specimens themselves, the food, water, and gases necessary to maintain them, the expendables necessary to conduct the experiments, and the metabolic products of the specimens. This study defines the volumes, flow rates, and states of these materials. Process concepts for materials handling will include a cage cleaner, trash compactor, biological stabilizer, and various recycling devices.

Characterization and detection of acceleration-induced cavitation in soft materials using a drop-tower-based integrated system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Wonmo; Chen, YungChia; Bagchi, Amit; O'Shaughnessy, Thomas J.

2017-12-01

The material response of biologically relevant soft materials, e.g., extracellular matrix or cell cytoplasm, at high rate loading conditions is becoming increasingly important for emerging medical implications including the potential of cavitation-induced brain injury or cavitation created by medical devices, whether intentional or not. However, accurately probing soft samples remains challenging due to their delicate nature, which often excludes the use of conventional techniques requiring direct contact with a sample-loading frame. We present a drop-tower-based method, integrated with a unique sample holder and a series of effective springs and dampers, for testing soft samples with an emphasis on high-rate loading conditions. Our theoretical studies on the transient dynamics of the system show that well-controlled impacts between a movable mass and sample holder can be used as a means to rapidly load soft samples. For demonstrating the integrated system, we experimentally quantify the critical acceleration that corresponds to the onset of cavitation nucleation for pure water and 7.5% gelatin samples. This study reveals that 7.5% gelatin has a significantly higher, approximately double, critical acceleration as compared to pure water. Finally, we have also demonstrated a non-optical method of detecting cavitation in soft materials by correlating cavitation collapse with structural resonance of the sample container.

Systems for column-based separations, methods of forming packed columns, and methods of purifying sample components

DOEpatents

Egorov, Oleg B.; O'Hara, Matthew J.; Grate, Jay W.; Chandler, Darrell P.; Brockman, Fred J.; Bruckner-Lea, Cynthia J.

2000-01-01

The invention encompasses systems for column-based separations, methods of packing and unpacking columns and methods of separating components of samples. In one aspect, the invention includes a method of packing and unpacking a column chamber, comprising: a) packing a matrix material within a column chamber to form a packed column; and b) after the packing, unpacking the matrix material from the column chamber without moving the column chamber. In another aspect, the invention includes a system for column-based separations, comprising: a) a fluid passageway, the fluid passageway comprising a column chamber and a flow path in fluid communication with the column chamber, the flow path being obstructed by a retaining material permeable to a carrier fluid and impermeable to a column matrix material suspended in the carrier fluid, the flow path extending through the column chamber and through the retaining material, the flow path being configured to form a packed column within the column chamber when a suspension of the fluid and the column matrix material is flowed along the flow path; and b) the fluid passageway extending through a valve intermediate the column chamber and the retaining material.

Systems For Column-Based Separations, Methods Of Forming Packed Columns, And Methods Of Purifying Sample Components

DOEpatents

Egorov, Oleg B.; O'Hara, Matthew J.; Grate, Jay W.; Chandler, Darrell P.; Brockman, Fred J.; Bruckner-Lea, Cynthia J.

2006-02-21

The invention encompasses systems for column-based separations, methods of packing and unpacking columns and methods of separating components of samples. In one aspect, the invention includes a method of packing and unpacking a column chamber, comprising: a) packing a matrix material within a column chamber to form a packed column; and b) after the packing, unpacking the matrix material from the column chamber without moving the column chamber. In another aspect, the invention includes a system for column-based separations, comprising: a) a fluid passageway, the fluid passageway comprising a column chamber and a flow path in fluid communication with the column chamber, the flow path being obstructed by a retaining material permeable to a carrier fluid and impermeable to a column matrix material suspended in the carrier fluid, the flow path extending through the column chamber and through the retaining material, the flow path being configured to form a packed column within the column chamber when a suspension of the fluid and the column matrix material is flowed along the flow path; and b) the fluid passageway extending through a valve intermediate the column chamber and the retaining material.

Systems For Column-Based Separations, Methods Of Forming Packed Columns, And Methods Of Purifying Sample Components.

DOEpatents

Egorov, Oleg B.; O'Hara, Matthew J.; Grate, Jay W.; Chandler, Darrell P.; Brockman, Fred J.; Bruckner-Lea, Cynthia J.

2004-08-24

The invention encompasses systems for column-based separations, methods of packing and unpacking columns and methods of separating components of samples. In one aspect, the invention includes a method of packing and unpacking a column chamber, comprising: a) packing a matrix material within a column chamber to form a packed column; and b) after the packing, unpacking the matrix material from the column chamber without moving the column chamber. In another aspect, the invention includes a system for column-based separations, comprising: a) a fluid passageway, the fluid passageway comprising a column chamber and a flow path in fluid communication with the column chamber, the flow path being obstructed by a retaining material permeable to a carrier fluid and impermeable to a column matrix material suspended in the carrier fluid, the flow path extending through the column chamber and through the retaining material, the flow path being configured to form a packed column within the column chamber when a suspension of the fluid and the column matrix material is flowed along the flow path; and b) the fluid passageway extending through a valve intermediate the column chamber and the retaining material.

An apparatus for preparing benthic samples aboard ship

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pepper, Phillip N.; Girard, Thomas L.; Stapanian, Martin A.

2001-01-01

We describe a safe and effective apparatus for washing and reducing the volume of benthic samples collected by grab samplers aboard ship. The sample is transferred directly from the dredge to the apparatus and then washed with water pumped through pipes in the apparatus and from onboard hoses. Wastewater and materials smaller than 0.541 mm in diameter are washed overboard. Larger materials, including benthic organisms, collect on an upper 0.64-cm screen and on a lower 30-mm-mesh stainless steel bolt cloth. A collection jar is screwed into the bottom of the apparatus. Therefore, transfer of sample material from the apparatus to the jar is quick and easy. This apparatus has several advantages for use aboard ship over others described in the literature, especially in rough seas, in cold weather, and at night. The apparatus provides a safe and convenient platform for washing and reducing samples, and samples can be prepared while the vessel is traveling at full speed.

Flavanol and procyanidin content (by degree of polymerization 1-10) of chocolate, cocoa liquors, cocoa powders, and cocoa extracts: first action 2012.24.

PubMed

Robbins, Rebecca J; Leonczak, Jadwiga; Li, Julia; Johnson, J Christopher; Collins, Tom; Kwik-Uribe, Catherine; Schmitz, Harold H

2013-01-01

An international collaborative study was conducted on an HPLC method with fluorescent detection for the determination of flavanols and procyanidins in chocolate and cocoa-containing materials. The sum of the oligomeric fractions with degree of polymerization 1-10 was the determined content value. Sample materials included dark and milk chocolates, cocoa powder, cocoa liquors, and cocoa extracts. The content ranged from approximately 2 to 500 mg/g (defatted basis). Thirteen laboratories--representing commercial, industrial, and academic institutions in six countries--participated in this interlaboratory study. Fourteen samples were sent as blind duplicates to the collaborators. Results for 12 laboratories yielded repeatability RSD (RSDr) values below 10% for all materials analyzed, ranging from 4.17 to 9.61%. Reproducibility RSD (RSDR) values ranged from 5.03 to 12.9% for samples containing 8.07 to 484.7 mg/g material analyzed. In one sample containing a low content of flavanols and procyanidins (approximately 2 mg/g), the RSDR was 17.68%.

The Gulliver sample return mission to Deimos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Britt, D. T.; Robinson, M.; Gulliver Team

The Martian moon Deimos presents a unique opportunity for a sample return mission. Deimos is spectrally analogous to type D asteroids, which are thought to be composed of highly primitive carbonaceous material that originated in the outer asteroid belt. It also is in orbit around Mars and has been accumulating material ejected from the Martian surface ever since the earliest periods of Martian history, over 4.4 Gyrs ago. There are a number of factors that make sample return from Deimos extremely attractive. It is Better: Deimos is a repository for two kinds of extremely significant and scientifically exciting ancient samples: (1) Primitive spectral D-type material that may have accreted in the outer asteroid belt and Trojan swarm. This material samples the composition of solar nebula well outside the zone of terrestrial planets and provides a direct sample of primitive material so common past 3 AU but so uncommon in the meteorite collection. (2) Ancient Mars, which could include the full range of Martian crustal and upper mantle material from the early differentiation and crustal-forming epoch as well as samples from the era of high volatile flux, thick atmosphere, and possible surface water. The Martian material on Deimos would be dominated by ejecta from the ancient crust of Mars, delivered during the Noachian Period of basin-forming impacts and heavy bombardment. It is Closer: Compared to other primitive D-type asteroids, Deimos is by far the most accessible. Because of its orbit around Mars, Deimos is far closer than any other D asteroid. It is Safer: Deimos is also by far the safest small body for sample return yet imaged. It is an order of magnitude less rocky than Eros and the NEAR-Shoemaker mission succeeded in landing on Eros with a spacecraft not designed for landing and proximity maneuvering. Because of Viking imagery we already know a great deal about the surface roughness of Deimos. It is known to be very smooth and have moderate topography and gravitational slopes. It is Easier: Deimos is farther from Mars and smaller than Phobos. This location minimizes the delta-V penalties from entering the Martian gravity well; minimizes the energy requirements for sampling maneuvers; and minimizes Martian tidal effects on S/C operations. After initial processing these samples will be made available as soon as possible to the international cosmochemistry community for detailed analysis. The mission management team includes Lockheed Martin Astronautics (flight system, I&T) and JPL (payload, mission ops, and mission management).

Microscopic dual-energy CT (microDECT): a flexible tool for multichannel ex vivo 3D imaging of biological specimens.

PubMed

Handschuh, S; Beisser, C J; Ruthensteiner, B; Metscher, B D

2017-07-01

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) uses two different x-ray energy spectra in order to differentiate between tissues, materials or elements in a single sample or patient. DECT is becoming increasingly popular in clinical imaging and preclinical in vivo imaging of small animal models, but there have been only very few reports on ex vivo DECT of biological samples at microscopic resolutions. The present study has three main aims. First, we explore the potential of microscopic DECT (microDECT) for delivering isotropic multichannel 3D images of fixed biological samples with standard commercial laboratory-based microCT setups at spatial resolutions reaching below 10 μm. Second, we aim for retaining the maximum image resolution and quality during the material decomposition. Third, we want to test the suitability for microDECT imaging of different contrast agents currently used for ex vivo staining of biological samples. To address these aims, we used microCT scans of four different samples stained with x-ray dense contrast agents. MicroDECT scans were acquired with five different commercial microCT scanners from four companies. We present a detailed description of the microDECT workflow, including sample preparation, image acquisition, image processing and postreconstruction material decomposition, which may serve as practical guide for applying microDECT. The MATLAB script (The Mathworks Inc., Natick, MA, USA) used for material decomposition (including a graphical user interface) is provided as a supplement to this paper (https://github.com/microDECT/DECTDec). In general, the presented microDECT workflow yielded satisfactory results for all tested specimens. Original scan resolutions have been mostly retained in the separate material fractions after basis material decomposition. In addition to decomposition of mineralized tissues (inherent sample contrast) and stained soft tissues, we present a case of double labelling of different soft tissues with subsequent material decomposition. We conclude that, in contrast to in vivo DECT examinations, small ex vivo specimens offer some clear advantages regarding technical parameters of the microCT setup and the use of contrast agents. These include a higher flexibility in source peak voltages and x-ray filters, a lower degree of beam hardening due to small sample size, the lack of restriction to nontoxic contrast agents and the lack of a limit in exposure time and radiation dose. We argue that microDECT, because of its flexibility combined with already established contrast agents and the vast number of currently unexploited stains, will in future represent an important technique for various applications in biological research. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Annual radiological environmental operating report: Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, 1992. Operations Services/Technical Programs

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

Not Available

1993-04-01

This report describes the environmental radiological monitoring program conducted by TVA in the vicinity of Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant (BFN) in 1992. The program includes the collection of samples from the environment and the determination of the concentrations of radioactive materials in the samples. Samples are taken from stations in the general area of the plant and from areas not influenced by plant operations. Station locations are selected after careful consideration of the weather patterns and projected radiation doses to the various areas around the plant. Material sampled includes air, water, milk, foods, vegetation, soil, fish, sediment, and direct radiationmore » levels. Results from stations near the plant are compared with concentrations from control stations and with preoperational measurements to determine potential impacts of plant operations. Small amounts of Co-60 and Cs-134 were found in sediment samples downstream from the plant. This activity in stream sediment would result in no measurable increase over background in the dose to the general public.« less

Mass spectrometry of aerospace materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colony, J. A.

1976-01-01

Mass spectrometry is used for chemical analysis of aerospace materials and contaminants. Years of analytical aerospace experience have resulted in the development of specialized techniques of sampling and analysis which are required in order to optimize results. This work has resulted in the evolution of a hybrid method of indexing mass spectra which include both the largest peaks and the structurally significant peaks in a concise format. With this system, a library of mass spectra of aerospace materials was assembled, including the materials responsible for 80 to 90 percent of the contamination problems at Goddard Space Flight Center during the past several years.

Investigation of Comfort Properties of Knitted Denim

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbar, Abdul R.; Su, Siwei; Khalid, Junaid; Cai, Yingjie; Lin, Lina

2017-12-01

Knitted denim was designed by using cross terry structure on circular knitting machine. Knitted denim looks like a denim fabric which has visual appearance like woven denim. Two type of cross terry structure 2/1 and 3/1 were used which gives twill effect with 2 and 3 floats respectively. Four types of materials, cotton, polyester, flax and polypropylene were used. With four materials and two structural combinations 8 samples were produced. Comfort properties of knitted denim including moisture management, air permeability, thermal, and bursting strength were tested. For checking the inherent anti-microbial property of materials anti-microbial test was also applied. Samples containing flax and polyester were found with best results and not even a single sample was found anti-microbial.

Micro-tensile testing system

DOEpatents

Wenski, Edward G [Lenexa, KS

2007-08-21

A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

Micro-tensile testing system

DOEpatents

Wenski, Edward G.

2006-01-10

A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

Micro-tensile testing system

DOEpatents

Wenski, Edward G [Lenexa, KS

2007-07-17

A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

Evaluating Composite Sampling Methods of Bacillus spores at Low Concentrations

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

Hess, Becky M.; Amidan, Brett G.; Anderson, Kevin K.

Restoring facility operations after the 2001 Amerithrax attacks took over three months to complete, highlighting the need to reduce remediation time. The most time intensive tasks were environmental sampling and sample analyses. Composite sampling allows disparate samples to be combined, with only a single analysis needed, making it a promising method to reduce response times. We developed a statistical experimental design to test three different composite sampling methods: 1) single medium single pass composite: a single cellulose sponge samples multiple coupons; 2) single medium multi-pass composite: a single cellulose sponge is used to sample multiple coupons; and 3) multi-medium post-samplemore » composite: a single cellulose sponge samples a single surface, and then multiple sponges are combined during sample extraction. Five spore concentrations of Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura spores were tested; concentrations ranged from 5 to 100 CFU/coupon (0.00775 to 0.155CFU/cm2, respectively). Study variables included four clean surface materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, ceramic tile, and painted wallboard) and three grime coated/dirty materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile). Analysis of variance for the clean study showed two significant factors: composite method (p-value < 0.0001) and coupon material (p-value = 0.0008). Recovery efficiency (RE) was higher overall using the post-sample composite (PSC) method compared to single medium composite from both clean and grime coated materials. RE with the PSC method for concentrations tested (10 to 100 CFU/coupon) was similar for ceramic tile, painted wall board, and stainless steel for clean materials. RE was lowest for vinyl tile with both composite methods. Statistical tests for the dirty study showed RE was significantly higher for vinyl and stainless steel materials, but significantly lower for ceramic tile. These results suggest post-sample compositing can be used to reduce sample analysis time when responding to a Bacillus anthracis contamination event of clean or dirty surfaces.« less

Infrared Database for Process Support Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, K. E.; Boothe, R. E.; Burns, H. D.

2003-01-01

Process support materials' compatibility with cleaning processes is critical to ensure final hardware cleanliness and that performance requirements are met. Previous discovery of potential contaminants in process materials shows the need for incoming materials testing and establishment of a process materials database. The Contamination Control Team of the Materials, Processes, and Manufacturing (MP&M) Department at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has initiated the development of such an infrared (IR) database, called the MSFC Process Materials IR database, of the common process support materials used at MSFC. These process support materials include solvents, wiper cloths, gloves, bagging materials, etc. Testing includes evaluation of the potential of gloves, wiper cloths, and other items to transfer contamination to handled articles in the absence of solvent exposure, and the potential for solvent exposure to induce material degradation. This Technical Memorandum (TM) summarizes the initial testing completed through December 2002. It is anticipated that additional testing will be conducted with updates provided in future TMs.Materials were analyzed using two different IR techniques: (1) Dry transference and (2) liquid extraction testing. The first of these techniques utilized the Nicolet Magna 750 IR spectrometer outfitted with a horizontal attenuated total reflectance (HATR) crystal accessory. The region from 650 to 4,000 wave numbers was analyzed, and 50 scans were performed per IR spectrum. A dry transference test was conducted by applying each sample with hand pressure to the HATR crystal to first obtain a spectrum of the parent material. The material was then removed from the HATR crystal and analyzed to determine the presence of any residues. If volatile, liquid samples were examined both prior to and following evaporation.The second technique was to perform an extraction test with each sample in five different solvents.Once the scans were complete for both the dry transference and the extraction tests, the residue from each scan was interpreted.

Extraterrestrial Materials: The Role of Synchrotron Radiation Analyses in the Study of Our Solar System

ScienceCinema

Sutton, Stephen R. [University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States

2017-12-09

Sample-return missions and natural collection processes have provided us with a surprisingly extensive collection of matter from Solar System bodies other than the Earth. These collections include samples from the Moon, Mars, asteroids, interplanetary dust, and, recently, from the Sun (solar wind) and a comet. This presentation will describe some of these materials, how they were collected, and what we have learned from them. Synchrotron radiation analyses of these materials are playing an increasingly valuable role in unraveling the histories and properities of the parent Solar System bodies.

High-resolution setup for measuring wavelength sensitivity of photoyellowing of translucent materials

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

Vaskuri, Anna, E-mail: anna.vaskuri@aalto.fi; Kärhä, Petri; Heikkilä, Anu

2015-10-15

Polystyrene and many other materials turn yellow when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. All photodegradation mechanisms including photoyellowing are functions of the exposure wavelength, which can be described with an action spectrum. In this work, a new high-resolution transmittance measurement setup based on lasers has been developed for measuring color changes, such as the photoyellowing of translucent materials aged with a spectrograph. The measurement setup includes 14 power-stabilized laser lines between 325 nm and 933 nm wavelengths, of which one at a time is directed on to the aged sample. The power transmitted through the sample is measured with amore » silicon detector utilizing an integrating sphere. The sample is mounted on a high-resolution XY translation stage. Measurement at various locations aged with different wavelengths of exposure radiation gives the transmittance data required for acquiring the action spectrum. The combination of a UV spectrograph and the new high-resolution transmittance measurement setup enables a novel method for studying the UV-induced ageing of translucent materials with a spectral resolution of 3–8 nm, limited by the adjustable spectral bandwidth range of the spectrograph. These achievements form a significant improvement over earlier methods.« less

Results of a Saxitoxin Proficiency Test Including Characterization of Reference Material and Stability Studies

PubMed Central

Harju, Kirsi; Rapinoja, Marja-Leena; Avondet, Marc-André; Arnold, Werner; Schär, Martin; Luginbühl, Werner; Kremp, Anke; Suikkanen, Sanna; Kankaanpää, Harri; Burrell, Stephen; Söderström, Martin; Vanninen, Paula

2015-01-01

A saxitoxin (STX) proficiency test (PT) was organized as part of the Establishment of Quality Assurance for the Detection of Biological Toxins of Potential Bioterrorism Risk (EQuATox) project. The aim of this PT was to provide an evaluation of existing methods and the European laboratories’ capabilities for the analysis of STX and some of its analogues in real samples. Homogenized mussel material and algal cell materials containing paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins were produced as reference sample matrices. The reference material was characterized using various analytical methods. Acidified algal extract samples at two concentration levels were prepared from a bulk culture of PSP toxins producing dinoflagellate Alexandrium ostenfeldii. The homogeneity and stability of the prepared PT samples were studied and found to be fit-for-purpose. Thereafter, eight STX PT samples were sent to ten participating laboratories from eight countries. The PT offered the participating laboratories the possibility to assess their performance regarding the qualitative and quantitative detection of PSP toxins. Various techniques such as official Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods, immunoassays, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry were used for sample analyses. PMID:26602927

Chemistry with Inexpensive Materials: Spray Bottles and Plastic Bags.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zoltewicz, Susan

1993-01-01

Presents eight chemistry activities that are interesting and involve simple, easily available materials. Topics include mystery writing, valentine hearts, flame tests, evaporation race, buoyancy versus mass, determination of relative masses of gases, mole sample container, and cold and hot packs. (DDR)

Report on Status of Shipment of High Fluence Austenitic Steel Samples for Characterization and Stress Corrosion Crack Testing

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

Clark, Scarlett R.; Leonard, Keith J.

The goal of the Mechanisms of Irradiation Assisted Stress Corrosion Cracking (IASCC) task in the LWRS Program is to conduct experimental research into understanding how multiple variables influence the crack initiation and crack growth in materials subjected to stress under corrosive conditions. This includes understanding the influences of alloy composition, radiation condition, water chemistry and metallurgical starting condition (i.e., previous cold work or heat treatments and the resulting microstructure) has on the behavior of materials. Testing involves crack initiation and growth testing on irradiated specimens of single-variable alloys in simulated Light Water Reactor (LWR) environments, tensile testing, hardness testing, microstructuralmore » and microchemical analysis, and detailed efforts to characterize localized deformation. Combined, these single-variable experiments will provide mechanistic understanding that can be used to identify key operational variables to mitigate or control IASCC, optimize inspection and maintenance schedules to the most susceptible materials/locations, and, in the long-term, design IASCC-resistant materials. In support of this research, efforts are currently underway to arrange shipment of “free” high fluence austenitic alloys available through Électricité de France (EDF) for post irradiation testing at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and IASCC testing at the University of Michigan. These high fluence materials range in damage values from 45 to 125 displacements per atom (dpa). The samples identified for transport to the United States, which include nine, no-cost, 304, 308 and 316 tensile bars, were relocated from the Research Institute of Atomic Reactors (RIAR) in Dimitrovgrad, Ulyanovsk Oblast, Russia, and received at the Halden Reactor in Halden, Norway, on August 23, 2016. ORNL has been notified that a significant amount of work is required to prepare the samples for further shipment to Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The preliminary work for sample shipment between Halden and Oak Ridge includes fabrication of an inner cask sample container, decontamination and preparation of a Type A container, preparation of new activity calculations, all necessary paperwork, and handling. ORNL will continue to work to track progress of sample preparation and shipment status, and to work toward an agreement that covers material shipping costs between the Halden Reactor and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.« less

Passive PE Sampling in Support of In Situ Remediation of Contaminated Sediments

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

elements: • Expendable items: including materials such as stainless steel mixing bowls/spoons, decontamination supplies (buckets, brushes, distilled...PE samplers. Traditional sediment sampling equipment would include items such as decontamination fluids, stainless steel mixing bowls and spoons...hazardous/hazardous wastes (excess sediment, decontamination fluids). There is not expected to be a big difference in solid waste disposal costs

Why minimally invasive skin sampling techniques? A bright scientific future.

PubMed

Wang, Christina Y; Maibach, Howard I

2011-03-01

There is increasing interest in minimally invasive skin sampling techniques to assay markers of molecular biology and biochemical processes. This overview examines methodology strengths and limitations, and exciting developments pending in the scientific community. Publications were searched via PubMed, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Website, the DermTech Website and the CuDerm Website. The keywords used were noninvasive skin sampling, skin stripping, skin taping, detergent method, ring method, mechanical scrub, reverse iontophoresis, glucose monitoring, buccal smear, hair root sampling, mRNA, DNA, RNA, and amino acid. There is strong interest in finding methods to access internal biochemical, molecular, and genetic processes through noninvasive and minimally invasive external means. Minimally invasive techniques include the widely used skin tape stripping, the abrasion method that includes scraping and detergent, and reverse iontophoresis. The first 2 methods harvest largely the stratum corneum. Hair root sampling (material deeper than the epidermis), buccal smear, shave biopsy, punch biopsy, and suction blistering are also methods used to obtain cellular material for analysis, but involve some degree of increased invasiveness and thus are only briefly mentioned. Existing and new sampling methods are being refined and validated, offering exciting, different noninvasive means of quickly and efficiently obtaining molecular material with which to monitor bodily functions and responses, assess drug levels, and follow disease processes without subjecting patients to unnecessary discomfort and risk.

Materials screening chamber for testing materials resistance to atomic oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pippin, H. G.; Carruth, Ralph

1989-01-01

A unique test chamber for exposing material to a known flux of oxygen atoms is described. The capabilities and operating parameters of the apparatus include production of an oxygen atom flux in excess of 5 x 10 to the 16th atoms/sq cm-sec, controlled heating of the sample specimen, RF circuitry to contain the plasma within a small volume, and long exposure times. Flux measurement capabilities include a calorimetric probe and a light titration system. Accuracy and limitations of these techniques are discussed. An extension to the main chamber to allow simultaneous ultraviolet and atomic oxygen exposure is discussed. The oxygen atoms produced are at thermal energies. Sample specimens are maintained at any selected temperature between ambient and 200 C, to within + or - 2 C. A representative example of measurements made using the chamber is presented.

The Gulliver Mission: A Short-Cut to Primitive Body and Mars Sample Return

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Britt, D. T.

2003-05-01

The Martian moon Deimos has extraordinary potential for future sample return missions. Deimos is spectrally similar to D-type asteroids and may be a captured primitive asteroid that originated in the outer asteroid belt. This capture probably took place in the earliest periods of Martian history, over 4.4 Gyrs ago [1], and Deimos has been accumulating material ejected from the Martian surface ever since. Analysis of Martian ejecta, material accumulation, capture cross-section, regolith over-turn, and Deimos's albedo suggest that Mars material may make up as much as 10% of Deimos's regolith. The Martian material on Deimos would be dominated by ejecta from the ancient crust of Mars, delivered during the Noachian Period of basin-forming impacts and heavy bombardment. Deimos could be a repository of samples from ancient Mars, including the full range of Martian crustal and upper mantle material from the early differentiation and crustal-forming epoch as well as samples from the era of high volatile flux, thick atmosphere, and possible surface water. In addition to Martian ejecta, 90% of the Deimos sample will be spectral type D asteroidal material. D-type asteroids are thought to be highly primitive and are most common in the difficult to access outer asteroid belt and the Jupiter Trojans. The Gulliver Mission proposes to directly collect up to 10 kilograms of Deimos regolith and return it to Earth. This sample may contain up to 1000 grams of Martian material along with up to 9 kilograms of primitive asteroidal material. Because of stochastic processes of regolith mixing over 4.4 Gyrs, the rock fragments and grains will likely sample the diversity of the Martian ancient surface as well as the asteroid. In essence, Gulliver represents two shortcuts, to Mars sample return and to the outer asteroid belt. References: [1] Burns J. A. (1992) Mars (Kieffer H. H. et al., eds), 1283-1302.

Method for measuring recovery of catalytic elements from fuel cells

DOEpatents

Shore, Lawrence [Edison, NJ; Matlin, Ramail [Berkeley, NJ

2011-03-08

A method is provided for measuring the concentration of a catalytic clement in a fuel cell powder. The method includes depositing on a porous substrate at least one layer of a powder mixture comprising the fuel cell powder and an internal standard material, ablating a sample of the powder mixture using a laser, and vaporizing the sample using an inductively coupled plasma. A normalized concentration of catalytic element in the sample is determined by quantifying the intensity of a first signal correlated to the amount of catalytic element in the sample, quantifying the intensity of a second signal correlated to the amount of internal standard material in the sample, and using a ratio of the first signal intensity to the second signal intensity to cancel out the effects of sample size.

A literature survey of information on well installation and sample collection procedures used in investigations of ground-water contamination by organic compounds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dumouchelle, D.H.; Lynch, E.A.; Cummings, T.R.

1990-01-01

A survey of literature on well installation and water-quality sampling, particularly as they relate to investigations of ground-water contamination by organic compounds, has been conducted. Library card files and computerized data bases were searched to identify journal articles, conference proceedings, technical reports, books, and other publications. Pertinent information has been extracted from 105 references; each reference is listed in a bibliography. Material contained in the report is organized by topical categories that include drilling methods and equipment, well construction, well development, sampling materials and equipment, decontamination of equipment, and sampling techniques and procedures. Unpublished data of the U.S. Geological Survey on sample collection are briefly cited also.

Advanced functional materials in solid phase extraction for ICP-MS determination of trace elements and their species - A review.

PubMed

He, Man; Huang, Lijin; Zhao, Bingshan; Chen, Beibei; Hu, Bin

2017-06-22

For the determination of trace elements and their species in various real samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), solid phase extraction (SPE) is a commonly used sample pretreatment technique to remove complex matrix, pre-concentrate target analytes and make the samples suitable for subsequent sample introduction and measurements. The sensitivity, selectivity/anti-interference ability, sample throughput and application potential of the methodology of SPE-ICP-MS are greatly dependent on SPE adsorbents. This article presents a general overview of the use of advanced functional materials (AFMs) in SPE for ICP-MS determination of trace elements and their species in the past decade. Herein the AFMs refer to the materials featuring with high adsorption capacity, good selectivity, fast adsorption/desorption dynamics and satisfying special requirements in real sample analysis, including nanometer-sized materials, porous materials, ion imprinting polymers, restricted access materials and magnetic materials. Carbon/silica/metal/metal oxide nanometer-sized adsorbents with high surface area and plenty of adsorption sites exhibit high adsorption capacity, and porous adsorbents would provide more adsorption sites and faster adsorption dynamics. The selectivity of the materials for target elements/species can be improved by using physical/chemical modification, ion imprinting and restricted accessed technique. Magnetic adsorbents in conventional batch operation offer unique magnetic response and high surface area-volume ratio which provide a very easy phase separation, greater extraction capacity and efficiency over conventional adsorbents, and chip-based magnetic SPE provides a versatile platform for special requirement (e.g. cell analysis). The performance of these adsorbents for the determination of trace elements and their species in different matrices by ICP-MS is discussed in detail, along with perspectives and possible challenges in the future development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microwave heating of aqueous samples on a micro-optical-electro-mechanical system

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

Beer, Neil Reginald

2016-04-12

Apparatus for heating a sample includes a microchip; a microchannel flow channel in the microchip, the microchannel flow channel containing the sample; a microwave source that directs microwaves onto the sample for heating the sample; a wall section of the microchannel flow channel that receives the microwaves and enables the microwaves to pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel, the wall section the microchannel flow channel being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; a carrier fluid within the microchannel flow channel for moving the sample in the microchannel flow channel, the carriermore » fluid being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; wherein the microwaves pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel and heat the sample.« less

Microwave heating of aqueous samples on a micro-optical-electro-mechanical system

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

Beer, Neil Reginald

Apparatus for heating a sample includes a microchip; a microchannel flow channel in the microchip, the microchannel flow channel containing the sample; a microwave source that directs microwaves onto the sample for heating the sample; a wall section of the microchannel flow channel that receives the microwaves and enables the microwaves to pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel, the wall section the microchannel flow channel being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; a carrier fluid within the microchannel flow channel for moving the sample in the microchannel flow channel, the carriermore » fluid being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; wherein the microwaves pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel and heat the sample.« less

Selection Skills and Collection Development in School Libraries.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Graef, Robert; And Others

1990-01-01

Presents 11 articles that deal with selection skills and collection development in junior and senior high school libraries. Highlights include censorship concerns, selecting corporate-sponsored materials, written selection policies, budget considerations, sample selection and evaluation forms for print and nonprint materials, reference books, and…

Mycotoxins in Crude Building Materials from Water-Damaged Buildings

PubMed Central

Tuomi, Tapani; Reijula, Kari; Johnsson, Tom; Hemminki, Kaisa; Hintikka, Eeva-Liisa; Lindroos, Outi; Kalso, Seija; Koukila-Kähkölä, Pirkko; Mussalo-Rauhamaa, Helena; Haahtela, Tari

2000-01-01

We analyzed 79 bulk samples of moldy interior finishes from Finnish buildings with moisture problems for 17 mycotoxins, as well as for fungi that could be isolated using one medium and one set of growth conditions. We found the aflatoxin precursor, sterigmatocystin, in 24% of the samples and trichothecenes in 19% of the samples. Trichothecenes found included satratoxin G or H in five samples; diacetoxyscirpenol in five samples; and 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol, deoxynivalenol, verrucarol, or T-2-tetraol in an additional five samples. Citrinine was found in three samples. Aspergillus versicolor was present in most sterigmatocystin-containing samples, and Stachybotrys spp. were present in the samples where satratoxins were found. In many cases, however, the presence of fungi thought to produce the mycotoxins was not correlated with the presence of the expected compounds. However, when mycotoxins were found, some toxigenic fungi usually were present, even if the species originally responsible for producing the mycotoxin was not isolated. We conclude that the identification and enumeration of fungal species present in bulk materials are important to verify the severity of mold damage but that chemical analyses are necessary if the goal is to establish the presence of mycotoxins in moldy materials. PMID:10788357

Mycotoxins in crude building materials from water-damaged buildings.

PubMed

Tuomi, T; Reijula, K; Johnsson, T; Hemminki, K; Hintikka, E L; Lindroos, O; Kalso, S; Koukila-Kähkölä, P; Mussalo-Rauhamaa, H; Haahtela, T

2000-05-01

We analyzed 79 bulk samples of moldy interior finishes from Finnish buildings with moisture problems for 17 mycotoxins, as well as for fungi that could be isolated using one medium and one set of growth conditions. We found the aflatoxin precursor, sterigmatocystin, in 24% of the samples and trichothecenes in 19% of the samples. Trichothecenes found included satratoxin G or H in five samples; diacetoxyscirpenol in five samples; and 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol, deoxynivalenol, verrucarol, or T-2-tetraol in an additional five samples. Citrinine was found in three samples. Aspergillus versicolor was present in most sterigmatocystin-containing samples, and Stachybotrys spp. were present in the samples where satratoxins were found. In many cases, however, the presence of fungi thought to produce the mycotoxins was not correlated with the presence of the expected compounds. However, when mycotoxins were found, some toxigenic fungi usually were present, even if the species originally responsible for producing the mycotoxin was not isolated. We conclude that the identification and enumeration of fungal species present in bulk materials are important to verify the severity of mold damage but that chemical analyses are necessary if the goal is to establish the presence of mycotoxins in moldy materials.

Sample Containerization and Sealing Techniques for Contamination Prevention and Preservation of Science Value for Mars Sample Return

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Younse, Paulo

Four sealing methods for encapsulating samples in 1 cm diameter thin-walled sample tubes were designed, along with a set of tests for characterization and evaluation of contamination prevention and sample preservation capability for the proposed Mars Sample Return (MSR) campaign. The sealing methods include a finned shape memory alloy (SMA) plug, expanding torque plug, contracting SMA ring cap, and expanding SMA ring plug. Mechanical strength and hermeticity of the seal were measured using a helium leak detector. Robustness of the seal to Mars simulant dust, surface abrasion, and pressure differentials were tested. Survivability tests were run to simulate thermal cycles on Mars, vibration from a Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV), and shock from Earth Entry Vehicle (EEV) landing. Material compatibility with potential sample minerals and organic molecules were studied to select proper tube and seal materials that would not lead to adverse reactions nor contaminate the sample. Cleaning and sterilization techniques were executed on coupons made from the seal materials to assess compliance with planetary protection and contamination control. Finally, a method to cut a sealed tube for sample removal was designed and tested.

Liquid-absorption preconcentrator sampling instrument

DOEpatents

Zaromb, Solomon

1990-01-01

A system for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air and includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container in which is disposed a wettable material extending substantially the entire length of the container. One end of the wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid, which flows to the other end of the container. Sample air is flowed through the container in contact with the wetted material for trapping and preconcentrating the traces of analyte in the sorbing liquid, which is then collected at the other end of the container and discharged to the detector. The wetted material may be a wick comprising a bundle of fibers, one end of which is immersed in a reservoir of the analyte-sorbing liquid, or may be a liner disposed on the inner surface of the container, with the sorbing liquid being centrifugally dispersed onto the liner at one end thereof. The container is preferably vertically oriented so that gravity effects the liquid flow.

Liquid-absorption preconcentrator sampling instrument

DOEpatents

Zaromb, S.

1990-12-11

A system is described for detecting trace concentrations of an analyte in air and includes a preconcentrator for the analyte and an analyte detector. The preconcentrator includes an elongated tubular container in which is disposed a wettable material extending substantially the entire length of the container. One end of the wettable material is continuously wetted with an analyte-sorbing liquid, which flows to the other end of the container. Sample air is flowed through the container in contact with the wetted material for trapping and preconcentrating the traces of analyte in the sorbing liquid, which is then collected at the other end of the container and discharged to the detector. The wetted material may be a wick comprising a bundle of fibers, one end of which is immersed in a reservoir of the analyte-sorbing liquid, or may be a liner disposed on the inner surface of the container, with the sorbing liquid being centrifugally dispersed onto the liner at one end thereof. The container is preferably vertically oriented so that gravity effects the liquid flow. 4 figs.

Europa's surface radiation environment and considerations for in-situ sampling and biosignature detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nordheim, T.; Paranicas, C.; Hand, K. P.

2017-12-01

Jupiter's moon Europa is embedded deep within the Jovian magnetosphere and is thus exposed to bombardment by charged particles, from thermal plasma to more energetic particles at radiation belt energies. In particular, energetic charged particles are capable of affecting the uppermost layer of surface material on Europa, in some cases down to depths of several meters (Johnson et al., 2004; Paranicas et al., 2009, 2002). Examples of radiation-induced surface alteration include sputtering, radiolysis and grain sintering; processes that are capable of significantly altering the physical properties of surface material. Radiolysis of surface ices containing sulfur-bearing contaminants from Io has been invoked as a possible explanation for hydrated sulfuric acid detected on Europa's surface (Carlson et al., 2002, 1999) and radiolytic production of oxidants represents a potential source of energy for life that could reside within Europa's sub-surface ocean (Chyba, 2000; Hand et al., 2007; Johnson et al., 2003; Vance et al., 2016). Accurate knowledge of Europa's surface radiation environment is essential to the interpretation of space and Earth-based observations of Europa's surface and exosphere. Furthermore, future landed missions may seek to sample endogenic material emplaced on Europa's surface to investigate its chemical composition and to search for biosignatures contained within. Such material would likely be sampled from the shallow sub-surface, and thus, it becomes crucial to know to which degree this material is expected to have been radiation processed.Here we will present modeling results of energetic electron and proton bombardment of Europa's surface, including interactions between these particles and surface material. In addition, we will present predictions for biosignature destruction at different geographical locations and burial depths and discuss the implications of these results for surface sampling by future missions to Europa's surface.

Evaluation of certain material films flown on the Space Shuttle Mission 46, EOIM-3 experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scialdone, John; Clatterbuck, Carroll; Ayres-Treusdell, Mary; Park, Gloria; Kolos, Diane

1995-01-01

Nine film samples were carried aboard the STS-46 Atlantis shuttle to complement the 'Evaluation of Oxygen Interaction with Materials (EOIM-III)' experiment to evaluate the effects of atomic oxygen on materials and to monitor the gaseous environment in the shuttle bay. The morphological changes of the samples produced by the atomic oxygen fluence of 2.07E-20 atoms/sq cm have been reported. The changes have been verified using X-ray Photoelectron Spectrometer (XPS) also known as Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), gravimetric measurements, microscopic observations and thermo-optical measurements. The samples including Kapton, Tefzel, Aclar, Polyacrylonitrile film, and Llumalloy films have been characterized by their oxygen reaction efficiency on the basis of their erosion losses and the fluence. Those efficiencies have been compared with results from other similar experiments, when available. The efficiencies of the samples are all in the range of E-24 gm/atom.

Method and apparatus for probing relative volume fractions

DOEpatents

Jandrasits, Walter G.; Kikta, Thomas J.

1998-01-01

A relative volume fraction probe particularly for use in a multiphase fluid system includes two parallel conductive paths defining therebetween a sample zone within the system. A generating unit generates time varying electrical signals which are inserted into one of the two parallel conductive paths. A time domain reflectometer receives the time varying electrical signals returned by the second of the two parallel conductive paths and, responsive thereto, outputs a curve of impedance versus distance. An analysis unit then calculates the area under the curve, subtracts the calculated area from an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of a first fluid phase, and divides this calculated difference by the difference between an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of the first fluid phase and an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of a second fluid phase. The result is the volume fraction.

Method and apparatus for probing relative volume fractions

DOEpatents

Jandrasits, W.G.; Kikta, T.J.

1998-03-17

A relative volume fraction probe particularly for use in a multiphase fluid system includes two parallel conductive paths defining therebetween a sample zone within the system. A generating unit generates time varying electrical signals which are inserted into one of the two parallel conductive paths. A time domain reflectometer receives the time varying electrical signals returned by the second of the two parallel conductive paths and, responsive thereto, outputs a curve of impedance versus distance. An analysis unit then calculates the area under the curve, subtracts the calculated area from an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of a first fluid phase, and divides this calculated difference by the difference between an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of the first fluid phase and an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of a second fluid phase. The result is the volume fraction. 9 figs.

