Simulation of multi-pulse coaxial helicity injection in the Sustained Spheromak Physics Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Bryan, J. B.; Romero-Talamás, C. A.; Woodruff, S.

2018-03-01

Nonlinear, numerical computation with the NIMROD code is used to explore magnetic self-organization during multi-pulse coaxial helicity injection in the Sustained Spheromak Physics eXperiment. We describe multiple distinct phases of spheromak evolution, starting from vacuum magnetic fields and the formation of the initial magnetic flux bubble through multiple refluxing pulses and the eventual onset of the column mode instability. Experimental and computational magnetic diagnostics agree on the onset of the column mode instability, which first occurs during the second refluxing pulse of the simulated discharge. Our computations also reproduce the injector voltage traces, despite only specifying the injector current and not explicitly modeling the external capacitor bank circuit. The computations demonstrate that global magnetic evolution is fairly robust to different transport models and, therefore, that a single fluid-temperature model is sufficient for a broader, qualitative assessment of spheromak performance. Although discharges with similar traces of normalized injector current produce similar global spheromak evolution, details of the current distribution during the column mode instability impact the relative degree of poloidal flux amplification and magnetic helicity content.

Models and observations of foam coverage and bubble content in the surf zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirby, J. T.; Shi, F.; Holman, R. A.

2010-12-01

Optical and acoustical observations and communications are hampered in the nearshore by the presence of bubbles and foam generated by breaking waves. Bubble clouds in the water column provide a highly variable (both spatially and temporally) obstacle to direct acoustic and optical paths. Persistent foam riding on the water surface creates a primary occlusion of optical penetration into the water column. In an effort to better understand and predict the level of bubble and foam content in the surfzone, we have been pursuing the development of a detailed phase resolved model of fluid and gaseous components of the water column, using a Navier-Stokes/VOF formulation extended to include a multiphase description of polydisperse bubble populations. This sort of modeling provides a detailed description of large scale turbulent structures and associated bubble transport mechanisms under breaking wave crests. The modeling technique is too computationally intensive, however, to provide a wider-scale description of large surfzone regions. In order to approach the larger scale problem, we are developing a model for spatial and temporal distribution of foam and bubbles within the framework of a Boussinesq model. The basic numerical framework for the code is described by Shi et al (2010, this conference). Bubble effects are incorporated both in the mass and momentum balances for weakly dispersive, fully nonlinear waves, with spatial and temporal bubble distributions parameterized based on the VOF modeling and measurements and tied to the computed rate of dissipation of energy during breaking. A model of a foam layer on the water surface is specified using a shallow water formulation. Foam mass conservation includes source and sink terms representing outgassing of the water column, direct foam generation due to surface agitation, and erosion due to bubble bursting. The foam layer motion in the plane of the water surface arises due to a balance of drag forces due to wind and water column motion. Preliminary steps to calibrate and verify the resulting models will be taken based on results to be collected during the Surf Zone Optics experiment at Duck, NC in September 2010. Initial efforts will focus on an examination of breaking wave patterns and persistent foam distributions, using ARGUS imagery.

Effect of polymer additives on hydrodynamics and oxygen transfer in a bubble column bioreactor.

PubMed

Kawase, Y

1993-01-01

The influence of polymer additives (polyethylene oxide and polyacrylamide) on the hydrodynamics and oxygen transfer in a bubble column bioreactor was examined. The addition of small amounts of these polymers has been known to cause significant drag reduction in turbulent flow circumstances. The gas hold-up was slightly decreased and the liquid-phase mixing was somewhat enhanced due to the addition of the polymers. The addition of polymer additives brought about a reduction of the volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient by about 40%. In dilute polymer solutions, large bubbles formed by bubble coalescence moved with high rise velocities in the presence of many small bubbles and the bubble size distributions were less uniform compared with those in water. The complicated changes in bubble hydrodynamic characteristics were examined to give possible explanations for oxygen transfer reduction.

Enhancing Photon Utilization Efficiency for Astaxanthin Production from Haematococcus lacustris Using a Split-Column Photobioreactor.

PubMed

Kim, Z-Hun; Park, Hanwool; Lee, Ho-Sang; Lee, Choul-Gyun

2016-07-28

A split-column photobioreactor (SC-PBR), consisting of two bubble columns with different sizes, was developed to enhance the photon utilization efficiency in an astaxanthin production process from Haematococcus lacustris. Among the two columns, only the smaller column of SC-PBR was illuminated. Astaxanthin productivities and photon efficiencies of the SC-PBRs were compared with a standard bubble-column PBR (BC-PBR). Astaxanthin productivity of SC-PBR was improved by 28%, and the photon utilization efficiencies were 28-366% higher than the original BC-PBR. The results clearly show that the effective light regime of SC-PBR could enhance the production of astaxanthin.