Crossing Cultures--Third World Women. A Book of Materials, Activities, and Ideas for the Classroom Teacher.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valiant, Sharon

This resource bibliography includes and briefly discusses activities and instructional materials on the lives of women in the non-European/non-white world, suitable for use in elementary and secondary school rooms. The books, films, and other materials give a sampling of ideas and contributions often overlooked in middle-class America (for…

Advanced Materials Laboratory User Test Planning Guide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orndoff, Evelyne

2012-01-01

Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the Advanced Materials Laboratory. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

Cutaway line drawing of STS-34 middeck experiment Polymer Morphology (PM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

Cutaway line drawing shows components of STS-34 middeck experiment Polymer Morphology (PM). Generic Electronics Module (GEM) components include the control housing, circulating fans, hard disk, tape drives, computer boards, and heat exchanger. PM, a 3M-developed organic materials processing experiment, is designed to explore the effects of microgravity on polymeric materials as they are processed in space. The samples of polymeric materials being studied in the PM experiment are thin films (25 microns or less) approximately 25mm in diameter. The samples are mounted between two infrared transparent windows in a specially designed infrared cell that provides the capability of thermally processing the samples to 200 degrees Celsius with a high degree of thermal control. The samples are mounted on a carousel that allows them to be positioned, one at a time, in the infrared beam where spectra may be acquired. The GEM provides all carousel and sample cell control (SCC). The first flight of P

Possible Responsibility of Silicone Materials for Degradation of the CO2 Removal System in the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baeza, Mario; Sharma, Hemant; Borrok, David; Ren, Mingua; Pannell, Keith

2011-01-01

From data concerning the degradation of the CO2 removal system in the International Space Station (ISS) two important features were apparent: (1) The atmosphere within the International Space Station (ISS) contained many organic compounds including alcohols, halocarbons, aldehydes, esters, and ketones, inter alia. Various cyclosiloxanes Dn, hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3) and its higher homologs (D4) and (D5) are also present presumably due to offgassing. (2) Screens within the zeolite-containing canisters, used for the removal of CO2, exhibited partial clogging due to zeolitic fragments (dust) along with "sticky" residues, that in toto significantly reduced the efficiency of the CO2 removal process. Samples of the ISS fresh zeolite, used zeolite, filter clogging zeolite particles and residual polymeric materials were examined using, inter alia, NMR, EM and HRSEM. These data were compared to equivalent samples obtained prior and subsequent to Dn polymerization experiments performed in our laboratories using the clean ISS zeolite samples as catalyst. Polysiloxane materials produced were essentially equivalent in the two cases and the EM images demonstrate a remarkable similarity between the ISS filter zeolite samples and the post-polymerization zeolite material from our experiments. In this regard even the changes in the Al/Si ratio from the virgin zeolite material to the filter samples and the post-polymerization laboratory samples samples is noteworthy. This research was supported by a contract from the Boeing Company

UNCERTAINTY IN SCALING NUTRIENT EXPORT COEFFICIENTS

EPA Science Inventory

The Innov-X XT400 portable XRF analyzer features a miniature, rugged x-ray tube excitation source for analyzing a wide variety of elements and sample materials, including alloys, environmental solids, and other analytical samples. The x-ray tube source and Light Element Analysis...

Bisphenol A polycarbonate as a reference material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hilado, C. J.; Cumming, H. J.; Williams, J. B.

1977-01-01

Test methods require reference materials to standardize and maintain quality control. Various materials have been evaluated as possible reference materials, including a sample of bisphenol A polycarbonate without additives. Screening tests for relative toxicity under various experimental conditions were performed using male mice exposed to pyrolysis effluents over a 200-800 C temperature range. It was found that the bisphenol A polycarbonate served as a suitable reference material as it is available in large quantities, and does not significantly change with time.

Classification and Identification of Plant Fibrous Material with Different Species Using near Infrared Technique—A New Way to Approach Determining Biomass Properties Accurately within Different Species

PubMed Central

Jiang, Wei; Zhou, Chengfeng; Han, Guangting; Via, Brian; Swain, Tammy; Fan, Zhaofei; Liu, Shaoyang

2017-01-01

Plant fibrous material is a good resource in textile and other industries. Normally, several kinds of plant fibrous materials used in one process are needed to be identified and characterized in advance. It is easy to identify them when they are in raw condition. However, most of the materials are semi products which are ground, rotted or pre-hydrolyzed. To classify these samples which include different species with high accuracy is a big challenge. In this research, both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods were chosen to classify six different species of samples, including softwood, hardwood, bast, and aquatic plant. Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy (SIMCA) and partial least squares (PLS) were used. The algorithm to classify different species of samples using PLS was created independently in this research. Results found that the six species can be successfully classified using SIMCA and PLS methods, and these two methods show similar results. The identification rates of kenaf, ramie and pine are 100%, and the identification rates of lotus, eucalyptus and tallow are higher than 94%. It is also found that spectra loadings can help pick up best wavenumber ranges for constructing the NIR model. Inter material distance can show how close between two species. Scores graph is helpful to choose the principal components numbers during the model construction. PMID:28105037

Compositional and Microtextural Analysis of Basaltic Feedstock Materials Used for the 2010 ISRU Field Tests, Mauna Kea, Hawaii

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marin, N.; Farmer, J. D.; Zacny, K.; Sellar, R. G.; Nunez, J.

2011-12-01

This study seeks to understand variations in composition and texture of basaltic pyroclastic materials used in the 2010 International Lunar Surface Operation-In-Situ Resource Utilization Analogue Test (ILSO-ISRU) held on the slopes of Mauna Kea Volcano, Hawaii (1). The quantity and quality of resources delivered by ISRU depends upon the nature of the materials processed (2). We obtained a one-meter deep auger cuttings sample of a basaltic regolith at the primary site for feed stock materials being mined for the ISRU field test. The auger sample was subdivided into six, ~16 cm depth increments and each interval was sampled and characterized in the field using the Multispectral Microscopic Imager (MMI; 3) and a portable X-ray Diffractometer (Terra, InXitu Instruments, Inc.). Splits from each sampled interval were returned to the lab and analyzed using more definitive methods, including high resolution Powder X-ray Diffraction and Thermal Infrared (TIR) spectroscopy. The mineralogy and microtexture (grain size, sorting, roundness and sphericity) of the auger samples were determined using petrographic point count measurements obtained from grain-mount thin sections. NIH Image J (http://rsb.info.nih.gov/ij/) was applied to digital images of thin sections to document changes in particle size with depth. Results from TIR showed a general predominance of volcanic glass, along with plagioclase, olivine, and clinopyroxene. In addition, thin section and XRPD analyses showed a down core increase in the abundance of hydrated iron oxides (as in situ weathering products). Quantitative point count analyses confirmed the abundance of volcanic glass in samples, but also revealed olivine and pyroxene to be minor components, that decreased in abundance with depth. Furthermore, point count and XRD analyses showed a decrease in magnetite and ilmenite with depth, accompanied by an increase in Fe3+phases, including hematite and ferrihydrite. Image J particle analysis showed that the average grain size decreased down the depth profile. This decrease in average grain size and increase in hydrated iron oxides down hole suggests that the most favorable ISRU feedstock materials were sampled in the lower half-meter of the mine section sampled.

Portable sample preparation and analysis system for micron and sub-micron particle characterization using light scattering and absorption spectroscopy

DOEpatents

Stark, Peter C [Los Alamos, NM; Zurek, Eduardo [Barranquilla, CO; Wheat, Jeffrey V [Fort Walton Beach, FL; Dunbar, John M [Santa Fe, NM; Olivares, Jose A [Los Alamos, NM; Garcia-Rubio, Luis H [Temple Terrace, FL; Ward, Michael D [Los Alamos, NM

2011-07-26

There is provided a method and device for remote sampling, preparation and optical interrogation of a sample using light scattering and light absorption methods. The portable device is a filtration-based device that removes interfering background particle material from the sample matrix by segregating or filtering the chosen analyte from the sample solution or matrix while allowing the interfering background particles to be pumped out of the device. The segregated analyte is then suspended in a diluent for analysis. The device is capable of calculating an initial concentration of the analyte, as well as diluting the analyte such that reliable optical measurements can be made. Suitable analytes include cells, microorganisms, bioparticles, pathogens and diseases. Sample matrixes include biological fluids such as blood and urine, as well as environmental samples including waste water.

Graphics and composite material computer program enhancements for SPAR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farley, G. L.; Baker, D. J.

1980-01-01

User documentation is provided for additional computer programs developed for use in conjunction with SPAR. These programs plot digital data, simplify input for composite material section properties, and compute lamina stresses and strains. Sample problems are presented including execution procedures, program input, and graphical output.

The Industrial Revolution: An ERIC/ChESS Sample.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinhey, Laura A.

2000-01-01

Provides a list, from the ERIC database, of teaching materials and background information on the Industrial Revolution. Specific topics include life in Lowell (Massachusetts), the global impact of the Industrial Revolution, and England's Industrial Revolution. Offers directions for obtaining the full text of these materials. (CMK)

Add Interest to Your Social Studies Curriculum without Cost.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bloom, Marion G.; And Others

1992-01-01

Lists a sampling of free materials and their sources for use by social studies teachers. Includes videos, maps, pamphlets, booklets, games, posters, and travel brochures from Norway, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Korea among others. Provides source addresses, turnaround times, and descriptions of the materials. (DK)

The Effect of Ultraviolet Light on the "Liquid Wood"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dumitru, Nedelcu; Sabina, Zǎgan; Ticuta, Negreanu-Pirjol; Remus, Zǎgan; Constantin, Cǎrausu

2014-08-01

To preserve resources, the goal is to use biobased materials containing the maximum possible amount of renewable biomass-based derivatives to secure a sustainable future. Bioplastics, biocomposites, biological fibres and related biomaterials will serve as substitutes for materials and products traditionally made from petroleum resources. To support this need, in 1998, Fraunhofer Institute of Chemistry and Tecnaro GmbH Company (founded by Jurgen Pfitzer and Helmut Nagele in Germany) investigated and developed a new compound made of wood components that can be processed as a thermoplastic material. It is well known that bioplastic and biocomposite materials represent another important group of bio-materials that include plastics reinforced with natural fibers and wood-plastic composites (WPCs). The aim of this research is to identify the behavior of "Liquid Wood" after UV irradiation. The materials used were Arbofill Fichte, Arboblend V2 Nature and Arboform L, V3 Nature. The samples were obtained by injection and the experimental study plan followed the Taguchi method with six input parameters and two levels for each of them. Three samples from each material were tested in an ultraviolet environment using different time of exposure in order to establish the material characteristics. After the irradiation process the material did not turn to yellow, which suggests that the composition of the sample liquid timber inhibitors have stability and the number of α-carbonyl (C = O) groups is sufficiently low. After the graphs analyzing can be inferred relatively similar performance of the samples in the first stage both UV and the VIS, indicating that the activity is almost absent. In UV is clearly observed the peak amplitude (maximum absorbance) at different wavelengths (λ). So, in terms of peak intensity the samples follow the order: Arboform L, V3 Nature; Arbofill Fichte and Arboblend V2 Nature.

Development and Application of a New Method for Specific and Sensitive Enumeration of Spores of Nonproteolytic Clostridium botulinum Types B, E, and F in Foods and Food Materials ▿

PubMed Central

Peck, Michael W.; Plowman, June; Aldus, Clare F.; Wyatt, Gary M.; Penaloza Izurieta, Walter; Stringer, Sandra C.; Barker, Gary C.

2010-01-01

The highly potent botulinum neurotoxins are responsible for botulism, a severe neuroparalytic disease. Strains of nonproteolytic Clostridium botulinum form neurotoxins of types B, E, and F and are the main hazard associated with minimally heated refrigerated foods. Recent developments in quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) and food safety objectives (FSO) have made food safety more quantitative and include, as inputs, probability distributions for the contamination of food materials and foods. A new method that combines a selective enrichment culture with multiplex PCR has been developed and validated to enumerate specifically the spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum. Key features of this new method include the following: (i) it is specific for nonproteolytic C. botulinum (and does not detect proteolytic C. botulinum), (ii) the detection limit has been determined for each food tested (using carefully structured control samples), and (iii) a low detection limit has been achieved by the use of selective enrichment and large test samples. The method has been used to enumerate spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum in 637 samples of 19 food materials included in pasta-based minimally heated refrigerated foods and in 7 complete foods. A total of 32 samples (5 egg pastas and 27 scallops) contained spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum type B or F. The majority of samples contained <100 spores/kg, but one sample of scallops contained 444 spores/kg. Nonproteolytic C. botulinum type E was not detected. Importantly, for QMRA and FSO, the construction of probability distributions will enable the frequency of packs containing particular levels of contamination to be determined. PMID:20709854

Development and application of a new method for specific and sensitive enumeration of spores of nonproteolytic Clostridium botulinum types B, E, and F in foods and food materials.

PubMed

Peck, Michael W; Plowman, June; Aldus, Clare F; Wyatt, Gary M; Izurieta, Walter Penaloza; Stringer, Sandra C; Barker, Gary C

2010-10-01

The highly potent botulinum neurotoxins are responsible for botulism, a severe neuroparalytic disease. Strains of nonproteolytic Clostridium botulinum form neurotoxins of types B, E, and F and are the main hazard associated with minimally heated refrigerated foods. Recent developments in quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) and food safety objectives (FSO) have made food safety more quantitative and include, as inputs, probability distributions for the contamination of food materials and foods. A new method that combines a selective enrichment culture with multiplex PCR has been developed and validated to enumerate specifically the spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum. Key features of this new method include the following: (i) it is specific for nonproteolytic C. botulinum (and does not detect proteolytic C. botulinum), (ii) the detection limit has been determined for each food tested (using carefully structured control samples), and (iii) a low detection limit has been achieved by the use of selective enrichment and large test samples. The method has been used to enumerate spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum in 637 samples of 19 food materials included in pasta-based minimally heated refrigerated foods and in 7 complete foods. A total of 32 samples (5 egg pastas and 27 scallops) contained spores of nonproteolytic C. botulinum type B or F. The majority of samples contained <100 spores/kg, but one sample of scallops contained 444 spores/kg. Nonproteolytic C. botulinum type E was not detected. Importantly, for QMRA and FSO, the construction of probability distributions will enable the frequency of packs containing particular levels of contamination to be determined.

Application of an ETV-ICP system for the determination of elements in human hair*1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plantikow-Voβgätter, F.; Denkhaus, E.

1996-01-01

When determining element contents in hair samples without sample digestion it is necessary to analyze large sample volumes in order to minimize problems of inhomogeneity of biological sample materials. Therefore an electrothermal vaporization system (ETV) is used for solid sample introduction into an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) for the determination of matrix and trace elements in hair. This paper concentrates on the instrumental aspects without time consuming sample preparation. The results obtained for optimization tests, ETV operating parameters and ICP operating parameters, are shown and discussed. Standard additions are used for calibration for the determination of Zn, Mg, and Mn in human hair. Studies including reproducibility and detection limits for chosen elements have been carried out on certified reference materials (CRMs). The determination of reproducibility (relative standard deviation (RSD) of n = 10) and detection limits (DLs) of Zn (RSD < 8.5%, DL < 0.8 μ g -1), Mn (RSD < 14.1%, DL < 0.3 μ g -1), and Mg (RSD < 7.4%, DL < 6.6 μ g -1) are satisfactory. The concentration values found show good agreement with the corresponding certified values. Further sample preparation steps, including hair sampling, washing procedure and homogenization for hair, relating to measurements of real hair samples are described.

Optically stimulated differential impedance spectroscopy

DOEpatents

Maxey, Lonnie C; Parks, II, James E; Lewis, Sr., Samuel A; Partridge, Jr., William P

2014-02-18

Methods and apparatuses for evaluating a material are described. Embodiments typically involve use of an impedance measurement sensor to measure the impedance of a sample of the material under at least two different states of illumination. The states of illumination may include (a) substantially no optical stimulation, (b) substantial optical stimulation, (c) optical stimulation at a first wavelength of light, (d) optical stimulation at a second wavelength of light, (e) a first level of light intensity, and (f) a second level of light intensity. Typically a difference in impedance between the impedance of the sample at the two states of illumination is measured to determine a characteristic of the material.

New software to model energy dispersive X-ray diffraction in polycrystalline materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghammraoui, B.; Tabary, J.; Pouget, S.; Paulus, C.; Moulin, V.; Verger, L.; Duvauchelle, Ph.

2012-02-01

Detection of illicit materials, such as explosives or drugs, within mixed samples is a major issue, both for general security and as part of forensic analyses. In this paper, we describe a new code simulating energy dispersive X-ray diffraction patterns in polycrystalline materials. This program, SinFullscat, models diffraction of any object in any diffractometer system taking all physical phenomena, including amorphous background, into account. Many system parameters can be tuned: geometry, collimators (slit and cylindrical), sample properties, X-ray source and detector energy resolution. Good agreement between simulations and experimental data was obtained. Simulations using explosive materials indicated that parameters such as the diffraction angle or the energy resolution of the detector have a significant impact on the diffraction signature of the material inspected. This software will be a convenient tool to test many diffractometer configurations, providing information on the one that best restores the spectral diffraction signature of the materials of interest.

On-Demand Urine Analyzer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farquharson, Stuart; Inscore, Frank; Shende, Chetan

2010-01-01

A lab-on-a-chip was developed that is capable of extracting biochemical indicators from urine samples and generating their surface-enhanced Raman spectra (SERS) so that the indicators can be quantified and identified. The development was motivated by the need to monitor and assess the effects of extended weightlessness, which include space motion sickness and loss of bone and muscle mass. The results may lead to developments of effective exercise programs and drug regimes that would maintain astronaut health. The analyzer containing the lab-on-a- chip includes materials to extract 3- methylhistidine (a muscle-loss indicator) and Risedronate (a bone-loss indicator) from the urine sample and detect them at the required concentrations using a Raman analyzer. The lab-on- a-chip has both an extractive material and a SERS-active material. The analyzer could be used to monitor the onset of diseases, such as osteoporosis.

Microscopic Analysis of Activated Sludge. Training Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Water Program Operations (EPA), Cincinnati, OH. National Training and Operational Technology Center.

This training manual presents material on the use of a compound microscope to analyze microscope communities, present in wastewater treatment processes, for operational control. Course topics include: sampling techniques, sample handling, laboratory analysis, identification of organisms, data interpretation, and use of the compound microscope.…

Analysis of 19th century ceramic fragments excavated from Pirenópolis (Goiás, Brazil) using FT-IR, Raman, XRF and SEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freitas, Renato P.; Coelho, Filipe A.; Felix, Valter S.; Pereira, Marcelo O.; de Souza, Marcos André Torres; Anjos, Marcelino J.

2018-03-01

This study used Raman, FT-IR and XRF spectroscopy and SEM to analyze ceramic fragments dating from the 19th century, excavated from an old farm in the municipality of Pirenópolis, Goiás, Brazil. The results show that the samples were produced in an open oven at a firing temperature below 500 °C, using raw materials including kaolinite, hematite, magnetite, quartz, microcline, albite, anhydrite, calcite, illite, orthoclase and MnO2. Although the analyses showed similarities in the manufacturing process and the presence of many minerals was common in all samples, multivariate statistical methods (PCA) allowed a more detailed assessment of similarities and differences in the mineral composition of the samples. The results of the PCA showed that the samples excavated in one of the slave quarters (senzalas) group with those excavated at the farmhouse, where the landowner lived, which indicates a paternalistic attitude towards captives, including the sharing of ceramic materials of everyday use.

Baseline tests for arc melter vitrification of INEL buried wastes. Volume II: Baseline test data appendices

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

Oden, L.L.; O`Conner, W.K.; Turner, P.C.

1993-11-19

This report presents field results and raw data from the Buried Waste Integrated Demonstration (BWID) Arc Melter Vitrification Project Phase 1 baseline test series conducted by the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM). The baseline test series was conducted using the electric arc melter facility at the USBM Albany Research Center in Albany, Oregon. Five different surrogate waste feed mixtures were tested that simulated thermally-oxidized, buried, TRU-contaminated, mixed wastes and soils present at the INEL. The USBM Arc Furnace Integrated Waste Processing Test Facility includes a continuous feed system, the arc meltingmore » furnace, an offgas control system, and utilities. The melter is a sealed, 3-phase alternating current (ac) furnace approximately 2 m high and 1.3 m wide. The furnace has a capacity of 1 metric ton of steel and can process as much as 1,500 lb/h of soil-type waste materials. The surrogate feed materials included five mixtures designed to simulate incinerated TRU-contaminated buried waste materials mixed with INEL soil. Process samples, melter system operations data and offgas composition data were obtained during the baseline tests to evaluate the melter performance and meet test objectives. Samples and data gathered during this program included (a) automatically and manually logged melter systems operations data, (b) process samples of slag, metal and fume solids, and (c) offgas composition, temperature, velocity, flowrate, moisture content, particulate loading and metals content. This report consists of 2 volumes: Volume I summarizes the baseline test operations. It includes an executive summary, system and facility description, review of the surrogate waste mixtures, and a description of the baseline test activities, measurements, and sample collection. Volume II contains the raw test data and sample analyses from samples collected during the baseline tests.« less

Baseline tests for arc melter vitrification of INEL buried wastes. Volume 1: Facility description and summary data report

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

Oden, L.L.; O`Connor, W.K.; Turner, P.C.

1993-11-19

This report presents field results and raw data from the Buried Waste Integrated Demonstration (BWID) Arc Melter Vitrification Project Phase 1 baseline test series conducted by the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM). The baseline test series was conducted using the electric arc melter facility at the USBM Albany Research Center in Albany, Oregon. Five different surrogate waste feed mixtures were tested that simulated thermally-oxidized, buried, TRU-contaminated, mixed wastes and soils present at the INEL. The USBM Arc Furnace Integrated Waste Processing Test Facility includes a continuous feed system, the arc meltingmore » furnace, an offgas control system, and utilities. The melter is a sealed, 3-phase alternating current (ac) furnace approximately 2 m high and 1.3 m wide. The furnace has a capacity of 1 metric ton of steel and can process as much as 1,500 lb/h of soil-type waste materials. The surrogate feed materials included five mixtures designed to simulate incinerated TRU-contaminated buried waste materials mixed with INEL soil. Process samples, melter system operations data and offgas composition data were obtained during the baseline tests to evaluate the melter performance and meet test objectives. Samples and data gathered during this program included (a) automatically and manually logged melter systems operations data, (b) process samples of slag, metal and fume solids, and (c) offgas composition, temperature, velocity, flowrate, moisture content, particulate loading and metals content. This report consists of 2 volumes: Volume I summarizes the baseline test operations. It includes an executive summary, system and facility description, review of the surrogate waste mixtures, and a description of the baseline test activities, measurements, and sample collection. Volume II contains the raw test data and sample analyses from samples collected during the baseline tests.« less

Micro injector sample delivery system for charged molecules

DOEpatents

Davidson, James C.; Balch, Joseph W.

1999-11-09

A micro injector sample delivery system for charged molecules. The injector is used for collecting and delivering controlled amounts of charged molecule samples for subsequent analysis. The injector delivery system can be scaled to large numbers (>96) for sample delivery to massively parallel high throughput analysis systems. The essence of the injector system is an electric field controllable loading tip including a section of porous material. By applying the appropriate polarity bias potential to the injector tip, charged molecules will migrate into porous material, and by reversing the polarity bias potential the molecules are ejected or forced away from the tip. The invention has application for uptake of charged biological molecules (e.g. proteins, nucleic acids, polymers, etc.) for delivery to analytical systems, and can be used in automated sample delivery systems.

Characterization of 107 Genomic DNA Reference Materials for CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, VKORC1, and UGT1A1

PubMed Central

Pratt, Victoria M.; Zehnbauer, Barbara; Wilson, Jean Amos; Baak, Ruth; Babic, Nikolina; Bettinotti, Maria; Buller, Arlene; Butz, Ken; Campbell, Matthew; Civalier, Chris; El-Badry, Abdalla; Farkas, Daniel H.; Lyon, Elaine; Mandal, Saptarshi; McKinney, Jason; Muralidharan, Kasinathan; Noll, LeAnne; Sander, Tara; Shabbeer, Junaid; Smith, Chingying; Telatar, Milhan; Toji, Lorraine; Vairavan, Anand; Vance, Carlos; Weck, Karen E.; Wu, Alan H.B.; Yeo, Kiang-Teck J.; Zeller, Markus; Kalman, Lisa

2010-01-01

Pharmacogenetic testing is becoming more common; however, very few quality control and other reference materials that cover alleles commonly included in such assays are currently available. To address these needs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Genetic Testing Reference Material Coordination Program, in collaboration with members of the pharmacogenetic testing community and the Coriell Cell Repositories, have characterized a panel of 107 genomic DNA reference materials for five loci (CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, VKORC1, and UGT1A1) that are commonly included in pharmacogenetic testing panels and proficiency testing surveys. Genomic DNA from publicly available cell lines was sent to volunteer laboratories for genotyping. Each sample was tested in three to six laboratories using a variety of commercially available or laboratory-developed platforms. The results were consistent among laboratories, with differences in allele assignments largely related to the manufacturer's assay design and variable nomenclature, especially for CYP2D6. The alleles included in the assay platforms varied, but most were identified in the set of 107 DNA samples. Nine additional pharmacogenetic loci (CYP4F2, EPHX1, ABCB1, HLAB, KIF6, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, TPMT, and DPD) were also tested. These samples are publicly available from Coriell and will be useful for quality assurance, proficiency testing, test development, and research. PMID:20889555

Cyclic arc plasma tests of RSI materials using a preheater

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, D. A.

1973-01-01

The results of a test program are reported in which a preheater was used with an arc plasma stream to study the thermal response of samples of candidate reusable surface insulation materials for the space shuttle. The preheater simulated the shuttle temperature history during the first and last portions of the test cycle, which could not be simulated by the air arc plasma flow. Pre- and post-test data taken for each of the materials included magnified views, optical properties, and chemical analyses. The test results indicate that the mullite base samples experience higher surface temperatures than the other materials at heating rates greater than 225 kw/sq m. The ceramic fibrous mullite and silica coatings show noncatalytic wall behavior. Internal temperature response data for the materials are compared and correlated with analytical predictions.

Environmental sampling and analysis in support of NTI-3

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

McGuire, R.R.; Harrar, J.E.; Haas, J.S.

1991-04-06

The third National Trail Inspection took place at the Monsanto Chemical Plant in Luling, Louisiana. In order to test the effectiveness of environmental sampling (soil, water and air) in determining the nature of the chemical process in a given production plant and to examine the distance from a process building that samples can effectively be taken, we needed to select some materials that constituted components of process streams. Three materials were selected: 1. isopropyl amine for air monitoring, 2. 4-nitrophenol, one of the precursors in the acetaminophen process, and 3. an intermediate in the production of glyphosate for ROUNDUP thatmore » is known simply as glyphosate intermediated. LLNL did not participate in the air sampling nor the analysis for isopropyl amine. This paper discussed the steps in this experiment including sample collection, sample workshop, sample analysis the results and discussion and the conclusion. 3 figs., 6 tabs.« less

Diversity Statements: How Faculty Applicants Address Diversity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schmaling, Karen B.; Trevino, Amira Y.; Lind, Justin R.; Blume, Arthur W.; Baker, Dana L.

2015-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine application materials for assistant professor positions in 3 academic disciplines. Applicants were asked to write a diversity statement describing how they would advance diversity through their research, teaching, and service. The sample included application materials submitted by 191 candidates for…

Bibliography for the Hospitality Industry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nelson, Elizabeth A.

This annotated bibliography is a sample collection of reference materials in the hospitality industry suitable for a small academic library. It is assumed that the library has a general reference collection. Publication dates range from 1992-96, with two publication dates in the 1980s. No periodicals are included. The 41 reference materials are…

Occupation-Specific VESL Teaching Techniques. A VESL Staff Development Training Resource Packet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

West, Linda; Wilkinson, Betty

Materials for a workshop on teaching vocational English as a Second Language (VESL) are gathered. An annotated outline presents the content and sequence of the workshop, including an icebreaker activity, general techniques for teaching occupation-specific vocabulary, sample lesson plans and accompanying instructional materials for teaching…

Self-Paced Physics, Course Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New York Inst. of Tech., Old Westbury.

Samples of the Self-Paced Physics Course materials are presented in this collection for dissemination purposes. Descriptions are included of course objectives, characteristics, structures, and content. As a two-semester course of study for science and engineering sophomores, most topics are on a level comparable to that of classical physics by…

Skills for Tomorrow. Workplace Skills Project. DACUM Charts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mercer County Community Coll., Trenton, NJ.

This packet contains sample DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) materials developed for two companies (The Hibbert Group and Trane Corporation). For the Hibbert Group, materials include the following: job and task descriptions for data services, inventory control, planning, and quality services personnel; a curriculum for those employees in reading,…

Porosimetry as an effective method of fuel cell investigation

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

Kazarinov, V.E.

1996-04-01

A porosimetric method is described for the investigation of all kinds of porous materials including soft or frail materials and powders. The method is well suited for the investigation of electrodes in fuel cells and batteries. The method is nondestructive and allows for repeated measurements on the same sample.

Post-Decontamination Vapor Sampling and Analytical Test Methods

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-12

construction materials (e.g., acrylic, stainless steel , glass, etc.) for containing the chemical contaminants, coupons, coupon holders, and decontaminant(s...made of inert materials, e.g., stainless steel , T6061 aluminum, or equivalent. The construction material may be treated to further minimize...include glove ports. The chamber may have certified fume hoods for the containment of toxic chemicals. All exhaust air must be filtered to

Real-time and accelerated outdoor endurance testing of solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forestieri, A. F.; Anagnostou, E.

1978-01-01

Materials for solar-cell module construction have been studied on the basis of limited real-time outdoor exposure evaluations. The materials tested included transmission samples, sub-modules, and actual solar cells. The results suggest that glass, fluorinated ethylene propylene, and perfluoroalkoxy are good materials for the covering or encapsulation of solar-cell modules. In all cases, dirt accumulation and cleanability are important factors.

What Teachers Want: A Statewide Survey of Reading and English Language Arts Teachers' Instructional Materials, Preferences, and Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lenski, Susan; Larson, Mindy; McElhone, Dot; Davis, Dennis S.; Lauritzen, Carol; Villagómez, Amanda; Yeigh, Maika; Landon-Hays, Melanie; LeJeune, Marie; Scales, W. David

2016-01-01

This study reports the results of a survey of a representative sample of 1,206 elementary reading and English Language Arts teachers in Oregon to learn (1) what materials are currently being used, (2) what materials teachers would prefer, and (3) what instructional practices teachers use. Qualitative data included 365 comments and 34 interviews…

Miniature Neutron-Alpha Activation Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhodes, E.; Goldsten, J.

2001-01-01

We are developing a miniature neutron-alpha activation spectrometer for in situ analysis of samples including rocks, fines, ices, and drill cores, suitable for a lander or Rover platform, that would meet the severe mass, power, and environmental constraints of missions to the outer planets. In the neutron-activation mode, a gamma-ray spectrometer will first perform a penetrating scan of soil, ice, and loose material underfoot (depths to 10 cm or more) to identify appropriate samples. Chosen samples will be analyzed in bulk in neutron-activation mode, and then the sample surfaces will be analyzed in alpha-activation mode using Rutherford backscatter and x-ray spectrometers. The instrument will provide sample composition over a wide range of elements, including rock-forming elements (such as Na, Mg, Si, Fe, and Ca), rare earths (Sm and Eu for example), radioactive elements (K, Th, and U), and light elements present in water, ices, and biological materials (mainly H, C, O, and N). The instrument is expected to have a mass of about l kg and to require less than 1 W power. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Characterizing Salmonella Contamination in Two Rendering Processing Plants.

PubMed

Gong, Chao; Jiang, Xiuping

2017-02-01

A microbiological investigation on Salmonella contamination was conducted in two U.S. rendering plants to investigate the potential cross-contamination of Salmonella in the rendering processing environment. Sampling locations were predetermined at the areas where Salmonella contamination may potentially occur, including raw materials receiving, crax (rendered materials before grinding process) grinding, and finished meal loading-out areas. Salmonella was either enumerated directly on xylose lysine Tergitol 4 agar plates or enriched in Rappaport-Vassiliadis and tetrathionate broths. The presumptive Salmonella isolates were confirmed using CHROMagar plating and latex agglutination testing and then characterized using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, serotyping, and biofilm-forming determination. Among 108 samples analyzed, 79 (73%) samples were Salmonella positive after enrichment. Selected Salmonella isolates (n = 65) were assigned to 31 unique pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns, with 16 Salmonella serotypes, including Typhimurium and Mbandaka, identified as predominant serotypes and 10 Salmonella strains determined as strong biofilm formers. Our results indicated that the raw materials receiving area was the primary source of Salmonella and that the surfaces surrounding crax grinding and finished meal loading-out areas harbor Salmonella in biofilms that may recontaminate the finished meals. The same Salmonella serotypes found in both raw materials receiving and the finished meal loading-out areas suggested a potential of cross-contamination between different areas in the rendering processing environment.

Apparatus and method for measuring minority carrier lifetimes in semiconductor materials

DOEpatents

Ahrenkiel, Richard K.; Johnston, Steven W.

2001-01-01

An apparatus for determining the minority carrier lifetime of a semiconductor sample includes a positioner for moving the sample relative to a coil. The coil is connected to a bridge circuit such that the impedance of one arm of the bridge circuit is varied as sample is positioned relative to the coil. The sample is positioned relative to the coil such that any change in the photoconductance of the sample created by illumination of the sample creates a linearly related change in the input impedance of the bridge circuit. In addition, the apparatus is calibrated to work at a fixed frequency so that the apparatus maintains a consistently high sensitivity and high linearity for samples of different sizes, shapes, and material properties. When a light source illuminates the sample, the impedance of the bridge circuit is altered as excess carriers are generated in the sample, thereby producing a measurable signal indicative of the minority carrier lifetimes or recombination rates of the sample.

Apparatus for measuring minority carrier lifetimes in semiconductor materials

DOEpatents

Ahrenkiel, R.K.

1999-07-27

An apparatus for determining the minority carrier lifetime of a semiconductor sample includes a positioner for moving the sample relative to a coil. The coil is connected to a bridge circuit such that the impedance of one arm of the bridge circuit is varied as sample is positioned relative to the coil. The sample is positioned relative to the coil such that any change in the photoconductance of the sample created by illumination of the sample creates a linearly related change in the input impedance of the bridge circuit. In addition, the apparatus is calibrated to work at a fixed frequency so that the apparatus maintains a consistently high sensitivity and high linearly for samples of different sizes, shapes, and material properties. When a light source illuminates the sample, the impedance of the bridge circuit is altered as excess carriers are generated in the sample, thereby producing a measurable signal indicative of the minority carrier lifetimes or recombination rates of the sample. 17 figs.

Apparatus for measuring minority carrier lifetimes in semiconductor materials

DOEpatents

Ahrenkiel, Richard K.

1999-01-01

An apparatus for determining the minority carrier lifetime of a semiconductor sample includes a positioner for moving the sample relative to a coil. The coil is connected to a bridge circuit such that the impedance of one arm of the bridge circuit is varied as sample is positioned relative to the coil. The sample is positioned relative to the coil such that any change in the photoconductance of the sample created by illumination of the sample creates a linearly related change in the input impedance of the bridge circuit. In addition, the apparatus is calibrated to work at a fixed frequency so that the apparatus maintains a consistently high sensitivity and high linearly for samples of different sizes, shapes, and material properties. When a light source illuminates the sample, the impedance of the bridge circuit is altered as excess carriers are generated in the sample, thereby producing a measurable signal indicative of the minority carrier lifetimes or recombination rates of the sample.

Assessment of relative flammability and thermochemical properties of some thermoplastic materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, D. A.; Parker, J. A.

1977-01-01

Thermomechanical properties, flammability, oxygen index, relative toxicity of pyrolysis effluents, and char yields were studied for 12 advanced polymers which are candidates for use in aircraft interiors as decorative films, compression- and injection-molded parts and thermoplastic parts. Polymers sampled included polyphenylene sulfide, 9,9 bis (4-hydroxyphenol) fluorene polycarbonate-poly (dimethylsiloxane), polyether sulfone, polyvinyl fluoride and polyvinylidene fluoride. Availability of these samples, whether in commercial form or in test quantities, is specified. An estimate of relative fire resistance for the materials was obtained; the five polymers listed above were found to be the most fire resistant of the 12 sampled.

Sampling, Testing, and Test Interpretation of Dredged Material Proposed for Unconfined, Open-Water Disposal in Central Puget Sound. Volume 5. Evaluation Procedures Technical Appendix. Phase 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-06-01

petroleum and combustion products. Consequently, the PSDDA list of chemicals of concern includes 16 polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Measurement...This material usually includes slurry water. Hydrocarbon . An organic compound composed of carbon and hydrogen. Petroleum and its derived compounds... Hydrocarbons Phthalates Pesticides Miscellaneous Compounds Biological Testing --Amphipod Bioassay Microtox Bioassay Macoma Bioaccumulation Costs for

Evaluating Composite Sampling Methods of Bacillus Spores at Low Concentrations

PubMed Central

Hess, Becky M.; Amidan, Brett G.; Anderson, Kevin K.; Hutchison, Janine R.

2016-01-01

Restoring all facility operations after the 2001 Amerithrax attacks took years to complete, highlighting the need to reduce remediation time. Some of the most time intensive tasks were environmental sampling and sample analyses. Composite sampling allows disparate samples to be combined, with only a single analysis needed, making it a promising method to reduce response times. We developed a statistical experimental design to test three different composite sampling methods: 1) single medium single pass composite (SM-SPC): a single cellulose sponge samples multiple coupons with a single pass across each coupon; 2) single medium multi-pass composite: a single cellulose sponge samples multiple coupons with multiple passes across each coupon (SM-MPC); and 3) multi-medium post-sample composite (MM-MPC): a single cellulose sponge samples a single surface, and then multiple sponges are combined during sample extraction. Five spore concentrations of Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura spores were tested; concentrations ranged from 5 to 100 CFU/coupon (0.00775 to 0.155 CFU/cm2). Study variables included four clean surface materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, ceramic tile, and painted dry wallboard) and three grime coated/dirty materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile). Analysis of variance for the clean study showed two significant factors: composite method (p< 0.0001) and coupon material (p = 0.0006). Recovery efficiency (RE) was higher overall using the MM-MPC method compared to the SM-SPC and SM-MPC methods. RE with the MM-MPC method for concentrations tested (10 to 100 CFU/coupon) was similar for ceramic tile, dry wall, and stainless steel for clean materials. RE was lowest for vinyl tile with both composite methods. Statistical tests for the dirty study showed RE was significantly higher for vinyl and stainless steel materials, but lower for ceramic tile. These results suggest post-sample compositing can be used to reduce sample analysis time when responding to a Bacillus anthracis contamination event of clean or dirty surfaces. PMID:27736999

Evaluating Composite Sampling Methods of Bacillus Spores at Low Concentrations.

PubMed

Hess, Becky M; Amidan, Brett G; Anderson, Kevin K; Hutchison, Janine R

2016-01-01

Restoring all facility operations after the 2001 Amerithrax attacks took years to complete, highlighting the need to reduce remediation time. Some of the most time intensive tasks were environmental sampling and sample analyses. Composite sampling allows disparate samples to be combined, with only a single analysis needed, making it a promising method to reduce response times. We developed a statistical experimental design to test three different composite sampling methods: 1) single medium single pass composite (SM-SPC): a single cellulose sponge samples multiple coupons with a single pass across each coupon; 2) single medium multi-pass composite: a single cellulose sponge samples multiple coupons with multiple passes across each coupon (SM-MPC); and 3) multi-medium post-sample composite (MM-MPC): a single cellulose sponge samples a single surface, and then multiple sponges are combined during sample extraction. Five spore concentrations of Bacillus atrophaeus Nakamura spores were tested; concentrations ranged from 5 to 100 CFU/coupon (0.00775 to 0.155 CFU/cm2). Study variables included four clean surface materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, ceramic tile, and painted dry wallboard) and three grime coated/dirty materials (stainless steel, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile). Analysis of variance for the clean study showed two significant factors: composite method (p< 0.0001) and coupon material (p = 0.0006). Recovery efficiency (RE) was higher overall using the MM-MPC method compared to the SM-SPC and SM-MPC methods. RE with the MM-MPC method for concentrations tested (10 to 100 CFU/coupon) was similar for ceramic tile, dry wall, and stainless steel for clean materials. RE was lowest for vinyl tile with both composite methods. Statistical tests for the dirty study showed RE was significantly higher for vinyl and stainless steel materials, but lower for ceramic tile. These results suggest post-sample compositing can be used to reduce sample analysis time when responding to a Bacillus anthracis contamination event of clean or dirty surfaces.

Reconnaissance-level application of physical habitat simulation in the evaluation of physical habitat limits in the Animas Basin, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Milhous, Robert T.

2003-01-01

Bed material samples were collected at each site. These included samples of the armour, the substrate, and sand and fines deposited on the surface. At selected sites the stream morphology was measured. These measurements included one to three cross sections, stream discharge, and water surface elevations. The data are located in the files of the Fort Collins Science Center.

Advanced Curation of Current and Future Extraterrestrial Samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Carlton C.

2013-01-01

Curation of extraterrestrial samples is the critical interface between sample return missions and the international research community. Curation includes documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples. The current collections of extraterrestrial samples include: Lunar rocks / soils collected by the Apollo astronauts Meteorites, including samples of asteroids, the Moon, and Mars "Cosmic dust" (asteroid and comet particles) collected by high-altitude aircraft Solar wind atoms collected by the Genesis spacecraft Comet particles collected by the Stardust spacecraft Interstellar dust collected by the Stardust spacecraft Asteroid particles collected by the Hayabusa spacecraft These samples were formed in environments strikingly different from that on Earth. Terrestrial contamination can destroy much of the scientific significance of many extraterrestrial materials. In order to preserve the research value of these precious samples, contamination must be minimized, understood, and documented. In addition the samples must be preserved - as far as possible - from physical and chemical alteration. In 2011 NASA selected the OSIRIS-REx mission, designed to return samples from the primitive asteroid 1999 RQ36 (Bennu). JAXA will sample C-class asteroid 1999 JU3 with the Hayabusa-2 mission. ESA is considering the near-Earth asteroid sample return mission Marco Polo-R. The Decadal Survey listed the first lander in a Mars sample return campaign as its highest priority flagship-class mission, with sample return from the South Pole-Aitken basin and the surface of a comet among additional top priorities. The latest NASA budget proposal includes a mission to capture a 5-10 m asteroid and return it to the vicinity of the Moon as a target for future sampling. Samples, tools, containers, and contamination witness materials from any of these missions carry unique requirements for acquisition and curation. Some of these requirements represent significant advances over methods currently used. New analytical and screening techniques will increase the value of current sample collections. Improved web-based tools will make information on all samples more accessible to researchers and the public. Advanced curation of current and future extraterrestrial samples includes: Contamination Control - inorganic / organic Temperature of preservation - subfreezing / cryogenic Non-destructive preliminary examination - X-ray tomography / XRF mapping / Raman mapping Microscopic samples - handling / sectioning / transport Special samples - unopened lunar cores Informatics - online catalogs / community-based characterization.