Removal of hazardous gaseous pollutants from industrial flue gases by a novel multi-stage fluidized bed desulfurizer.

PubMed

Mohanty, C R; Adapala, Sivaji; Meikap, B C

2009-06-15

Sulfur dioxide and other sulfur compounds are generated as primary pollutants from the major industries such as sulfuric acid plants, cupper smelters, catalytic cracking units, etc. and cause acid rain. To remove the SO(2) from waste flue gas a three-stage counter-current multi-stage fluidized bed adsorber was developed as desulfurization equipment and operated in continuous bubbling fluidization regime for the two-phase system. This paper represents the desulfurization of gas mixtures by chemical sorption of sulfur dioxide on porous granular calcium oxide particles in the reactor at ambient temperature. The advantages of the multi-stage fluidized bed reactor are of high mass transfer and high gas-solid residence time that can enhance the removal of acid gas at low temperature by dry method. Experiments were carried out in the bubbling fluidization regime supported by visual observation. The effects of the operating parameters such as sorbent (lime) flow rate, superficial gas velocity, and the weir height on SO(2) removal efficiency in the multistage fluidized bed are reported. The results have indicated that the removal efficiency of the sulfur dioxide was found to be 65% at high solid flow rate (2.0 kg/h) corresponding to lower gas velocity (0.265 m/s), wier height of 70 mm and SO(2) concentration of 500 ppm at room temperature.

Using Computer Simulations to Model Scoria Cone Growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bemis, K. G.; Mehta, R. D.

2016-12-01

Scoria cones form from the accumulation of scoria delivered by either bursting lava bubbles (Strombolian style eruptions) or the gas thrust of an eruption column (Hawaiian to sub-Plinian style eruption). In this study, we focus on connecting the distribution of scoria delivery to the eventual cone shape rather than the specifics of the mechanism of delivery. For simplicity, we choose to model ballistic paths, that follow the scoria from ejection from crater to landing on the surface and then avalanching down slope. The first stage corresponds to Strombolian-like bursts of the bubble. The second stage only occurs if the angle of repose is greater than 30 degrees. After this condition is met, the scoria particles grain flow downwards until a stable slope is formed. These two stages of the volcanic eruption repeat themselves in the number of phases. We hypothesize that the horizontal travel distance of the ballistic paths, and as a result the width of the volcano, is primarily dependent of the velocity of the particles bursting from the bubble in the crater. Other parameters that may affect the shape of cinder cones are air resistance on ballistic paths, ranges in particle size, ballistic ejection angles, and the total number of particles. Ejection velocity, ejection angle, particle size and air resistance control the delivery distribution of scoria; a similar distribution of scoria can be obtained by sedimentation from columns and the controlling parameters of such (gas thrust velocity, particle density, etc.) can be related to the ballistic delivery in terms of eruption energy and particle characteristics. We present a series of numerical experiments that test our hypotheses by varying different parameters one or more at a time in sets each designed to test a specific hypothesis. Volcano width increases as ejection velocity, ejection angle (measured from surface), or the total number of scoria particles increases. Ongoing investigations seek the controls on crater width.

Quantification of Methane Gas Flux and Bubble Fate on the Eastern Siberian Arctic Shelf Utilizing Calibrated Split-beam Echosounder Data.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weidner, E. F.; Mayer, L. A.; Weber, T. C.; Jerram, K.; Jakobsson, M.; Chernykh, D.; Ananiev, R.; Mohammad, R.; Semiletov, I. P.