Effects of pre-analytical variables on flow cytometric diagnosis of canine lymphoma: A retrospective study (2009-2015).

PubMed

Comazzi, S; Cozzi, M; Bernardi, S; Zanella, D R; Aresu, L; Stefanello, D; Marconato, L; Martini, V

2018-02-01

Flow cytometry (FC) is increasingly being used for immunophenotyping and staging of canine lymphoma. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess pre-analytical variables that might influence the diagnostic utility of FC of lymph node (LN) fine needle aspirate (FNA) specimens from dogs with lymphoproliferative diseases. The study included 987 cases with LN FNA specimens sent for immunophenotyping that were submitted to a diagnostic laboratory in Italy from 2009 to 2015. Cases were grouped into 'diagnostic' and 'non-diagnostic'. Pre-analytical factors analysed by univariate and multivariate analyses were animal-related factors (breed, age, sex, size), operator-related factors (year, season, shipping method, submitting veterinarian) and sample-related factors (type of sample material, cellular concentration, cytological smears, artefacts). The submitting veterinarian, sample material, sample cellularity and artefacts affected the likelihood of having a diagnostic sample. The availability of specimens from different sites and of cytological smears increased the odds of obtaining a diagnostic result. Major artefacts affecting diagnostic utility included poor cellularity and the presence of dead cells. Flow cytometry on LN FNA samples yielded conclusive results in more than 90% of cases with adequate sample quality and sampling conditions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Wear resistance of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) with the Addition of Bone Ash, Hydroxylapatite and Keratin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emre, G.; Akkus, A.; Karamış, M. B.

2018-01-01

In this study mechanichal and tribological properties of keratin, bone ash and hydroxylapatite by adding to PMMA ( known as the main prosthesis material) were investigated. Hydroxylapatite, bone ash, and keratin materials were added as PMMA in to the content of PMMA, in the proportions of %1, %3 and %5, respectively. The resulting mixtures were put into the molds and solidified in order to obtain samples to be used in the wear experiments. Each experiment was conducted by preparing three experimental samples. The wear data were compared according to the average values of the experimental samples. In the wear test, the results were also evaluated according to the average values obtained from each group and the results of the control group. It was observed that, the wear resistance of the PMMA including 3%, 5% bone ash and PMMA including 5% keratin flour were higher than the values of the control group.

Characterization of Friction Joints Subjected to High Levels of Random Vibration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

deSantos, Omar; MacNeal, Paul

2012-01-01

This paper describes the test program in detail including test sample description, test procedures, and vibration test results of multiple test samples. The material pairs used in the experiment were Aluminum-Aluminum, Aluminum- Dicronite coated Aluminum, and Aluminum-Plasmadize coated Aluminum. Levels of vibration for each set of twelve samples of each material pairing were gradually increased until all samples experienced substantial displacement. Data was collected on 1) acceleration in all three axes, 2) relative static displacement between vibration runs utilizing photogrammetry techniques, and 3) surface galling and contaminant generation. This data was used to estimate the values of static friction during random vibratory motion when "stick-slip" occurs and compare these to static friction coefficients measured before and after vibration testing.

IP Sample Plan #4 | NCI Technology Transfer Center | TTC

Cancer.gov

Sample letter from Research Institutes and their principal investigator and consultants, describing a data and research tool sharing plan and procedures for sharing data, research materials, and patent and licensing of intellectual property. This letter is designed to be included as part of an application.

Population Education in Science: Some Sample Lessons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, Bangkok (Thailand). Regional Office for Education in Asia and Oceania.

This science teacher's manual contains nine sample population education lessons adapted from materials produced in several countries in Asia and Oceania. Activities are designed for lower primary through high school students. Included are class discussions, small group activities, and a role-playing situation. Food chains, human dependence upon…

Optimising a modified free-space permittivity characterisation method for civil engineering applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muller, Wayne; Scheuermann, Alexander

2016-04-01

Measuring the electrical permittivity of civil engineering materials is important for a range of ground penetrating radar (GPR) and pavement moisture measurement applications. Compacted unbound granular (UBG) pavement materials present a number of preparation and measurement challenges using conventional characterisation techniques. As an alternative to these methods, a modified free-space (MFS) characterisation approach has previously been investigated. This paper describes recent work to optimise and validate the MFS technique. The research included finite difference time domain (FDTD) modelling to better understand the nature of wave propagation within material samples and the test apparatus. This research led to improvements in the test approach and optimisation of sample sizes. The influence of antenna spacing and sample thickness on the permittivity results was investigated by a series of experiments separating antennas and measuring samples of nylon and water. Permittivity measurements of samples of nylon and water approximately 100 mm and 170 mm thick were also compared, showing consistent results. These measurements also agreed well with surface probe measurements of the nylon sample and literature values for water. The results indicate permittivity estimates of acceptable accuracy can be obtained using the proposed approach, apparatus and sample sizes.

Laser-Launched Flyer Plates and Direct Laser Shocks for Dynamic Material Property Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paisley, D. L.; Swift, D. C.; Johnson, R. P.; Kopp, R. A.; Kyrala, G. A.

2002-07-01

The Trident laser at Los Alamos was used to impart known and controlled shocks in various materials by launching flyer plates or by irradiating the sample directly. Materials investigated include copper, gold, NiTi, SS316, and other metals and alloys. Tensile spall strength, elastic-plastic transition, phase boundaries, and equation of state can be determined with small samples. Using thin samples (0.1 - 1.0 mm thick) as targets, high pressure gradients can be generated with relatively low pressures, resulting in high tensile strain rates (105 to 108 s-1). Free surface and interface velocities are recorded with point- and line-imaging VISARs. The flexible spatial and temporal pulse profiles of Trident, coupled with the use of laser-launched flyer plates, provides capabilities which complement experiments conducted using gas guns and tensile bars.

Genesis Radiation Environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minow, Joseph I.; Altstatt, Richard L.; Skipworth, William C.

2007-01-01

The Genesis spacecraft launched on 8 August 2001 sampled solar wind environments at L1 from 2001 to 2004. After the Science Capsule door was opened, numerous foils and samples were exposed to the various solar wind environments during periods including slow solar wind from the streamer belts, fast solar wind flows from coronal holes, and coronal mass ejections. The Survey and Examination of Eroded Returned Surfaces (SEERS) program led by NASA's Space Environments and Effects program had initiated access for the space materials community to the remaining Science Capsule hardware after the science samples had been removed for evaluation of materials exposure to the space environment. This presentation will describe the process used to generate a reference radiation Genesis Radiation Environment developed for the SEERS program for use by the materials science community in their analyses of the Genesis hardware.

Optimization of the coplanar interdigital capacitive sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yunzhi; Zhan, Zheng; Bowler, Nicola

2017-02-01

Interdigital capacitive sensors are applied in nondestructive testing and material property characterization of low-conductivity materials. The sensor performance is typically described based on the penetration depth of the electric field into the sample material, the sensor signal strength and its sensitivity. These factors all depend on the geometry and material properties of the sensor and sample. In this paper, a detailed analysis is provided, through finite element simulations, of the ways in which the sensor's geometrical parameters affect its performance. The geometrical parameters include the number of digits forming the interdigital electrodes and the ratio of digit width to their separation. In addition, the influence of the presence or absence of a metal backplane on the sample is analyzed. Further, the effects of sensor substrate thickness and material on signal strength are studied. The results of the analysis show that it is necessary to take into account a trade-off between the desired sensitivity and penetration depth when designing the sensor. Parametric equations are presented to assist the sensor designer or nondestructive evaluation specialist in optimizing the design of a capacitive sensor.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN HYDROLOGIC INSTRUMENTATION.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Latkovich, Vito J.

1985-01-01

The availability of space-age materials and implementation of state-of-the-art electronics is making possible the recent developments of hydrologic instrumentation. Material developments include: Synthetic-fiber sounding and tag lines; fiberglass wading rod; polymer (plastic) sheaves, pulleys and sampler components; and polymer (plastic) bucket wheels for current meters. These materials are very cost effective and efficient. Electromechanical and electronic developments and applications include: adaptable data acquisition system; downhole sampler for hazardous substances; current-meter digitizer; hydraulic power/drive system for discharge measurements and water-quality sampling; non-contact water-level sensors; minimum data recorder; acoustic velocity meters, and automated current meter discharge-measurement system.

Quantification of chemical contaminants in the paper and board fractions of municipal solid waste.

PubMed

Pivnenko, K; Olsson, M E; Götze, R; Eriksson, E; Astrup, T F

2016-05-01

Chemicals are used in materials as additives in order to improve the performance of the material or the production process itself. The presence of these chemicals in recyclable waste materials may potentially affect the recyclability of the materials. The addition of chemicals may vary depending on the production technology or the potential end-use of the material. Paper has been previously shown to potentially contain a large variety of chemicals. Quantitative data on the presence of chemicals in paper are necessary for appropriate waste paper management, including the recycling and re-processing of paper. However, a lack of quantitative data on the presence of chemicals in paper is evident in the literature. The aim of the present work is to quantify the presence of selected chemicals in waste paper derived from households. Samples of paper and board were collected from Danish households, including both residual and source-segregated materials, which were disposed of (e.g., through incineration) and recycled, respectively. The concentration of selected chemicals was quantified for all of the samples. The quantified chemicals included mineral oil hydrocarbons, phthalates, phenols, polychlorinated biphenyls, and selected toxic metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Pb). The results suggest large variations in the concentration of chemicals depending on the waste paper fraction analysed. Research on the fate of chemicals in waste recycling and potential problem mitigation measures should be focused on in further studies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring the Utilization of Low-Pressure, Piston-Cylinder Experiments to Determine the Bulk Compositions of Finite, Precious Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vander Kaaden, K. E.; McCubbin, F. M.; Harrington, A. D.

2017-01-01

Determining the bulk composition of precious materials with a finite mass (e.g., meteorite samples) is extremely important in the fields of Earth and Planetary Science. From meteorite studies we are able to place constraints on large scale planetary processes like global differentiation and subsequent volcanism, as well as smaller scale processes like crystallization in a magma chamber or sedimentary compaction at the surface. However, with meteorite samples in particular, far too often we are limited by how precious the sample is as well as its limited mass. In this study, we have utilized aliquots of samples previously studied for toxicological hazards, including both the fresh samples (lunar mare basalt NWA 4734, lunar regolith breccia NWA 7611, martian basalt Tissint, martian regolith breccia NWA 7034, a vestian basalt Berthoud, a vestian regolith breccia NWA 2060, and a terrestrial mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB)), and those that underwent iron leaching (Tissint, NWA 7034, NWA 4734, MORB). With these small masses of material, we performed low pressure (approx. 0.75 GPa), high temperature (greater than 1600 degrees Celsius) melting experiments. Each sample was analyzed using a JEOL 8530F electron microprobe to determine the bulk composition of the materials that were previously examined. When available, the results of our microprobe data were compared with bulk rock compositions in the literature. The results of this study show that with this technique, only approx. 50 mg of sample is required to accurately determine the bulk composition of the materials of interest.

Report of sampling and analysis results, Addison Army housing units, Addison, Illinois. Final report

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

Not Available

1990-09-01

The objectives of this sampling and analysis effort include further characterization of environmental contamination identified in an enhanced preliminary assessment carried out in 1989. The specific activities performed at this site were identification, evaluation of the condition, and collection of samples from specific suspected asbestos-containing materials, including floor tiles, pipe run and pipe fitting insulation, dust in the ductwork, and exterior siding, where present. These evaluation were necessary to clarify potential environmental issues identified in the earlier report, prior to the sale or realignment of the property.

Method of extruding and packaging a thin sample of reactive material including forming the extrusion die

DOEpatents

Lewandowski, Edward F.; Peterson, Leroy L.

1985-01-01

This invention teaches a method of cutting a narrow slot in an extrusion die with an electrical discharge machine by first drilling spaced holes at the ends of where the slot will be, whereby the oil can flow through the holes and slot to flush the material eroded away as the slot is being cut. The invention further teaches a method of extruding a very thin ribbon of solid highly reactive material such as lithium or sodium through the die in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen, argon or the like as in a glovebox. The invention further teaches a method of stamping out sample discs from the ribbon and of packaging each disc by sandwiching it between two aluminum sheets and cold welding the sheets together along an annular seam beyond the outer periphery of the disc. This provides a sample of high purity reactive material that can have a long shelf life.

Method of extruding and packaging a thin sample of reactive material, including forming the extrusion die

DOEpatents

Lewandowski, E.F.; Peterson, L.L.

1981-11-30

This invention teaches a method of cutting a narrow slot in an extrusion die with an electrical discharge machine by first drilling spaced holes at the ends of where the slot will be, whereby the oil can flow through the holes and slot to flush the material eroded away as the slot is being cut. The invention further teaches a method of extruding a very thin ribbon of solid highly reactive material such as lithium or sodium through the die in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen, argon, or the like as in a glovebox. The invention further teaches a method of stamping out sample discs from the ribbon and of packaging each disc by sandwiching it between two aluminum sheets and cold welding the sheets together along an annular seam beyond the outer periphery of the disc. This provides a sample of high purity reactive material that can have a long shelf life.

Recognizing and overcoming analytical error in the use of ICP-MS for the determination of cadmium in breakfast cereal and dietary supplements.

PubMed

Murphy, Karen E; Vetter, Thomas W

2013-05-01

The potential effect of spectral interference on the accurate measurement of the cadmium (Cd) mass fraction in fortified breakfast cereal and a variety of dietary supplement materials using inductively coupled plasma quadrupole mass spectrometry was studied. The materials were two new standard reference materials (SRMs)--SRM 3233 Fortified Breakfast Cereal and SRM 3532 Calcium Dietary Supplement--as well as several existing materials--SRM 3258 Bitter Orange Fruit, SRM 3259 Bitter Orange Extract, SRM 3260 Bitter Orange-containing Solid Oral Dosage Form, and SRM 3280 Multivitamin/Multielement Tablets. Samples were prepared for analysis using the method of isotope dilution and measured using various operating and sample introduction configurations including standard mode, collision cell with kinetic energy discrimination mode, and standard mode with sample introduction via a desolvating nebulizer system. Three isotope pairs, (112)Cd/(111)Cd, (113)Cd/(111)Cd, and (114)Cd/(111)Cd, were measured. Cadmium mass fraction results for the unseparated samples of each material, measured using the three instrument configurations and isotope pairs, were compared to the results obtained after the matrix was removed via chemical separation using anion exchange chromatography. In four of the six materials studied, measurements using the standard mode with sample introduction via the desolvating nebulizer gave results for the unseparated samples quantified with the (112)Cd/(111)Cd isotope pair that showed a positive bias relative to the matrix-separated samples, which indicated a persistent inference at m/z112 with this configuration. Use of the standard mode, without the desolvating nebulizer, also gave results that showed a positive bias for the unseparated samples quantified with the (112)Cd/(111)Cd isotope pair in three of the materials studied. Collision cell/kinetic energy discrimination mode, however, was very effective for reducing spectral interference for Cd in all of the materials and isotope pairs studied, except in the multivitamin/multielement matrix (SRM 3280) where the large corrections for known isobaric interferences or unidentified interferences compromised the accuracy. For SRM 3280, matrix separation provided the best method to achieve accurate measurement of Cd.

Materials for Heated Head Automated Thermoplastic Tape Placement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jensen, Brian J.; Kinney, Megan C.; Cano, Roberto J.; Grimsley, Brian W.

2012-01-01

NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) is currently pursuing multiple paths to develop out of autoclave (OOA) polymeric composite materials and processes. Polymeric composite materials development includes the synthesis of new and/or modified thermosetting and thermoplastic matrix resins designed for specific OOA processes. OOA processes currently under investigation include vacuum bag only (VBO) prepreg/composite fabrication, resin transfer molding (RTM), vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and heated head automated thermoplastic tape placement (HHATP). This paper will discuss the NASA Langley HHATP facility and capabilities and recent work on characterizing thermoplastic tape quality and requirements for quality part production. Samples of three distinct versions of APC-2 (AS4/PEEK) thermoplastic dry tape were obtained from two materials vendors, TENCATE, Inc. and CYTEC Engineered Materials** (standard grade and an experimental batch). Random specimens were taken from each of these samples and subjected to photo-microscopy and surface profilometry. The CYTEC standard grade of APC-2 tape had the most voids and splits and the highest surface roughness and/or waviness. Since the APC-2 tape is composed of a thermoplastic matrix, it offers the flexibility of reprocessing to improve quality, and thereby improve final quality of HHATP laminates. Discussions will also include potential research areas and future work that is required to advance the state of the art in the HHATP process for composite fabrication.

Metagenomic Characterization and Biochemical Analysis of Cellulose-Degrading Bacterial Communities from Sheep Rumen, Termite Hindgut, Decaying Plant Materials, and Soil

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-04

Biochemical Analysis of Cellulose-DegradingBacterial Communities from Sheep Rumen, Termite Hindgut, Decaying Plant Materials,and Soil In an effort to...degrading bacteria from various samples, including termite gut, sheep rumen, soil, and decaying plant materials. Using selective media culture with...Metagenomic Characterization and Biochemical Analysis of Cellulose-DegradingBacterial Communities from Sheep Rumen, Termite Hindgut, Decaying Plant

Methods of analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory; determination of inorganic and organic constituents in water and fluvial sediments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fishman, M. J.

1993-01-01

Methods to be used to analyze samples of water, suspended sediment and bottom material for their content of inorganic and organic constituents are presented. Technology continually changes, and so this laboratory manual includes new and revised methods for determining the concentration of dissolved constituents in water, whole water recoverable constituents in water-suspended sediment samples, and recoverable concentration of constit- uents in bottom material. For each method, the general topics covered are the application, the principle of the method, interferences, the apparatus and reagents required, a detailed description of the analytical procedure, reporting results, units and significant figures, and analytical precision data. Included in this manual are 30 methods.

16 CFR 1616.4 - Sampling and acceptance procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... a suitable thread and stitch. The specimen shall include each of the components over its entire... fabric in Tightened Sampling must be discontinued until that part of the process or component which is... otherwise attaching the trim shall be done with thread or fastening material of the same composition and...

TECHNICAL FACT SHEET: A Systematic Evaluation of Dissolved Metals Loss during Water Sample Filtration

EPA Science Inventory

This research study examined how water quality collection and filtration approaches, including commonly used capsule and disc syringe filters, may cause losses in the amounts of soluble lead and copper found in a sample. A variety of commercially available filter materials with a...

Development of Fly Ash-Based Sorbent to Capture CO2 from Flue Gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majchrzak-Kucęba, I.; Nowak, W.

In the present work the thermogravimetric characterization of the sorption of carbon dioxide on polymer-modifiedmesoporous materials (MCM-41) from fly ashes is described. In order to obtain MCM-41 materials from three different types fly ashes,(including CFB fly ash) hydrothermal processesusing the supernatantsof coal fly ashes and surfactantsas the structure-directing agents,have been carried out. The obtained mesoporous materials were subjected to polyethylenimine (PEI) modification by their impregnation to obtain samples with PEl contents of 30, 50 and 70%, respectively. CO2 sorption/desorption tests on loaded PEl samples were carried out in a flow of a mixture of gasses (CO2-1O%, O2-10%, N2-80%) at different temperatures: 25 and 75°C. The highest CO2 sorption value was obtained for the sample that contained the best-quality MCM-41 and was impregnatedwith PEI in the amount of 50%. This sample at a temperatureof 75°C can take CO2 in an amount equivalent to 111.7 mgCO2/g sample weight. Under the same conditions, but without PEI impregnation, this sample can take CO2 in an amount equivalent to 3.2 mgCO2/g sample weight, thus 35 times less. The research of CO2 adsorption on polymer-modified mesoporous materials from fly ashes carried out within this work has shown that these materials are characterized by high CO2 adsorption capacity under conditions typical of coal combustionboiler flue gas and have the chance of becoming an efficient adsorbent for application to post-combustion CO2 separation. For PEI impregnated samples, a different behaviour of adsorption/desorption profiles has also been observed (both sorption and desorptionprogressesvery rapidly).

Extraction of organic contaminants from marine sediments and tissues using microwave energy.

PubMed

Jayaraman, S; Pruell, R J; McKinney, R

2001-07-01

In this study, we compared microwave solvent extraction (MSE) to conventional methods for extracting organic contaminants from marine sediments and tissues with high and varying moisture content. The organic contaminants measured were polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, chlorinated pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Initial experiments were conducted on dry standard reference materials (SRMs) and field collected marine sediments. Moisture content in samples greatly influenced the recovery of the analytes of interest. When wet sediments were included in a sample batch, low recoveries were often encountered in other samples in the batch, including the dry SRM. Experiments were conducted to test the effect of standardizing the moisture content in all samples in a batch prior to extraction. SRM1941a (marine sediment). SRM1974a (mussel tissue), as well as QA96SED6 (marine sediment), and QA96TIS7 (marine tissue), both from 1996 NIST Intercalibration Exercise were extracted using microwave and conventional methods. Moisture levels were adjusted in SRMs to match those of marine sediment and tissue samples before microwave extraction. The results demonstrated that it is crucial to standardize the moisture content in all samples, including dry reference material to ensure good recovery of organic contaminants. MSE yielded equivalent or superior recoveries compared to conventional methods for the majority of the compounds evaluated. The advantages of MSE over conventional methods are reduced solvent usage, higher sample throughput and the elimination of halogenated solvent usage.

Laboratory analysis and airborne detection of materials stimulated to luminesce by the sun

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hemphill, W.R.; Theisen, A.F.; Tyson, R.M.

1984-01-01

The Fraunhofer line discriminator (FLD) is an airborne electro-optical device used to image materials which have been stimulated to luminesce by the Sun. Such materials include uranium-bearing sandstone, sedimentary phosphate rock, marine oil seeps, and stressed vegetation. Prior to conducting an airborne survey, a fluorescence spectrometer may be used in the laboratory to determine the spectral region where samples of the target material exhibit maximum luminescence, and to select the optimum Fraunhofer line. ?? 1984.

Development of a Nondestructive Non-Contact Acousto-Thermal Evaluation Technique for Damage Detection in Materials (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-11-01

horn and the sample to obtain a repeatable excitation for detection of the damage of interest. Varieties of materials, including card stock, leather ...per cycle is, (2). where Tan , is the internal friction in the material, E is the Young’s modulus and σmax is the maximum amplitude of the...of acoustic energy to thermal energy depends on both the elastic properties (E and tan ) and the thermal properties (k, Cp) of the material. It

Thermophysical properties of lunar materials. I - Thermal radiation properties of lunar materials from the Apollo missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birkebak, R. C.

1974-01-01

The successful landings on the moon of the Apollo flights and the return of samples of lunar surface material has permitted the measurement of the thermophysical properties necessary for heat transfer calculations. The characteristics of the Apollo samples are discussed along with remote sensing results which made it possible to deduce many of the thermophysical properties of the lunar surface. Definitions considered in connection with thermal radiation measurements include the bond albedo, the geometric albedo, the normal albedo, the directional reflectance, the bidirectional reflectance, and the directional emittance. The measurement techniques make use of a directional reflectance apparatus, a bidirectional reflectance apparatus, and a spectral emittance apparatus.

Where To Get Resource Materials To Address Barriers to Learning. A Resource Packet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

California Univ., Los Angeles. Center for Mental Health in Schools.

This resource aid is designed to provide a sampling of organizations and publishers that offer a variety of materials relevant to addressing students' psychosocial and mental concerns. Included is information about resources available upon request and/or purchase. The packet is divided into three sections. Section 1 identifies national…

Process Parameter Optimization of Extrusion-Based 3D Metal Printing Utilizing PW-LDPE-SA Binder System.

PubMed

Ren, Luquan; Zhou, Xueli; Song, Zhengyi; Zhao, Che; Liu, Qingping; Xue, Jingze; Li, Xiujuan

2017-03-16

Recently, with a broadening range of available materials and alteration of feeding processes, several extrusion-based 3D printing processes for metal materials have been developed. An emerging process is applicable for the fabrication of metal parts into electronics and composites. In this paper, some critical parameters of extrusion-based 3D printing processes were optimized by a series of experiments with a melting extrusion printer. The raw materials were copper powder and a thermoplastic organic binder system and the system included paraffin wax, low density polyethylene, and stearic acid (PW-LDPE-SA). The homogeneity and rheological behaviour of the raw materials, the strength of the green samples, and the hardness of the sintered samples were investigated. Moreover, the printing and sintering parameters were optimized with an orthogonal design method. The influence factors in regard to the ultimate tensile strength of the green samples can be described as follows: infill degree > raster angle > layer thickness. As for the sintering process, the major factor on hardness is sintering temperature, followed by holding time and heating rate. The highest hardness of the sintered samples was very close to the average hardness of commercially pure copper material. Generally, the extrusion-based printing process for producing metal materials is a promising strategy because it has some advantages over traditional approaches for cost, efficiency, and simplicity.

Process Parameter Optimization of Extrusion-Based 3D Metal Printing Utilizing PW–LDPE–SA Binder System

PubMed Central

Ren, Luquan; Zhou, Xueli; Song, Zhengyi; Zhao, Che; Liu, Qingping; Xue, Jingze; Li, Xiujuan

2017-01-01

Recently, with a broadening range of available materials and alteration of feeding processes, several extrusion-based 3D printing processes for metal materials have been developed. An emerging process is applicable for the fabrication of metal parts into electronics and composites. In this paper, some critical parameters of extrusion-based 3D printing processes were optimized by a series of experiments with a melting extrusion printer. The raw materials were copper powder and a thermoplastic organic binder system and the system included paraffin wax, low density polyethylene, and stearic acid (PW–LDPE–SA). The homogeneity and rheological behaviour of the raw materials, the strength of the green samples, and the hardness of the sintered samples were investigated. Moreover, the printing and sintering parameters were optimized with an orthogonal design method. The influence factors in regard to the ultimate tensile strength of the green samples can be described as follows: infill degree > raster angle > layer thickness. As for the sintering process, the major factor on hardness is sintering temperature, followed by holding time and heating rate. The highest hardness of the sintered samples was very close to the average hardness of commercially pure copper material. Generally, the extrusion-based printing process for producing metal materials is a promising strategy because it has some advantages over traditional approaches for cost, efficiency, and simplicity. PMID:28772665

Quantifying Microplastic Pollution in the Mohawk River, Eastern New York State

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, J. A.; Hodge, J.; Kurtz, B. G.; Garver, J. I.

2016-12-01

We are investigating the extent to which microplastic particles are reaching the Mohawk River in upstate New York. Microplastics are commonly defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in diameter, whether deliberately manufactured to be that size or resulting from the fragmentation or erosion of larger pieces of plastic. Despite recent legislative bans, many personal care products such as facial scrubs still use tiny particles of plastic as abrasives. Plastic fibers also make up part of the microplastic load potentially reaching waterways. Microplastic particles are a health hazard for aquatic organisms and an undesirable component of public water supplies. The Mohawk River is the main tributary of the Hudson River, coinciding with the Erie Canal for stretches downriver from Rome, NY, and serves as both the outfall for wastewater treatment plants and the water supply for several municipalities. In some cities along the Mohawk River (e.g., Utica, NY), combined sewer overflows (CSOs) deliver untreated sewage and stormwater directly to the river during heavy rainfall events, increasing the likelihood of microplastic pollution. We used a manta trawl deployed from a rigid inflatable boat to collect 60 samples of planktonic material along the 112-mile section of the Mohawk River and/or Erie Canal between Rome, NY, and the Crescent Dam in Cohoes, NY. Each trawl lasted for 1 mile. We used an Ekman grab sampler to collect 64 samples of channel sediment along the same section of the Mohawk River and/or Erie Canal. Sample processing for planktonic samples includes sieving and wet peroxide oxidation to remove organic material. Sample processing for sediment grab samples includes drying, sieving, density separation, and wet peroxide oxidation. Anthropogenic particles that contain dye are easiest to spot under a microscope. Laboratory analyses indicate that the majority of the planktonic samples include dyed particles in addition to colorless particles likely to be plastic, and that the greatest abundance of suspected microplastic particles was collected in the natural channel of the Mohawk River downstream of the Utica CSO during a heavy rainfall event. We are using Raman spectroscopy to provide definitive identification of plastics and other anthropogenic materials, including paint.

The slip resistance of common footwear materials measured with two slipmeters.

PubMed

Chang, W R; Matz, S

2001-12-01

The slip resistance of 16 commonly used footwear materials was measured with the Brungraber Mark II and the English XL on 3 floor surfaces under surface conditions of dry, wet, oily and oily wet. Three samples were used for each material combination and surface condition. The results of a one way ANOVA analysis indicated that the differences among different samples were statistically significant for a large number of material combinations and surface conditions. The results indicated that the ranking of materials based on their slip resistance values depends highly on the slipmeters, floor surfaces and surface conditions. For contaminated surfaces including wet, oily and oily wet surfaces, the slip resistance obtained with the English XL was usually higher than that measured with the Brungraber Mark II. The correlation coefficients between the slip resistance obtained with these two slipmeters calculated for different surface conditions indicated a strong correlation with statistical significance.

Part Marking and Identification Materials on MISSE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria M.; Roxby, Donald L.

2008-01-01

Many different spacecraft materials were flown as part of the Materials on International Space Station Experiment (MISSE), including several materials used in part marking and identification. The experiment contained Data Matrix symbols applied using laser bonding, vacuum arc vapor deposition, gas assisted laser etch, chemical etch, mechanical dot peening, laser shot peening, and laser induced surface improvement. The effects of ultraviolet radiation on nickel acetate seal versus hot water seal on sulfuric acid anodized aluminum are discussed. These samples were exposed on the International Space Station to the low Earth orbital environment of atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, thermal cycling, and hard vacuum, though atomic oxygen exposure was very limited for some samples. Results from the one-year exposure on MISSE-3 and MISSE-4 are compared to those from MISSE-1 and MISSE-2, which were exposed for four years. Part marking and identification materials on the current MISSE -6 experiment are also discussed.

Submersion Quenching of Undercooled Liquid Metals in an Electrostatic Levitator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

SanSoucie, Michael P.; Rogers, Jan R.

2016-01-01

The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) electrostatic levitation (ESL) laboratory has a long history of providing materials research and thermophysical property data. The laboratory has recently added a new capability, a rapid quench system. This system allows samples to be dropped into a quench vessel that can be filled with a low melting point material, such as a gallium or indium alloy. Thereby allowing rapid quenching of undercooled liquid metals and alloys. This is the first submersion quench system inside an electrostatic levitator. The system has been tested successfully with samples of zirconium, iron-cobalt alloys, titanium-zirconium-nickel alloys, and silicon-cobalt alloys. This rapid quench system will allow materials science studies of undercooled materials and new materials development, including studies of metastable phases and transient microstructures. In this presentation, the system is described and some initial results are presented.

Nickel hydroxides and related materials: a review of their structures, synthesis and properties

PubMed Central

Hall, David S.; Lockwood, David J.; Bock, Christina; MacDougall, Barry R.

2015-01-01

This review article summarizes the last few decades of research on nickel hydroxide, an important material in physics and chemistry, that has many applications in engineering including, significantly, batteries. First, the structures of the two known polymorphs, denoted as α-Ni(OH)2 and β-Ni(OH)2, are described. The various types of disorder, which are frequently present in nickel hydroxide materials, are discussed including hydration, stacking fault disorder, mechanical stresses and the incorporation of ionic impurities. Several related materials are discussed, including intercalated α-derivatives and basic nickel salts. Next, a number of methods to prepare, or synthesize, nickel hydroxides are summarized, including chemical precipitation, electrochemical precipitation, sol–gel synthesis, chemical ageing, hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis, electrochemical oxidation, microwave-assisted synthesis, and sonochemical methods. Finally, the known physical properties of the nickel hydroxides are reviewed, including their magnetic, vibrational, optical, electrical and mechanical properties. The last section in this paper is intended to serve as a summary of both the potentially useful properties of these materials and the methods for the identification and characterization of ‘unknown’ nickel hydroxide-based samples. PMID:25663812

Structural and morphological study of Fe-doped Bi-based superconductor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Yadunath; Kumar, Rohitash

2018-05-01

In the present work, we report the study of iron-doped Bi-based superconductor sample with stoichiometric composition of Bi2Sr2Can-1(Cu1-x Fex)3O2n+4 where n=3 and x = 0.7. This sample was prepared by grinding the precursor oxides in the Ball mill for 6 hours continuous at the rate of 400 rpm for a proper mixing and to obtain the required grain size. Then the solid-state reaction method was used to prepare the sample. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in combination with energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDX) were performed for determination of the crystal structure, surface morphology and trace the material elements of samples, respectively. The surface microscopy data were collected over a selected area of the surface of the material and a two-dimensional image generated that displays spatial variations in properties including chemical characterization and orientation of materials.

Method and apparatus for probing relative volume fractions

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

Jandrasits, W.G.; Kikta, T.J.

1996-12-31

A relative volume fraction probe particularly for use in a multiphase fluid system includes two parallel conductive paths defining there between a sample zone within the system. A generating unit generates time varying electrical signals which are inserted into one of the two parallel conductive paths. A time domain reflectometer receives the time varying electrical signals returned by the second of the two parallel conductive paths and, responsive thereto, outputs a curve of impedance versus distance. An analysis unit then calculates the area under the curve, subtracts the calculated area from an area produced when the sample zone consists entirelymore » of material of a first fluid phase, and divides this calculated difference by the difference between an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of the first fluid phase and an area produced when the sample zone consists entirely of material of a second fluid phase. The result is the volume fraction.« less

Atomic absorption spectrometric determination of copper, zinc, and lead in geological materials

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sanzolone, R.F.; Chao, T.T.

1976-01-01

An atomic absorption spectrometric method is described for the determination of copper, zinc, and lead in geological materials. The sample is digested with HF-HCl-H2O2; the final solution for analysis is in 10 % (v/v) HCl. Copper and zinc are determined directly by aspirating the solution into an air-acetylene flame. A separate aliquot of the solution is used for determination of lead; lead is extracted into TOPO-MIBK from the acidic solution in the presence of iodide and ascorbic acid. For a 0.50-g sample, the limits of determination are 10-2000 p.p.m. for Cu and Zn, and 5-5000 p.p.m. for Pb. As much as 40 % Fe or Ca. and 10 % Al, Mg, or Mn in the sample do not interfere. The proposed method can be applied to the determination of copper, zinc, and lead in a wide range of geological materials including iron- and manganese-rich, calcareous and carbonate samples. ?? 1976.

Burner Rig in the Material and Stresses Building

NASA Image and Video Library

1969-11-21

A burner rig heats up a material sample in the Materials and Stresses Building at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. Materials technology is an important element in the successful development of advanced airbreathing and rocket propulsion systems. Different types of engines operate in different environments so an array of dependable materials is needed. NASA Lewis began investigating the characteristics of different materials shortly after World War II. In 1949 the materials group was expanded into its own division. The Lewis researchers sought to study and test materials in environments that simulate the environment in which they would operate. The Materials and Stresses Building, built in 1949, contained a number of laboratories to analyze the materials. They are subjected to high temperatures, high stresses, corrosion, irradiation, and hot gasses. The Physics of Solids Laboratory included a cyclotron, cloud chamber, helium cryostat, and metallurgy cave. The Metallographic Laboratory possessed six x-ray diffraction machines, two metalloscopes, and other equipment. The Furnace Room had two large induction machines, a 4500⁰ F graphite furnace, and heat treating equipment. The Powder Laboratory included 60-ton and 3000-ton presses. The Stresses Laboratory included stress rupture machines, fatigue machines, and tensile strength machines.

Optical characterization of semiconductor materials by using FTIR-PAS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arévalo, Fabiola; Saavedra, Renato; Paulraj, M.

2008-11-01

In this paper we discuss the procedures for photoacoustic measurements for semiconducting materials, including bulk samples like Gallium Antimonide (GaSb). The optical absorption at photon energies near the band gap was measured at room temperature using Fourier Transform Infrared Photoacoustic spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS). Measurements were performed using a NEXUS 670 FTIR-spectrometer (from Thermo Nicolet) with a MTEC model 300 PA cell (MTEC Photoacoustics, Inc.). Optical properties of the studied samples were determined from their room temperature PA spectra and band gaps were calculated directly from absorption spectra

Measurement of the sound absorption coefficient for an advanced undergraduate physics laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macho-Stadler, E.; Elejalde-García, M. J.

2017-09-01

We present a simple experiment that allows advanced undergraduates to learn the basics of the acoustic properties of materials. The impedance tube-standing wave method is applied to study the normal absorption coefficient of acoustics insulators. The setup includes a tube, a speaker, a microphone, a digital function generator and an oscilloscope, material available in an undergraduate laboratory. Results of the change of the absorption coefficient with the frequency, the sample thickness and the sample density are analysed and compared with those obtained with a commercial system.

Low-cost NORM concentrations measuring technique for building materials of Uzbekistan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safarov, Akmal; Safarov, Askar; Azimov, Askarali; Darby, Iain G.

2016-04-01

Concentrations of natural radionuclides of building materials are important in order to estimate exposure of humans to radiation, who can spend up to 80% of their time indoors. One of the indicators of building materials' safety is the radium equivalent activity, which is regulated by national and international normative documents [1,2,3]. Materials with Ra(eq) =< 370 Bq/kg are considered to be safe [4,5]. We have studied the possibility of performing express analysis of building materials samples without ageing. Long measurement times including ageing of samples are major constraints for performing large number of analyses [6]. Typically ageing of samples and analysis is 40 days. Gamma-spectrometric analysis of brick, crushed stone, red sand, granite, white marble and concrete cubes was performed both before and after ageing of samples (10, 20, 30 and 40 days). Measurement times of samples were 1, 3, 6 and 12 hours. Samples were measured in 1 liter Marinelli beaker geometry, using NaI(Tl) spectrometers with crystal sizes 2.5 x 2.5 in and 3.1 x 3.1 in. Efficiency calibration of spectrometers was done using certified volumetric (1 liter Marinelli beaker) Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 sources filled with silica sand and density 1,7 kg/l. Herein we present results indicating that one hour measuring may be sufficient for samples in 1 liter Marinelli beakers offering prospect of significant time and cost improvements. References: 1. NEA-OECD (1979): Exposure to radiation from natural radioactivity in building materials. Report by Group of Experts of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Paris 2. STUK (Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority) (2003): The radioactivity of building materials and ash. Regulatory Guides on Radiation Safety (ST Guides) ST 12.2 (Finland) (8 October 2003) 3. GOST 30108-94 (1995): Building materials and elements. Determination of specific activity of natural radioactive nuclei. Interstate Standard. 4. Krisiuk E.M. et al., (1971). A study on Radioactivity in Building Materials (Leningrad: Research Institute for radiation Hygiene) 5. Beretka, J., & Mathew, P. J. (1985). Natural radioactivity of Australian building materials, waste and by-products. Health Physics, 48, 87-95. 6. Uosif M.A.M. (2014). Estimation of Radiological Hazards of Some Egyptian Building Materials Due to Natural Radioactivity. International Journal of u- and e- Service, Science and Technology. Vol.7, No.2 (2014), pp.63-76

The Geochemical Databases GEOROC and GeoReM - What's New?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarbas, B.; Jochum, K. P.; Nohl, U.; Weis, U.

2017-12-01

The geochemical databases GEOROC (http: georoc.mpch-mainz.gwdg.de) and GeoReM (http: georem.mpch-mainz.gwdg.de) are maintained by the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz, Germany. Both online databases became crucial tools for geoscientists from different research areas. They are regularly upgraded by new tools and new data from recent publications obtained from a wide range of international journals. GEOROC is a collection of published analyses of volcanic rocks and mantle xenoliths. Since recently, data for plutonic rocks are added. The analyses include major and trace element concentrations, radiogenic and non-radiogenic isotope ratios as well as analytical ages for whole rocks, glasses, minerals and inclusions. Samples come from eleven geological settings and span the whole geological age scale from Archean to Recent. Metadata include, among others, geographic location, rock class and rock type, geological age, degree of alteration, analytical method, laboratory, and reference. The GEOROC web page allows selection of samples by geological setting, geography, chemical criteria, rock or sample name, and bibliographic criteria. In addition, it provides a large number of precompiled files for individual locations, minerals and rock classes. GeoReM is a database collecting information about reference materials of geological and environmental interest, such as rock powders, synthetic and natural glasses as well as mineral, isotopic, biological, river water and seawater reference materials. It contains published data and compilation values (major and trace element concentrations and mass fractions, radiogenic and stable isotope ratios). Metadata comprise, among others, uncertainty, analytical method and laboratory. Reference materials are important for calibration, method validation, quality control and to establish metrological traceability. GeoReM offers six different search strategies: samples or materials (published values), samples (GeoReM preferred values), chemical criteria, chemical criteria based on bibliography, bibliography, as well as methods and institutions.

Preview of the NASA NNWG NDE Sample Preparation Handbook

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2010-01-01

This viewgraph presents a step-by-step how-to fabrication documentation of every kind of sample that is fabricated for MSFC by UA Huntsville, including photos and illustrations. The tabulation of what kind of samples are being fabricated for what NDE method, detailed instructions/documentation of the inclusion/creation of defects, detailed specifications for materials, processes, and equipment, case histories and/or experiences with the different fabrication methods and defect inclusion techniques, discussion of pitfalls and difficulties associated with sample fabrication and defect inclusion techniques, and a discussion of why certain fabrication techniques are needed as related to the specific NDE methods are included in this presentation.

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

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hickman, Robert; Broadway, Jeramie

2014-01-01

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

Acid-Soluble Internal Capsules for Closed-Face Cassette Elemental Sampling and Analysis of Workplace Air

PubMed Central

Harper, Martin; Ashley, Kevin

2013-01-01

Airborne particles that are collected using closed-face filter cassettes (CFCs), which are used widely in the sampling of workplace aerosols, can deposit in places other than on the filter and thereby may not be included in the ensuing analysis. A technique for ensuring that internal non-filter deposits are included in the analysis is to collect airborne particles within an acid-soluble internal capsule that, following sampling, can be dissolved along with the filter for subsequent elemental analysis. An interlaboratory study (ILS) was carried out to evaluate the use of cellulosic CFC capsule inserts for their suitability in the determination of trace elements in airborne samples. The ILS was performed in accordance with an applicable ASTM International standard practice, ASTM E691, which describes statistical procedures for investigating interlaboratory precision. Performance evaluation materials consisted of prototype cellulose acetate capsules attached to mixed-cellulose ester filters. Batches of capsules were dosed with Pb-containing materials (standard aqueous solutions, and certified reference material soil and paint). Also, aerosol samples containing nine target analyte elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, and Ni) were generated using a multiport sampler; various concentrations and sampling times were employed to yield samples fortified at desired loading levels. Triplicates of spiked capsules at three different loadings were conveyed to each volunteer laboratory; loading levels were unknown to the participants. The laboratories were asked to prepare the samples by acid dissolution and to analyze aliquots of extracted samples by atomic spectrometry in accordance with applicable ASTM International Standards. Participants were asked to report their results in units of μg of each target element per sample. For the elements investigated, interlaboratory precision and recovery estimates from the participating laboratories demonstrated the utility of the cellulosic capsule inserts for the measurement of sampled trace elements. PMID:23548078

Investigation of preparation techniques for δ2H analysis of keratin materials and a proposed analytical protocol

USGS Publications Warehouse

Qi, H.; Coplen, T.B.

2011-01-01

Accurate hydrogen isotopic measurements of keratin materials have been a challenge due to exchangeable hydrogen in the sample matrix and the paucity of appropriate isotopic reference materials for calibration. We found that the most reproducible δ2HVSMOW-SLAP and mole fraction of exchangeable hydrogen, x(H)ex, of keratin materials were measured with equilibration at ambient temperature using two desiccators and two different equilibration waters with two sets of the keratin materials for 6 days. Following equilibration, drying the keratin materials in a vacuum oven for 4 days at 60 °C was most critical. The δ2H analysis protocol also includes interspersing isotopic reference waters in silver tubes among samples in the carousel of a thermal conversion elemental analyzer (TC/EA) reduction unit. Using this analytical protocol, δ2HVSMOW-SLAP values of the non-exchangeable fractions of USGS42 and USGS43 human-hair isotopic reference materials were determined to be –78.5 ± 2.3 ‰ and –50.3 ± 2.8 ‰, respectively. The measured x(H)ex values of keratin materials analyzed with steam equilibration and N2 drying were substantially higher than those previously published, and dry N2 purging was unable to remove absorbed moisture completely, even with overnight purging. The δ2H values of keratin materials measured with steam equilibration were about 10 ‰ lower than values determined with equilibration in desiccators at ambient temperatures when on-line evacuation was used to dry samples. With steam equilibrations the x(H)ex of commercial keratin powder was as high as 28 %. Using human-hair isotopic reference materials to calibrate other keratin materials, such as hoof or horn, can introduce bias in δ2H measurements because the amount of absorbed water and the x(H)ex values may differ from those of unknown samples. Correct δ2HVSMOW-SLAP values of the non-exchangeable fractions of unknown human-hair samples can be determined with atmospheric moisture equilibration by normalizing with USGS42 and USGS43 human-hair reference materials when all materials have the same powder size.

Chemical vapor deposition growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruth, R. P.; Manasevit, H. M.; Kenty, J. L.; Moudy, L. A.; Simpson, W. I.; Yang, J. J.

1976-01-01

The chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method for the growth of Si sheet on inexpensive substrate materials is investigated. The objective is to develop CVD techniques for producing large areas of Si sheet on inexpensive substrate materials, with sheet properties suitable for fabricating solar cells meeting the technical goals of the Low Cost Silicon Solar Array Project. Specific areas covered include: (1) modification and test of existing CVD reactor system; (2) identification and/or development of suitable inexpensive substrate materials; (3) experimental investigation of CVD process parameters using various candidate substrate materials; (4) preparation of Si sheet samples for various special studies, including solar cell fabrication; (5) evaluation of the properties of the Si sheet material produced by the CVD process; and (6) fabrication and evaluation of experimental solar cell structures, using standard and near-standard processing techniques.

Thermal Performance of Aged and Weathered Spray-On Foam Insulation (SOFI) Materials Under Cryogenic Vacuum Conditions (Cryostat-4)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

The NASA Cryogenics Test Laboratory at Kennedy Space Center conducted long-term testing of SOFI materials under actual-use cryogenic conditions with Cryostat-4. The materials included in the testing were NCFI 24-124 (acreage foam), BX-265 (close-out foam, including intertank flange and bipod areas), and a potential alternate material, NCFI 27-68, (acreage foam with the flame retardant removed). Specimens of these materials were placed at two locations: a site that simulated aging (the Vehicle Assembly Building [VAB]) and a site that simulated weathering (the Atmospheric Exposure Test Site [beach site]). After aging/weathering intervals of 3, 6, and 12 months, the samples were retrieved and tested for their thermal performance under cryogenic vacuum conditions with test apparatus Cryostat-4.

Ablation study of tungsten-based nuclear thermal rocket fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Tabitha Elizabeth Rose

The research described in this thesis has been performed in order to support the materials research and development efforts of NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), of Tungsten-based Nuclear Thermal Rocket (NTR) fuel. The NTR was developed to a point of flight readiness nearly six decades ago and has been undergoing gradual modification and upgrading since then. Due to the simplicity in design of the NTR, and also in the modernization of the materials fabrication processes of nuclear fuel since the 1960's, the fuel of the NTR has been upgraded continuously. Tungsten-based fuel is of great interest to the NTR community, seeking to determine its advantages over the Carbide-based fuel of the previous NTR programs. The materials development and fabrication process contains failure testing, which is currently being conducted at MSFC in the form of heating the material externally and internally to replicate operation within the nuclear reactor of the NTR, such as with hot gas and RF coils. In order to expand on these efforts, experiments and computational studies of Tungsten and a Tungsten Zirconium Oxide sample provided by NASA have been conducted for this dissertation within a plasma arc-jet, meant to induce ablation on the material. Mathematical analysis was also conducted, for purposes of verifying experiments and making predictions. The computational method utilizes Anisimov's kinetic method of plasma ablation, including a thermal conduction parameter from the Chapman Enskog expansion of the Maxwell Boltzmann equations, and has been modified to include a tangential velocity component. Experimental data matches that of the computational data, in which plasma ablation at an angle shows nearly half the ablation of plasma ablation at no angle. Fuel failure analysis of two NASA samples post-testing was conducted, and suggestions have been made for future materials fabrication processes. These studies, including the computational kinetic model at an angle and the ablation of the NASA sample, could be applied to an atmospheric reentry body, reentering at a ballistic trajectory at hypersonic velocities.

Quality assurance and quality control in light stable isotope laboratories: A case study of Rio Grande, Texas, water samples

USGS Publications Warehouse

Coplen, T.B.; Qi, H.

2009-01-01

New isotope laboratories can achieve the goal of reporting the same isotopic composition within analytical uncertainty for the same material analysed decades apart by (1) writing their own acceptance testing procedures and putting them into their mass spectrometric or laser-based isotope-ratio equipment procurement contract, (2) requiring a manufacturer to demonstrate acceptable performance using all sample ports provided with the instrumentation, (3) for each medium to be analysed, prepare two local reference materials substantially different in isotopic composition to encompass the range in isotopic composition expected in the laboratory and calibrated them with isotopic reference materials available from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), (4) using the optimum storage containers (for water samples, sealing in glass ampoules that are sterilised after sealing is satisfactory), (5) interspersing among sample unknowns local laboratory isotopic reference materials daily (internationally distributed isotopic reference materials can be ordered at three-year intervals, and can be used for elemental analyser analyses and other analyses that consume less than 1 mg of material) - this process applies to H, C, N, O, and S isotope ratios, (6) calculating isotopic compositions of unknowns by normalising isotopic data to that of local reference materials, which have been calibrated to internationally distributed isotopic reference materials, (7) reporting results on scales normalised to internationally distributed isotopic reference materials (where they are available) and providing to sample submitters the isotopic compositions of internationally distributed isotopic reference materials of the same substance had they been analysed with unknowns, (8) providing an audit trail in the laboratory for analytical results - this trail commonly will be in electronic format and might include a laboratory information management system, (9) making at regular intervals a complete backup of laboratory analytical data (both of samples logged into the laboratory and of mass spectrometric analyses), being sure to store one copy of this backup offsite, and (10) participating in interlaboratory comparison exercises sponsored by the IAEA and other agencies at regular intervals. ?? Taylor & Francis.

Effects of atomic oxygen on polymeric materials flown on EOIM-3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kamenetzky, Rachel R.; Linton, Roger C.; Finckenor, Miria M.; Vaughn, Jason A.

1995-01-01

Diverse polymeric materials, including several variations of Kapton, were flown on STS-46 as part of the Evaluation of Oxygen Interaction with Materials Experiment (EOIM-3). These materials were flown in the cargo bay and exposed to the space environment July 31 - August 8, 1992, including 40 hours of direct atomic oxygen impingement. The atomic oxygen exposure was approximately 2.2 x 10(exp 20) atoms/sq cm. Polymeric materials flown on EOIM-3 include coated and uncoated Kapton, Tefzel ETFE, Lexan, FEP and TFE Teflon, bulk Halar and PEEK, S383 silicone and Viton elastomeric seal material. Analyses performed included thickness measurements using Dektak and eddy current methods, mass loss, resistance, permeability, hardness, and FTIR. The effects of stress and the space environment on Kapton were also evaluated. Previous EOIM missions on STS-5 and STS-8 and the Long Duration Exposure Facility also contained polymeric material samples. Data from these previous flights are shown for comparison, as well as ground simulation of space environment effects using both thermal energy flow tubes and 5 eV neutral atomic oxygen beam facilities. Reaction efficiencies for the various atomic oxygen exposure conditions are discussed.

Plume Collection Strategies for Icy World Sample Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Neveu, M.; Glavin, D. P.; Tsou, P.; Anbar, A. D.; Williams, P.

2015-01-01

Three icy worlds in the solar system display evidence of pluming activity. Water vapor and ice particles emanate from cracks near the south pole of Saturn's moon Enceladus. The plume gas contains simple hydrocarbons that could be fragments of larger, more complex organics. More recently, observations using the Hubble and Herschel space telescopes have hinted at transient water vapor plumes at Jupiter's moon Europa and the dwarf planet Ceres. Plume materials may be ejected directly from possible sub-surface oceans, at least on Enceladus. In such oceans, liquid water, organics, and energy may co-exist, making these environments habitable. The venting of habitable ocean material into space provides a unique opportunity to capture this material during a relatively simple flyby mission and return it to Earth. Plume collection strategies should enable investigations of evidence for life in the returned samples via laboratory analyses of the structure, distribution, isotopic composition, and chirality of the chemical components (including biomolecules) of plume materials. Here, we discuss approaches for the collection of dust and volatiles during flybys through Enceladus' plume, based on Cassini results and lessons learned from the Stardust comet sample return mission. We also highlight areas where sample collector and containment technology development and testing may be needed for future plume sample return missions.

Novel Method for High-Throughput Full-Length IGHV-D-J Sequencing of the Immune Repertoire from Bulk B-Cells with Single-Cell Resolution.

PubMed

Vergani, Stefano; Korsunsky, Ilya; Mazzarello, Andrea Nicola; Ferrer, Gerardo; Chiorazzi, Nicholas; Bagnara, Davide

2017-01-01

Efficient and accurate high-throughput DNA sequencing of the adaptive immune receptor repertoire (AIRR) is necessary to study immune diversity in healthy subjects and disease-related conditions. The high complexity and diversity of the AIRR coupled with the limited amount of starting material, which can compromise identification of the full biological diversity makes such sequencing particularly challenging. AIRR sequencing protocols often fail to fully capture the sampled AIRR diversity, especially for samples containing restricted numbers of B lymphocytes. Here, we describe a library preparation method for immunoglobulin sequencing that results in an exhaustive full-length repertoire where virtually every sampled B-cell is sequenced. This maximizes the likelihood of identifying and quantifying the entire IGHV-D-J repertoire of a sample, including the detection of rearrangements present in only one cell in the starting population. The methodology establishes the importance of circumventing genetic material dilution in the preamplification phases and incorporates the use of certain described concepts: (1) balancing the starting material amount and depth of sequencing, (2) avoiding IGHV gene-specific amplification, and (3) using Unique Molecular Identifier. Together, this methodology is highly efficient, in particular for detecting rare rearrangements in the sampled population and when only a limited amount of starting material is available.

Method and system for determining depth distribution of radiation-emitting material located in a source medium and radiation detector system for use therein

DOEpatents

Benke, Roland R.; Kearfott, Kimberlee J.; McGregor, Douglas S.

2003-03-04

A method, system and a radiation detector system for use therein are provided for determining the depth distribution of radiation-emitting material distributed in a source medium, such as a contaminated field, without the need to take samples, such as extensive soil samples, to determine the depth distribution. The system includes a portable detector assembly with an x-ray or gamma-ray detector having a detector axis for detecting the emitted radiation. The radiation may be naturally-emitted by the material, such as gamma-ray-emitting radionuclides, or emitted when the material is struck by other radiation. The assembly also includes a hollow collimator in which the detector is positioned. The collimator causes the emitted radiation to bend toward the detector as rays parallel to the detector axis of the detector. The collimator may be a hollow cylinder positioned so that its central axis is perpendicular to the upper surface of the large area source when positioned thereon. The collimator allows the detector to angularly sample the emitted radiation over many ranges of polar angles. This is done by forming the collimator as a single adjustable collimator or a set of collimator pieces having various possible configurations when connected together. In any one configuration, the collimator allows the detector to detect only the radiation emitted from a selected range of polar angles measured from the detector axis. Adjustment of the collimator or the detector therein enables the detector to detect radiation emitted from a different range of polar angles. The system further includes a signal processor for processing the signals from the detector wherein signals obtained from different ranges of polar angles are processed together to obtain a reconstruction of the radiation-emitting material as a function of depth, assuming, but not limited to, a spatially-uniform depth distribution of the material within each layer. The detector system includes detectors having different properties (sensitivity, energy resolution) which are combined so that excellent spectral information may be obtained along with good determinations of the radiation field as a function of position.

Materials Science Research Rack Onboard the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reagan, Shawn; Frazier, Natalie; Lehman, John; Aicher, Winfried

2013-01-01

The Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) is a research facility developed under a cooperative research agreement between NASA and ESA for materials science investigations on the International Space Station (ISS). MSRR was launched on STS-128 in August 2009 and currently resides in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory Module. Since that time, MSRR has logged more than 1000 hours of operating time. The MSRR accommodates advanced investigations in the microgravity environment on the ISS for basic materials science research in areas such as solidification of metals and alloys. The purpose is to advance the scientific understanding of materials processing as affected by microgravity and to gain insight into the physical behavior of materials processing. MSRR allows for the study of a variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, semiconductor crystals, and glasses. Materials science research benefits from the microgravity environment of space, where the researcher can better isolate chemical and thermal properties of materials from the effects of gravity. With this knowledge, reliable predictions can be made about the conditions required on Earth to achieve improved materials. MSRR is a highly automated facility with a modular design capable of supporting multiple types of investigations. The NASA-provided Rack Support Subsystem provides services (power, thermal control, vacuum access, and command and data handling) to the ESA-developed Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) that accommodates interchangeable Furnace Inserts (FI). Two ESA-developed FIs are presently available on the ISS: the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) and the Solidification and Quenching Furnace (SQF). Sample Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), each containing one or more material samples, are installed in the FI by the crew and can be processed at temperatures up to 1400C. ESA continues to develop samples with 14 planned for launch and processing in the near future. Additionally NASA has begun developing SCAs to support US PIs and their partners. The first of these Flight SCAs are being developed for investigations to support research in the areas of crystal growth and liquid phase sintering. Subsequent investigations are in various stages of development. US investigations will include a ground test program in order to distinguish the particular effects of the absence of gravity.

Materials Science Research Rack Onboard the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reagan, S. E.; Lehman, J. R.; Frazier, N. C.

2016-01-01

The Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) is a research facility developed under a cooperative research agreement between NASA and ESA for materials science investigations on the International Space Station (ISS). MSRR was launched on STS-128 in August 2009 and currently resides in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory Module. Since that time, MSRR has logged more than 1400 hours of operating time. The MSRR accommodates advanced investigations in the microgravity environment on the ISS for basic materials science research in areas such as solidification of metals and alloys. The purpose is to advance the scientific understanding of materials processing as affected by microgravity and to gain insight into the physical behavior of materials processing. MSRR allows for the study of a variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, semiconductor crystals, and glasses. Materials science research benefits from the microgravity environment of space, where the researcher can better isolate chemical and thermal properties of materials from the effects of gravity. With this knowledge, reliable predictions can be made about the conditions required on Earth to achieve improved materials. MSRR is a highly automated facility with a modular design capable of supporting multiple types of investigations. The NASA-provided Rack Support Subsystem provides services (power, thermal control, vacuum access, and command and data handling) to the ESA-developed Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) that accommodates interchangeable Furnace Inserts (FI). Two ESA-developed FIs are presently available on the ISS: the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) and the Solidification and Quenching Furnace (SQF). Sample Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), each containing one or more material samples, are installed in the FI by the crew and can be processed at temperatures up to 1400degC. ESA continues to develop samples with 14 planned for launch and processing in the near future. Additionally NASA has begun developing SCAs to support US PIs and their partners. The first of these Flight SCAs are being developed for investigations to support research in the areas of crystal growth and liquid phase sintering. Subsequent investigations are in various stages of development. US investigations will include a ground test program in order to distinguish the particular effects of the absence of gravity.

Materials Science Research Rack Onboard the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reagan, Shawn; Frazier, Natalie; Lehman, John

2016-01-01

The Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) is a research facility developed under a cooperative research agreement between NASA and ESA for materials science investigations on the International Space Station (ISS). MSRR was launched on STS-128 in August 2009 and currently resides in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory Module. Since that time, MSRR has logged more than 1400 hours of operating time. The MSRR accommodates advanced investigations in the microgravity environment on the ISS for basic materials science research in areas such as solidification of metals and alloys. The purpose is to advance the scientific understanding of materials processing as affected by microgravity and to gain insight into the physical behavior of materials processing. MSRR allows for the study of a variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, semiconductor crystals, and glasses. Materials science research benefits from the microgravity environment of space, where the researcher can better isolate chemical and thermal properties of materials from the effects of gravity. With this knowledge, reliable predictions can be made about the conditions required on Earth to achieve improved materials. MSRR is a highly automated facility with a modular design capable of supporting multiple types of investigations. The NASA-provided Rack Support Subsystem provides services (power, thermal control, vacuum access, and command and data handling) to the ESA-developed Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) that accommodates interchangeable Furnace Inserts (FI). Two ESA-developed FIs are presently available on the ISS: the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) and the Solidification and Quenching Furnace (SQF). Sample Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), each containing one or more material samples, are installed in the FI by the crew and can be processed at temperatures up to 1400?C. ESA continues to develop samples with 14 planned for launch and processing in the near future. Additionally NASA has begun developing SCAs to support US PIs and their partners. The first of these Flight SCAs are being developed for investigations to support research in the areas of crystal growth and liquid phase sintering. Subsequent investigations are in various stages of development. US investigations will include a ground test program in order to distinguish the particular effects of the absence of gravity.

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

Nichols, T.

The Nuclear Forensics Analysis Center (NFAC) is part of Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) and is one of only two USG National Laboratories accredited to perform nuclear forensic analyses to the requirements of ISO 17025. SRNL NFAC is capable of analyzing nuclear and radiological samples from bulk material to ultra-trace samples. NFAC provides analytical support to the FBI's Radiological Evidence Examination Facility (REEF), which is located within SRNL. REEF gives the FBI the capability to perform traditional forensics on material that is radiological and/or is contaminated. SRNL is engaged in research and development efforts to improve the USG technical nuclearmore » forensics capabilities. Research includes improving predictive signatures and developing a database containing comparative samples.« less

The utilization of nonterrestrial materials. [resources for solar power satellite construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The development of research and technology programs on the user of nonterrestrial materials for space applications was considered with emphasis on the space power satellite system as a model of large space systems for which the use of nonterrestrial materials may be economically viable. Sample topics discussed include the mining of raw materials and the conversion of raw materials into useful products. These topics were considered against a background of the comparative costs of using terrestrial materials. Exploratory activities involved in the preparation of a nonterrestrial materials utilization program, and the human factors involved were also addressed. Several recommendations from the workshop are now incorporated in NASA activities.

Discovery of the First Leaking Double-Shell Tank - Hanford Tank 241-AY-102

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

Harrington, Stephanie J.; Sams, Terry L.

Full text - Long Abstract. A routine video inspection of the annulus region of double-shell tank 241-A Y-102 in August of 2012 indicated the presence material in the annulus space between the primary and secondary liners. A comparison was made to previous inspections performed in 2006 and 2007. which indicated that a change had occurred. The material was observed at two locations on the floor of the annulus and one location at the top of the annulus region where the primary and secondary top knuckles meet (RPP-ASMT-53793). Subsequent inspections were performed. leading to additional material observed on the floor ofmore » the annulus space in a region that had not previously been inspected (WRPS-PER-2012-1363). The annulus Continuous Air Monitor (CAM) was still operational and was not indicating elevated radiation levels in the annulus region. When the camera from the inspections was recovered. it also did not indicate increased radiation above minimum contamination levels (WRPS-PER-2012-1363). A formal leak assessment team was established August 10, 2012 to review tank 241-AY-102 construction and operating histories and to determine whether the material observed in the annulus had resulted from a leak in the primary tank. The team consisted of individuals from Engineering. Base Operations and Environmental Protection. As this was a first-of-its-kind task. a method for obtaining a sample of the material in the annulus was needed. The consistency of the material was unknown.and the location of a majority of the material was not conducive to using the sampling devices that were currently available at Hanford. A subcontractor was tasked with the development fabrication.and testing of a sampling device that would be able to obtain multiple samples from the material on the annulus floor. as well as the material originating from a refractory air-slot near the floor of the annulus space. This sampler would need to be able to collect and dispense the material it collected into a sample jar retrieval device for transportation of the material to the 222-S laboratory on the Hanford site for analysis. The subcontractor agency fabricated a remote underground sampler by modifying off-the-shelf robotics and parts. Limited testing of the sampler was conducted using a mock-up of the tank annulus and one simulated material type -a salt block. The mock-up testing indicated that the sampler would be able to maneuver within the confined space and that the device worked with full functionality. A total of six weeks had passed from initiation to implementation of the new sampler in the 241-AY-102 tank annulus. Initial sample material was obtained from the annulus floor using the Off-Riser Sampler System that has been used at Hanford tor years to obtain material from the primary tanks. This could be used at the location near Riser 83 since the material was collected directly from the annulus floor and not from a location on the wall or behind a pipe, as was needed from the two locations near Riser 90. After obtaining a small sample of the material on the annulus floor.this sampler sustained terminal damage due to conduit pipes it had to transverse in order to collect and recover material from this location. Several issues were also encountered during deployment of the new sampler into the annulus near Riser 90. These included: Difficulty fitting the sampler down the 12-inch riser into the annulus due to a small tolerance in the size of the sampler; Failure of sampler components and functions during deployment including the camera. pneumatics.and bearing seals; Delays in the field due to supporting equipment issues including cables. cameras. and scaffolding; and, Low recovery of sample material obtained for analysis. The complications that occurred during deployment and use of the new sampler during the sampling event ultimately resulted in lower recovery of material from these locations in the annulus than was obtained using the Off-Riser Sampler System and limited the analyses that could be performed for determining the origin of the material. Following completion of the sample analyses and the assessment of its construction history and use. there was a consensus among the leak assessment team members that two of the three materials sampled from the annulus floor region were the result of waste leaking from a breach in the primary tank. The probable leak cause was identified as corrosion at high temperatures in a tank whose containment margins had been reduced due to construction difficulties (RPP-ASMT-53793). A formal Lessons Learned was created concerning designing equipment tor unique purposes under time constraints. This document was published in OPEXShare on May 20. 2013. It highlighted some of the issues that arose with the subcontractor sampler development and provided recommendations to prevent a recurrence should this task need to be performed again in the future. The document can be found at http://msa.hanford.gov/opex/lesson.cfm/2013/5/20/3481/AY-102-Annulus-Sampler-Designing-Equipment-for-Unique-Purposes-under-Time-Constraints/.« less

Around Marshall

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-01-01

This is a close-up of a sample of titanium-zirconium-nickel alloy inside the Electrostatic Levitator (ESL) vacuum chamber at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The ESL uses static electricity to suspend an object (about 3-4 mm in diameter) inside a vacuum chamber allowing scientists to record a wide range of physical properties without the sample contracting the container or any instruments, conditions that would alter the readings. Once inside the chamber, a laser heats the sample until it melts. The laser is then turned off and the sample cools, changing from a liquid drop to a solid sphere. Since 1977, the ESL has been used at MSFC to study the characteristics of new metals, ceramics, and glass compounds. Materials created as a result of these tests include new optical materials, special metallic glasses, and spacecraft components.

Hyperspectral stimulated emission depletion microscopy and methods of use thereof

DOEpatents

Timlin, Jerilyn A; Aaron, Jesse S

2014-04-01

A hyperspectral stimulated emission depletion ("STED") microscope system for high-resolution imaging of samples labeled with multiple fluorophores (e.g., two to ten fluorophores). The hyperspectral STED microscope includes a light source, optical systems configured for generating an excitation light beam and a depletion light beam, optical systems configured for focusing the excitation and depletion light beams on a sample, and systems for collecting and processing data generated by interaction of the excitation and depletion light beams with the sample. Hyperspectral STED data may be analyzed using multivariate curve resolution analysis techniques to deconvolute emission from the multiple fluorophores. The hyperspectral STED microscope described herein can be used for multi-color, subdiffraction imaging of samples (e.g., materials and biological materials) and for analyzing a tissue by Forster Resonance Energy Transfer ("FRET").

Infrared Spectroscopy as a Chemical Fingerprinting Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huff, Timothy L.

2003-01-01

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool in the chemical fingerprinting of materials. Any sample material that will interact with infrared light produces a spectrum and, although normally associated with organic materials, inorganic compounds may also be infrared active. The technique is rapid, reproducible and usually non-invasive to the sample. That it is non-invasive allows for additional characterization of the original material using other analytical techniques including thermal analysis and RAMAN spectroscopic techniques. With the appropriate accessories, the technique can be used to examine samples in liquid, solid or gas phase. Both aqueous and non-aqueous free-flowing solutions can be analyzed, as can viscous liquids such as heavy oils and greases. Solid samples of varying sizes and shapes may also be examined and with the addition of microscopic IR (microspectroscopy) capabilities, minute materials such as single fibers and threads may be analyzed. With the addition of appropriate software, microspectroscopy can be used for automated discrete point or compositional surface area mapping, with the latter providing a means to record changes in the chemical composition of a material surface over a defined area. Due to the ability to characterize gaseous samples, IR spectroscopy can also be coupled with thermal processes such as thermogravimetric (TG) analyses to provide both thermal and chemical data in a single run. In this configuration, solids (or liquids) heated in a TG analyzer undergo decomposition, with the evolving gases directed into the IR spectrometer. Thus, information is provided on the thermal properties of a material and the order in which its chemical constituents are broken down during incremental heating. Specific examples of these varied applications will be cited, with data interpretation and method limitations further discussed.

Space ultra-vacuum facility and method of operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naumann, Robert J. (Inventor)

1986-01-01

A wake shield facility providing an ultrahigh vacuum level for space processing is described. The facility is in the shape of a truncated, hollow hemispherical section, one side of the shield convex and the other concave. The shield surface is preferably made of material that has low out-gassing characteristics such as stainless steel. A material sample supporting fixture in the form of a carousel is disposed on the convex side of the shield at its apex. Movable arms, also on the convex side, are connected by the shield in proximity to the carousel, the arms supporting processing fixtures, and providing for movement of the fixtures to predetermined locations required for producing interations with material samples. For MBE processes a vapor jet projects a stream of vaporized material onto a sample surface. The fixtures are oriented to face the surface of the sample being processed when in their extended position, and when not in use they are retractable to a storage position. The concave side of the shield has a support structure including metal struts connected to the shield, extending radially inward. The struts are joined to an end plate disposed parallel to the outer edge of the shield. This system eliminates outgassing contamination.

Fractographic study of epoxy fractured under mode I loading and mixed mode I/III loading

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

Ren, Fei; Wang, Jy-An John; Bertelsen, Williams D.

2011-01-01

Fiber reinforced polymeric composite materials are widely used in structural components such as wind turbine blades, which are typically subject to complicated loading conditions. Thus, material response under mixed mode loading is of great significance to the reliability of these structures. Epoxy is a thermosetting polymer that is currently used in manufacturing wind turbine blades. The fracture behavior of epoxy is relevant to the mechanical integrity of the wind turbine composite materials. In this study, a novel fracture testing methodology, the spiral notch torsion test (SNTT), was applied to study the fracture behavior of an epoxy material. SNTT samples weremore » tested using either monotonic loading or cyclic loading, while both mode I and mixed mode I/III loading conditions were used. Fractographic examination indicated the epoxy samples included in this study were prone to mode I failure even when the samples were subject to mixed mode loading. Different fatigue precracks were observed on mode I and mixed mode samples, i.e. precracks appeared as a uniform band under mode I loading, and a semi-ellipse under mixed mode loading. Fracture toughness was also estimated using quantitative fractography.« less

Investigation of low cost material processes for liquid rocket engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyentat, Thinh; Kawashige, Chester M.; Scala, James G.; Horn, Ronald M.

1993-01-01

The development of low cost material processes is essential to the achievement of economical liquid rocket propulsion systems in the next century. This paper will present the results of the evaluation of some promising material processes including powder metallurgy, vacuum plasma spray, metal spray forming, and bulge forming. The physical and mechanical test results from the samples and subscale hardware fabricated from high strength copper alloys and superalloys will be discussed.

Out-of-plane ultrasonic velocity measurement

DOEpatents

Hall, M.S.; Brodeur, P.H.; Jackson, T.G.

1998-07-14

A method for improving the accuracy of measuring the velocity and time of flight of ultrasonic signals through moving web-like materials such as paper, paperboard and the like, includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed on opposing sides of a moving web-like material. In order to provide acoustical coupling between the transducers and the web-like material, the transducers are disposed in fluid-filled wheels. Errors due to variances in the wheel thicknesses about their circumference which can affect time of flight measurements and ultimately the mechanical property being tested are compensated by averaging the ultrasonic signals for a predetermined number of revolutions. The invention further includes a method for compensating for errors resulting from the digitization of the ultrasonic signals. More particularly, the invention includes a method for eliminating errors known as trigger jitter inherent with digitizing oscilloscopes used to digitize the signals for manipulation by a digital computer. In particular, rather than cross-correlate ultrasonic signals taken during different sample periods as is known in the art in order to determine the time of flight of the ultrasonic signal through the moving web, a pulse echo box is provided to enable cross-correlation of predetermined transmitted ultrasonic signals with predetermined reflected ultrasonic or echo signals during the sample period. By cross-correlating ultrasonic signals in the same sample period, the error associated with trigger jitter is eliminated. 20 figs.

Out-of-plane ultrasonic velocity measurement

DOEpatents

Hall, Maclin S.; Brodeur, Pierre H.; Jackson, Theodore G.

1998-01-01

A method for improving the accuracy of measuring the velocity and time of flight of ultrasonic signals through moving web-like materials such as paper, paperboard and the like, includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed on opposing sides of a moving web-like material. In order to provide acoustical coupling between the transducers and the web-like material, the transducers are disposed in fluid-filled wheels. Errors due to variances in the wheel thicknesses about their circumference which can affect time of flight measurements and ultimately the mechanical property being tested are compensated by averaging the ultrasonic signals for a predetermined number of revolutions. The invention further includes a method for compensating for errors resulting from the digitization of the ultrasonic signals. More particularly, the invention includes a method for eliminating errors known as trigger jitter inherent with digitizing oscilloscopes used to digitize the signals for manipulation by a digital computer. In particular, rather than cross-correlate ultrasonic signals taken during different sample periods as is known in the art in order to determine the time of flight of the ultrasonic signal through the moving web, a pulse echo box is provided to enable cross-correlation of predetermined transmitted ultrasonic signals with predetermined reflected ultrasonic or echo signals during the sample period. By cross-correlating ultrasonic signals in the same sample period, the error associated with trigger jitter is eliminated.

The Calibration Target for the Mars 2020 SHERLOC Instrument: Multiple Science Roles for Future Manned and Unmanned Mars Exploration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fries, M.; Bhartia, R.; Beegle, L.; Burton, A.; Ross, A.; Shahar, A.

2014-01-01

The Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman & Luminescence for Organics & Chemicals (SHERLOC) instrument is a deep ultraviolet (UV) Raman/fluorescence instrument selected as part of the Mars 2020 rover instrument suite. SHERLOC will be mounted on the rover arm and its primary role is to identify carbonaceous species in martian samples, which may be selected for inclusion into a returnable sample cache. The SHERLOC instrument will require the use of a calibration target, and by design, multiple science roles will be addressed in the design of the target. Samples of materials used in NASA Extravehicular Mobility unit (EMU, or "space suit") manufacture have been included in the target to serve as both solid polymer calibration targets for SHERLOC instrument function, as well as for testing the resiliency of those materials under martian ambient conditions. A martian meteorite will also be included in the target to serve as a well-characterized example of a martian rock that contains trace carbonaceous material. This rock will be the first rock that we know of that has completed a round trip between planets and will therefore serve an EPO role to attract public attention to science and planetary exploration. The SHERLOC calibration target will address a wide range of NASA goals to include basic science of interest to both the Science Mission Directorate (SMD) and Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD).

Spacecraft thermal control coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guillaumon, Jean-Claude; Paillous, Alain

1992-01-01

The Experiment AO 138-6 was located on the trailing edge of the Long Duration Exposure Facility as part of the French Cooperative Payload (FRECOPA) Experiment. It was purely passive in nature: material specimens 2 x 2 cm, independently mounted in sample-holders, with their surface in the same reference plane, were exposed to space. Thirty samples were set in a vacuum-tight canister which was opened in space a few days after LDEF deployment and closed while still in orbit ten months later; twenty-four samples were directly exposed to space for the total flight duration (preflight handling, shuttle bay environment, separation from shuttle, shuttle environment, LEO environment, docking, descent, transfer to KSC). Materials included paints (conductive or nonconductive), SSM's, polymeric films, surface coatings, composite materials, and metals. After sample retrieving, inspection and measurements were carried out in atmospheric laboratory conditions on each sample: observation with binocular lenses and scanning electron microscopy, spectral relectance and transmittance using an integrating sphere in the wavelength range 280-2300 nm, emissivity by the means of a Gier & Dunkle portable reflectometer, electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis-x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (ESCA-XPS), and Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) measurements on some selected samples. The results obtained from flight were compared to laboratory data obtained in UV-irradiation tests when these data were available. As a general statement a good spectral concordance is observed for all samples not in the canister so long as air recoveries are taken into account. For one material, the degradation is more important for the sample in the canister than for those of the same material mounted at the surface of the tray; for most samples in the canister the degradation is slightly higher than the one which can be predicted from laboratory standard irradiations. Contamination problems having been ruled out, the higher temperature experience by the samples on the inside of canister probably explains these phenomena.

Commutability of the First World Health Organization International Standard for Human Cytomegalovirus

PubMed Central

Preiksaitis, J.; Tong, Y.; Pang, X.; Sun, Y.; Tang, L.; Cook, L.; Pounds, S.; Fryer, J.; Caliendo, A. M.

2015-01-01

Quantitative detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA has become a standard part of care for many groups of immunocompromised patients; recent development of the first WHO international standard for human CMV DNA has raised hopes of reducing interlaboratory variability of results. Commutability of reference material has been shown to be necessary if such material is to reduce variability among laboratories. Here we evaluated the commutability of the WHO standard using 10 different real-time quantitative CMV PCR assays run by eight different laboratories. Test panels, including aliquots of 50 patient samples (40 positive samples and 10 negative samples) and lyophilized CMV standard, were run, with each testing center using its own quantitative calibrators, reagents, and nucleic acid extraction methods. Commutability was assessed both on a pairwise basis and over the entire group of assays, using linear regression and correspondence analyses. Commutability of the WHO material differed among the tests that were evaluated, and these differences appeared to vary depending on the method of statistical analysis used and the cohort of assays included in the analysis. Depending on the methodology used, the WHO material showed poor or absent commutability with up to 50% of assays. Determination of commutability may require a multifaceted approach; the lack of commutability seen when using the WHO standard with several of the assays here suggests that further work is needed to bring us toward true consensus. PMID:26269622

SEM technique for imaging and measuring electronic transport in nanocomposites based on electric field induced contrast

DOEpatents

Jesse, Stephen [Knoxville, TN; Geohegan, David B [Knoxville, TN; Guillorn, Michael [Brooktondale, NY

2009-02-17

Methods and apparatus are described for SEM imaging and measuring electronic transport in nanocomposites based on electric field induced contrast. A method includes mounting a sample onto a sample holder, the sample including a sample material; wire bonding leads from the sample holder onto the sample; placing the sample holder in a vacuum chamber of a scanning electron microscope; connecting leads from the sample holder to a power source located outside the vacuum chamber; controlling secondary electron emission from the sample by applying a predetermined voltage to the sample through the leads; and generating an image of the secondary electron emission from the sample. An apparatus includes a sample holder for a scanning electron microscope having an electrical interconnect and leads on top of the sample holder electrically connected to the electrical interconnect; a power source and a controller connected to the electrical interconnect for applying voltage to the sample holder to control the secondary electron emission from a sample mounted on the sample holder; and a computer coupled to a secondary electron detector to generate images of the secondary electron emission from the sample.

Method and apparatus for the evaluation of a depth profile of thermo-mechanical properties of layered and graded materials and coatings

DOEpatents

Finot, Marc; Kesler, Olivera; Suresh, Subra

1998-01-01

A technique for determining properties such as Young's modulus, coefficient of thermal expansion, and residual stress of individual layers within a multi-layered sample is presented. The technique involves preparation of a series of samples, each including one additional layer relative to the preceding sample. By comparison of each sample to a preceding sample, properties of the topmost layer can be determined, and residual stress at any depth in each sample, resulting from deposition of the top layer, can be determined.

Contained radiological analytical chemistry module

DOEpatents

Barney, David M.

1989-01-01

A system which provides analytical determination of a plurality of water chemistry parameters with respect to water samples subject to radiological contamination. The system includes a water sample analyzer disposed within a containment and comprising a sampling section for providing predetermined volumes of samples for analysis; a flow control section for controlling the flow through the system; and a gas analysis section for analyzing samples provided by the sampling system. The sampling section includes a controllable multiple port valve for, in one position, metering out sample of a predetermined volume and for, in a second position, delivering the material sample for analysis. The flow control section includes a regulator valve for reducing the pressure in a portion of the system to provide a low pressure region, and measurement devices located in the low pressure region for measuring sample parameters such as pH and conductivity, at low pressure. The gas analysis section which is of independent utility provides for isolating a small water sample and extracting the dissolved gases therefrom into a small expansion volume wherein the gas pressure and thermoconductivity of the extracted gas are measured.

Contained radiological analytical chemistry module

DOEpatents

Barney, David M.

1990-01-01

A system which provides analytical determination of a plurality of water chemistry parameters with respect to water samples subject to radiological contamination. The system includes a water sample analyzer disposed within a containment and comprising a sampling section for providing predetermined volumes of samples for analysis; a flow control section for controlling the flow through the system; and a gas analysis section for analyzing samples provided by the sampling system. The sampling section includes a controllable multiple port valve for, in one position, metering out sample of a predetermined volume and for, in a second position, delivering the material sample for analysis. The flow control section includes a regulator valve for reducing the pressure in a portion of the system to provide a low pressure region, and measurement devices located in the low pressure region for measuring sample parameters such as pH and conductivity, at low pressure. The gas analysis section which is of independent utility provides for isolating a small water sample and extracting the dissolved gases therefrom into a small expansion volume wherein the gas pressure and thermoconductivity of the extracted gas are measured.

Rapid Analysis of Inorganic Species in Herbaceous Materials Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Emerson, Rachel M.

2015-01-01

Abstract Inorganic compounds in biomass, often referred to as ash, are known to be problematic in the thermochemical conversion of biomass to bio-oil or syngas and, ultimately, hydrocarbon fuels because they negatively influence reaction pathways, contribute to fouling and corrosion, poison catalysts, and impact waste streams. The most common ash-analysis methods, such as inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry/mass spectrometry (ICP-OES/MS), require considerable time and expensive reagents. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is emerging as a technique for rapid analysis of the inorganic constituents in a wide range of biomass materials. This study compares analytical results using LIBS data to results obtained from three separate ICP-OES/MS methods for 12 samples, including six standard reference materials. Analyzed elements include aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and silicon, and results show that concentrations can be measured with an uncertainty of approximately 100 parts per million using univariate calibration models and relatively few calibration samples. These results indicate that the accuracy of LIBS is comparable to that of ICP-OES methods and indicate that some acid-digestion methods for ICP-OES may not be reliable for Na and Al. These results also demonstrate that germanium can be used as an internal standard to improve the reliability and accuracy of measuring many elements of interest, and that LIBS can be used for rapid determination of total ash in biomass samples. Key benefits of LIBS include little sample preparation, no reagent consumption, and the generation of meaningful analytical data instantaneously. PMID:26733765

Family Violence: A Curriculum Sample. Women's Issues Series, Vol. II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Refugee Women's Alliance, Seattle, WA.