2016-12-01

On the Eastern Siberian Arctic Shelf (ESAS) subsea permafrost, shallow gas hydrates, and trapped free gas hold an estimated 1400 Gt of methane. Recent observations of methane bubble plumes and high concentrations of dissolved methane in the water column indicate methane release via ebullition. Methane gas released from the shallow ESAS (<50 m average depth) has high potential to be transported to the atmosphere. To directly and quantitatively address the magnitude of methane flux and the fate of rising bubbles in the ESAS, methane seeps were mapped with a broadband split-beam echosounder as part of the Swedish-Russian-US Arctic Ocean Investigation of Climate-Cryosphere-Carbon Interactions program (SWERUS-C3). Acoustic measurements were made over a broad range of frequencies (16 to 29 kHz). The broad bandwidth provided excellent discrimination of individual targets in the water column, allowing for the identification of single bubbles. Absolute bubble target strength values were determined by compensating apparent target strength measurements for beam pattern effects via standard calibration techniques. The bubble size distribution of seeps with individual bubble signatures was determined by exploiting bubble target strength models over the broad range of frequencies. For denser seeps, with potential higher methane flux, bubble size distribution was determined via extrapolation from seeps in similar geomorphological settings. By coupling bubble size distributions with rise velocity measurements, which are made possible by split-beam target tracking, methane gas flux can be estimated. Of the 56 identified seeps in the SWERUS data set, individual bubbles scatterers were identified in more than half (31) of the seeps. Preliminary bubble size distribution results indicate bubble radii range from 0.75 to 3.0 mm, with relatively constant bubble size distribution throughout the water column. Initial rise velocity observations indicate bubble rise velocity increases with decreasing depth, seemingly independent of bubble radius.

Effects of Particle Size and Bubble Characteristics on Transport of Micro- and Nano-Bubbles in Saturated Porous Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamamoto, S.; Nihei, N.; Ueda, Y.; Moldrup, P.; Nishimura, T.

2016-12-01

The micro- and nano-bubbles (MNBs) have considerable potentials for the remediation of soil contaminated by organic compounds when used in conjunction with bioremediation technology. Understanding a transport mechanism of MNBs in soils is essential to optimize remediation techniques using MNBs. In this study, column transport experiments using glass beads with different size fractions (average particles size: 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm) were conducted, where MNBs created by oxygen gas were injected to the column with different flow rates. Effects of particle size and bubble characteristics on MNB transport in porous media were investigated based on the column experiments. The results showed that attachments of MNBs were enhanced under lower flow rate. Under higher flow rate condition, there were not significant differences of MNBs transport in porous media with different particle size. A convection-dispersion model including bubble attachment, detachment, and straining terms was applied to the obtained breakthrough curves for each experiment, showing good fitness against the measured data. Further investigations will be conducted to understand bubble characteristics including bubble size and zeta potential on MNB transport in porous media. Relations between in model parameters in the transport model and physical and chemical properties in porous media and MNBs will be discussed.

Rise characteristics of gas bubbles in a 2D rectangular column: VOF simulations vs experiments

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

Krishna, R.; Baten, J.M. van

About five centuries ago, Leonardo da Vinci described the sinuous motion of gas bubbles rising in water. The authors have attempted to simulate the rise trajectories of bubbles of 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, and 20 mm in diameter rising in a 2D rectangular column filled with water. The simulations were carried out using the volume-of-fluid (VOF) technique developed by Hirt and Nichols (J. Computational Physics, 39, 201--225 (1981)). To solve the Navier-Stokes equations of motion the authors used a commercial solver, CFX 4.1c of AEA Technology, UK. They developed their own bubble-tracking algorithm to capture sinuous bubble motions.more » The 4 and 5 mm bubbles show large lateral motions observed by Da Vinci. The 7, 8 and 9 mm bubble behave like jellyfish. The 12 mm bubble flaps its wings like a bird. The extent of lateral motion of the bubbles decreases with increasing bubble size. Bubbles larger than 20 mm in size assume a spherical cap form and simulations of the rise characteristics match experiments exactly. VOF simulations are powerful tools for a priori determination of the morphology and rise characteristics of bubbles rising in a liquid. Bubble-bubble interactions are also properly modeled by the VOF technique.« less

Bubble gate for in-plane flow control.

PubMed

Oskooei, Ali; Abolhasani, Milad; Günther, Axel

2013-07-07

We introduce a miniature gate valve as a readily implementable strategy for actively controlling the flow of liquids on-chip, within a footprint of less than one square millimetre. Bubble gates provide for simple, consistent and scalable control of liquid flow in microchannel networks, are compatible with different bulk microfabrication processes and substrate materials, and require neither electrodes nor moving parts. A bubble gate consists of two microchannel sections: a liquid-filled channel and a gas channel that intercepts the liquid channel to form a T-junction. The open or closed state of a bubble gate is determined by selecting between two distinct gas pressure levels: the lower level corresponds to the "open" state while the higher level corresponds to the "closed" state. During closure, a gas bubble penetrates from the gas channel into the liquid, flanked by a column of equidistantly spaced micropillars on each side, until the flow of liquid is completely obstructed. We fabricated bubble gates using single-layer soft lithographic and bulk silicon micromachining procedures and evaluated their performance with a combination of theory and experimentation. We assessed the dynamic behaviour during more than 300 open-and-close cycles and report the operating pressure envelope for different bubble gate configurations and for the working fluids: de-ionized water, ethanol and a biological buffer. We obtained excellent agreement between the experimentally determined bubble gate operational envelope and a theoretical prediction based on static wetting behaviour. We report case studies that serve to illustrate the utility of bubble gates for liquid sampling in single and multi-layer microfluidic devices. Scalability of our strategy was demonstrated by simultaneously addressing 128 bubble gates.