The materials in this curriculum sample are written as an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) lesson for immigrants and refugees, designed to begin discussion of family violence. An introductory section outlines issues related to discussion of family violence in the classroom setting, including the importance of opening lines of communication and…

Graphite sample preparation for AMS in a high pressure and temperature press

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rubin, M.; Mysen, B.O.; Polach, H.

1984-01-01

A high pressure-high temperature press is used to make target material for accelerator mass spectrometry. Graphite was produced from typical 14C samples including oxalic acid and carbonates. Beam strength of 12C was generally adequate, but random radioactive contamination by 14C made age measurements impractical. ?? 1984.

Graphite sample preparation for AMS in a high pressure and temperature press

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rubin, Meyer; Mysen, Bjorn O.; Polach, Henry

1984-01-01

A high pressure-temperature press is used to make target material for accelerator mass spectrometry. Graphite was produced from typical **1**4C samples including oxalic acid and carbonates. Beam strength of **1**2C was generally adequate, but random radioactive contamination by **1**4C made age measurements impractical.

Lesson Planning the Kodaly Way.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boshkoff, Ruth

1991-01-01

Discusses the contribution of Zoltan Kodaly to music lesson planning. Emphasizes preparation, presentation, and practice as the three important strategies in teaching concepts and skills to be included in a lesson plan. Includes a sample lesson plan covering a semester and advice on choosing song material. (DK)

Combined, solid-state molecular property and gamma spectrometers for CBRNE detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, Ben; Grate, Jay; Pearson, Brett; Gallagher, Neal; Wise, Barry; Whitten, Ralph; Adams, Jesse

2013-05-01

Nevada Nanotech Systems, Inc. (Nevada Nano) has developed a multi-sensor solution to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) detection that combines the Molecular Property Spectrometer™ (MPS™)—a micro-electro-mechanical chip-based technology capable of measuring a variety of thermodynamic and electrostatic molecular properties of sampled vapors and particles—and a compact, high-resolution, solid-state gamma spectrometer module for identifying radioactive materials, including isotopes used in dirty bombs and nuclear weapons. By conducting multiple measurements, the system can provide a more complete characterization of an unknown sample, leading to a more accurate identification. Positive identifications of threats are communicated using an integrated wireless module. Currently, system development is focused on detection of commercial, military and improvised explosives, radioactive materials, and chemical threats. The system can be configured for a variety of CBRNE applications, including handheld wands and swab-type threat detectors requiring short sample times, and ultra-high sensitivity detectors in which longer sampling times are used. Here we provide an overview of the system design and operation and present results from preliminary testing.

Comparison of the Organic Composition of Cometary Samples with Residues Formed from the UV Irradiation of Astrophysical Ice Analogs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Milam, S. N.; Nuevo, M.; Sandford, S. A.; Cody, G. D.; Kilcoyne, A. L. D.; Stroud, R. M.; DeGregorio, B. T.

2010-01-01

The NASA Stardust mission successfully collected material from Comet 81P/Wild 2 [1], including authentic cometary grains [2]. X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy analysis of these samples indicates the presence of oxygen-rich and nitrogen-rich organic materials, which contain a broad variety of functional groups (carbonyls, C=C bonds, aliphatic chains, amines, arnides, etc.) [3]. One component of these organics appears to contain very little aromatic carbon and bears some similarity to the organic residues produced by the irradiation of ices of interstellar/cometary composition, Stardust samples were also recently shown to contain glycine, the smallest biological amino acid [4]. Organic residues produced froth the UV irradiation of astrophysical ice analogs are already known to contain a large suite of organic molecules including amino acids [5-7], amphiphilic compounds (fatty acids) [8], and other complex species. This work presents a comparison between XANES spectra measured from organic residues formed in the laboratory with similar data of cometary samples collected by the Stardust mission

Parameters for scale-up of lethal microwave treatment to eradicate cerambycid larvae infesting solid wood packing materials

Treesearch

Mary R. Fleming; John J. Janowiak; Joseph Kearns; Jeffrey E. Shield; Rustum Roy; Dinesh K. Agrawal; Leah S. Bauer; Kelli Hoover

2004-01-01

The use of microwave irradiation to eradicate insects infesting wood used to manufacture packing materials such as pallets and crateswas evaluated. The focus of this preliminary studywas to determinewhich microwave parameters, including chamber-volume to sample-volumeratios,variations ofpower and time, and energydensity (total microwavepower/woodvolume), affect the...

Ewe (for Togo). Special Skills Handbook. Peace Corps Language Handbook Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kozelka, Paul R., Comp.; Agbovi, Yao Ete, Comp.

A book of language and cultural material for teachers and students of Ewe presents vocabulary lists and samples of Ewe language in various contexts, including letters, essays, and newspaper articles. Although not presented in lesson format, the material can be adapted by teachers or used by students for independent study. It is divided into two…

Analysis of High School English Curriculum Materials through Rasch Measurement Model and Maxqda

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Batdi, Veli; Elaldi, Senel

2016-01-01

The purpose of the study is to analyze high school English curriculum materials (ECM) through FACETS analysis and MAXQDA-11 programs. The mixed methods approach, both quantitative and qualitative methods, were used in three samples including English teachers in Elazig during the 2014-2015 academic year. While the quantitative phase of the study…

How to Defuse Censorship: Implementing 404.2 of the Standards for Accreditation of Montana Schools, 4th Ed.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bechtold, Brian; And Others

To help defuse censorship efforts, this booklet identifies issues and strategies for handling censorship efforts and provides the instructional materials selection policies of two Montana school districts. The booklet also includes sample forms for a citizen requesting reconsideration of materials and for a school media committee's reconsideration…

An FTIR point sensor for identifying chemical WMD and hazardous materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norman, Mark L.; Gagnon, Aaron M.; Reffner, John A.; Schiering, David W.; Allen, Jeffrey D.

2004-03-01

A new point sensor for identifying chemical weapons of mass destruction and other hazardous materials based on Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is presented. The sensor is a portable, fully functional FT-IR system that features a miniaturized Michelson interferometer, an integrated diamond attenuated total reflection (ATR) sample interface, and an embedded on-board computer. Samples are identified by an automated search algorithm that compares their infrared spectra to digitized databases that include reference spectra of nerve and blister agents, toxic industrial chemicals, and other hazardous materials. The hardware and software are designed for use by technicians with no background in infrared spectroscopy. The unit, which is fully self-contained, can be hand-carried and used in a hot zone by personnel in Level A protective gear, and subsequently decontaminated by spraying or immersion. Wireless control by a remote computer is also possible. Details of the system design and performance, including results of field validation tests, are discussed.

Support Services for Ceramic Fiber-Ceramic Matrix Composites

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

Hurley, JP

2001-08-16

To increase national energy self-sufficiency for the near future, power systems will be required to fire low-grade fuels more efficiently than is currently possible. The typical coal-fired steam cycle used at present is limited to a maximum steam temperature of 540 C and a conversion efficiency of 35%. Higher working-fluid temperatures are required to boost efficiency, exposing subsystems to very damaging conditions. Issues of special concern to materials developers are corrosion and warping of hot-gas particulate filters and corrosion and erosion of high-temperature heat exchangers. The University of North Dakota Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) is working with themore » National Energy Technology Laboratory in conjunction with NCC Engineering, Inc., to provide technical assistance and coal by-products to the Fossil Energy Materials Advanced Research and Technology Development Materials Program investigating materials failure in fossil energy systems. The main activities of the EERC are to assemble coal slag and hot-gas filter ash samples for use by materials researchers, to assist in providing opportunities for realistic tests of advanced materials in pilot-scale fossil energy systems, and to provide analytical support in determining corrosion mechanisms of the exposed materials. In this final report for the project year of September 2000 through August 2001, the facilities at the EERC that can be used by researchers for realistic testing of materials are described. Researchers can include sample coupons in each of these facilities at no cost since they are being operated under separate funding. In addition, two pilot-scale coal combustion tests are described in which material sample coupons were included from researchers involved in the development of fossil energy materials. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) energy dispersive x-ray analyses of the corrosion products and interactions between the surface scales of the coupons and the products of coal combustion found on the coupons exposed during those tests are reported. Finally, a relative comparison of ceramic and alloy material performance based on the SEM results is presented.« less

Open port sampling interface

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

Van Berkel, Gary J

A system for sampling a sample material includes a probe which can have an outer probe housing with an open end. A liquid supply conduit within the housing has an outlet positioned to deliver liquid to the open end of the housing. The liquid supply conduit can be connectable to a liquid supply for delivering liquid at a first volumetric flow rate to the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust conduit within the housing is provided for removing liquid from the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust system can be provided for removing liquid from themore » liquid exhaust conduit at a second volumetric flow rate, the first volumetric flow rate exceeding the second volumetric flow rate, wherein liquid at the open end will receive sample, liquid containing sample material will be drawn into and through the liquid exhaust conduit, and liquid will overflow from the open end.« less

Biological Sterilization of Returned Mars Samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, C. C.; Albert, F. G.; Combie, J.; Bodnar, R. J.; Hamilton, V. E.; Jolliff, B. L.; Kuebler, K.; Wang, A.; Lindstrom, D. J.; Morris, P. A.

1999-01-01

Martian rock and soil, collected by robotic spacecraft, will be returned to terrestrial laboratories early in the next century. Current plans call for the samples to be immediately placed into biological containment and tested for signs of present or past life and biological hazards. It is recommended that "Controlled distribution of unsterilized materials from Mars should occur only if rigorous analyses determine that the materials do not constitute a biological hazard. If any portion of the sample is removed from containment prior to completion of these analyses it should first be sterilized." While sterilization of Mars samples may not be required, an acceptable method must be available before the samples are returned to Earth. The sterilization method should be capable of destroying a wide range of organisms with minimal effects on the geologic samples. A variety of biological sterilization techniques and materials are currently in use, including dry heat, high pressure steam, gases, plasmas and ionizing radiation. Gamma radiation is routinely used to inactivate viruses and destroy bacteria in medical research. Many commercial sterilizers use Co-60 , which emits gamma photons of 1.17 and 1.33 MeV. Absorbed doses of approximately 1 Mrad (10(exp 8) ergs/g) destroy most bacteria. This study investigates the effects of lethal doses of Co-60 gamma radiation on materials similar to those anticipated to be returned from Mars. The goals are to determine the gamma dose required to kill microorganisms in rock and soil samples and to determine the effects of gamma sterilization on the samples' isotopic, chemical and physical properties. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

The Science of Detached Bridgman Growth and Solutocapillary Convection in Solid Solution Crystals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szofran, F. R.; Volz, M. P.; Cobb, S. D.; Motakef, S.; Croell, A.; Dold, P.

2001-01-01

Bridgman and Float-zone crystal growth experiments are planned for NASA's First Materials Science Research Rack using the European Space Agency's Materials Science Laboratory with the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) and Float Zone Furnace with Rotating Magnetic Field (FMF) inserts, respectively. Samples will include germanium and germanium-silicon alloys with up to 10 atomic percent silicon. The Bridgman part of the investigation includes detached growth samples and so there will be a solid-liquid-gas tri-junction in those experiments just as there will be in all float-zone experiments. There are other similarities as well as significant differences between the types of growth that will be discussed. The presentation will call attention to the reasons that experiments in microgravity will provide information unattainable from Earth-based experiments.

Water-quality assessment of the Potomac River Basin: analysis of available pesticide data, 1972-1990

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zappia, Humbert; Fisher, Gary T.

1997-01-01

A study of available data for the period from 1972 to 1990 was conducted to characterize the occurrence and distribution of pesticides in sur-face water, bottom material, ground water, and fish tissue in the Potomac River Basin. The study was conducted by the Potomac River study unit of the U.S. Geological Survey?s National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) program. Exist-ing data coverage was evaluated to guide future data-collection activities. Data from computer data bases and from published and unpublished reports were obtained from local, State, and Fed-eral agencies in the four Potomac River Basin states and the District of Columbia. Data are available for all environmental media, but geo-graphic and temporal coverage are limited. Clusters of data occur in the north-central parts of the basin, with numerous samples at discrete loca-tions in the Shenandoah and Monocacy River Basins, along the mainstem Potomac River, in the Washington, D.C., area, and in streams along the Potomac Estuary. Much of the available surface-water and bottom-material data are from the ear-lier years of the period of interest, the ground-water data are from the middle years, and the fish-tissue data are distributed over much of the period. Overall, temporal coverage is not sufficient for analysis of trends. Comparisons between different sample media are possible in some areas of the Potomac River Basin, particularly in the northern end of the Great Valley. Residual concentrations of some pesticides have been found in surface water, bottom mate-rial, ground water, and fish tissue. Samples have been analyzed for a total of at least 69 pesticides and related compounds in surface water, bottom material, ground water, and fish tissue. Most con-centrations of the pesticides analyzed during the period from 1972 to 1990 were less than or equal to reporting limits. For surface-water samples, 13 out of 41 pes-ticides and related compounds analyzed had concentrations equal to or greater than the report-ing limits. Compounds reported in surface water included 2,4-D, atrazine, aldrin, chlordane, DDT and related compounds, dieldrin, endrin, lindane, prometone, prometryne, and simazine. For bottom material samples, 19 of 31 pesticides and related compounds analyzed had concentrations equal to or greater than the reporting limits. Compounds reported in bottom material included aldrin, chlor-dane, DDT and related compounds, diazinon, dieldrin, endosulfan, endrin, ethion, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, lindane, parathion, and tox-aphene. In ground-water samples, 14 of 39 pesticides and related compounds analyzed had concentrations equal to or greater than the report-ing limits. Compounds reported in ground water included 2,4-D, atrazine, chlordane, cyanazine, DDT and related compounds, diazinon, dieldrin, endosulfan, endrin, heptachlor epoxide, malathion, methyl parathion, simazine. For fish- tissue sam-ples, 30 of the 37 pesticides and related compounds analyzed had concentrations equal to or greater than the reporting limits. Compounds reported included aldrin, chlorpyrifos, dacthal, dieldrin, endrin, HCB, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, methoxychlor, mirex, PCA, toxaphene, and those compounds related to chlordane, DDT, and lindane.

Shock and Release Behaviour of Silica Based Granular Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Braithwaite, Chris; Perry, James; Taylor, Nicholas

2017-06-01

A large number of experiments have been conducted using the Cavendish single stage gas gun to investigate the dynamic properties of sand. The results included successful measurements of release in dry materials, demonstrating that this is markedly different to the loading path. The effect of moisture was examined and shown to be strongest where the material was close to saturation, at which point the microstructure of the exact sample configuration plays a significant role in the response. Finally, the effect of sample morphology was probed, and whilst it was found to be significant at low rates, in the shock regime impedance appears to be more strongly influenced by the presence of moisture or a fraction of small particle size debris.

Surface analysis of space telescope material specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fromhold, A. T.; Daneshvar, K.

1985-01-01

Qualitative and quantitative data on Space Telescope materials which were exposed to low Earth orbital atomic oxygen in a controlled experiment during the 41-G (STS-17) mission were obtained utilizing the experimental techniques of Rutherford backscattering (RBS), particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE), and ellipsometry (ELL). The techniques employed were chosen with a view towards appropriateness for the sample in question, after consultation with NASA scientific personnel who provided the material specimens. A group of eight samples and their controls selected by NASA scientists were measured before and after flight. Information reported herein include specimen surface characterization by ellipsometry techniques, a determination of the thickness of the evaporated metal specimens by RBS, and a determination of trace impurity species present on and within the surface by PIXE.

Groundwater Remediation and Alternate Energy at White Sands Test Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fischer, Holger

2008-01-01

White Sands Test Facility Core Capabilities: a) Remote Hazardous Testing of Reactive, Explosive, and Toxic Materials and Fluids; b) Hypergolic Fluids Materials and Systems Testing; c) Oxygen Materials and System Testing; d) Hypervelocity Impact Testing; e)Flight Hardware Processing; and e) Propulsion Testing. There is no impact to any drinking water well. Includes public wells and the NASA supply well. There is no public exposure. Groundwater is several hundred feet below ground. No air or surface water exposure. Plume is moving very slowly to the west. Plume Front Treatment system will stop this westward movement. NASA performs on-going monitoring. More than 200 wells and zones are routinely sampled. Approx. 850 samples are obtained monthly and analyzed for over 300 different hazardous chemicals.

Determination of actinides in urine and fecal samples

DOEpatents

McKibbin, Terry T.

1993-01-01

A method of determining the radioactivity of specific actinides that are carried in urine or fecal sample material is disclosed. The samples are ashed in a muffle furnace, dissolved in an acid, and then treated in a series of steps of reduction, oxidation, dissolution, and precipitation, including a unique step of passing a solution through a chloride form anion exchange resin for separation of uranium and plutonium from americium.

Determination of actinides in urine and fecal samples

DOEpatents

McKibbin, T.T.

1993-03-02

A method of determining the radioactivity of specific actinides that are carried in urine or fecal sample material is disclosed. The samples are ashed in a muffle furnace, dissolved in an acid, and then treated in a series of steps of reduction, oxidation, dissolution, and precipitation, including a unique step of passing a solution through a chloride form anion exchange resin for separation of uranium and plutonium from americium.

Composition and leaching of construction and demolition waste: inorganic elements and organic compounds.

PubMed

Butera, Stefania; Christensen, Thomas H; Astrup, Thomas F

2014-07-15

Thirty-three samples of construction and demolition waste collected at 11 recycling facilities in Denmark were characterised in terms of total content and leaching of inorganic elements and presence of the persistent organic pollutants PCBs and PAHs. Samples included (i) "clean" (i.e. unmixed) concrete waste, (ii) mixed masonry and concrete, (iii) asphalt and (iv) freshly cast concrete cores; both old and newly generated construction and demolition waste was included. PCBs and PAHs were detected in all samples, generally in non-critical concentrations. Overall, PAHs were comparable to background levels in urban environments. "Old" and "new" concrete samples indicated different PCB congener profiles and the presence of PCB even in new concrete suggested that background levels in raw materials may be an issue. Significant variability in total content of trace elements, even more pronounced for leaching, was observed indicating that the number of analysed samples may be critical in relation to decisions regarding management and utilisation of the materials. Higher leaching of chromium, sulphate and chloride were observed for masonry-containing and partly carbonated samples, indicating that source segregation and management practices may be important. Generally, leaching was in compliance with available leaching limits, except for selenium, and in some cases chromium, sulphate and antimony. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Test and Analysis of Solid Rocket Motor Nozzle Ablative Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clayton, J. Louie

2017-01-01

Asbestos free solid motor internal insulation samples were tested at the MSFC Hyperthermal Facility. Objectives of the test were to gather data for analog characterization of ablative and in-depth thermal performance of rubber materials subject to high enthalpy/pressure flow conditions. Tests were conducted over a range of convective heat fluxes for both inert and chemically reactive sub-sonic free stream gas flow. Instrumentation included use of total calorimeters, thermocouples, and a surface pyrometer for surface temperature measurement. Post-test sample forensics involved measurement of eroded depth, charred depth, total sample weight loss, and documentation of the general condition of the eroded profile. A complete Charring Material Ablator (CMA) style aero-thermal analysis was conducted for the test matrix and results compared to the measured data. In general, comparisons were possible for a number of the cases and the results show a limited predictive ability to model accurately both the ablative response and the in-depth temperature profiles. Lessons learned and modeling recommendations are made regarding future testing and modeling improvements that will increase understanding of the basic chemistry/physics associated with the complicated material ablation process of rubber materials.

A method for evaluating the fatigue crack growth in spiral notch torsion fracture toughness test

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

Wang, Jy -An John; Tan, Ting

The spiral notch torsion test (SNTT) has been a recent breakthrough in measuring fracture toughness for different materials, including metals, ceramics, concrete, and polymers composites. Due to its high geometry constraint and unique loading condition, SNTT can be used to measure the fracture toughness with smaller specimens without concern of size effects. The application of SNTT to brittle materials has been proved to be successful. The micro-cracks induced by original notches in brittle materials could ensure crack growth in SNTT samples. Therefore, no fatigue pre-cracks are needed. The application of SNTT to the ductile material to generate valid toughness datamore » will require a test sample with sufficient crack length. Fatigue pre-crack growth techniques are employed to introduce sharp crack front into the sample. Previously, only rough calculations were applied to estimate the compliance evolution in the SNTT crack growth process, while accurate quantitative descriptions have never been attempted. This generates an urgent need to understand the crack evolution during the SNTT fracture testing process of ductile materials. Here, the newly developed governing equations for SNTT crack growth estimate are discussed in the paper.« less

A method for evaluating the fatigue crack growth in spiral notch torsion fracture toughness test

DOE PAGES

Wang, Jy -An John; Tan, Ting

2018-05-21

The spiral notch torsion test (SNTT) has been a recent breakthrough in measuring fracture toughness for different materials, including metals, ceramics, concrete, and polymers composites. Due to its high geometry constraint and unique loading condition, SNTT can be used to measure the fracture toughness with smaller specimens without concern of size effects. The application of SNTT to brittle materials has been proved to be successful. The micro-cracks induced by original notches in brittle materials could ensure crack growth in SNTT samples. Therefore, no fatigue pre-cracks are needed. The application of SNTT to the ductile material to generate valid toughness datamore » will require a test sample with sufficient crack length. Fatigue pre-crack growth techniques are employed to introduce sharp crack front into the sample. Previously, only rough calculations were applied to estimate the compliance evolution in the SNTT crack growth process, while accurate quantitative descriptions have never been attempted. This generates an urgent need to understand the crack evolution during the SNTT fracture testing process of ductile materials. Here, the newly developed governing equations for SNTT crack growth estimate are discussed in the paper.« less

Materials Characterization of Electron Beam Melted Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Draper, Susan L.; Lerch, Bradley A.; Telesman, Jack; Martin, Richard E.; Locci, Ivan E.; Garg, Anita; Ring, Andrew J.

2016-01-01

An in-depth material characterization of Electron Beam Melted (EBM) Ti-6Al-4V material has been completed on samples fabricated on an ARCAM A2X EBM machine. The specimens were fabricated under eight separate builds with the material divided into two lots for material testing purposes. Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) was utilized to close porosity from fabrication and also served as a material heat treatment to obtain the desired microstructure. The changes in the microstructure and chemistry from the powder to pre-HIP and post-HIP material have been analyzed. Several nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques were utilized to characterize the samples both before and after HIP. The test matrix included tensile, high cycle fatigue, low cycle fatigue, fracture toughness, and fatigue crack growth at cryogenic, room, and elevated temperatures. The mechanical properties of the EBM Ti-6Al-4V are compared to conventional Ti-6Al-4V in the annealed condition. Fractography was performed to determine failure initiation site. The EBM Ti-6Al-4V had similar or superior mechanical properties compared to conventionally manufactured Ti-6Al-4V.

Materials Science Research Rack Onboard the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazier, Natalie C.; Johnson, Jimmie; Aicher, Winfried

2011-01-01

The Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) allows for the study of a variety of materials including metals, ceramics, semiconductor crystals, and glasses onboard the International Space Station (ISS). MSRR was launched on STS-128 in August 2009, and is currently installed in the U. S. Destiny Laboratory Module. Since that time, MSRR has performed virtually flawlessly logging more than 550 hours of operating time. Materials science is an integral part of development of new materials for everyday life here on Earth. The goal of studying materials processing in space is to develop a better understanding of the chemical and physical mechanisms involved. Materials science research benefits from the microgravity environment of space, where the researcher can better isolate chemical and thermal properties of materials from the effects of gravity. With this knowledge, reliable predictions can be made about the conditions required on Earth to achieve improved materials. MSRR is a highly automated facility containing two furnace inserts in which Sample Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), each containing one material sample, can be processed up to temperatures of 1400C. Once an SCA is installed by a Crew Member, the experiment can be run by automatic command or science conducted via telemetry commands from the ground. Initially, 12 SCAs were processed in the first furnace insert for a team of European and US investigators. The processed samples have been returned to Earth for evaluation and comparison of their properties to samples similarly processed on the ground. A preliminary examination of the samples indicates that the majority of the desired science objectives have been successfully met leading to significant improvements in the understanding of alloy solidification processes. The second furnace insert will be installed in the facility in January 2011 for processing the remaining SCA currently on orbit. Six SCAs are planned for launch summer 2011, and additional batches are planned for future processing. This facility is available to support additional materials science investigations through programs such as the US National Laboratory, Technology Development, NASA Research Announcements, ESA application oriented research programs, and others. The development of the research rack was a cooperative effort between NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and the European Space Agency (ESA).

Fiber-reinforced plastic composites. Possibilities and limitations of applications as machine-construction materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ophey, Lothar

1988-01-01

The use of fiber-reinforced composite structural materials in engineering applications is discussed in a survey of currently available technology and future prospects. The ongoing rapid growth in the use of these materials is described, and the criteria to be applied in selecting base materials, lamination schemes, fasteners, and processing methods are examined in detail and illustrated with graphs, diagrams, flow charts, and drawings. A description of a sample application (comparing the properties of steel, CFRP, SiC-reinforced Al, CFRP/steel, and CFRP/Al automobile piston rods) is included.

Towards aging mechanisms of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable insulation materials in nuclear power plants

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

Liu, Shuaishuai; Fifield, Leonard S.; Bowler, Nicola

Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable insulation material undergoes simultaneous, accelerated thermal and gamma-radiation aging to simulate the long-term aging environment within nuclear power plants (NPPs). A variety of materials characterization tests, including scanning electron microscopy, thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, oxidation induction time, gel-fraction and dielectric properties measurement, are conducted on pristine and differently aged XLPE samples. A preliminary model of one possible aging mechanism of XLPE cable insulation material under gamma radiation at elevated temperature of 115 °C is suggested.

Development of Nondestructive Non-Contact Acousto-Thermal Evaluation Technique for Damage Detection in Materials (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

and the sample to obtain a repeatable excitation for detec- tion of the damage of interest. Varieties of materials, includ- ing card stock, leather ...2) where Tan δ is the internal friction in the material, E is the Young’s modulus, and σmax is the maximum amplitude of the acoustic wave. Assuming...interior of a linear elastic material can be seen to depend on both the elastic properties (E and Tan δ) and the thermal properties (k, Cp) of the

New Material for Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farquharson, Stuart; Nelson, Chad; Lee, Yuan

2004-01-01

A chemical method of synthesis and application of coating materials that are especially suitable for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has been developed. The purpose of this development is to facilitate the utilization of the inherently high sensitivity of SERS to detect chemicals of interest (analytes) in trace amounts, without need for lengthy sample preparation. Up to now, the use of SERS has not become routine because the methods available have not been able to reproduce sampling conditions and provide quantitative measurements. In contrast, the coating materials of the present method enable analysis with minimum preparation of samples, and SERS measurements made using these materials are reproducible and reversible. Moreover, unlike in methods investigated in prior efforts to implement SERS, sampling is not restricted to such specific environments as electrolytes or specific solvents. The coating materials of this method are porous glasses, formed in sol-gel processes, that contain small particles of gold or silver metal. Materials of this type can be applied to the sample-contact surfaces of a variety of sampling and sensing devices, including glass slides, glass vials, fiber-optic probes, and glass tubes. Glass vials with their insides coated according to this method are particularly convenient for SERS to detect trace chemicals in solutions: One simply puts a sample solution containing the analyte(s) into a vial, then puts the vial into a Raman spectrometer for analysis. The chemical ingredients and the physical conditions of the sol-gel process have been selected so that the porous glass formed incorporates particles of the desired metal with size(s) to match the wavelength(s) of the SERS excitation laser in order to optimize the generation of surface plasmons. The ingredients and processing conditions have further been chosen to tailor the porosity and polarity of the glass to optimize the sample flow and the interaction between the analyte(s) and the plasmon field that generates Raman photons. The porous silica network of a sol-gel glass creates a unique environment for stabilizing SERS-active metal particles. Relative to other material structures that could be considered for SERS, the porous silica network offers higher specific surface area and thus greater interaction between analyte molecules and metal particles. Efforts to perform SERS measurements with the help of sampling devices coated by this method have been successful. In tests, numerous organic and inorganic chemicals were analyzed in several solvents, including water. The results of the tests indicate that the SERS measurements were reproducible within 10 percent and linear over five orders of magnitude. One measure of the limits of detectability of chemicals in these tests was found to be a concentration of 300 parts per billion. Further development may eventually make it possible to realize the full potential sensitivity of SERS for detecting some analytes in quantities as small as a single molecule.

Can Concentration - Discharge Relationships Diagnose Material Source During Extreme Events?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karwan, D. L.; Godsey, S.; Rose, L.

2017-12-01

Floods can carry >90% of the basin material exported in a given year as well as alter flow pathways and material sources. In turn, sediment and solute fluxes can increase flood damages and negatively impact water quality and integrate physical and chemical weathering of landscapes and channels. Concentration-discharge (C-Q) relationships are used to both describe export patterns as well as compute them. Metrics for describing C-Q patterns and inferring their controls are vulnerable to infrequent sampling that affects how C-Q relationships are interpolated and interpreted. C-Q relationships are typically evaluated from multiple samples, but because hydrological extremes are rare, data are often unavailable for extreme events. Because solute and sediment C-Q relationships likely respond to changes in hydrologic extremes in different ways, there is a pressing need to define their behavior under extreme conditions, including how to properly sample to capture these patterns. In the absence of such knowledge, improving load estimates in extreme floods will likely remain difficult. Here we explore the use of C-Q relationships to determine when an event alters a watershed system such that it enters a new material source/transport regime. We focus on watersheds with sediment and discharge time series include low-frequency and/or extreme events. For example, we compare solute and sediment patterns in White Clay Creek in southeastern Pennsylvania across a range of flows inclusive of multiple hurricanes for which we have ample ancillary hydrochemical data. TSS is consistently mobilized during high flow events, even during extreme floods associated with hurricanes, and sediment fingerprinting indicates different sediment sources, including in-channel remobilization and landscape erosion, are active at different times. In other words, TSS mobilization in C-Q space is not sensitive to the source of material being mobilized. Unlike sediments, weathering solutes in this watershed tend to exhibit a relatively chemostatic C-Q pattern, except during the runoff-dominated Hurricane Irene, when they exhibit a diluting C-Q pattern. Finally, we summarize the vulnerability of these observations to shifts in sampling effort to highlight the utility and limitations of C-Q-derived export patterns.

Method and apparatus for optimized sampling of volatilizable target substances

DOEpatents

Lindgren, Eric R.; Phelan, James M.

2004-10-12

An apparatus for capturing, from gases such as soil gas, target analytes. Target analytes may include emanations from explosive materials or from residues of explosive materials. The apparatus employs principles of sorption common to solid phase microextraction, and is best used in conjunction with analysis means such as a gas chromatograph. To sorb target analytes, the apparatus functions using various sorptive structures to capture target analyte. Depending upon the embodiment, those structures may include a capillary tube including an interior surface on which sorptive material (similar to that on the surface of a SPME fiber) is supported (along with means for moving gases through the capillary tube so that the gases come into close proximity to the sorptive material). In one disclosed embodiment, at least one such sorptive structure is associated with an enclosure including an opening in communication with the surface of a soil region potentially contaminated with buried explosive material such as unexploded ordnance. Emanations from explosive materials can pass into and accumulate in the enclosure where they are sorbed by the sorptive structures. Also disclosed is the use of heating means such as microwave horns to drive target analytes into the soil gas from solid and liquid phase components of the soil.

Element concentrations in soils and other surficial materials of Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gough, L.P.; Severson, R.C.; Shacklette, H.T.

1988-01-01

Mean concentrations of 35 elements, ash yields, and pH have been estimated for samples of sils and other unconsolidated surficial materials from 266 collection locations throughout Alaska. These background values can be applied to studies of environmental geochemistry and health, wildlife management, and soil-forming processes in cold climates and to computation of element abundances on a regional or worldwide scale. Limited data for an additoinal eight elements are also presented. Materials were collected using a one-way, three-level, analysis-of-variance samplling design in which collecting procedures were simplified for the convenience of the many volunteer field workers. The sample collectors were asked to avoid locations of known mineral deposits and obvious contamination, to take samples at a depth of about 20 cm where possible, and to take a replicate sample about 100 m distant from the first sample collected. With more than 60 percent of the samples replicated and 14 percent of the samples split for duplicate laboratory analyses, reliable estimates were made of the variability in element concentrations at two geographic scales and of the error associated with sample handling and laboratory procedures. Mean concentrations of most elements in surficial materials from the state of alaska correspond well with those reported in similar materials from the conterminous United STatess. Most element concentrations and ranges in samples of stream and lake sediments from Alaska, however, as reported in the literature, do not correspond well with those found in surficial materials of this study. This lack of correspondence is attributed to (1) a merger of two kinds ofsediments (stream and lake) for calculating means; (2) elimination from the sediment mean calculations of values below the limit of quantitative determination; (3) analytical methods different from those of the surficial materials study; and (4) most importantly, the inherent differences in chemistry of the materials. The distribution of variability in element concentrations o Alaskan surficial-material samples was, for most elements, largely among sampling locations, with only a samll part of the variability occurring between replicate samples at a location. The geochemical uniformity within sampling locations in Alaska is an expression of uniform geochemical cycling processes within small geographic areas. The concentration values for 35 elements in 266 samples were plotted on maps by symbols representing classes of concentration frequency distributions. These plotted symbols form patterns that may or may not be possible to interpret but nevertheless show differences that are observable at several geographical scales. The largest pattern is one generally low concentrations of many elements in materials from arctic and oceanic tundra regions, as contrasted to their often high concentrations in samples from interior and southeastern Alaska. The patttern for sodium isespecially pronounced. Intermediate-sized patterns are shown, for example, by the generally high values for magnesium and low values for silicon in the coastal forest region of southeastern Alaska. Many elements occur at low concentratoins in samples from the Alaskan peninsula and the Aleutian Islands. The degree of confidence in patterns of element abundance is expected to be in direct proportion to the number of samples included in the area. As the patterns become smaller, the probability increases that the patterns are not reproducible.

[Recent advances in sample preparation methods of plant hormones].

PubMed

Wu, Qian; Wang, Lus; Wu, Dapeng; Duan, Chunfeng; Guan, Yafeng

2014-04-01

Plant hormones are a group of naturally occurring trace substances which play a crucial role in controlling the plant development, growth and environment response. With the development of the chromatography and mass spectroscopy technique, chromatographic analytical method has become a widely used way for plant hormone analysis. Among the steps of chromatographic analysis, sample preparation is undoubtedly the most vital one. Thus, a highly selective and efficient sample preparation method is critical for accurate identification and quantification of phytohormones. For the three major kinds of plant hormones including acidic plant hormones & basic plant hormones, brassinosteroids and plant polypeptides, the sample preparation methods are reviewed in sequence especially the recently developed methods. The review includes novel methods, devices, extractive materials and derivative reagents for sample preparation of phytohormones analysis. Especially, some related works of our group are included. At last, the future developments in this field are also prospected.

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

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

RATIONALE: Laser ablation provides for the possibility of sampling a large variety of surfaces with high spatial resolution. This type of sampling when employed in conjunction with liquid capture followed by nanoelectrospray ionization provides the opportunity for sensitive and prolonged interrogation of samples by mass spectrometry as well as the ability to analyze surfaces not amenable to direct liquid extraction. METHODS: A fully automated, reflection geometry, laser ablation liquid capture spot sampling system was achieved by incorporating appropriate laser fiber optics and a focusing lens into a commercially available, liquid extraction surface analysis (LESA ) ready Advion TriVersa NanoMate system.more » RESULTS: Under optimized conditions about 10% of laser ablated material could be captured in a droplet positioned vertically over the ablation region using the NanoMate robot controlled pipette. The sampling spot size area with this laser ablation liquid capture surface analysis (LA/LCSA) mode of operation (typically about 120 m x 160 m) was approximately 50 times smaller than that achievable by direct liquid extraction using LESA (ca. 1 mm diameter liquid extraction spot). The set-up was successfully applied for the analysis of ink on glass and paper as well as the endogenous components in Alstroemeria Yellow King flower petals. In a second mode of operation with a comparable sampling spot size, termed laser ablation/LESA , the laser system was used to drill through, penetrate, or otherwise expose material beneath a solvent resistant surface. Once drilled, LESA was effective in sampling soluble material exposed at that location on the surface. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating the capability for different laser ablation liquid capture spot sampling modes of operation into a LESA ready Advion TriVersa NanoMate enhanced the spot sampling spatial resolution of this device and broadened the surface types amenable to analysis to include absorbent and solvent resistant materials.« less

In planta passive sampling devices for assessing subsurface chlorinated solvents.

PubMed

Shetty, Mikhil K; Limmer, Matt A; Waltermire, Kendra; Morrison, Glenn C; Burken, Joel G

2014-06-01

Contaminant concentrations in trees have been used to delineate groundwater contaminant plumes (i.e., phytoscreening); however, variability in tree composition hinders accurate measurement of contaminant concentrations in planta, particularly for long-term monitoring. This study investigated in planta passive sampling devices (PSDs), termed solid phase samplers (SPSs) to be used as a surrogate tree core. Characteristics studied for five materials included material-air partitioning coefficients (Kma) for chlorinated solvents, sampler equilibration time and field suitability. The materials investigated were polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM) and plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Both PDMS and LLDPE samplers demonstrated high partitioning coefficients and diffusivities and were further tested in greenhouse experiments and field trials. While most of the materials could be used for passive sampling, the PDMS SPSs performed best as an in planta sampler. Such a sampler was able to accurately measure trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) concentrations while simultaneously incorporating simple operation and minimal impact to the surrounding property and environment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative study of biogenic and abiotic iron-containing materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherkezova-Zheleva, Z.; Shopska, M.; Paneva, D.; Kovacheva, D.; Kadinov, G.; Mitov, I.

2016-12-01

Series of iron-based biogenic materials prepared by cultivation of Leptothrix group of bacteria in different feeding media ( Sphaerotilus-Leptothrix group of bacteria isolation medium, Adler, Lieske and silicon-iron-glucose-peptone) were studied. Control samples were obtained in the same conditions and procedures but the nutrition media were not infected with bacteria, i.e. they were sterile. Room and low temperature Mössbauer spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and infrared spectroscopy (IRS) were used to reveal the composition and physicochemical properties of biomass and respective control samples. Comparative analysis showed differences in their composition and dispersity of present phases. Sample composition included different ratio of nanodimensional iron oxyhydroxide and oxide phases. Relaxation phenomena such as superparamagnetism or collective magnetic excitation behaviour were registered for some of them. The experimental data showed that the biogenic materials were enriched in oxyhydroxides of high dispersion. Catalytic behaviour of a selected biomass and abiotic material were studied in the reaction of CO oxidation. In situ diffuse-reflectance (DR) IRS was used to monitor the phase transformations in the biomass and CO conversion.

Quantifying the seasonal variations in fluvial and eolian sources of terrigenous material to Cariaco Basin, Venezuela

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elmore, Aurora C.; Thunell, Robert C.; Styles, Richard; Black, David; Murray, Richard W.; Martinez, Nahysa; Astor, Yrene

2009-02-01

The varved sediments that accumulate in the Cariaco Basin provide a detailed archive of the region's climatic history, including a record of the quantity of fluvial and wind-transported material. In this study, we examine the sedimentological characteristics (clay mineralogy and grain size) of both surface sediments and sinking lithogenic material collected from sediment trap samples over a three-year period from 1997 to 2000. Data from biweekly sediment trap samples show a tri-modal particle size distribution, with prominent peaks at 2, 22 and 80 μm, indicating sediment contributions from both eolian and fluvial sources. The clay mineralogy of the water column samples collected from 1997 to 1999 also shows distinctive characteristics of eolian and fluvial material. An examination of surface sediment samples from the Cariaco Basin indicates that the Unare River is the main source of riverine sediments to the eastern sub-basin. By combining these sedimentological proxies, we estimate that ˜10% of the terrigenous material delivered to the Cariaco Basin is eolian, while ˜90% is fluvial. This represents an annual dust accumulation rate of ˜0.59 mg/cm 2/yr. Since aerosols are closely linked to climate variability, the ability to quantify paleo-dust fluxes using sedimentological characteristics will be a useful tool for future paleoclimate studies looking at sub-Saharan aridity and latitudinal migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone.

Microbiological destruction of composite polymeric materials in soils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Legonkova, O. A.; Selitskaya, O. V.

2009-01-01

Representatives of the same species of microscopic fungi developed on composite materials with similar polymeric matrices independently from the type of soils, in which the incubation was performed. Trichoderma harzianum, Penicillium auranthiogriseum, and Clonostachys solani were isolated from the samples of polyurethane. Fusarium solani, Clonostachys rosea, and Trichoderma harzianum predominated on the surface of ultrathene samples. Ulocladium botrytis, Penicillium auranthiogriseum, and Fusarium solani predominated in the variants with polyamide. Trichoderma harzianum, Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus ochraceus, and Acremonium strictum were isolated from Lentex-based composite materials. Mucor circinelloides, Trichoderma harzianum, and Penicillium auranthiogriseum were isolated from composite materials based on polyvinyl alcohol. Electron microscopy demonstrated changes in the structure of polymer surface (loosening and an increase in porosity) under the impact of fungi. The physicochemical properties of polymers, including their strength, also changed. The following substances were identified as primary products of the destruction of composite materials: stearic acid for polyurethane-based materials; imide of dithiocarbonic acid and 1-nonadecen in variants with ultrathene; and tetraaminopyrimidine and isocyanatodecan in variants with polyamide. N,N-dimethyldodecan amide, 2-methyloximundecanon and 2-nonacosane were identified for composites on the base of Lentex A4-1. Allyl methyl sulfide and imide of dithiocarbonic acid were found in variants with the samples of composites based on polyvinyl alcohol. The identified primary products of the destruction of composite materials belong to nontoxic compounds.

Substrate Structures For Growth Of Highly Oriented And/Or Epitaxial Layers Thereon

DOEpatents

Arendt, Paul N.; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Groves, James R.; Jia, Quanxi

2005-07-26

A composite substrate structure including a substrate, a layer of a crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material upon the substrate, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material layer is provided together with additional layers such as one or more layers of a buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer. Jc's of 2.3×106 A/cm2 have been demonstrated with projected Ic's of 320 Amperes across a sample 1 cm wide for a superconducting article including a flexible polycrystalline metallic substrate, an inert oxide material layer upon the surface of the flexible polycrystalline metallic substrate, a layer of a crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material upon the layer of the inert oxide material, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material layer, a layer of a buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer, and, a top-layer of a high temperature superconducting material upon the layer of a buffer material.

Titanium-Zirconium-Nickel Alloy Inside Marshall's Electrostatic Levitator (ESL)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

This is a close-up of a sample of titanium-zirconium-nickel alloy inside the Electrostatic Levitator (ESL) vacuum chamber at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The ESL uses static electricity to suspend an object (about 3-4 mm in diameter) inside a vacuum chamber allowing scientists to record a wide range of physical properties without the sample contracting the container or any instruments, conditions that would alter the readings. Once inside the chamber, a laser heats the sample until it melts. The laser is then turned off and the sample cools, changing from a liquid drop to a solid sphere. Since 1977, the ESL has been used at MSFC to study the characteristics of new metals, ceramics, and glass compounds. Materials created as a result of these tests include new optical materials, special metallic glasses, and spacecraft components.

A Discussion of Procedures and Equipment for the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty On-Site Inspection Environmental Sampling and Analysis

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

Wogman, Ned A.; Milbrath, Brian D.; Payne, Rosara F.

This paper is intended to serve as a scientific basis to start discussions of the available environmental sampling techniques and equipment that have been used in the past that could be considered for use within the context of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) on-site inspections (OSI). This work contains information on the techniques, equipment, costs, and some operational procedures associated with environmental sampling that have actually been used in the past by the United States for the detection of nuclear explosions. This paper also includes a discussion of issues, recommendations, and questions needing further study within the context of themore » sampling and analysis of aquatic materials, atmospheric gases, atmospheric particulates, vegetation, sediments and soils, fauna, and drill-back materials.« less

A Passive Earth-Entry Capsule for Mars Sample Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitcheltree, Robert A.; Kellas, Sotiris

1999-01-01

A combination of aerodynamic analysis and testing, aerothermodynamic analysis, structural analysis and testing, impact analysis and testing, thermal analysis, ground characterization tests, configuration packaging, and trajectory simulation are employed to determine the feasibility of an entirely passive Earth entry capsule for the Mars Sample Return mission. The design circumvents the potential failure modes of a parachute terminal descent system by replacing that system with passive energy absorbing material to cushion the Mars samples during ground impact. The suggested design utilizes a spherically blunted 45-degree half-angle cone forebody with an ablative heat shield. The primary structure is a hemispherical, composite sandwich enclosing carbon foam energy absorbing material. Though no demonstration test of the entire system is included, results of the tests and analysis presented indicate that the design is a viable option for the Mars Sample Return Mission.

The Athena Mars Rover Investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Squyres, S. W.; Arvidson, R. E.; Bell, J. F., III; Carr, M.; Christensen, P.; DesMarais, D.; Economou, T.; Gorevan, S.; Haskin, L.; Herkenhoff, K.

2000-01-01

The Mars Surveyor program requires tools for martian surface exploration, including remote sensing, in-situ sensing, and sample collection. The Athena Mars rover payload is a suite of scientific instruments and sample collection tools designed to: (1) Provide color stereo imaging of martian surface environments, and remotely-sensed point discrimination of mineralogical composition; (2) Determine the elemental and mineralogical composition of martian surface materials; (3) Determine the fine-scale textural properties of these materials; and (4) Collect and store samples. The Athena payload is designed to be implemented on a long-range rover such as the one now under consideration for the 2003 Mars opportunity. The payload is at a high state of maturity, and most of the instruments have now been built for flight.

Development of a Miniature Mass Spectrometer and an Automated Detector for Sampling Explosive Materials

PubMed Central

Hashimoto, Yuichiro

2017-01-01

The development of a robust ionization source using the counter-flow APCI, miniature mass spectrometer, and an automated sampling system for detecting explosives are described. These development efforts using mass spectrometry were made in order to improve the efficiencies of on-site detection in areas such as security, environmental, and industrial applications. A development team, including the author, has struggled for nearly 20 years to enhance the robustness and reduce the size of mass spectrometers to meet the requirements needed for on-site applications. This article focuses on the recent results related to the detection of explosive materials where automated particle sampling using a cyclone concentrator permitted the inspection time to be successfully reduced to 3 s. PMID:28337396

Methods and systems for detection of radionuclides

DOEpatents

Coates, Jr., John T.; DeVol, Timothy A.

2010-05-25

Disclosed are materials and systems useful in determining the existence of radionuclides in an aqueous sample. The materials provide the dual function of both extraction and scintillation to the systems. The systems can be both portable and simple to use, and as such can beneficially be utilized to determine presence and optionally concentration of radionuclide contamination in an aqueous sample at any desired location and according to a relatively simple process without the necessity of complicated sample handling techniques. The disclosed systems include a one-step process, providing simultaneous extraction and detection capability, and a two-step process, providing a first extraction step that can be carried out in a remote field location, followed by a second detection step that can be carried out in a different location.

Colling Wipe Samples for VX Analysis

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

Koester, C; Hoppes, W G

2010-02-11

This standard operating procedure (SOP) provides uniform procedures for the collection of wipe samples of VX residues from surfaces. Personnel may use this procedure to collect and handle wipe samples in the field. Various surfaces, including building materials (wood, metal, tile, vinyl, etc.) and equipment, may be sampled based on this procedure. The purpose of such sampling is to determine whether or not the relevant surfaces are contaminated, to determine the extent of their contamination, to evaluate the effectiveness of decontamination procedures, and to determine the amount of contaminant that might present as a contact hazard.

Data in support of the detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed samples.

PubMed

Alasaad, Noor; Alzubi, Hussein; Kader, Ahmad Abdul

2016-06-01

Food and feed samples were randomly collected from different sources, including local and imported materials from the Syrian local market. These included maize, barley, soybean, fresh food samples and raw material. GMO detection was conducted by PCR and nested PCR-based techniques using specific primers for the most used foreign DNA commonly used in genetic transformation procedures, i.e., 35S promoter, T-nos, epsps, cryIA(b) gene and nptII gene. The results revealed for the first time in Syria the presence of GM foods and feeds with glyphosate-resistant trait of P35S promoter and NOS terminator in the imported soybean samples with high frequency (5 out of the 6 imported soybean samples). While, tests showed negative results for the local samples. Also, tests revealed existence of GMOs in two imported maize samples detecting the presence of 35S promoter and nos terminator. Nested PCR results using two sets of primers confirmed our data. The methods applied in the brief data are based on DNA analysis by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This technique is specific, practical, reproducible and sensitive enough to detect up to 0.1% GMO in food and/or feedstuffs. Furthermore, all of the techniques mentioned are economic and can be applied in Syria and other developing countries. For all these reasons, the DNA-based analysis methods were chosen and preferred over protein-based analysis.

Development of a Cavitation Erosion Resistant Advanced Material System

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-11-01

Sheet EPD M results .............................................................................. 47 Figure 5.11 - EPDM rubber samples, sheet (left...Testing The long test times of EPDM rubber and other durable elastomer samples created a need for overnight testing capability. In the original test setup...seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts. Common examples of elastomers include natural and synthetic rubber , silicone, neoprene, EPDM , polyurethane

Inert gases in a terra sample - Measurements in six grain-size fractions and two single particles from Lunar 20.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heymann, D.; Lakatos, S.; Walton, J. R.

1973-01-01

Review of the results of inert gas measurements performed on six grain-size fractions and two single particles from four samples of Luna 20 material. Presented and discussed data include the inert gas contents, element and isotope systematics, radiation ages, and Ar-36/Ar-40 systematics.

Proceedings of the wellbore sampling workshop

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

Traeger, R.K.; Harding, B.W.

Representatives from academia, industry and research laboratories participated in an intensive two-day review to identify major technological limitations in obtaining solid and fluid samples from wellbores. Top priorities identified for further development include: coring of hard and unconsolidated materials; flow through fluid samplers with borehole measurements T, P and pH; and nonintrusive interrogation of pressure cores.

Mechanical Properties of AM Stainless Steel Parts and Repair Welds

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

Vogel, Sven C.; Carpenter, John S.

2015-02-22

Goals: Advance certification of AM materials and compare microstructure and its evolution during processing and deformation between AM fabricated and conventional steels. Deliverables achieved: Measured texture data for 17 steel samples on HIPPO, including material planned to be shocked in pRAD in FY16; quantified texture and austenite/ferrite phase fractions; and provide input data for deformation modeling.

The Influences of Stirring and Cow Manure Added on Biogas Production From Vegetable Waste Using Anaerobic Digester

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdullah, N. O.; Pandebesie, E. S.

2018-03-01

Based on Indonesian Government Regulation number 18, 2008, solid waste management should be conducted from the source to minimize the amount of waste. The process includes the waste from domestic, commercial, and institution. This also includes in 3R program (reduce, reuse, and recycle). Vegetable waste from market is a potential material to produce biogas due to its chemical composition (hemi-cellulose, cellulose, and lignin) which transform the biomass to be the raw material of biogas. Acid substance of vegetable becomes an obstacle in process of producing biogas. There has to be buffer material which can improve the performance of biogas process. Cow manure is a material which can be easily obtained as buffer. This research used 24 biogas reactor in volume 6 L by batch method. Biogas volume is measured by checking the preferment in manometer. Methane measurement is conducted by using Gas Chromatography (GC) Hewlett Packard (HP-series 6890) in day 15 and 30. The research was started by sample characterization, sample test by total solid analysis, volatile solid, lignin, ratio C/N, ammonium, and ash. Analysis of pH, temperature, and biogas volume is conducted every day.

Automated SEM and TEM sample preparation applied to copper/low k materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reyes, R.; Shaapur, F.; Griffiths, D.; Diebold, A. C.; Foran, B.; Raz, E.

2001-01-01

We describe the use of automated microcleaving for preparation of both SEM and TEM samples as done by SELA's new MC500 and TEMstation tools. The MC500 is an automated microcleaving tool that is capable of producing cleaves with 0.25 μm accuracy resulting in SEM-ready samples. The TEMstation is capable of taking a sample output from the MC500 (or from SELA's earlier MC200 tool) and producing a FIB ready slice of 25±5 μm, mounted on a TEM-washer and ready for FIB thinning to electron transparency for TEM analysis. The materials selected for the tool set evaluation mainly included the Cu/TaN/HOSP low-k system. The paper is divided into three sections, experimental approach, SEM preparation and analysis of HOSP low-k, and TEM preparation and analysis of Cu/TaN/HOSP low-k samples. For the samples discussed, data is presented to show the quality of preparation provided by these new automated tools.

The Response of Simple Polymer Structures Under Dynamic Loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Proud, William; Ellison, Kay; Yapp, Su; Cole, Cloe; Galimberti, Stefano; Institute of Shock Physics Team

2017-06-01

The dynamic response of polymeric materials has been widely studied with the effects of degree of crystallinity, strain rate, temperature and sample size being commonly reported. This study uses a simple PMMA structure, a right cylindrical sample, with structural features such as holes. The features are added an varied in a systematic fashion. Samples were dynamically loaded using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar up to failure. The resulting stress-strain curves are presented showing the change in sample response. The strain to failure is shown to increase initially with the presence of holes, while failure stress is relatively unaffected. The fracture patterns seen in the failed samples change, with tensile cracks, Hertzian cones, shear effects being dominant for different holes sizes and geometries. The sample were prepared by laser cutting and checked for residual stress before experiment. The data is used to validate predictive model predictions where material, structure and damage are included.. The Institute of Shock Physics acknowledges the support of Imperial College London and the Atomic Weapons Establishment.

Successful isolation and PCR amplification of DNA from National Institute of Standards and Technology herbal dietary supplement standard reference material powders and extracts.

PubMed

Cimino, Matthew T

2010-03-01

Twenty-four herbal dietary supplement powder and extract reference standards provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) were investigated using three different commercially available DNA extraction kits to evaluate DNA availability for downstream nucleotide-based applications. The material included samples of Camellia, Citrus, Ephedra, Ginkgo, Hypericum, Serenoa, And Vaccinium. Protocols from Qiagen, MoBio, and Phytopure were used to isolate and purify DNA from the NIST standards. The resulting DNA concentration was quantified using SYBR Green fluorometry. Each of the 24 samples yielded DNA, though the concentration of DNA from each approach was notably different. The Phytopure method consistently yielded more DNA. The average yield ratio was 22 : 3 : 1 (ng/microL; Phytopure : Qiagen : MoBio). Amplification of the internal transcribed spacer II region using PCR was ultimately successful in 22 of the 24 samples. Direct sequencing chromatograms of the amplified material suggested that most of the samples were comprised of mixtures. However, the sequencing chromatograms of 12 of the 24 samples were sufficient to confirm the identity of the target material. The successful extraction, amplification, and sequencing of DNA from these herbal dietary supplement extracts and powders supports a continued effort to explore nucleotide sequence-based tools for the authentication and identification of plants in dietary supplements. (c) Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart . New York.

Recent trends in sorption-based sample preparation and liquid chromatography techniques for food analysis.

PubMed

V Soares Maciel, Edvaldo; de Toffoli, Ana Lúcia; Lanças, Fernando Mauro

2018-04-20

The accelerated rising of the world's population increased the consumption of food, thus demanding more rigors in the control of residue and contaminants in food-based products marketed for human consumption. In view of the complexity of most food matrices, including fruits, vegetables, different types of meat, beverages, among others, a sample preparation step is important to provide more reliable results when combined with HPLC separations. An adequate sample preparation step before the chromatographic analysis is mandatory in obtaining higher precision and accuracy in order to improve the extraction of the target analytes, one of the priorities in analytical chemistry. The recent discovery of new materials such as ionic liquids, graphene-derived materials, molecularly imprinted polymers, restricted access media, magnetic nanoparticles, and carbonaceous nanomaterials, provided high sensitivity and selectivity results in an extensive variety of applications. These materials, as well as their several possible combinations, have been demonstrated to be highly appropriate for the extraction of different analytes in complex samples such as food products. The main characteristics and application of these new materials in food analysis will be presented and discussed in this paper. Another topic discussed in this review covers the main advantages and limitations of sample preparation microtechniques, as well as their off-line and on-line combination with HPLC for food analysis. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Internship. A Cooperative Effort. Vocational Education and Arkansas Industry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parks, Beverly; Summers, Gerry

Intended to assist staff members at vocational-technical schools in developing an internship program, this guide includes explanations of the Internship Project at Petit Jean Vocational Technical School (Arkansas) and sample forms. Prefaced materials include a time line for implementation of internship, and diagrams of an integrated…

Supplementary and Enrichment Series: Mathematical Systems. Teachers' Commentary. SP-20.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Syer, Henry W., Ed.

This is one in a series of manuals for teachers using SMSG high school supplementary materials. The pamphlet includes commentaries on the sections of the student's booklet, answers to the exercises, and sample test questions. Topics covered include addition, multiplication, operations, closure, identity element, mathematical systems, mathematical…

Apparel Manufacturing (Course Outline), Exciting Careers in Apparel Manufacturing: 9377.01.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

A course for youth and adults interested in a career in apparel manufacturing and the needle trades is presented. Instruction will include a sampling tour of interest, introducing all phases of the industry from designing to shipping. Instructional materials include films, transparencies, lectures and demonstrations, information sheets,…

Preliminary Design of a Galactic Cosmic Ray Shielding Materials Testbed for the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaier, James R.; Berkebile, Stephen; Sechkar, Edward A.; Panko, Scott R.

2012-01-01

The preliminary design of a testbed to evaluate the effectiveness of galactic cosmic ray (GCR) shielding materials, the MISSE Radiation Shielding Testbed (MRSMAT) is presented. The intent is to mount the testbed on the Materials International Space Station Experiment-X (MISSE-X) which is to be mounted on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2016. A key feature is the ability to simultaneously test nine samples, including standards, which are 5.25 cm thick. This thickness will enable most samples to have an areal density greater than 5 g/sq cm. It features a novel and compact GCR telescope which will be able to distinguish which cosmic rays have penetrated which shielding material, and will be able to evaluate the dose transmitted through the shield. The testbed could play a pivotal role in the development and qualification of new cosmic ray shielding technologies.

Astronomy Meets Biology: EFOSC2 and the Chirality of Life

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sterzik, M.; Bagnulo, S.; Azua, A.; Salinas, F.; Alfaro, J.; Vicuna, R.

2010-12-01

Homochirality, i.e., the exclusive use of L-amino acids and D-sugar in biological material, induces circular polarisation in the diffuse reflectance spectra of biotic material. Polarimetry may therefore become an interesting remote sensing technique in the future search for extraterrestrial life. We have explored this technique and performed a laboratory experiment making an exotic use of an astronomical instrument. During a period when EFOSC2 was detached from the Nasmyth focus to host a visitor instrument at the NTT, we have observed various samples of biotic and abiotic material and measured their linear and circular polarisation spectra. Among the various targets, we have included samples of the hypolithic cyanobacteria species Chroococcidiopsis isolated from the Coastal Range of the Atacama Desert. To our knowledge, these are the first and highest precision measurements of circular polarisation using living material and obtained with an astronomical instrument.

Real time outdoor exposure testing of solar cell modules and component materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anagnostou, E.; Forestieri, A. F.

1977-01-01

Plastic samples, solar cell modules, and sub-modules were exposed at test sites in Florida, Arizona, Puerto Rico, and Cleveland, Ohio, in order to determine materials suitable for use in solar cell modules with a proposed 20-year lifetime. Various environments were encountered including subtropical, subtropical with a sea air atmosphere, desert, rain forest, normal urban, and urban-polluted. The samples were exposed for periods up to six months. Materials found not suitable were polyurethane, polyester, Kapton, Mylar, and UV-stabilized Lexan. Suitable materials were acrylic, FEP-A, and glass. The results of exposure of polyvinylidene fluoride were dependent on the specific formulation, but several types appear suitable. RTV silicone rubber (clear) appears to pick up and hold dirt both as a free film and as a potting medium for modules. The results indicate that dirt accumulation and cleanability are important factors in the selection of solar cell module covers and encapsulants.

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

Amidan, Brett G.; Hutchison, Janine R.

There are many sources of variability that exist in the sample collection and analysis process. This paper addresses many, but not all, sources of variability. The main focus of this paper was to better understand and estimate variability due to differences between samplers. Variability between days was also studied, as well as random variability within each sampler. Experiments were performed using multiple surface materials (ceramic and stainless steel), multiple contaminant concentrations (10 spores and 100 spores), and with and without the presence of interfering material. All testing was done with sponge sticks using 10-inch by 10-inch coupons. Bacillus atrophaeus wasmore » used as the BA surrogate. Spores were deposited using wet deposition. Grime was coated on the coupons which were planned to include the interfering material (Section 3.3). Samples were prepared and analyzed at PNNL using CDC protocol (Section 3.4) and then cultured and counted. Five samplers were trained so that samples were taken using the same protocol. Each sampler randomly sampled eight coupons each day, four coupons with 10 spores deposited and four coupons with 100 spores deposited. Each day consisted of one material being tested. The clean samples (no interfering materials) were run first, followed by the dirty samples (coated with interfering material). There was a significant difference in recovery efficiency between the coupons with 10 spores deposited (mean of 48.9%) and those with 100 spores deposited (mean of 59.8%). There was no general significant difference between the clean and dirty (containing interfering material) coupons or between the two surface materials; however, there was a significant interaction between concentration amount and presence of interfering material. The recovery efficiency was close to the same for coupons with 10 spores deposited, but for the coupons with 100 spores deposited, the recovery efficiency for the dirty samples was significantly larger (65.9% - dirty vs. 53.6% - clean) (see Figure 4.1). Variance component analysis was used to estimate the amount of variability for each source of variability. There wasn’t much difference in variability for dirty and clean samples, as well as between materials, so these results were pooled together. There was a significant difference in amount of concentration deposited, so results were separated for the 10 spore and 100 spore deposited tests. In each case the within sampler variability was the largest with variances of 426.2 for 10 spores and 173.1 for 100 spores. The within sampler variability constitutes the variability between the four samples of similar material, interfering material, and concentration taken by each sampler. The between sampler variance was estimated to be 0 for 10 spores and 1.2 for 100 spores. The between day variance was estimated to be 42.1 for 10 spores and 78.9 for 100 spores. Standard deviations can be calculated in each case by taking the square root of the variance.« less

Curiosity Rover's CheMin Instrument Investigates Mineralogy of Gale Crater and Implications for Diagenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fendrich, Kim; Rampe, Elizabeth; Vaniman, David; Bish, David; Blake, David; Treiman, Allan; Ming, Doug; Morris, Richard; Bristow, Tom; Cavanagh, Patrick; Downs, Robert; Morrison, Shaunna; Chipera, Steve; Achilles, Cherie; Farmer, Jack; Sarrazin, Philippe; Crisp, Joy; Morookian, John Michael; Yen, Albert; Gellert, Ralf

2015-04-01

The Mars Science Laboratory rover Curiosity employs a suite of instruments to investigate past or present habitability of Mars, as observed at Gale crater and particularly in the lower strata of the crater's central mound, informally named Mount Sharp. The X-ray diffractometer on board, CheMin, is used to assess the quantitative mineralogy of scooped soil samples and drilled rock powders. Methods of modeling diffraction peak positions and intensities to evaluate the abundances of minerals include Rietveld refinement and FULLPAT (full-pattern fitting). Each of the samples analyzed by CheMin contains X-ray amorphous material. The amorphous component chemistry is resolved by subtracting the chemistry of the crystalline composition, as determined by X-ray diffraction data, from the bulk sample chemistry, as determined by the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS). Diffraction results have been obtained on five samples thus far to include Rocknest, John Klein, Cumberland, Windjana and Confidence Hills. Soil samples collected at Rocknest, an aeolian bedform in Gale crater, were the first to be analyzed in situ by CheMin. The Rocknest mineral assemblage is basaltic (plagioclase, Fe-forsterite, augite, pigeonite) and contains amorphous material that is compositionally similar to palagonitic volcanic soils found on Earth, with the addition of sulfur and chlorine. The four drill analyses are characteristic of deposition in a variety of fluvio-lacustrine environments and exhibit evidence of low-temperature diagenesis. Both John Klein and Cumberland are part of the Sheepbed mudstone at Yellowknife Bay, where the first drilled samples were acquired as well as the first evidence of a habitable environment on Mars. Drilled three meters apart from each other, the two samples reveal basaltic minerals similar to those at Rocknest, as well as phyllosilicates, Fe-oxides/hydroxides, Ca-sulfates, Fe-sulfides, and amorphous materials. The nature and hydration of interlayer cations within the phyllosilicates differs between the two samples, which implies localized diagenesis. The Windjana sandstone at the Kimberley location differs from the Sheepbed mudstone in that it contains more pyroxene and magnetite and abundant K-feldspar, as well as phyllosilicates and amorphous material. These phases may represent potassium-rich basaltic provenance or aqueous alteration by potassium-bearing fluids. While the Confidence Hills sample is still in the preliminary stages of evaluation, major crystalline phases observed in this fine-grained sedimentary rock include plagioclase, pyroxene, K-feldspar and phyllosilicates; hematite, rare in all previous samples, is notably abundant and jarosite is present. The findings suggest localized mobilization of iron-bearing fluids and acidic conditions. The more oxidized assemblage of Confidence Hills marks the transition into the lower strata of Mount Sharp.

Effects of sterilization treatments on bulk and surface properties of nanocomposite biomaterials

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Maqsood; Punshon, Geoffrey; Darbyshire, Arnold; Seifalian, Alexander M

2013-01-01

With the continuous and expanding use of implantable biomaterials in a clinical setting, this study aims to elucidate the influence of sterilization techniques on the material surface and bulk properties of two polyurethane nanocomposite biomaterials. Both solid samples and porous membranes of nondegradable polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly(carbonate-urea) urethane (POSS-PCU) and a biodegradable poly(caprolactone-urea) urethane (POSS-PCL) were examined. Sterilization techniques included conventional steam sterilization (autoclaving), gamma irradiation, and disinfection via incubating with ethanol (EtOH) for 10 min or 24 h. After treatment, the samples were examined using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and tensiometry. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through the culture of endothelial progenitor cells and the efficacy of sterilization method was determined by incubating each sample in tryptone soya broth and fluid thioglycollate medium for cultivation of microorganisms. Although EtOH did not affect the material properties in any form, the samples were found to be nonsterile with microbial growth detected on each of the samples. Gamma irradiation was not only effective in sterilizing both POSS-PCU and POSS-PCL but also led to minor material degradation and displayed a cytotoxic effect on the cultured cells. Autoclaving was found to be the optimal sterilization technique for both solid and porous membranes of the nondegradable POSS-PCU samples as it was successful in sterilizing the samples, displayed no cytotoxic side effects and did not degrade the material. However, the biodegradable POSS-PCL was not able to withstand the harsh environment during autoclaving, resulting in it losing all structural integrity. PMID:24039066

Use of UV Sources for Detection and Identification of Explosives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hug, William; Reid, Ray; Bhartia, Rohit; Lane, Arthur

2009-01-01

Measurement of Raman and native fluorescence emission using ultraviolet (UV) sources (<400 nm) on targeted materials is suitable for both sensitive detection and accurate identification of explosive materials. When the UV emission data are analyzed using a combination of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis, chemicals and biological samples can be differentiated based on the geometric arrangement of molecules, the number of repeating aromatic rings, associated functional groups (nitrogen, sulfur, hydroxyl, and methyl), microbial life cycles (spores vs. vegetative cells), and the number of conjugated bonds. Explosive materials can be separated from one another as well as from a range of possible background materials, which includes microbes, car doors, motor oil, and fingerprints on car doors, etc. Many explosives are comprised of similar atomic constituents found in potential background samples such as fingerprint oils/skin, motor oil, and soil. This technique is sensitive to chemical bonds between the elements that lead to the discriminating separability between backgrounds and explosive materials.

Rock sampling. [apparatus for controlling particle size

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blum, P. (Inventor)

1971-01-01

An apparatus for sampling rock and other brittle materials and for controlling resultant particle sizes is described. The device includes grinding means for cutting grooves in the rock surface and to provide a grouping of thin, shallow, parallel ridges and cutter means to reduce these ridges to a powder specimen. Collection means is provided for the powder. The invention relates to rock grinding and particularly to the sampling of rock specimens with good size control.

Far-Field High-Energy Diffraction Microscopy: A Non-Destructive Tool for Characterizing the Microstructure and Micromechanical State of Polycrystalline Materials

DOE PAGES

Park, Jun-Sang; Zhang, Xuan; Kenesei, Peter; ...

2017-08-31

A suite of non-destructive, three-dimensional X-ray microscopy techniques have recently been developed and used to characterize the microstructures of polycrystalline materials. These techniques utilize high-energy synchrotron radiation and include near-field and far-field diffraction microscopy (NF- and FF-HEDM, respectively) and absorption tomography. Several compatible sample environments have also been developed, enabling a wide range of 3D studies of material evolution. In this article, the FF-HEDM technique is described in detail, including its implementation at the 1-ID beamline of the Advanced Photon Source. Examples of how the information obtained from FF-HEDM can be used to deepen our understanding of structure-property-processing relationships inmore » selected materials are presented.« less

The behavior of biogenic silica-rich rocks and volcanic tuffs as pozzolanic additives in cement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fragoulis, Dimitris; Stamatakis, Michael; Anastasatou, Marianthi

2015-04-01

Cements currently produced, include a variety of pozzolanic materials, aiming for lower clinker addition and utilization of vast deposits of certain raw materials and/or mining wastes and byproducts. The major naturally occurring pozzolanic materials include glassy tuffs, zeolitic tuffs, diatomites and volcanic lavas rich in glassy phase, such as perlites. Therefore, based on the available raw materials in different locations, the cement composition might vary according to the accessibility of efficient pozzolanic materials. In the present investigation, the behavior of pozzolanic cements produced with representative samples of the aforementioned materials was studied, following the characterization of the implemented pozzolanas with respect to their chemical and mineralogical characteristics. Laboratory cements were produced by co-grinding 75% clinker, 5% gypsum and 20% pozzolana, for the same period of time (45 min). Regarding pozzolanic materials, four different types of pozzolanas were utilized namely, diatomite, perlite, zeolite tuff and glassy tuff. More specifically, two diatomite samples originated from Australia and Greece, with high and low reactive silica content respectively, two perlite samples originated from Turkey and from Milos Island, Greece, with different reactive silica contents, a zeolite tuff sample originated from Turkey and a glassy tuff sample originated from Milos Island, Greece. The above pozzolana samples, which were ground in the laboratory ball mill for cement production performed differently during grinding and that was reflected upon the specific surface area (cm2/gr) values. The perlites and the glassy tuff were the hardest to grind, whereas, the zeolite tuff and the Australian diatomite were the easiest ones. However, the exceedingly high specific surface area of the Australian diatomite renders cement difficult to transport and tricky to use for concrete manufacturing, due to the high water demand of the cement mixture. Regarding late compressive strength, the worst performing cement was the one with the lowest reactive silica content with biogenic opal-A as the only reactive pozzolana constituent. Cements produced with perlites, raw materials consisting mainly of a glassy phase, were characterized by higher strength and a rather ordinary specific surface area. Cements produced with Turkish zeolite tuff and Milos glassy tuff exhibited higher late compressive strength than those mentioned above. The highest strength was achieved by the implementation of Australian diatomite for cement production. Its 28 day strength exceeded that of the control mixture consisting of 95% clinker and 5% gypsum. That could be attributed to both, high specific surface of cement and reactive SiO2 of diatomite. Therefore, a preliminary assessment regarding late strength of pozzolanic cements could be obtained by the consideration of two main parameters, namely: specific surface area of cement and reactive silica content of pozzolana.

Method and apparatus for the evaluation of a depth profile of thermo-mechanical properties of layered and graded materials and coatings

DOEpatents

Finot, M.; Kesler, O.; Suresh, S.

1998-12-08

A technique for determining properties such as Young`s modulus, coefficient of thermal expansion, and residual stress of individual layers within a multi-layered sample is presented. The technique involves preparation of a series of samples, each including one additional layer relative to the preceding sample. By comparison of each sample to a preceding sample, properties of the topmost layer can be determined, and residual stress at any depth in each sample, resulting from deposition of the top layer, can be determined. 11 figs.

Materials Science Research Rack Onboard the International Space Station Hardware and Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lehman, John R.; Frazier, Natalie C.; Johnson, Jimmie

2012-01-01

The Materials Science Research Rack (MSRR) is a research facility developed under a cooperative research agreement between NASA and ESA for materials science investigations on the International Space Station (ISS). MSRR was launched on STS-128 in August 2009, and is currently installed in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory Module. Since that time, MSRR has performed virtually flawlessly, logging more than 620 hours of operating time. The MSRR accommodates advanced investigations in the microgravity environment on the ISS for basic materials science research in areas such as solidification of metals and alloys. The purpose is to advance the scientific understanding of materials processing as affected by microgravity and to gain insight into the physical behavior of materials processing. MSRR allows for the study of a variety of materials including metals, ceramics, semiconductor crystals, and glasses. Materials science research benefits from the microgravity environment of space, where the researcher can better isolate chemical and thermal properties of materials from the effects of gravity. With this knowledge, reliable predictions can be made about the conditions required on Earth to achieve improved materials. MSRR is a highly automated facility with a modular design capable of supporting multiple types of investigations. Currently the NASA-provided Rack Support Subsystem provides services (power, thermal control, vacuum access, and command and data handling) to the ESA developed Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) which accommodates interchangeable Furnace Inserts (FI). Two ESA-developed FIs are presently available on the ISS: the Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) and the Solidification and Quenching Furnace (SQF). Sample-Cartridge Assemblies (SCAs), each containing one or more material samples, are installed in the FI by the crew and can be processed at temperatures up to 1400 C. Once an SCA is installed, the experiment can be run by automatic command or science conducted via telemetry commands from the ground. Initially, 12 SCAs were processed in the first furnace insert for a team of European and US investigators. After these samples were processed the Furnaces Inserts were exchanged and an additional single sample was processed. The processed samples have been returned to Earth for evaluation and comparison of their properties to samples similarly processed on the ground. A preliminary examination of the samples indicates that the majority of the desired science objectives have been successfully met leading to significant improvements in the understanding of alloy solidification processes. Six SCAs were launched on Space Shuttle Mission STS-135 in July 2011 for processing during the Fall of 2011. Additional batches are planned for future processing. This facility is available to support additional materials science investigations through programs such as the US National Laboratory, Technology Development, NASA Research Announcements, and others.

Incidence, populations and diversity of fungi from raw materials, final products and air of processing environment of multigrain whole meal bread.

PubMed

Santos, Juliana Lane Paixão Dos; Bernardi, Angélica Olivier; Pozza Morassi, Letícia L; Silva, Beatriz S; Copetti, Marina Venturini; S Sant'Ana, Anderson

2016-09-01

This study aimed to assess the incidence, to quantify and to assess the diversity of fungi in a multigrain whole meal bread processing plant. Two hundred and eight one (n=281) samples were analyzed, including raw materials (n=120), air samples (n=136) and multigrain breads (n=25). Among the raw materials, the whole corn flour showed the highest counts of fungi (4.8logCFU/g), followed by whole-wheat flour (3.1logCFU/g). The counts of fungi in the air of processing environment were higher in post-baking steps (oven output, cooling, slicing, packaging) than in pre-baking steps (weighing and mixer) (p<0.05). Species of fungi isolated from spoiled bread samples stored at 5, 20, 25 and 30, and 40°C corresponded mostly to Penicillium paneum and Penicillium polonicum isolated from 20 and 24% of samples, respectively. These species were also isolated from raw materials (P. paneum and P. polonicum) and air collected at different processing sampling points (P. polonicum). The high counts of filamentous fungi in raw materials and air samples in processing steps such as cooling, slicing, and packaging, suggest that contamination that may occur in these steps can be critical for the shelf life of breads. The results of this study highlight that the prevention of contamination of breads by fungal spores is still a challenge for bakery industries and that other strategies such as control of germination and growth of spoilage fungi through the development of more stable formulations have to be developed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Applicability of a 1D Analytical Model for Pulse Thermography of Laterally Heterogeneous Semitransparent Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernegger, R.; Altenburg, S. J.; Röllig, M.; Maierhofer, C.

2018-03-01

Pulse thermography (PT) has proven to be a valuable non-destructive testing method to identify and quantify defects in fiber-reinforced polymers. To perform a quantitative defect characterization, the heat diffusion within the material as well as the material parameters must be known. The heterogeneous material structure of glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP) as well as the semitransparency of the material for optical excitation sources of PT is still challenging. For homogeneous semitransparent materials, 1D analytical models describing the temperature distribution are available. Here, we present an analytical approach to model PT for laterally inhomogeneous semitransparent materials. We show the validity of the model by considering different configurations of the optical heating source, the IR camera, and the differently coated GFRP sample. The model considers the lateral inhomogeneity of the semitransparency by an additional absorption coefficient. It includes additional effects such as thermal losses at the samples surfaces, multilayer systems with thermal contact resistance, and a finite duration of the heating pulse. By using a sufficient complexity of the analytical model, similar values of the material parameters were found for all six investigated configurations by numerical fitting.

Extraction of Organic Molecules from Terrestrial Material: Quantitative Yields from Heat and Water Extractions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beegle, L. W.; Abbey, W. A.; Tsapin, A. T.; Dragoi, D.; Kanik, I.

2004-01-01

In the robotic search for life on Mars, different proposed missions will analyze the chemical and biological signatures of life using different platforms. The analysis of samples via analytical instrumentation on the surface of Mars has thus far only been attempted by the two Viking missions. Robotic arms scooped relogith material into a pyrolysis oven attached to a GC/MS. No trace of organic material was found on any of the two different samples at either of the two different landing sites. This null result puts an upper limit on the amount of organics that might be present in Martian soil/rocks, although the level of detection for each individual molecular species is still debated. Determining the absolute limit of detection for each analytical instrument is essential so that null results can be understood. This includes investigating the trade off of using pyrolysis versus liquid solvent extraction to release organic materials (in terms of extraction efficiencies and the complexity of the sample extraction process.) Extraction of organics from field samples can be accomplished by a variety of methods such utilizing various solvents including HCl, pure water, supercritical fluid and Soxhelt extraction. Utilizing 6N HCl is one of the most commonly used method and frequently utilized for extraction of organics from meteorites but it is probably infeasible for robotic exploration due to difficulty of storage and transport. Extraction utilizing H2O is promising, but it could be less efficient than 6N HCl. Both supercritical fluid and Soxhelt extraction methods require bulky hardware and require complex steps, inappropriate for inclusion on rover spacecraft. This investigation reports the efficiencies of pyrolysis and solvent extraction methods for amino acids for different terrestrial samples. The samples studied here, initially created in aqueous environments, are sedimentary in nature. These particular samples were chosen because they possibly represent one of the best terrestrial analogs of Mars and they represent one of the absolute best case scenarios for finding organic molecules on the Martian surface.

Nevada Applied Ecology Group procedures handbook for environmental transuranics

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

White, M.G.; Dunaway, P.B.

The activities of the Nevada Applied Ecology Group (NAEG) integrated research studies of environmental plutonium and other transuranics at the Nevada Test Site have required many standardized field and laboratory procedures. These include sampling techniques, collection and preparation, radiochemical and wet chemistry analysis, data bank storage and reporting, and statistical considerations for environmental samples of soil, vegetation, resuspended particles, animals, and other biological material. This document, printed in two volumes, includes most of the Nevada Applied Ecology Group standard procedures, with explanations as to the specific applications involved in the environmental studies. Where there is more than one document concerningmore » a procedure, it has been included to indicate special studies or applications more complex than the routine standard sampling procedures utilized.« less

Identification of processed Chinese medicinal materials using DNA mini-barcoding.

PubMed

Song, Ming; Dong, Gang-Qiang; Zhang, Ya-Qin; Liu, Xia; Sun, Wei

2017-07-01

Most of Chinese medicinal herbs are subjected to traditional processing procedures, including stir-frying, charring, steaming, boiling, and calcining before they are released into dispensaries. The marketing and identification of processed medicinal materials is a growing issue in the marketplace. However, conventional methods of identification have limitations, while DNA mini-barcoding, based on the sequencing of a short-standardized region, has received considerable attention as a new potential means to identify processed medicinal materials. In the present study, six DNA barcode loci including ITS2, psbA-trnH, rbcL, matK, trnL (UAA) intron and its P6 loop, were employed for the authentication of 45 processed samples belonging to 15 species. We evaluated the amplification efficiency of each locus. We also examined the identification accuracy of the potential mini-barcode locus, of trnL (UAA) intron P6 loop. Our results showed that the five primary barcode loci were successfully amplified in only 8.89%-20% of the processed samples, while the amplification rates of the trnL (UAA) intron P6 loop were higher, at 75.56% successful amplification. We compared the mini-barcode sequences with Genbank using the Blast program. The analysis showed that 45.23% samples could be identified to genus level, while only one sample could be identified to the species level. We conclude that trnL (UAA) p6 loop is a candidate mini-barcode that has shown its potential and may become a universal mini-barcode as complementary barcode for authenticity testing and will play an important role in medicinal materials control. Copyright © 2017 China Pharmaceutical University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Genesis Contingency Planning and Mishap Recovery: The Sample Curation View

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stansbery, E. K.; Allton, J. H.; Allen, C. C.; McNamara, K. M.; Calaway, M.; Rodriques, M. C.

2007-01-01

Planning for sample preservation and curation was part of mission design from the beginning. One of the scientific objectives for Genesis included collecting samples of three regimes of the solar wind in addition to collecting bulk solar wind during the mission. Collectors were fabricated in different thicknesses for each regime of the solar wind and attached to separate frames exposed to the solar wind during specific periods of solar activity associated with each regime. The original plan to determine the solar regime sampled for specific collectors was to identify to which frame the collector was attached. However, the collectors were dislodged during the hard landing making identification by frame attachment impossible. Because regimes were also identified by thickness of the collector, the regime sampled is identified by measuring fragment thickness. A variety of collector materials and thin films applied to substrates were selected and qualified for flight. This diversity provided elemental measurement in more than one material, mitigating effects of diffusion rates and/or radiation damage. It also mitigated against different material and substrate strengths resulting in differing effects of the hard landing. For example, silicon crystal substrates broke into smaller fragments than sapphire-based substrates and diamond surfaces were more resilient to flying debris damage than gold. The primary responsibility of the curation team for recovery was process documentation. Contingency planning for the recovery phase expanded this responsibility to include not only equipment to document, but also gather, contain and identify samples from the landing area and the recovered spacecraft. The team developed contingency plans for various scenarios as part of mission planning that included topographic maps to aid in site recovery and identification of different modes of transport and purge capability depending on damage. A clean tent, set-up at Utah Test & Training Range to control the environment for processing the sample return capsule and cleanly installing a nitrogen purge to the canister, was used to control the environment for extracting collector fragments from the damaged canister and to document and package over 10,000 collector fragments.

In vivo biocompatibility of boron doped and nitrogen included conductive-diamond for use in medical implants.

PubMed

Garrett, David J; Saunders, Alexia L; McGowan, Ceara; Specks, Joscha; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Meffin, Hamish; Williams, Richard A; Nayagam, David A X

2016-01-01

Recently, there has been interest in investigating diamond as a material for use in biomedical implants. Diamond can be rendered electrically conducting by doping with boron or nitrogen. This has led to inclusion of boron doped and nitrogen included diamond elements as electrodes and/or feedthroughs for medical implants. As these conductive device elements are not encapsulated, there is a need to establish their clinical safety for use in implants. This article compares the biocompatibility of electrically conducting boron doped diamond (BDD) and nitrogen included diamond films and electrically insulating poly crystalline diamond films against a silicone negative control and a BDD sample treated with stannous octoate as a positive control. Samples were surgically implanted into the back muscle of a guinea pig for a period of 4-15 weeks, excised and the implant site sectioned and submitted for histological analysis. All forms of diamond exhibited a similar or lower thickness of fibrotic tissue encapsulating compared to the silicone negative control samples. All forms of diamond exhibited similar or lower levels of acute, chronic inflammatory, and foreign body responses compared to the silicone negative control indicating that the materials are well tolerated in vivo. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Laboratory theory and methods for sediment analysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Guy, Harold P.