Removal of dichloromethane from waste gas streams using a hybrid bubble column/biofilter bioreactor

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

The performance of a hybrid bubble column/biofilter (HBCB) bioreactor for the removal of dichloromethane (DCM) from waste gas streams was studied in continuous mode for several months. The HBCB bioreactor consisted of two compartments: bubble column bioreactor removing DCM from liquid phase and biofilter removing DCM from gas phase. Effect of inlet DCM concentration on the elimination capacity was examined in the DCM concentration range of 34–359 ppm with loading rates ranged from 2.2 to 22.8 g/m3.h and constant total empty bed retention time (EBRT) of 200 s. In the equal loading rates, the elimination capacity and removal efficiency of the biofilter were higher than the corresponding values of the bubble column bioreactor. The maximum elimination capacity of the HBCB bioreactor was determined to be 15.7 g/m3.h occurred in the highest loading rate of 22.8 g/m3.h with removal efficiency of 69%. The overall mineralization portion of the HBCB bioreactor was in the range of 72-79%. The mixed liquor acidic pH especially below 5.5 inhibited microbial activity and decreased the elimination capacity. Inhibitory effect of high ionic strength was initiated in the mixed liquor electrical conductivity of 12.2 mS/cm. This study indicated that the HBCB bioreactor could benefit from advantages of both bubble column and biofilter reactors and could remove DCM from waste gas streams in a better manner. PMID:24406056

The Speed of Axial Propagation of a Cylindrical Bubble Through a Cylindrical Vortex

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shariff, Karim; Mansour, Nagi N. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Inspired by the rapid elongation of air columns injected into vortices by dolphins, we present an exact inviscid solution for the axial speed (assumed steady) of propagation of the tip of a semi-infinite cylindrical bubble along the axis of a cylindrical vortex. The bubble is assumed to be held at constant pressure by being connected to a reservoir, the lungs of the dolphin, say. For a given bubble pressure, there is a modest critical rotation rate above which steadily propagating bubbles exist. For a bubble at ambient pressure, the propagation speed of the bubble (relative to axial velocity within the vortex) varies between 0.5 and 0.6 of the maximum rotational speed of the vortex. Surprisingly, the bubble tip can propagate (almost as rapidly) even when the pressure minimum in the vortex core is greater than the bubble pressure; in this case, solutions exhibit a dimple on the nose of the bubble. A situation important for incipient vortex cavitation, and one which dolphins also demonstrate, is elongation of a free bubble, i.e., one whose internal pressure may vary. Under the assumption that the acceleration term is small (checked a posteriori), the steady solution is applied at each instant during the elongation. Three types of behavior are then possible depending on physical parameters and initial conditions: (A) Unabated elongation with slowly increasing bubble pressure, and nearly constant volume. Volume begins to decrease in the late stages. (B1) Elongation with decreasing bubble pressure. A limit point of the steady solution is encountered at a finite bubble length. (B2) Unabated elongation with decreasing bubble pressure and indefinite creation of volume. This is made possible by the existence of propagating solutions at bubble pressures below the minimum vortex pressure. As the bubble stretches, its radius initially decreases but then becomes constant; this is also observed in experiments on incipient vortex cavitation.

Dynamic morphology of gas hydrate on a methane bubble in water: Observations and new insights for hydrate film models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warzinski, Robert P.; Lynn, Ronald; Haljasmaa, Igor; Leifer, Ira; Shaffer, Frank; Anderson, Brian J.; Levine, Jonathan S.