1969-01-01

The diverse character of fluvial sediments makes the choice of laboratory analysis somewhat arbitrary and the pressing of sediment samples difficult. This report presents some theories and methods used by the Water Resources Division for analysis of fluvial sediments to determine the concentration of suspended-sediment samples and the particle-size distribution of both suspended-sediment and bed-material samples. Other analyses related to these determinations may include particle shape, mineral content, and specific gravity, the organic matter and dissolved solids of samples, and the specific weight of soils. The merits and techniques of both the evaporation and filtration methods for concentration analysis are discussed. Methods used for particle-size analysis of suspended-sediment samples may include the sieve pipet, the VA tube-pipet, or the BW tube-VA tube depending on the equipment available, the concentration and approximate size of sediment in the sample, and the settling medium used. The choice of method for most bed-material samples is usually limited to procedures suitable for sand or to some type of visual analysis for large sizes. Several tested forms are presented to help insure a well-ordered system in the laboratory to handle the samples, to help determine the kind of analysis required for each, to conduct the required processes, and to assist in the required computations. Use of the manual should further 'standardize' methods of fluvial sediment analysis among the many laboratories and thereby help to achieve uniformity and precision of the data.

Protein molecular data from ancient (>1 million years old) fossil material: pitfalls, possibilities and grand challenges.

PubMed

Schweitzer, Mary Higby; Schroeter, Elena R; Goshe, Michael B

2014-07-15

Advances in resolution and sensitivity of analytical techniques have provided novel applications, including the analyses of fossil material. However, the recovery of original proteinaceous components from very old fossil samples (defined as >1 million years (1 Ma) from previously named limits in the literature) is far from trivial. Here, we discuss the challenges to recovery of proteinaceous components from fossils, and the need for new sample preparation techniques, analytical methods, and bioinformatics to optimize and fully utilize the great potential of information locked in the fossil record. We present evidence for survival of original components across geological time, and discuss the potential benefits of recovery, analyses, and interpretation of fossil materials older than 1 Ma, both within and outside of the fields of evolutionary biology.

System for maintaining materials at freezer temperatures for shipping

DOEpatents

Schabron, John F [Laramie, WY; Sorini-Wong, Susan S [Laramie, WY

2007-08-28

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology relates to a frozen environmental sample temperature control system that comprises a frozen formulation having water in an amount from substantially 87% to 78% by weight of the formulation, and salt in an amount from substantially 13% to 22% by weight of the formulation, the system further including at least one container containing the frozen formulation; and a cooler having insulating material disposed between an outer wall and an inner surface that defines an inner chamber into which the at least one container and the at least one frozen environmental sample may be placed for storage and/or transport. Various embodiments may incorporate specific types of insulating material and/or adaptations to an inner surface of the cooler to enhance the insulation effected thereby.

Department of Physics' Involvement of the Impact Testing Project of the High Speed Civil Transport Program (HSCT)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

VonMeerwall, Ernst D.

1994-01-01

The project involved the impact testing of a kevlar-like woven polymer material, PBO. The purpose was to determine whether this material showed any promise as a lightweight replacement material for jet engine fan containment. The currently used metal fan containment designs carry a high drag penalty due to their weight. Projectiles were fired at samples of PBO by means of a 0.5 inch diameter Helium powered gun. The Initial plan was to encase the samples inside a purpose-built steel "hot box" for heating and ricochet containment. The research associate's responsibility was to develop the data acquisition programs and techniques necessary to determine accurately the impacting projectile's velocity. Beyond this, the Research Associate's duties include any physical computations, experimental design, and data analysis necessary.

Simulation of Forward and Inverse X-ray Scattering From Shocked Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barber, John; Marksteiner, Quinn; Barnes, Cris

2012-02-01

The next generation of high-intensity, coherent light sources should generate sufficient brilliance to perform in-situ coherent x-ray diffraction imaging (CXDI) of shocked materials. In this work, we present beginning-to-end simulations of this process. This includes the calculation of the partially-coherent intensity profiles of self-amplified stimulated emission (SASE) x-ray free electron lasers (XFELs), as well as the use of simulated, shocked molecular-dynamics-based samples to predict the evolution of the resulting diffraction patterns. In addition, we will explore the corresponding inverse problem by performing iterative phase retrieval to generate reconstructed images of the simulated sample. The development of these methods in the context of materials under extreme conditions should provide crucial insights into the design and capabilities of shocked in-situ imaging experiments.

Microfluidic device and methods for focusing fluid streams using electroosmotically induced pressures

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Stephen C.; Ramsey, J. Michael

2010-06-01

A microfabricated device employing a bridging membrane and methods for electrokinetic transport of a liquid phase biological or chemical material using the same are described. The bridging membrane is deployed in or adjacent to a microchannel and permits either electric current flow or the transport of gas species, while inhibiting the bulk flow of material. The use of bridging membranes in accordance with this invention is applicable to electrokinetically inducing fluid flow to confine a selected material in a region of a microchannel that is not influenced by an electric field. Other structures for inducing fluid flow in accordance with this invention include nanochannel bridging membranes and alternating current fluid pumping devices. Applications of the bridging membranes according to this invention include the separation of species from a sample material, valving of fluids in a microchannel network, mixing of different materials in a microchannel, and the pumping of fluids.

Breathing zone air sampler

DOEpatents

Tobin, John

1989-01-01

A sampling apparatus is provided which comprises a sampler for sampling air in the breathing zone of a wearer of the apparatus and a support for the sampler preferably in the form of a pair of eyeglasses. The sampler comprises a sampling assembly supported on the frame of the eyeglasses and including a pair of sample transport tubes which are suspended, in use, centrally of the frame so as to be disposed on opposite sides of the nose of the wearer and which each include an inlet therein that, in use, is disposed adjacent to a respective nostril of the nose of the wearer. A filter holder connected to sample transport tubes supports a removable filter for filtering out particulate material in the air sampled by the apparatus. The sample apparatus is connected to a pump for drawing air into the apparatus through the tube inlets so that the air passes through the filter.

Sample environment for neutron scattering measurements of internal stresses in engineering materials in the temperature range of 6 K to 300 K.

PubMed

Kirichek, O; Timms, J D; Kelleher, J F; Down, R B E; Offer, C D; Kabra, S; Zhang, S Y

2017-02-01

Internal stresses in materials have a considerable effect on material properties including strength, fracture toughness, and fatigue resistance. The ENGIN-X beamline is an engineering science facility at ISIS optimized for the measurement of strain and stress using the atomic lattice planes as a strain gauge. Nowadays, the rapidly rising interest in the mechanical properties of engineering materials at low temperatures has been stimulated by the dynamic development of the cryogenic industry and the advanced applications of the superconductor technology. Here we present the design and discuss the test results of a new cryogenic sample environment system for neutron scattering measurements of internal stresses in engineering materials under a load of up to 100 kN and in the temperature range of 6 K to 300 K. Complete cooling of the system starting from the room temperature down to the base temperature takes around 90 min. Understanding of internal stresses in engineering materials at cryogenic temperatures is vital for the modelling and designing of cutting-edge superconducting magnets and other superconductor based applications.

Sample environment for neutron scattering measurements of internal stresses in engineering materials in the temperature range of 6 K to 300 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirichek, O.; Timms, J. D.; Kelleher, J. F.; Down, R. B. E.; Offer, C. D.; Kabra, S.; Zhang, S. Y.

2017-02-01

Internal stresses in materials have a considerable effect on material properties including strength, fracture toughness, and fatigue resistance. The ENGIN-X beamline is an engineering science facility at ISIS optimized for the measurement of strain and stress using the atomic lattice planes as a strain gauge. Nowadays, the rapidly rising interest in the mechanical properties of engineering materials at low temperatures has been stimulated by the dynamic development of the cryogenic industry and the advanced applications of the superconductor technology. Here we present the design and discuss the test results of a new cryogenic sample environment system for neutron scattering measurements of internal stresses in engineering materials under a load of up to 100 kN and in the temperature range of 6 K to 300 K. Complete cooling of the system starting from the room temperature down to the base temperature takes around 90 min. Understanding of internal stresses in engineering materials at cryogenic temperatures is vital for the modelling and designing of cutting-edge superconducting magnets and other superconductor based applications.

The ac and dc performance of polymeric insulating materials under accelerated aging in a fog chamber

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

Gorur, R.S.; Cherney, E.A.; Hackam, R.

1988-10-01

The paper presents the results of the dc performance of polymeric insulating materials in a fog chamber. The materials evaluated in fog produced from low (250 ..mu..S/cm) and high (1000 ..mu..S/cm) conductivity water include cylindrical rod samples of high temperature vulcanized (HTV) silicone rubber and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber containing various amounts of either alumina trihydrate (ATH) or silica fillers, or both. Comparison is made of material performance obtained with ac which was reported in an earlier study. In both low and high conductivity fog, the time to failure with ac and +dc was very similar, but amore » reduction by a factor of about four was observed in the time to failure with -dc. For both ac and dc, silicone rubber performed better than EPDM samples in low conductivity fog, while the order of performance was reversed in high conductivity fog. A theoretical model to determine the effect of dry band discharges on material is presented. Good agreement of the predicted behavior of materials with the experimental findings is shown.« less

Composite structural materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansell, G. S.; Loewy, R. G.; Wiberley, S. E.

1984-01-01

Progress is reported in studies of constituent materials composite materials, generic structural elements, processing science technology, and maintaining long-term structural integrity. Topics discussed include: mechanical properties of high performance carbon fibers; fatigue in composite materials; experimental and theoretical studies of moisture and temperature effects on the mechanical properties of graphite-epoxy laminates and neat resins; numerical investigations of the micromechanics of composite fracture; delamination failures of composite laminates; effect of notch size on composite laminates; improved beam theory for anisotropic materials; variation of resin properties through the thickness of cured samples; numerical analysis composite processing; heat treatment of metal matrix composites, and the RP-1 and RP2 gliders of the sailplane project.

Analysis of International Space Station Vehicle Materials Exposed on Materials International Space Station Experiment from 2001 to 2011

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, M. M.; Golden, J. L.; Kravchenko, M.

2013-01-01

Since August 2001, the Materials on International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) has provided data on a variety of materials and spacecraft components, including samples chosen to provide sustaining engineering and life extension data for the International Space Station vehicle itself. This Technical Publication is by no means a complete set of MISSE data but does provide changes in solar absorptance, infrared emittance, and visual appearance due to atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, and thermal cycling in vacuum. Conversion coatings, anodizes, thermal control coatings with organic and inorganic binders, multilayer insulation components, optical materials, and part markings are discussed.

Updated database on natural radioactivity in building materials in Europe.

PubMed

Trevisi, R; Leonardi, F; Risica, S; Nuccetelli, C

2018-07-01

The paper presents the latest collection of activity concentration data of natural radionuclides ( 226 Ra, 232 Th and 4  K) in building materials. This database contains about 24200 samples of both bulk materials and their constituents (bricks, concrete, cement, aggregates) and superficial materials used in most European Union Member States and some European countries. This collection also includes radiological information about some NORM residues and by-products (by-product gypsum, metallurgical slags, fly and bottom ashes and red mud) which can be of radiological concern if recycled in building materials as secondary raw materials. Moreover, radon emanation and radon exhalation rate data are reported for bricks and concrete. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Novel biomimetic composite material for potentiometric screening of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Sacramento, Ana S; Moreira, Felismina T C; Guerreiro, Joana L; Tavares, Ana P; Sales, M Goreti F

2017-10-01

This work describes a novel approach to produce an antibody-like biomimetic material. It includes preparing composite imprinted material never presented before, with highly conductive support nanostructures and assembling a high conductivity polymeric layer at low temperature. Overall, such highly conductive material may enhance the final features of electrically-based devices. Acetylcholine (ACh) was selected as target analyte, a neurotransmitter of importance in Alzheimer's disease. Potentiometric transduction was preferred, allowing quick responses and future adaptation to point-of-care requirements. The biomimetic material was obtained by bulk polymerization, where ACh was placed in a composite matrix of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and aniline (ANI). Subsequent polymerization, initiated by radical species, yielded a polymeric structure of polyaniline (PANI) acting as physical support of the composite. A non-imprinted material (NIM) having only PANI/MWCNT (without ACh) has been prepared for comparison of the biomimetic-imprinted material (BIM). RAMAN and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Electron microscope (SEM) analysis characterized the structures of the materials. The ability of this biomaterial to rebind ACh was confirmed by including it as electroactive compound in a PVC/plasticizer mixture. The membranes with imprinted material and anionic additive presented the best analytical characteristics, with a sensitivity of 83.86mV decade -1 and limit of detection (LOD) of 3.45×10 -5 mol/L in HEPES buffer pH4.0. Good selectivity was observed against creatinine, creatine, glucose, cysteine and urea. The electrodes were also applied on synthetic serum samples and seemed a reliable tool for screening ACh in synthetic serum samples. The overall performance showed fast response, reusability, simplicity and low price. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On-line double isotope dilution laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for the quantitative analysis of solid materials.

PubMed

Fernández, Beatriz; Rodríguez-González, Pablo; García Alonso, J Ignacio; Malherbe, Julien; García-Fonseca, Sergio; Pereiro, Rosario; Sanz-Medel, Alfredo

2014-12-03

We report on the determination of trace elements in solid samples by the combination of on-line double isotope dilution and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The proposed method requires the sequential analysis of the sample and a certified natural abundance standard by on-line IDMS using the same isotopically-enriched spike solution. In this way, the mass fraction of the analyte in the sample can be directly referred to the certified standard so the previous characterization of the spike solution is not required. To validate the procedure, Sr, Rb and Pb were determined in certified reference materials with different matrices, including silicate glasses (SRM 610, 612 and 614) and powdered samples (PACS-2, SRM 2710a, SRM 1944, SRM 2702 and SRM 2780). The analysis of powdered samples was carried out both by the preparation of pressed pellets and by lithium borate fusion. Experimental results for the analysis of powdered samples were in agreement with the certified values for all materials. Relative standard deviations in the range of 6-21% for pressed pellets and 3-21% for fused solids were obtained from n=3 independent measurements. Minimal sample preparation, data treatment and consumption of the isotopically-enriched isotopes are the main advantages of the method over previously reported approaches. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microbiological contamination in peanut confectionery processing plants.

PubMed

Carminati, J de A; Amorim Neto, D P; Morishita, K N; Takano, L V; Olivier Bernardi, A; Copetti, M V; do Nascimento, M da S

2016-10-01

In order to investigate Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella contamination, a survey was conducted at three peanut confectionery processing companies (A, B and C) in Brazil. Samples of different peanut confectionery products (n = 59), peanut raw material (n = 30), manufacturing environment (n = 116) and workers' hand surfaces (n = 12) were analysed. Salmonella and E. coli were not detected in any final product or raw material analysed. Enterobacteriaceae was isolated from 15% of final products. Coliforms were detected in only one sample. Referring to the raw material, six samples showed contamination by Enterobacteriaceae and three samples by coliforms. For the process environment, 19% and 11% of samples presented Enterobacteriaceae and coliforms. Escherichia coli was detected in 5% of samples, and one of these samples tested positive for Salmonella; this strain was serotyping as S. Heidelberg. All food handlers surveyed in Company C showed Enterobacteriaceae and coliforms on their hands. Escherichia coli was isolated from one food worker's hand. The results showed that the manufacturing environment, including food handlers were considered the main sources for possible contamination of peanut confectionery products. This has been the first study to investigate the occurrence of Salmonella and other Enterobacteriaceae throughout peanut confectionery processing lines. The results might be used to assist risk assessment studies and to establish more effective control measures. © 2016 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Presence of radionuclides in sludge from conventional drinking water treatment plants. A review.

PubMed

Fonollosa, E; Nieto, A; Peñalver, A; Aguilar, C; Borrull, F

2015-03-01

The analysis of sludge samples generated during water treatment processes show that different radioisotopes of uranium, thorium and radium, among others can accumulate in that kind of samples, even the good removal rates obtained in the aqueous phase (by comparison of influent and effluent water concentrations). Inconsequence, drinking water treatment plants are included in the group of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) industries. The accumulation of radionuclides can be a serious problem especially when this sludge is going to be reused, so more exhaustive information is required to prevent the possible radiological impact of these samples in the environment and also on the people. The main aim of this review is to outline the current situation regarding the different studies reported in the literature up to date focused on the analysis of the radiological content of these sludge samples from drinking water treatment plants. In this sense, special attention is given to the recent approaches for their determination. Another important aim is to discuss about the final disposal of these samples and in this regard, sludge reuse (including for example direct agricultural application or also as building materials) are together with landfilling the main reported strategies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Optimized Centrifugal Method for Separation of Semen from Superabsorbent Polymers for Forensic Analysis.

PubMed

Camarena, Lucy R; Glasscock, Bailey K; Daniels, Demi; Ackley, Nicolle; Sciarretta, Marybeth; Seashols-Williams, Sarah J

2017-03-01

Connection of a perpetrator to a sexual assault is best performed through the confirmed presence of semen, thereby proving sexual contact. Evidentiary items can include sanitary napkins or diapers containing superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), complicating spermatozoa visualization and DNA analysis. In this report, we evaluated the impact of SAPS on the current forensic DNA workflow, developing an efficient centrifugal protocol for separating spermatozoa from SAP material. The optimized filtration method was compared to common practices of excising the top layer only, resulting in significantly higher sperm yields when a core sample of the substrate was taken. Direct isolation of the SAP-containing materials without filtering resulted in 20% sample failure; additionally, SAP material was observed in the final eluted DNA samples, causing physical interference. Thus, use of the described centrifugal-filtering method is a simple preliminary step that improves spermatozoa visualization and enables more consistent DNA yields, while also avoiding SAP interference. © 2016 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Development of NASA's Sample Cartridge Assembly: Design, Thermal Analysis, and Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

O'Connor, Brian; Hernandez, Deborah; Duffy, James

2015-01-01

NASA's Sample Cartridge Assembly (SCA) project is responsible for designing and validating a payload that contains a materials research sample in a sealed environment. The SCA will be heated in the European Space Agency's (ESA) Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) that is housed inside the Material Science Research Rack (MSRR) located in the International Space Station (ISS). Sintered metals and crystal growth experiments in microgravity are examples of some of the types of materials research that may be performed with a SCA. The project's approach has been to use thermal models to guide the SCA through several design iterations. Various layouts of the SCA components were explored to meet the science and engineering requirements, and testing has been done to help prove the design. This paper will give an overview of the SCA design. It will show how thermal analysis is used to support the project. Also some testing that has been completed will also be discussed, including changes that were made to the thermal profile used during brazing.

Calculation of Debye-Scherrer diffraction patterns from highly stressed polycrystalline materials

DOE PAGES

MacDonald, M. J.; Vorberger, J.; Gamboa, E. J.; ...

2016-06-07

Calculations of Debye-Scherrer diffraction patterns from polycrystalline materials have typically been done in the limit of small deviatoric stresses. Although these methods are well suited for experiments conducted near hydrostatic conditions, more robust models are required to diagnose the large strain anisotropies present in dynamic compression experiments. A method to predict Debye-Scherrer diffraction patterns for arbitrary strains has been presented in the Voigt (iso-strain) limit. Here, we present a method to calculate Debye-Scherrer diffraction patterns from highly stressed polycrystalline samples in the Reuss (iso-stress) limit. This analysis uses elastic constants to calculate lattice strains for all initial crystallite orientations, enablingmore » elastic anisotropy and sample texture effects to be modeled directly. Furthermore, the effects of probing geometry, deviatoric stresses, and sample texture are demonstrated and compared to Voigt limit predictions. An example of shock-compressed polycrystalline diamond is presented to illustrate how this model can be applied and demonstrates the importance of including material strength when interpreting diffraction in dynamic compression experiments.« less

Advanced Curation Activities at NASA: Preparing to Receive, Process, and Distribute Samples Returned from Future Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCubbin, Francis M.; Zeigler, Ryan A.

2017-01-01

The Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office (henceforth referred to herein as NASA Curation Office) at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) is responsible for curating all of NASA's extraterrestrial samples. Under the governing document, NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 7100.10F JSC is charged with curation of all extraterrestrial material under NASA control, including future NASA missions. The Directive goes on to define Curation as including documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples for research, education, and public outreach. Here we briefly describe NASA's astromaterials collections and our ongoing efforts related to enhancing the utility of our current collections as well as our efforts to prepare for future sample return missions. We collectively refer to these efforts as advanced curation.

Advanced Curation Activities at NASA: Implications for Astrobiological Studies of Future Sample Collections

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCubbin, F. M.; Evans, C. A.; Fries, M. D.; Harrington, A. D.; Regberg, A. B.; Snead, C. J.; Zeigler, R. A.

2017-01-01

The Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office (henceforth referred to herein as NASA Curation Office) at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) is responsible for curating all of NASA's extraterrestrial samples. Under the governing document, NASA Policy Directive (NPD) 7100.10F JSC is charged with curation of all extraterrestrial material under NASA control, including future NASA missions. The Directive goes on to define Curation as including documentation, preservation, preparation, and distribution of samples for re-search, education, and public outreach. Here we briefly describe NASA's astromaterials collections and our ongoing efforts related to enhancing the utility of our current collections as well as our efforts to prepare for future sample return missions. We collectively refer to these efforts as advanced curation.

Solid State NMR Studies of the Aluminum Hydride Phases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, Son-Jong; Bowman, R. C., Jr.; Graetz, Jason; Reilly, J. J.

2006-01-01

Several solid state NMR techniques including magic-angle-spinning (MAS) and multiple-quantum (MQ) MAS experiments have been used to characterize various AlH3 samples. MAS-NMR spectra for the 1H and 27Al nuclei have been obtained on a variety of AlH3 samples that include the (beta)- and (gamma)- phases as well as the most stable (alpha)-phase. While the dominant components in these NMR spectra correspond to the aluminum hydride phases, other species were found that include Al metal, molecular hydrogen (H2), as well as peaks that can be assigned to Al-O species in different configurations. The occurrence and concentration of these extraneous components are dependent upon the initial AlH3 phase composition and preparation procedures. Both the (beta)-AlH3 and (gamma)-AlH3 phases were found to generate substantial amounts of Al metal when the materials were stored at room temperature while the (alpha)-phase materials do not exhibit these changes.

Quantitation and detection of vanadium in biologic and pollution materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gordon, W. A.

1974-01-01

A review is presented of special considerations and methodology for determining vanadium in biological and air pollution materials. In addition to descriptions of specific analysis procedures, general sections are included on quantitation of analysis procedures, sample preparation, blanks, and methods of detection of vanadium. Most of the information presented is applicable to the determination of other trace elements in addition to vanadium.

Follow-Up Study of Former Materials/Logistics Management Students at Harper College, 1990-1995. Volume XXIV, Number 14.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lucas, John A.; Magad, Eugene

In fall 1995, William Rainey Harper College in Illinois conducted a study of former students in the Materials/Logistics Management (MLM) program to determine their evaluation of their educational experiences in the program. The sample consisted of 298 former MLM students from 1990 to 1995, including 119 students who had earned 48 credit hours but…

Pronounceability: a measure of language samples based on children's mastery of the phonemes employed in them.

PubMed

Whissell, Cynthia

2003-06-01

56 samples (n > half a million phonemes) of names (e.g., men's, women's jets'), song lyrics (e.g., Paul Simon's, rap, Beatles'), poems (frequently anthologized English poems), and children's materials (books directed at children ages 3-10 years) were used to study a proposed new measure of English language samples--Pronounceability-based on children's mastery of some phonemes in advance of others. This measure was provisionally equated with greater "youthfulness" and "playfulness" in language samples and with less "maturity." Findings include the facts that women's names were less pronounceable than men's and that poetry was less pronounceable than song lyrics or children's materials. In a supplementary study, 13 university student volunteers' assessments of the youth of randomly constructed names was linearly related to how pronounceable each name was (eta = .8), providing construct validity for the interpretation of Pronounceability as a measure of Youthfulness.

Titanium-Zirconium-Nickel Alloy Inside Marshall's Electrostatic Levitator (ESL)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

This Photo, which appeared on the July cover of `Physics Today', is of the Electrostatic Levitator (ESL) at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The ESL uses static electricity to suspend an object (about 3-4 mm in diameter) inside a vacuum chamber allowing scientists to record a wide range of physical properties without the sample contracting the container or any instruments, conditions that would alter the readings. Once inside the chamber, a laser heats the sample until it melts. The laser is then turned off and the sample cools, changing from a liquid drop to a solid sphere. In this particular shot, the ESL contains a solid metal sample of titanium-zirconium-nickel alloy. Since 1977, the ESL has been used at MSFC to study the characteristics of new metals, ceramics, and glass compounds. Materials created as a result of these tests include new optical materials, special metallic glasses, and spacecraft components.

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

Van Berkel, Gary J.

A system for sampling a sample material includes a probe which can have an outer probe housing with an open end. A liquid supply conduit within the housing has an outlet positioned to deliver liquid to the open end of the housing. The liquid supply conduit can be connectable to a liquid supply for delivering liquid at a first volumetric flow rate to the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust conduit within the housing is provided for removing liquid from the open end of the housing. A liquid exhaust system can be provided for removing liquid from themore » liquid exhaust conduit at a second volumetric flow rate, the first volumetric flow rate exceeding the second volumetric flow rate, wherein liquid at the open end will receive sample, liquid containing sample material will be drawn into and through the liquid exhaust conduit, and liquid will overflow from the open end.« less

Around Marshall

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-01-01

This Photo, which appeared on the July cover of `Physics Today', is of the Electrostatic Levitator (ESL) at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The ESL uses static electricity to suspend an object (about 3-4 mm in diameter) inside a vacuum chamber allowing scientists to record a wide range of physical properties without the sample contracting the container or any instruments, conditions that would alter the readings. Once inside the chamber, a laser heats the sample until it melts. The laser is then turned off and the sample cools, changing from a liquid drop to a solid sphere. In this particular shot, the ESL contains a solid metal sample of titanium-zirconium-nickel alloy. Since 1977, the ESL has been used at MSFC to study the characteristics of new metals, ceramics, and glass compounds. Materials created as a result of these tests include new optical materials, special metallic glasses, and spacecraft components.

The potential of statistical shape modelling for geometric morphometric analysis of human teeth in archaeological research

PubMed Central

Fernee, Christianne; Browne, Martin; Zakrzewski, Sonia

2017-01-01

This paper introduces statistical shape modelling (SSM) for use in osteoarchaeology research. SSM is a full field, multi-material analytical technique, and is presented as a supplementary geometric morphometric (GM) tool. Lower mandibular canines from two archaeological populations and one modern population were sampled, digitised using micro-CT, aligned, registered to a baseline and statistically modelled using principal component analysis (PCA). Sample material properties were incorporated as a binary enamel/dentin parameter. Results were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively using anatomical landmarks. Finally, the technique’s application was demonstrated for inter-sample comparison through analysis of the principal component (PC) weights. It was found that SSM could provide high detail qualitative and quantitative insight with respect to archaeological inter- and intra-sample variability. This technique has value for archaeological, biomechanical and forensic applications including identification, finite element analysis (FEA) and reconstruction from partial datasets. PMID:29216199

Advanced Non-Destructive Assessment Technology to Determine the Aging of Silicon Containing Materials for Generation IV Nuclear Reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koenig, T. W.; Olson, D. L.; Mishra, B.; King, J. C.; Fletcher, J.; Gerstenberger, L.; Lawrence, S.; Martin, A.; Mejia, C.; Meyer, M. K.; Kennedy, R.; Hu, L.; Kohse, G.; Terry, J.

2011-06-01

To create an in-situ, real-time method of monitoring neutron damage within a nuclear reactor core, irradiated silicon carbide samples are examined to correlate measurable variations in the material properties with neutron fluence levels experienced by the silicon carbide (SiC) during the irradiation process. The reaction by which phosphorus doping via thermal neutrons occurs in the silicon carbide samples is known to increase electron carrier density. A number of techniques are used to probe the properties of the SiC, including ultrasonic and Hall coefficient measurements, as well as high frequency impedance analysis. Gamma spectroscopy is also used to examine residual radioactivity resulting from irradiation activation of elements in the samples. Hall coefficient measurements produce the expected trend of increasing carrier concentration with higher fluence levels, while high frequency impedance analysis shows an increase in sample impedance with increasing fluence.

Particle size analysis of sediments, soils and related particulate materials for forensic purposes using laser granulometry.

PubMed

Pye, Kenneth; Blott, Simon J

2004-08-11

Particle size is a fundamental property of any sediment, soil or dust deposit which can provide important clues to nature and provenance. For forensic work, the particle size distribution of sometimes very small samples requires precise determination using a rapid and reliable method with a high resolution. The Coulter trade mark LS230 laser granulometer offers rapid and accurate sizing of particles in the range 0.04-2000 microm for a variety of sample types, including soils, unconsolidated sediments, dusts, powders and other particulate materials. Reliable results are possible for sample weights of just 50 mg. Discrimination between samples is performed on the basis of the shape of the particle size curves and statistical measures of the size distributions. In routine forensic work laser granulometry data can rarely be used in isolation and should be considered in combination with results from other techniques to reach an overall conclusion.

Proteomic Challenges: Sample Preparation Techniques for Microgram-Quantity Protein Analysis from Biological Samples

PubMed Central

Feist, Peter; Hummon, Amanda B.

2015-01-01

Proteins regulate many cellular functions and analyzing the presence and abundance of proteins in biological samples are central focuses in proteomics. The discovery and validation of biomarkers, pathways, and drug targets for various diseases can be accomplished using mass spectrometry-based proteomics. However, with mass-limited samples like tumor biopsies, it can be challenging to obtain sufficient amounts of proteins to generate high-quality mass spectrometric data. Techniques developed for macroscale quantities recover sufficient amounts of protein from milligram quantities of starting material, but sample losses become crippling with these techniques when only microgram amounts of material are available. To combat this challenge, proteomicists have developed micro-scale techniques that are compatible with decreased sample size (100 μg or lower) and still enable excellent proteome coverage. Extraction, contaminant removal, protein quantitation, and sample handling techniques for the microgram protein range are reviewed here, with an emphasis on liquid chromatography and bottom-up mass spectrometry-compatible techniques. Also, a range of biological specimens, including mammalian tissues and model cell culture systems, are discussed. PMID:25664860

Effects of atomic oxygen and ultraviolet radiation on candidate elastomeric materials for long duration missions. Test series no.1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linton, R. C.; Finckenor, M. M.; Kamenetzky, R. R.; Gray, P.

1993-01-01

Research was conducted at MSFC on the behavior of elastomeric materials after exposure to simulated space environment. Silicone S383 and Viton V747 samples were exposed to thermal vacuum, ultraviolet radiation, and atomic oxygen and then evaluated for changes in material properties. Characterization of the elastomeric materials included weight, hardness, optical inspection under normal and black light, spectrofluorescence, solar absorptance and emittance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and permeability. These results indicate a degree of sensitivity to exposure and provided some evidence of UV and atomic oxygen synergism.

Low- Z polymer sample supports for fixed-target serial femtosecond X-ray crystallography

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

Feld, Geoffrey K.; Heymann, Michael; Benner, W. Henry

X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) offer a new avenue to the structural probing of complex materials, including biomolecules. Delivery of precious sample to the XFEL beam is a key consideration, as the sample of interest must be serially replaced after each destructive pulse. The fixed-target approach to sample delivery involves depositing samples on a thin-film support and subsequent serial introduction via a translating stage. Some classes of biological materials, including two-dimensional protein crystals, must be introduced on fixed-target supports, as they require a flat surface to prevent sample wrinkling. A series of wafer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-style grid supports constructedmore » of low- Z plastic have been custom-designed and produced. Aluminium TEM grid holders were engineered, capable of delivering up to 20 different conventional or plastic TEM grids using fixed-target stages available at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). As proof-of-principle, X-ray diffraction has been demonstrated from two-dimensional crystals of bacteriorhodopsin and three-dimensional crystals of anthrax toxin protective antigen mounted on these supports at the LCLS. In conclusion, the benefits and limitations of these low- Z fixed-target supports are discussed; it is the authors' belief that they represent a viable and efficient alternative to previously reported fixed-target supports for conducting diffraction studies with XFELs.« less

Remote laser drilling and sampling system for the detection of concealed explosives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wild, D.; Pschyklenk, L.; Theiß, C.; Holl, G.

2017-05-01

The detection of hazardous materials like explosives is a central issue in national security in the field of counterterrorism. One major task includes the development of new methods and sensor systems for the detection. Many existing remote or standoff methods like infrared or raman spectroscopy find their limits, if the hazardous material is concealed in an object. Imaging technologies using x-ray or terahertz radiation usually yield no information about the chemical content itself. However, the exact knowledge of the real threat potential of a suspicious object is crucial for disarming the device. A new approach deals with a laser drilling and sampling system for the use as verification detector for suspicious objects. Central part of the system is a miniaturised, diode pumped Nd:YAG laser oscillator-amplifier. The system allows drilling into most materials like metals, synthetics or textiles with bore hole diameters in the micron scale. During the drilling process, the hazardous material can be sampled for further investigation with suitable detection methods. In the reported work, laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is used to monitor the drilling process and to classify the drilled material. Also experiments were carried out to show the system's ability to not ignite even sensitive explosives like triacetone triperoxide (TATP). The detection of concealed hazardous material is shown for different explosives using liquid chromatography and ion mobility spectrometry.

A Resource File for Social Studies in Utah. Level 10-12: U.S. Government.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Utah State Office of Education, Salt Lake City.

This resource file contains information for Utah high school teachers to help students meet the state's instructional objectives in the elective U.S. government course. Each activity includes an instructional objective along with a title, topic, time segment, procedures, materials, evaluation, and adaptation. Sample objectives include comparing…

Comparative Packaging Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perchonok, Michele; Antonini, David

2008-01-01

This viewgraph presentation describes a comparative packaging study for use on long duration space missions. The topics include: 1) Purpose; 2) Deliverables; 3) Food Sample Selection; 4) Experimental Design Matrix; 5) Permeation Rate Comparison; and 6) Packaging Material Information.

Sample-averaged biexciton quantum yield measured by solution-phase photon correlation.

PubMed

Beyler, Andrew P; Bischof, Thomas S; Cui, Jian; Coropceanu, Igor; Harris, Daniel K; Bawendi, Moungi G

2014-12-10

The brightness of nanoscale optical materials such as semiconductor nanocrystals is currently limited in high excitation flux applications by inefficient multiexciton fluorescence. We have devised a solution-phase photon correlation measurement that can conveniently and reliably measure the average biexciton-to-exciton quantum yield ratio of an entire sample without user selection bias. This technique can be used to investigate the multiexciton recombination dynamics of a broad scope of synthetically underdeveloped materials, including those with low exciton quantum yields and poor fluorescence stability. Here, we have applied this method to measure weak biexciton fluorescence in samples of visible-emitting InP/ZnS and InAs/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals, and to demonstrate that a rapid CdS shell growth procedure can markedly increase the biexciton fluorescence of CdSe nanocrystals.

Comprehensive Pb-Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic, trace element, and mineralogical characterization of mafic to ultramafic rock reference materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fourny, Anaïs.; Weis, Dominique; Scoates, James S.

2016-03-01

Controlling the accuracy and precision of geochemical analyses requires the use of characterized reference materials with matrices similar to those of the unknown samples being analyzed. We report a comprehensive Pb-Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic and trace element concentration data set, combined with quantitative phase analysis by XRD Rietveld refinement, for a wide range of mafic to ultramafic rock reference materials analyzed at the Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research, University of British Columbia. The samples include a pyroxenite (NIM-P), five basalts (BHVO-2, BIR-1a, JB-3, BE-N, GSR-3), a diabase (W-2), a dolerite (DNC-1), a norite (NIM-N), and an anorthosite (AN-G); results from a leucogabbro (Stillwater) are also reported. Individual isotopic ratios determined by MC-ICP-MS and TIMS, and multielement analyses by HR-ICP-MS are reported with 4-12 complete analytical duplicates for each sample. The basaltic reference materials have coherent Sr and Nd isotopic ratios with external precision below 50 ppm (2SD) and below 100 ppm for Hf isotopes (except BIR-1a). For Pb isotopic reproducibility, several of the basalts (JB-3, BHVO-2) require acid leaching prior to dissolution. The plutonic reference materials also have coherent Sr and Nd isotopic ratios (<50 ppm), however, obtaining good reproducibility for Pb and Hf isotopic ratios is more challenging for NIM-P, NIM-N, and AN-G due to a variety of factors, including postcrystallization Pb mobility and the presence of accessory zircon. Collectively, these results form a comprehensive new database that can be used by the geochemical community for evaluating the radiogenic isotope and trace element compositions of volcanic and plutonic mafic-ultramafic rocks.

Arc Jet Test and Analysis of Asbestos Free Solid Rocket Motor Nozzle Dome Ablative Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clayton, J. Louie

2017-01-01

Asbestos free solid motor internal insulation samples were recently tested at the MSFC Hyperthermal Arc Jet Facility. Objectives of the test were to gather data for solid rocket motor analog characterization of ablative and in-depth thermal performance of rubber materials subject to high enthalpy/pressure flow conditions. Tests were conducted over a range of convective heat fluxes for both inert and chemically reactive sub-sonic free stream gas flow. Active instrumentation included use of total calorimeters, in-depth thermocouples, and a surface pyrometer for in-situ surface temperature measurement. Post-test sample forensics involved determination of eroded depth, charred depth, total sample weight loss, and documentation of the general condition of the eroded profile. A complete Charring Material Ablator (CMA) style aero thermal analysis was conducted for the test matrix and results compared to the measured data. In general, comparisons were possible for a number of the cases and the results show a limited predictive ability to model accurately both the ablative response and the in-depth temperature profiles. Lessons learned and modeling recommendations are made regarding future testing and modeling improvements that will increase understanding of the basic chemistry/physics associated with the complicated material ablation process of rubber materials.

The radiation history of material returned by the Soviet automatic stations Luna 16 and Luna 20, according to track studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kashkarov, L. L.; Genayeva, L. I.; Lavrukhina, A. K.

1977-01-01

Fission tracks formed by the vH (very heavy) nuclei group of solar and galactic cosmic rays have been studied in silicate minerals of the lunar regolith returned by the Luna 16 and Luna 20 unmanned spacecraft. It is shown that the material in the Luna 16 core sample, from a typical mare region of the lunar surface, has undergone stronger irradiation by cosmic rays than material returned a highland region by Luna 20. A low-irradiation component (about 10 percent of the total number of crystals) has been found in the Luna 20 core sample materials, which can possibly be attributed to material added to the main bulk of the regolith in the formation of the crater Apollonius C. From the track density distribution of crystals, as a function of depth in the regolith core sample, it follows that the process of formation of the upper layer of the regolith, both for the lunar mare and for the highland region, includes sequential layering of finely crushed crystalline matter and subsequent mixing of it by micrometeorite bombardment. A portion of the crystals with a very high track density may be a component added to the lunar surface from outer space.

Comparison of W-VC-C composites against Co-60, Se-75 and Sb-125 for gamma radioisotope sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demir, Ertugrul; Tugrul, A. Beril; Buyuk, Bulent; Yilmaz, Ozan; Ovecoglu, Lutfi

2018-02-01

Tungsten based materials are considered to be the promising materials for nuclear applications due to the good properties. The tungsten composite materials have so many advantages in nuclear technological applications especially fusion reactor systems. In this paper, Tungsten-Vanadium carbide-Graphite (W-VC-C) which include 93% tungsten (W), 6% vanadium carbide (VC) and 1% graphite (C) also which has three different alloying time (6-12-24 hours) were produced by mechanical alloying method. Co-60, Se-75 and Sb-125 gamma radioisotopeswere used as a gamma sources in order to determine behavior of gamma attenuation properties of the composite materials. The experimental results were compared with each other to clarify effects of varying gamma energies on the tungsten based composite materials. The mass attenuation coefficients of the samples were obtained by using XCOM computer code and compared with experimental data. The gamma linear attenuation, the mass attenuation coefficients and half value thickness (HVL) of the samples were evaluated and compared with Co-60, Se-75 and Sb-125 for gamma radioisotopes. Results showed that gamma attenuation coefficients of the samples depend on gamma energies and mechanical alloying time has negatively effect on the gamma shielding properties for the all studied W-VC-C.

Simulation of space radiation effects on polyimide film materials for high temperature applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fogdall, L. B.; Cannaday, S. S.

1977-01-01

Space environment effects on candidate materials for the solar sail film are determined. Polymers, including metallized polyimides that might be suitable solar radiation receivers, were exposed to combined proton and solar electromagnetic radiation. Each test sample was weighted, to simulate the tension on the polymer when it is stretched into near-planar shape while receiving solar radiation. Exposure rates up to 16 times that expected in Earth orbit were employed, to simulate near-sun solar sailing conditions. Sample appearance, elongation, and shrinkage were monitored, noted, and documented in situ. Thermosetting polyimides showed less degradation or visual change in appearance than thermoplastics.

Matt waste from glass separated collection: an eco-sustainable addition for new building materials.

PubMed

Bignozzi, M C; Saccani, A; Sandrolini, F

2009-01-01

Matt waste (MW), a by-product of purification processes of cullet derived from separated glass waste collection, has been studied as filler for self-compacting concrete and as an addition for newly blended cement. Properties of self-compacting concrete compared to reference samples are reported. They include characteristics at the fresh and hardened states, and the compressive strength and porosity of mortar samples that were formulated with increasing amounts of MW to be used as cement replacement (up to 50wt.%). The effects of matt waste are discussed with respect to the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of the resulting new materials.

Titan probe technology assessment and technology development plan study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castro, A. J.