2014-10-01

Predicting the fate of subsea hydrocarbon gases escaping into seawater is complicated by potential formation of hydrate on rising bubbles that can enhance their survival in the water column, allowing gas to reach shallower depths and the atmosphere. The precise nature and influence of hydrate coatings on bubble hydrodynamics and dissolution is largely unknown. Here we present high-definition, experimental observations of complex surficial mechanisms governing methane bubble hydrate formation and dissociation during transit of a simulated oceanic water column that reveal a temporal progression of deep-sea controlling mechanisms. Synergistic feedbacks between bubble hydrodynamics, hydrate morphology, and coverage characteristics were discovered. Morphological changes on the bubble surface appear analogous to macroscale, sea ice processes, presenting new mechanistic insights. An inverse linear relationship between hydrate coverage and bubble dissolution rate is indicated. Understanding and incorporating these phenomena into bubble and bubble plume models will be necessary to accurately predict global greenhouse gas budgets for warming ocean scenarios and hydrocarbon transport from anthropogenic or natural deep-sea eruptions.

Metabolic modeling of synthesis gas fermentation in bubble column reactors.

PubMed

Chen, Jin; Gomez, Jose A; Höffner, Kai; Barton, Paul I; Henson, Michael A

2015-01-01

A promising route to renewable liquid fuels and chemicals is the fermentation of synthesis gas (syngas) streams to synthesize desired products such as ethanol and 2,3-butanediol. While commercial development of syngas fermentation technology is underway, an unmet need is the development of integrated metabolic and transport models for industrially relevant syngas bubble column reactors. We developed and evaluated a spatiotemporal metabolic model for bubble column reactors with the syngas fermenting bacterium Clostridium ljungdahlii as the microbial catalyst. Our modeling approach involved combining a genome-scale reconstruction of C. ljungdahlii metabolism with multiphase transport equations that govern convective and dispersive processes within the spatially varying column. The reactor model was spatially discretized to yield a large set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) in time with embedded linear programs (LPs) and solved using the MATLAB based code DFBAlab. Simulations were performed to analyze the effects of important process and cellular parameters on key measures of reactor performance including ethanol titer, ethanol-to-acetate ratio, and CO and H2 conversions. Our computational study demonstrated that mathematical modeling provides a complementary tool to experimentation for understanding, predicting, and optimizing syngas fermentation reactors. These model predictions could guide future cellular and process engineering efforts aimed at alleviating bottlenecks to biochemical production in syngas bubble column reactors.

Degradation of trichloroethylene by photocatalysis in an internally circulating slurry bubble column reactor.

PubMed

Jeon, Jin Hee; Kim, Sang Done; Lim, Tak Hyoung; Lee, Dong Hyun

2005-08-01

The effects of initial trichloroethylene (TCE) concentration, recirculating liquid flow rate and gas velocity on photodegradation of TCE have been determined in an internally circulating slurry bubble column reactor (0.15m-ID x 0.85 m-high). Titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder was employed as a photocatalyst and the optimum loading of TiO2 in the present system is found to be approximately 0.2 wt%. The stripping fraction of TCE by air flow increases but photodegradation fraction of TCE decreases with increasing the initial TCE concentration, recirculating liquid flow rate and gas velocity. The average removal efficiency of TCE is found to be approximately 97% in an internally circulating slurry bubble column reactor.

Unit operations for gas-liquid mass transfer in reduced gravity environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pettit, Donald R.; Allen, David T.

1992-01-01

Basic scaling rules are derived for converting Earth-based designs of mass transfer equipment into designs for a reduced gravity environment. Three types of gas-liquid mass transfer operations are considered: bubble columns, spray towers, and packed columns. Application of the scaling rules reveals that the height of a bubble column in lunar- and Mars-based operations would be lower than terrestrial designs by factors of 0.64 and 0.79 respectively. The reduced gravity columns would have greater cross-sectional areas, however, by factors of 2.4 and 1.6 for lunar and Martian settings. Similar results were obtained for spray towers. In contract, packed column height was found to be nearly independent of gravity.

Dynamic Bubble Surface Tension Measurements in Northwest Atlantic Seawater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kieber, D. J.; Long, M. S.; Keene, W. C.; Kinsey, J. D.; Frossard, A. A.; Beaupre, S. R.; Duplessis, P.; Maben, J. R.; Lu, X.; Chang, R.; Zhu, Y.; Bisgrove, J.

2017-12-01

Numerous reports suggest that most organic matter (OM) associated with newly formed primary marine aerosol (PMA) originates from the sea-surface microlayer. However, surface-active OM rapidly adsorbs onto bubble surfaces in the water column and is ejected into the atmosphere when bubbles burst at the air-water interface. Here we present dynamic surface tension measurements of bubbles produced in near surface seawater from biologically productive and oligotrophic sites and in deep seawater collected from 2500 m in the northwest Atlantic. In all cases, the surface tension of bubble surfaces decreased within seconds after the bubbles were exposed to seawater. These observations demonstrate that bubble surfaces are rapidly saturated by surfactant material scavenged from seawater. Spatial and diel variability in bubble surface evolution indicate corresponding variability in surfactant concentrations and/or composition. Our results reveal that surface-active OM is found throughout the water column, and that at least some surfactants are not of recent biological origin. Our results also support the hypothesis that the surface microlayer is a minor to negligible source of OM associated with freshly produced PMA.