1980-01-01

The need for technology advances to accomplish the Titan probe mission was determined by defining mission conditions and requirements and evaluating the technology impact on the baseline probe configuration. Mission characteristics found to be technology drivers include (1) ten years dormant life in space vacuum; (2) unknown surface conditions, various sample materials, and a surface temperature; and (3) mission constraints of the Saturn Orbiter Dual Probe mission regarding weight allocation. The following areas were identified for further development: surface sample acquisition system; battery powered system; nonmetallic materials; magnetic bubble memory devices, and the landing system. Preentry science, reliability, and weight reduction and redundancy must also be considered.

Broad band waveguide spectrometer

DOEpatents

Goldman, Don S.

1995-01-01

A spectrometer for analyzing a sample of material utilizing a broad band source of electromagnetic radiation and a detector. The spectrometer employs a waveguide possessing an entry and an exit for the electromagnetic radiation emanating from the source. The waveguide further includes a surface between the entry and exit portions which permits interaction between the electromagnetic radiation passing through the wave guide and a sample material. A tapered portion forms a part of the entry of the wave guide and couples the electromagnetic radiation emanating from the source to the waveguide. The electromagnetic radiation passing from the exit of the waveguide is captured and directed to a detector for analysis.

Apparatus for transporting hazardous materials

DOEpatents

Osterman, Robert A.; Cox, Robert

1992-01-01

An apparatus and method are provided for selectively receiving, transporting, and releasing one or more radioactive or other hazardous samples for analysis on a differential thermal analysis (DTA) apparatus. The apparatus includes a portable sample transporting apparatus for storing and transporting the samples and includes a support assembly for supporting the transporting apparatus when a sample is transferred to the DTA apparatus. The transporting apparatus includes a storage member which includes a plurality of storage chambers arrayed circumferentially with respect to a central axis. An adjustable top door is located on the top side of the storage member, and the top door includes a channel capable of being selectively placed in registration with the respective storage chambers thereby permitting the samples to selectively enter the respective storage chambers. The top door, when closed, isolates the respective samples within the storage chambers. A plurality of spring-biased bottom doors are located on the bottom sides of the respective storage chambers. The bottom doors isolate the samples in the respective storage chambers when the bottom doors are in the closed position. The bottom doors permit the samples to leave the respective storage chambers from the bottom side when the respective bottom doors are in respective open positions. The bottom doors permit the samples to be loaded into the respective storage chambers after the analysis for storage and transport to a permanent storage location.

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

Kornreich, Drew E; Vaidya, Rajendra U; Ammerman, Curtt N

Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) is a novel overarching approach to bridge length and time scales in computational materials science and engineering. This approach integrates all elements of multi-scale modeling (including various empirical and science-based models) with materials informatics to provide users the opportunity to tailor material selections based on stringent application needs. Typically, materials engineering has focused on structural requirements (stress, strain, modulus, fracture toughness etc.) while multi-scale modeling has been science focused (mechanical threshold strength model, grain-size models, solid-solution strengthening models etc.). Materials informatics (mechanical property inventories) on the other hand, is extensively data focused. All of thesemore » elements are combined within the framework of ICME to create architecture for the development, selection and design new composite materials for challenging environments. We propose development of the foundations for applying ICME to composite materials development for nuclear and high-radiation environments (including nuclear-fusion energy reactors, nuclear-fission reactors, and accelerators). We expect to combine all elements of current material models (including thermo-mechanical and finite-element models) into the ICME framework. This will be accomplished through the use of a various mathematical modeling constructs. These constructs will allow the integration of constituent models, which in tum would allow us to use the adaptive strengths of using a combinatorial scheme (fabrication and computational) for creating new composite materials. A sample problem where these concepts are used is provided in this summary.« less

Facility for low-temperature spin-polarized-scanning tunneling microscopy studies of magnetic/spintronic materials prepared in situ by nitride molecular beam epitaxy.

PubMed

Lin, Wenzhi; Foley, Andrew; Alam, Khan; Wang, Kangkang; Liu, Yinghao; Chen, Tianjiao; Pak, Jeongihm; Smith, Arthur R

2014-04-01

Based on the interest in, as well as exciting outlook for, nitride semiconductor based structures with regard to electronic, optoelectronic, and spintronic applications, it is compelling to investigate these systems using the powerful technique of spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), a technique capable of achieving magnetic resolution down to the atomic scale. However, the delicate surfaces of these materials are easily corrupted by in-air transfers, making it unfeasible to study them in stand-alone ultra-high vacuum STM facilities. Therefore, we have carried out the development of a hybrid system including a nitrogen plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy/pulsed laser epitaxy facility for sample growth combined with a low-temperature, spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscope system. The custom-designed molecular beam epitaxy growth system supports up to eight sources, including up to seven effusion cells plus a radio frequency nitrogen plasma source, for epitaxially growing a variety of materials, such as nitride semiconductors, magnetic materials, and their hetero-structures, and also incorporating in situ reflection high energy electron diffraction. The growth system also enables integration of pulsed laser epitaxy. The STM unit has a modular design, consisting of an upper body and a lower body. The upper body contains the coarse approach mechanism and the scanner unit, while the lower body accepts molecular beam epitaxy grown samples using compression springs and sample skis. The design of the system employs two stages of vibration isolation as well as a layer of acoustic noise isolation in order to reduce noise during STM measurements. This isolation allows the system to effectively acquire STM data in a typical lab space, which during its construction had no special and highly costly elements included, (such as isolated slabs) which would lower the environmental noise. The design further enables tip exchange and tip coating without breaking vacuum, and convenient visual access to the sample and tip inside a superconducting magnet cryostat. A sample/tip handling system is optimized for both the molecular beam epitaxy growth system and the scanning tunneling microscope system. The sample/tip handing system enables in situ STM studies on epitaxially grown samples, and tip exchange in the superconducting magnet cryostat. The hybrid molecular beam epitaxy and low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy system is capable of growing semiconductor-based hetero-structures with controlled accuracy down to a single atomic-layer and imaging them down to atomic resolution.

Photomosaics of the cathodoluminescence of 60 sections of meteorites and lunar samples

USGS Publications Warehouse

Akridge, D.G.; Akridge, J.M.C.; Batchelor, J.D.; Benoit, P.H.; Brewer, J.; DeHart, J.M.; Keck, B.D.; Jie, L.; Meier, A.; Penrose, M.; Schneider, D.M.; Sears, D.W.G.; Symes, S.J.K.; Yanhong, Z.

2004-01-01

Cathodoluminescence (CL) petrography provides a means of observing petrographic and compositional properties of geological samples not readily observable by other techniques. We report the low-magnification CL images of 60 sections of extraterrestrial materials. The images we report include ordinary chondrites (including type 3 ordinary chondrites and gas-rich regolith breccias), enstatite chondrites, CO chondrites and a CM chondrite, eucrites and a howardite, lunar highland regolith breccias, and lunar soils. The CL images show how primitive materials respond to parent body metamorphism, how the metamorphic history of EL chondrites differs from that of EH chondrites, how dark matrix and light clasts of regolith breccias relate to each other, how metamorphism affects eucrites, the texture of lunar regolith breccias and the distribution of crystallized lunar spherules ("lunar chondrules"), and how regolith working affects the mineral properties of lunar soils. More particularly, we argue that such images are a rich source of new information on the nature and history of these materials and that our efforts to date are a small fraction of what can be done. Copyright 2004 by the American Geophysical Union.

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

Calabrese, G.; Capineri, L., E-mail: lorenzo.capineri@unifi.it; Granato, M.

This paper describes the design of a system for the characterization of magnetic hysteresis behavior in soft ferrite magnetic cores. The proposed setup can test magnetic materials exciting them with controlled arbitrary magnetic field waveforms, including the capability of providing a DC bias, in a frequency bandwidth up to 500 kHz, with voltages up to 32 V peak-to-peak, and currents up to 10 A peak-to-peak. In order to have an accurate control of the magnetic field waveform, the system is based on a voltage controlled current source. The electronic design is described focusing on closed loop feedback stabilization and passivemore » components choice. The system has real-time hysteretic loop acquisition and visualization. The comparisons between measured hysteresis loops of sample magnetic materials and datasheet available ones are shown. Results showing frequency and thermal behavior of the hysteresis of a test sample prove the system capabilities. Moreover, the B-H loops obtained with a multiple waveforms excitation signal, including DC bias, are reported. The proposal is a low-cost and replicable solution for hysteresis characterization of magnetic materials used in power electronics.« less

The Extraterrestrial Materials Simulation Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Green, J. R.

2001-01-01

In contrast to fly-by and orbital missions, in situ missions face an incredible array of challenges in near-target navigation, landing site selection, descent, landing, science operations, sample collection and handling, drilling, anchoring, subsurface descent, communications, and contamination. The wide range of materials characteristics and environments threaten mission safety and success. For example, many physical properties are poorly characterized, including strength, composition, heterogeneity, phase change, texture, thermal properties, terrain features, atmospheric interaction, and stratigraphy. Examples of the range of materials properties include, for example: (1) Comets, with a possible compressive strength ranging from a light fluff to harder than concrete: 10(exp 2) to 10 (exp 8) Pa; (2) Europa, including a possible phase change at the surface, unknown strength and terrain roughness; and (3) Titan, with a completely unknown surface and possible liquid ocean. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Sample collection of ash and burned soils from the October 2007 southern California Wildfires

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hoefen, Todd M.; Kokaly, Raymond F.; Martin, Deborah A.; Rochester, Carlton J.; Plumlee, Geoffrey S.; Mendez, Greg; Reichard, Eric G.; Fisher, Robert N.

2009-01-01

Between November 2 through 9, 2007 scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) collected samples of ash and burned soils from 28 sites in six areas burned as a result of the Southern California wildfires of October 2007, including the Harris, Witch, Santiago, Ammo, Canyon, and Grass Valley Fires. The primary goal of this sampling and analysis effort was to understand how differences in ash and burned soil composition relate to vegetation type, underlying bedrock geology, burn intensity, and residential versus wildland. Sampling sites were chosen with the input of local experts from the USGS Water Resources and Biological Resources Disciplines to help understand possible effects of the fires on water supplies, ecosystems, and endangered species. The sampling was also carried out in conjunction with detailed field analysis of the spectral reflectance characteristics of the ash, so that chemical and mineralogical characteristics of the field samples could be used to help interpret data collected as part of an airborne, hyperspectral remote-sensing survey of several of the burned areas in mid-late November, 2007.This report presents an overview of the field sampling methodologies used to collect the samples, includes representative photos of the sites sampled, and summarizes important characteristics of each of the collection sites. In this report we use the term “ash” to refer collectively to white mineral ash, which results from full combustion of vegetation and black charred organic matter from partial combustion of vegetation or other materials. These materials were found to be intermingled as a deposited residue on the soil surface following the Southern California fires of 2007.

Polymerase chain reaction-based detection of B-cell monoclonality in cytologic specimens.

PubMed

Chen, Y T; Mercer, G O; Chen, Y

1993-11-01

Thirty-seven cytologic cell blocks were evaluated for B-cell monoclonality by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 16 of them cytologically positive for lymphoma, and 21 suspicious for lymphoma but morphologically nondiagnostic. Of 37 specimens, 13 (35%) showed B-cell monoclonality, including six of 16 cytologically positive samples and seven of 21 cytologically suspicious ones. Of these 13 positive samples, seven were positive using crude lysates as substrates, and six additional positive samples were identified only when DNAs were purified and concentrated. Analysis of the DNAs further revealed poor polymerase chain reaction amplifiability and low DNA yield in many samples, indicating that cell block materials are suboptimal for this assay. We concluded that B-cell monoclonality can be detected in ethanol-fixed cytologic samples, and usage of unembedded material will likely improve the sensitivity. In specimens cytologically suspicious for lymphoma, polymerase chain reaction-based identification of monoclonal B-cell population supports the diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma and is a potentially useful test in solving this diagnostic dilemma.

A quarantine protocol for analysis of returned extraterrestrial samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bagby, J. R.; Sweet, H. C.; Devincenzi, D. L.

1983-01-01

A protocol is presented for the analysis at an earth-orbiting quarantine facility of return samples of extraterrestrial material that might contain (nonterrestrial) life forms. The protocol consists of a series of tests designed to determine whether the sample, conceptualized as a 1-kg sample of Martian soil, is free from nonterrestrial biologically active agents and so may safely be sent to a terrestrial containment facility, or it exhibits biological activity requiring further (second-order) testing outside the biosphere. The first-order testing procedure seeks to detect the presence of any replicating organisms or toxic substances through a series of experiments including gas sampling, analysis of radioactivity, stereomicroscopic inspection, chemical analysis, microscopic examination, the search for metabolic products under growth conditions, microbiologicl assays, and the challenge of cultured cells with any agents found or with the extraterrestrial material as is. Detailed plans for the second-order testing would be developed in response to the actual data received from primary testing.

Method and apparatus for determining pressure-induced frequency-shifts in shock-compressed materials

DOEpatents

Moore, David S.; Schmidt, Stephen C.

1985-01-01

A method and an apparatus for conducting coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy in shock-compressed materials are disclosed. The apparatus includes a sample vessel having an optically transparent wall and an opposing optically reflective wall. Two coherent laser beams, a pump beam and a broadband Stokes beam, are directed through the window and focused on a portion of the sample. In the preferred embodiment, a projectile is fired from a high-pressure gas gun to impact the outside of the reflective wall, generating a planar shock wave which travels through the sample toward the window. The pump and Stokes beams result in the emission from the shock-compressed sample of a coherent anti-Stokes beam, which is emitted toward the approaching reflective wall of the vessel and reflected back through the window. The anti-Stokes beam is folded into a spectrometer for frequency analysis. The results of such analysis are useful for determining chemical and physical phenomena which occur during the shock-compression of the sample.

Method and apparatus for determining pressure-induced frequency-shifts in shock-compressed materials

DOEpatents

Moore, D.S.; Schmidt, S.C.

1983-12-16

A method and an apparatus for conducting coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy in shock-compressed materials are disclosed. The apparatus includes a sample vessel having an optically transparent wall and an opposing optically reflective wall. Two coherent laser beams, a pump beam and a broadband Stokes beam, are directed through the window and focused on a portion of the sample. In the preferred embodiment, a projectile is fired from a high-pressure gas gun to impact the outside of the reflective wall, generating a planar shock wave which travels through the sample toward the window. The pump and Stokes beams result in the emission from the shock-compressed sample of a coherent anti-Stokes beam, which is emitted toward the approaching reflective wall of the vessel and reflected back through the window. The anti-Stokes beam is folded into a spectrometer for frequency analysis. The results of such analysis are useful for determining chemical and physical phenomena which occur during the shock-compression of the sample.

Atomic-absorption spectrometric determination of cobalt, nickel, and copper in geological materials with matrix masking and chelation-extraction

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sanzolone, R.F.; Chao, T.T.; Crenshaw, G.L.

1979-01-01

An atomic-absorption spectrometric method is reported for the determination of cobalt, nickel, and copper in a variety of geological materials including iron- and manganese-rich, and calcareous samples. The sample is decomposed with HP-HNO3 and the residue is dissolved in hydrochloric acid. Ammonium fluoride is added to mask iron and 'aluminum. After adjustment to pH 6, cobalt, nickel, and copper are chelated with sodium diethyl-dithiocarbamate and extracted into methyl isobutyl ketone. The sample is set aside for 24 h before analysis to remove interferences from manganese. For a 0.200-g sample, the limits of determination are 5-1000 ppm for Co, Ni, and Cu. As much as 50% Fe, 25% Mn or Ca, 20% Al and 10% Na, K, or Mg in the sample either individually or in various combinations do not interfere. Results obtained on five U.S. Geological Survey rock standards are in general agreement with values reported in the literature. ?? 1979.

Environmental evaluations for deepening of Richmond Harbor and Santa Fe Channels

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

Brown, B.; Kohn, N.P.; Crecelius, E.A.

Richland, California is an important commercial port in San Francisco Bay. The San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) plans to increase the depth of Richmond Harbor and Santa Fe Channels to -38 feet Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) to accommodate deep-draft commercial vessels. The total volume of dredged material is expected to be approximately 1.4 million cubic yards. The options for disposal of the dredged material are aquatic disposal and upland disposal. The purpose of this study was to develop a database on chemical compounds in the dredged material to assist with determination of disposalmore » methods and the need for additional testing. This purpose was accomplished through an extensive field sampling program followed by chemical analysis of samples. Field sampling involved collection of core samples from Sante Fe and Richmond Harbor Channels. Cores were shipped to Battelle/Marine Sciences Laboratory, where they were subsampled for chemical analysis and/or archived by freezing. All sediment and water samples were analyzed for priority pollutants, including metals, organotins, base/neutral semivolatile organic compounds, chlorinated pesticides and PCBs, herbicide acids, and acidic phenols. Sediment samples were also analyzed for oil and grease and total organic carbon. Organophosphorus pesticides and dioxins and furans were measured in selected sediment samples from Richland Harbor Channel and from both sediment and water samples from Santa Fe Channel. 21 refs., 10 figs., 60 tabs.« less

Effect of Salivary pH on Color Stability of Different Flowable Composites - A Prospective In-vitro Study.

PubMed

Batra, Renu; Kataria, Pratik; Kapoor, Sonali

2016-10-01

Scientifically and clinically there has been lot of development in the field of aesthetic dentistry. However, there is limited or restricted information regarding the color stability of flowable composite materials. The aim of this study was to evaluate the spectrophotometric color stability of three different flowable composite materials with respect to three different pH of saliva. The study included 90 different samples. Thirty samples in each composite group; (Group A: G-aenial universal flo; Group B: Z 350 XT flowable; Group C: Esthet x flow). All samples from each group were immersed in distilled water for 24 hours. Total color difference (ΔE) was recorded for each sample. After this 10 samples from each group were respectively immersed in 6.5, 7 and 7.5 pH of artificial saliva. All samples were kept in dark room for seven days and then ΔE for each sample was recorded and was compared to previous recorded ΔE for the same sample. Maximum color change was seen irrespective of material in 6.5 pH of saliva. G-aenial universal flo showed least change irrespective of pH of saliva. Thus, the present study reveals that acidic pH level affects the coloration of composite resins by affecting the surface integrity and as reported in previous studies, various coloring agents in beverages and other dietary components assists the process due to absorption of these coloring substances into the resin matrix.

Robust DNA Isolation and High-throughput Sequencing Library Construction for Herbarium Specimens.

PubMed

Saeidi, Saman; McKain, Michael R; Kellogg, Elizabeth A

2018-03-08

Herbaria are an invaluable source of plant material that can be used in a variety of biological studies. The use of herbarium specimens is associated with a number of challenges including sample preservation quality, degraded DNA, and destructive sampling of rare specimens. In order to more effectively use herbarium material in large sequencing projects, a dependable and scalable method of DNA isolation and library preparation is needed. This paper demonstrates a robust, beginning-to-end protocol for DNA isolation and high-throughput library construction from herbarium specimens that does not require modification for individual samples. This protocol is tailored for low quality dried plant material and takes advantage of existing methods by optimizing tissue grinding, modifying library size selection, and introducing an optional reamplification step for low yield libraries. Reamplification of low yield DNA libraries can rescue samples derived from irreplaceable and potentially valuable herbarium specimens, negating the need for additional destructive sampling and without introducing discernible sequencing bias for common phylogenetic applications. The protocol has been tested on hundreds of grass species, but is expected to be adaptable for use in other plant lineages after verification. This protocol can be limited by extremely degraded DNA, where fragments do not exist in the desired size range, and by secondary metabolites present in some plant material that inhibit clean DNA isolation. Overall, this protocol introduces a fast and comprehensive method that allows for DNA isolation and library preparation of 24 samples in less than 13 h, with only 8 h of active hands-on time with minimal modifications.

Electrofracturing test system and method of determining material characteristics of electrofractured material samples

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

Bauer, Stephen J.; Glover, Steven F.; Pfeifle, Tom

A device for electrofracturing a material sample and analyzing the material sample is disclosed. The device simulates an in situ electrofracturing environment so as to obtain electrofractured material characteristics representative of field applications while allowing permeability testing of the fractured sample under in situ conditions.

Geochemical Exploration Techniques Applicable in the Search for Copper Deposits

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chaffee, Maurice A.

1975-01-01

Geochemical exploration is an important part of copper-resource evaluation. A large number of geochemical exploration techniques, both proved and untried, are available to the geochemist to use in the search for new copper deposits. Analyses of whole-rock samples have been used in both regional and local geochemical exploration surveys in the search for copper. Analyses of mineral separates, such as biotite, magnetite, and sulfides, have also been used. Analyses of soil samples are widely used in geochemical exploration, especially for localized surveys. It is important to distinguish between residual and transported soil types. Orientation studies should always be conducted prior to a geochemical investigation in a given area in order to determine the best soil horizon and the best size of soil material for sampling in that area. Silty frost boils, caliche, and desert varnish are specialized types of soil samples that might be useful sampling media. Soil gas is a new and potentially valuable geochemical sampling medium, especially in exploring for buried mineral deposits in arid regions. Gaseous products in samples of soil may be related to base-metal deposits and include mercury vapor, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, carbon oxysulfide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, the noble gases, the halogens, and many hydrocarbon compounds. Transported materials that have been used in geochemical sampling programs include glacial float boulders, glacial till, esker gravels, stream sediments, stream-sediment concentrates, and lake sediments. Stream-sediment sampling is probably the most widely used and most successful geochemical exploration technique. Hydrogeochemical exploration programs have utilized hot- and cold-spring waters and their precipitates as well as waters from lakes, streams, and wells. Organic gel found in lakes and at stream mouths is an unproved sampling medium. Suspended material and dissolved gases in any type of water may also be useful media. Samples of ice and snow have been used for limited geochemical surveys. Both geobotanical and biogeochemical surveys have been successful in locating copper deposits in many parts of the world. Micro-organisms, including bacteria and algae, are other unproved media that should be studied. Animals can be used in geochemical-prospecting programs. Dogs have been used quite successfully to sniff out hidden and exposed sulfide minerals. Tennite mounds are commonly composed of subsurface material, but have not as yet proved to be useful in locating buried mineral deposits. Animal tissue and waste products are essentially unproved but potentially valuable sampling media. Knowledge of the location of areas where trace-element-associated diseases in animals and man are endemic as well as a better understanding of these diseases, may aid in identifying regions that are enriched in or depleted of various elements, including copper. Results of analyses of gases in the atmosphere are proving valuable in mineral-exploration surveys. Studies involving metallic compounds exhaled by plants into the atmosphere, and of particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere are reviewed these methods may become important in the future. Remote-sensing techniques are useful for making indirect measurements of geochemical responses. Two techniques applicable to geochemical exploration are neutron-activation analysis and gamma-ray spectrometry. Aerial photography is especially useful in vegetation surveys. Radar imagery is an unproved but potentially valuable method for use in studies of vegetation in perpetually clouded regions. With the advent of modern computers, many new techniques, such as correlation analysis, regression analysis, discriminant analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, trend-surface analysis, and moving-average analysis can be applied to geochemical data sets. Selective use of these techniques can provide new insights into the interpretatio

Exploring the Utilization of Low-Pressure, Piston-Cylinder Experiments to Determine the Bulk Compositions of Finite, Precious Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vander Kaaden, K. E.; McCubbin, F. M.; Harrington, A.

2017-12-01

Determining the bulk composition of precious materials with a finite mass (e.g., meteorite samples) is extremely important in the fields of Earth and Planetary Science. From meteorite studies we are able to place constraints on large scale planetary processes like global differentiation and subsequent volcanism, as well as smaller scale processes like crystallization in a magma chamber or sedimentary compaction at the surface. However, with meteorite samples in particular, far too often we are limited by how precious the sample is as well as its limited mass. In this study, we have utilized aliquots of samples previously studied for toxicological hazards [1] including both the fresh samples (lunar mare basalt NWA 4734, lunar regolith breccia NWA 7611, martian basalt Tissint, martian regolith breccia NWA 7034, a vestian basalt Berthoud, a vestian regolith breccia NWA 2060, and a terrestrial mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB)), and those that underwent iron leaching (Tissint, NWA 7034, NWA 4734, MORB). With these small masses of material, we performed low pressure ( 0.75 GPa), high temperature (>1600°C) melting experiments. Each sample was analyzed using a JEOL 8530F electron microprobe to determine the bulk composition of the materials that were previously examined in [1]. When available, the results of our microprobe data were compared with bulk rock compositions in the literature. The results of this study show that with this technique, only 50 mg of sample is required to accurately determine the bulk composition of the materials of interest. [1] Harrington, A.D., McCubbin, F.M., Kaur, J., Smirnov, A., Galdanes, K., Schoonen, M.A.A., Chen, L.C., Tsirka, S.E., and Gordon, T. (2017) Pulmonary inflammatory responses to acute meteroite dust exposures - Implications for human space exploration. 48th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, The Woodlands, TX, #2922.

Spectroscopic and x-ray diffraction analyses of asbestos in the World Trade Center dust:

USGS Publications Warehouse

Swayze, Gregg A.; Clark, Roger N.; Sutley, Stephen J.; Hoefen, Todd M.; Plumlee, Geoffrey S.; Meeker, Gregory P.; Brownfield, Isabelle; Livo, Keith E.; Morath, Laurie C.

2009-01-01

On September 17 and 18, 2001, samples of settled dust and airfall debris were collected from 34 sites within a 1-km radius of the WTC collapse site, including a sample from an indoor location unaffected by rainfall, and samples of insulation from two steel beams at Ground Zero. Laboratory spectral and x-ray diffraction analyses of the field samples detected trace levels of serpentine minerals, including chrysotile asbestos, in about two-thirds of the dust samples at concentrations at or below ~1 wt%. One sample of a beam coating material contained up to 20 wt% chrysotile asbestos. Analyses indicate that trace levels of chrysotile were distributed with the dust radially to distances greater than 0.75 km from Ground Zero. The chrysotile content of the dust is variable and may indicate that chrysotile asbestos was not distributed uniformly during the three collapse events.

Effects of sterilization treatments on bulk and surface properties of nanocomposite biomaterials.

PubMed

Ahmed, Maqsood; Punshon, Geoffrey; Darbyshire, Arnold; Seifalian, Alexander M

2013-10-01

With the continuous and expanding use of implantable biomaterials in a clinical setting, this study aims to elucidate the influence of sterilization techniques on the material surface and bulk properties of two polyurethane nanocomposite biomaterials. Both solid samples and porous membranes of nondegradable polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly(carbonate-urea) urethane (POSS-PCU) and a biodegradable poly(caprolactone-urea) urethane (POSS-PCL) were examined. Sterilization techniques included conventional steam sterilization (autoclaving), gamma irradiation, and disinfection via incubating with ethanol (EtOH) for 10 min or 24 h. After treatment, the samples were examined using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and tensiometry. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through the culture of endothelial progenitor cells and the efficacy of sterilization method was determined by incubating each sample in tryptone soya broth and fluid thioglycollate medium for cultivation of microorganisms. Although EtOH did not affect the material properties in any form, the samples were found to be nonsterile with microbial growth detected on each of the samples. Gamma irradiation was not only effective in sterilizing both POSS-PCU and POSS-PCL but also led to minor material degradation and displayed a cytotoxic effect on the cultured cells. Autoclaving was found to be the optimal sterilization technique for both solid and porous membranes of the nondegradable POSS-PCU samples as it was successful in sterilizing the samples, displayed no cytotoxic side effects and did not degrade the material. However, the biodegradable POSS-PCL was not able to withstand the harsh environment during autoclaving, resulting in it losing all structural integrity. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., a Wiley Company.

Carbon ions irradiation on nano- and microcrystalline CaSO4 : Dy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salah, Numan

2008-08-01

Nanoparticles of CaSO4 : Dy phosphor with a particle size of around 30 nm have been prepared by the chemical co-precipitation technique. Pellet samples of the nanomaterials were irradiated by a 75 MeV C6+ ion beam at the fluence range 1 × 109-1 × 1013 ions cm-2. Thermoluminescence (TL) glow curves of the irradiated samples were recorded and studied. The microcrystalline form of this sample is also included in the study with the aim of reporting a comparative measurement. The TL analysis shows that the glow curve of the nanomaterial has two peaks at around 166 and 210 °C. These peaks are similar to those induced in the microcrystalline sample with a slight difference in their TL response. The second peak is more prominent in the case of the microcrystalline sample at low fluences, while the first one dominates in the nanostructured sample mainly at higher fluences. The TRIM code based on Monte Carlo simulation was also used for calculating some ion beam parameters. Dosimetric properties of the carbon ion beam irradiated materials show that the nanostructure material has excellent features such as a simple glow curve structure and a linear TL response over a wider range than the corresponding microcrystalline sample. These results show that the nanostructure form of CaSO4 : Dy might be useful for detecting the high doses of carbon ions used in radiotherapy. Thermal analysis of the prepared nano- and microcrystalline materials was also done in the range 50-500 °C using thermogravimetry analysis and differential thermal analysis. No phase transitions within this range of heating for both the materials are observed.

Investigation of Boron addition and compaction pressure on the compactibility, densification and microhardness of 316L Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, S.; Rani, A. M. A.; Altaf, K.; Baig, Z.

2018-04-01

Powder Metallurgy (P/M) is one of the continually evolving technologies used for producing metal materials of various sizes and shapes. However, some P/M materials have limited use in engineering for their performance deficiency including fully dense components. AISI 316L Stainless Steel (SS) is one of the promising materials used in P/M that combines outstanding corrosion resistance, strength and ductility for numerous applications. It is important to analyze the material composition along with the processing conditions that lead to a superior behaviour of the parts manufactured with P/M technique. This research investigates the effect of Boron addition on the compactibility, densification, sintering characteristics and microhardness of 316L SS parts produced with P/M. In this study, 0.25% Boron was added to the 316L Stainless Steel matrix to study the increase in densification of the 316L SS samples. The samples were made at different compaction pressures ranging from 100 MPa to 600 MPa and sintered in Nitrogen atmosphere at a temperature of 1200°C. The effect of compaction pressure and sintering temperature and atmosphere on the density and microhardness was evaluated. The microstructure of the samples was examined by optical microscope and microhardness was found using Vickers hardness machine. Results of the study showed that sintered samples with Boron addition exhibited high densification with increase in microhardness as compared to pure 316L SS sintered samples.

Materials and Methods for Streamlined Laboratory Analysis of Environmental Samples, FY 2016 Report

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

Addleman, Raymond S.; Naes, Benjamin E.; McNamara, Bruce K.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) relies upon laboratory analysis of environmental samples (typically referred to as “swipes”) collected during on-site inspections of safeguarded facilities to support the detection and deterrence of undeclared activities. Unfortunately, chemical processing and assay of the samples is slow and expensive. A rapid, effective, and simple extraction process and analysis method is needed to provide certified results with improved timeliness at reduced costs (principally in the form of reduced labor), while maintaining or improving sensitivity and efficacy. To address these safeguard needs the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) explored and demonstrated improved methods for environmentalmore » sample (ES) analysis. Improvements for both bulk and particle analysis were explored. To facilitate continuity and adoption, the new sampling materials and processing methods will be compatible with existing IAEA protocols for ES analysis. PNNL collaborated with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), which performed independent validation of the new bulk analysis methods and compared performance to traditional IAEA’s Network of Analytical Laboratories (NWAL) protocol. ORNL efforts are reported separately. This report describes PNNL’s FY 2016 progress, which was focused on analytical application supporting environmental monitoring of uranium enrichment plants and nuclear fuel processing. In the future the technology could be applied to other safeguard applications and analytes related to fuel manufacturing, reprocessing, etc. PNNL’s FY 2016 efforts were broken into two tasks and a summary of progress, accomplishments and highlights are provided below. Principal progress and accomplishments on Task 1, Optimize Materials and Methods for ICP-MS Environmental Sample Analysis, are listed below. • Completed initial procedure for rapid uranium extraction from ES swipes based upon carbonate-peroxide chemistry (delivered to ORNL for evaluation). • Explored improvements to carbonate-peroxide rapid uranium extraction chemistry. • Evaluated new sampling materials and methods (in collaboration with ORNL). • Demonstrated successful ES extractions from standard and novel swipes for a wide range uranium compounds of interest including UO 2F 2 and UO 2(NO 3) 2, U 3O 8 and uranium ore concentrate. • Completed initial discussions with commercial suppliers of PTFE swipe materials. • Submitted one manuscript for publication. Two additional drafts are being prepared. Principal progress and accomplishments on Task 2, Optimize Materials and Methods for Direct SIMS Environmental Sample Analysis, are listed below. • Designed a SIMS swipe sample holder that retrofits into existing equipment and provides simple, effective, and rapid mounting of ES samples for direct assay while enabling automation and laboratory integration. • Identified preferred conductive sampling materials with better performance characteristics. • Ran samples on the new PNNL NWAL equivalent Cameca 1280 SIMS system. • Obtained excellent agreement between isotopic ratios for certified materials and direct SIMS assay of very low levels of LEU and HEU UO 2F 2 particles on carbon fiber sampling material. Sample activities range from 1 to 500 CPM (uranium mass on sample is dependent upon specific isotope ratio but is frequently in the subnanogram range). • Found that the presence of the UF molecular ions, as measured by SIMS, provides chemical information about the particle that is separate from the uranium isotopics and strongly suggests that those particles originated from an UF6 enrichment activity. • Submitted one manuscript for publication. Another manuscript is in preparation.« less

Meteorite Dust and Health - A Novel Approach for Determining Bulk Compositions for Toxicological Assessments of Precious Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vander Kaaden, K. E.; Harrington, A. D.; McCubbin, F. M.

2017-01-01

With the resurgence of human curiosity to explore planetary bodies beyond our own, comes the possibility of health risks associated with the materials covering the surface of these planetary bodies. In order to mitigate these health risks and prepare ourselves for the eventuality of sending humans to other planetary bodies, toxicological evaluations of extraterrestrial materials is imperative (Harrington et al. 2017). Given our close proximity, as well as our increased datasets from various missions (e.g., Apollo, Mars Exploration Rovers, Dawn, etc…), the three most likely candidates for initial human surface exploration are the Moon, Mars, and asteroid 4Vesta. Seven samples, including lunar mare basalt NWA 4734, lunar regolith breccia NWA 7611, martian basalt Tissint, martian regolith breccia NWA 7034, a vestian basalt Berthoud, a vestian regolith breccia NWA 2060, and a terrestrial mid-ocean ridge basalt, were examined for bulk chemistry, mineralogy, geochemical reactivity, and inflammatory potential. In this study, we have taken alliquots from these samples, both the fresh samples and those that underwent iron leaching (Tissint, NWA 7034, NWA 4734, MORB), and performed low pressure, high temperature melting experiments to determine the bulk composition of the materials that were previously examined.

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix G.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Kinetics of the Fading of Phenolphthalein in Alkaline Solution.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nicholson, Lois

1989-01-01

Described is an experiment which illustrates pseudo-first-order kinetics in the fading of a common indicator in an alkaline solution. Included are background information, details of materials used, laboratory procedures, and sample results. (CW)

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors : contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive : alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor ...

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix F.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix E.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix D.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix B.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-02-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Evaluation of concrete pavements with materials-related distress : appendix C.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-02

An evaluation of cores sampled from six concrete pavements was performed. Factors contributing to pavement distress observed in the field were determined, including expansive alkali-silica reactivity and freeze-thaw deterioration related to poor entr...

Inventory Control: Construction of a Photoelectric Colorimeter and Application to Students' Experiments (Part 2).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matsuo, Tsutomu; And Others

1989-01-01

Discussed are the construction and uses of a version of a photoelectric colorimeter by students. Included are materials needed and four experiments which use the equipment. Sample results are shown. (CW)

Pristine Igneous Rocks and the Early Differentiation of Planetary Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warren, Paul H.

1998-01-01

Our studies are highly interdisciplinary, but are focused on the processes and products of early planetary and asteroidal differentiation, especially the genesis of the ancient lunar crust. Most of the accessible lunar crust consists of materials hybridized by impact-mixing. Rare pristine (unmixed) samples reflect the original genetic diversity of the early crust. We studied the relative importance of internally generated melt (including the putative magma ocean) versus large impact melts in early lunar magmatism, through both sample analysis and physical modeling. Other topics under investigation included: lunar and SNC (martian?) meteorites; igneous meteorites in general; impact breccias, especially metal-rich Apollo samples and polymict eucrites; effects of regolith/megaregolith insulation on thermal evolution and geochronology; and planetary bulk compositions and origins. We investigated the theoretical petrology of impact melts, especially those formed in large masses, such as the unejected parts of the melts of the largest lunar and terrestrial impact basins. We developed constraints on several key effects that variations in melting/displacement ratio (a strong function of both crater size and planetary g) have on impact melt petrology. Modeling results indicate that the impact melt-derived rock in the sampled, megaregolith part of the Moon is probably material that was ejected from deeper average levels than the non-impact-melted material (fragmental breccias and unbrecciated pristine rocks). In the largest lunar impacts, most of the impact melt is of mantle origin and avoids ejection from the crater, while most of the crust, and virtually all of the impact-melted crust, in the area of the crater is ejected. We investigated numerous extraordinary meteorites and Apollo rocks, emphasizing pristine rocks, siderophile and volatile trace elements, and the identification of primary partial melts, as opposed to partial cumulates. Apollo 15 sample 15434,28 is an extraodinarily large glass spherule, nearly if not entirely free of meteoritic contamination, and provides insight into the diversity of mare basalts in the Hadley-Apennine region. Apollo 14 sample 14434 is in many respects a new rock type, intermediate between nonmare gabbronorites and mare basalts. We helped to both plan and implement a consortium to study the Yamato-793605 SNC/martian meteorite.

Changes in River Organic Matter Through Time.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hudson, N.; Baker, A.; Ward, D.

2006-12-01

Samples of river water from central England were collected during the summer base-flow period. They were analysed for BOD and filtered at 1.2μm and 0.1μm increments to obtain i) the colloidal and dissolved, and ii) dissolved filter sterilized fractions. Each filtered fraction was plated up for microbiological cell counts and the agar plates and water samples were stored under a range of environmental conditions (4° C dark, 11° C light/ dark, 11° C dark, and 20° C dark) for 26 days. Absorbance, fluorescence, pH, conductivity and total organic carbon (TOC) were measured and colony forming units (CFU) counted on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 12, 19 and 26. The fluorescence intensity was recorded for 5 commonly studied regions: protein like fluorescence, indicative of microbial activity, represented by the fluorescent amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan (which has two clear fluorescence regions) and humic and fulvic acids derived from the break down of terrestrial and aquatic plant material. Humic and fulvic-like fluorescence increased in all samples under all storage conditions suggesting that peaks A and C probably include a microbial element, either a product of the living community or as dead cell material in all fraction sizes including <0.1μm. Tryptophan and tyrosine-like fluorescence intensities demonstrated less clear trends which may be reflective of the intrinsic variation in natural samples. Tryptophan-like fluorescence generally decreased or showed minimal change, except in samples exposed to light in which an increase was observed in line with algal growth. A decrease in intensity may relate to the use of the tryptophan-like material as a microbial substrate. The increase in tryptophan-like fluorescence intensity suggests that this fluorescent material is being produced, either by algae, or bacterial activity associated with algal growth. It may also occur as a result of changing water chemistry causing a change in molecular conformation, and resulting fluorescence, as an increase in pH was also observed in these samples. This work illustrates the dynamic character of river organic matter within a timescale and under conditions that are representative of the natural system.

Device for collecting chemical compounds and related methods

DOEpatents

Scott, Jill R.; Groenewold, Gary S.; Rae, Catherine

2013-01-01

A device for sampling chemical compounds from fixed surfaces and related methods are disclosed. The device may include a vacuum source, a chamber and a sorbent material. The device may utilize vacuum extraction to volatilize the chemical compounds from the fixed surfaces so that they may be sorbed by the sorbent material. The sorbent material may then be analyzed using conventional thermal desorption/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (TD/GC/MS) instrumentation to determine presence of the chemical compounds. The methods may include detecting release and presence of one or more chemical compounds and determining the efficacy of decontamination. The device may be useful in collection and analysis of a variety of chemical compounds, such as residual chemical warfare agents, chemical attribution signatures and toxic industrial chemicals.

Devices for collecting chemical compounds

DOEpatents

Scott, Jill R; Groenewold, Gary S

2013-12-24

A device for sampling chemical compounds from fixed surfaces and related methods are disclosed. The device may include a vacuum source, a chamber and a sorbent material. The device may utilize vacuum extraction to volatilize the chemical compounds from a fixed surface so that they may be sorbed by the sorbent material. The sorbent material may then be analyzed using conventional thermal desorption/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (TD/GC/MS) instrumentation to determine presence of the chemical compounds. The methods may include detecting release and presence of one or more chemical compounds and determining the efficacy of decontamination. The device may be useful in collection and analysis of a variety of chemical compounds, such as residual chemical warfare agents, chemical attribution signatures and toxic industrial chemicals.

The vector homology problem in diagnostic nucleic acid hybridization of clinical specimens.

PubMed Central

Ambinder, R F; Charache, P; Staal, S; Wright, P; Forman, M; Hayward, S D; Hayward, G S

1986-01-01

Nucleic acid hybridization techniques using cloned probes are finding application in assays of clinical specimens in research and diagnostic laboratories. The probes that we and others have used are recombinant plasmids composed of viral inserts and bacterial plasmid vectors such as pBR322. We suspected that there was material homologous to pBR322 present in many clinical samples. because hybridization occurred in samples which lacked evidence of virus by other techniques. If the presence of this vector-homologous material was unrecognized, hybridization in the test sample might erroneously be interpreted as indicating the presence of viral sequences. In this paper we demonstrate specific hybridization of labeled pBR322 DNA with DNA from various clinical samples. Evidence is presented that nonspecific probe trapping could not account for this phenomenon. In mixing experiments, it is shown that contamination of clinical samples with bacteria would explain such a result. Approaches tested to circumvent this problem included the use of isolated insert probes, alternate cloning vectors, and cold competitor pBR322 DNA in prehybridization and hybridization mixes. None proved entirely satisfactory. We therefore emphasize that it is essential that all hybridization detection systems use a control probe of the vector alone in order to demonstrate the absence of material with vector homology in the specimen tested. Images PMID:3013928