Regeneration of barium carbonate from barium sulphide in a pilot-scale bubbling column reactor and utilization for acid mine drainage.

PubMed

Mulopo, J; Zvimba, J N; Swanepoel, H; Bologo, L T; Maree, J

2012-01-01

Batch regeneration of barium carbonate (BaCO(3)) from barium sulphide (BaS) slurries by passing CO(2) gas into a pilot-scale bubbling column reactor under ambient conditions was used to assess the technical feasibility of BaCO(3) recovery in the Alkali Barium Calcium (ABC) desalination process and its use for sulphate removal from high sulphate Acid Mine Drainage (AMD). The effect of key process parameters, such as BaS slurry concentration and CO(2) flow rate on the carbonation, as well as the extent of sulphate removal from AMD using the recovered BaCO(3) were investigated. It was observed that the carbonation reaction rate for BaCO(3) regeneration in a bubbling column reactor significantly increased with increase in carbon dioxide (CO(2)) flow rate whereas the BaS slurry content within the range 5-10% slurry content did not significantly affect the carbonation rate. The CO(2) flow rate also had an impact on the BaCO(3) morphology. The BaCO(3) recovered from the pilot-scale bubbling column reactor demonstrated effective sulphate removal ability during AMD treatment compared with commercial BaCO(3).

Heat transfer in three-phase fluidization and bubble-columns with high gas holdups

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

Kumar, S.; Kusakabe, K.; Fan, L.S.

1993-08-01

Bubble column and three-phase fluidized bed reactors have wide applications in biotechnological and petroleum processes (Deckwer, 1985; Fan, 1989). In such biotechnological processes as fermentation and waste water treatment, small bubbles of oxygen and/or nitrogen are introduced in the column to enhance oxygen transfer and to ensure the stability of immobilized cell particles. In addition, tiny bubbles are produced during the biological process due to the production of surface active compounds. The presence of these small bubbles causes an increase in the gas holdup of the system. High gas holdups are also characteristics of industrial processes such as coal liquefactionmore » and hydrotreating of residual oils. Good understanding of the transport properties of three-phase fluidized beds with high gas holdups is essential to the design, control and optimum operations of the commercial reactors employed in the above-mentioned processes. Heat-transfer studies in three-phase fluidized beds have been reviewed recently by Kim and Laurent (1991). Past studies focused primarily on the measurements of time-averaged heat transfer from the column wall to bed (Chiu and Ziegler 1983; Muroyama et al., 1986) or on immersed heating objects to bed (Baker et al., 1978; Kato et al., 1984) in aqueous systems. Recently, Kumar et al. (1992) provided a mechanistic understanding of the heat transfer in bubbly-liquid and liquid-solid systems. The purpose of this work is to investigate the heat transfer in a three-phase fluidized bed under high gas holdup conditions. The associated hydrodynamic behavior of the system is also studied.« less

Determining the Enthalpy of Vaporization of Salt Solutions Using the Cooling Effect of a Bubble Column Evaporator

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fan, Chao; Pashley, Richard M.

2016-01-01

The enthalpy of vaporization (?H[subscript vap]) of salt solutions is not easily measured, as a certain quantity of pure water has to be evaporated from a solution, at constant composition, and at a fixed temperature and pressure; then the corresponding heat input has to be measured. However, a simple bubble column evaporator (BCE) was used as a…

A Laboratory Experiment To Measure Henry's Law Constants of Volatile Organic Compounds with a Bubble Column and a Gas Chromatography Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Shan-Hu; Mukherjee, Souptik; Brewer, Brittany; Ryan, Raphael; Yu, Huan; Gangoda, Mahinda

2013-01-01

An undergraduate laboratory experiment is described to measure Henry's law constants of organic compounds using a bubble column and gas chromatography flame ionization detector (GC-FID). This experiment is designed for upper-division undergraduate laboratory courses and can be implemented in conjunction with physical chemistry, analytical…

Informative frame detection from wireless capsule video endoscopic images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bashar, Md. Khayrul; Mori, Kensaku; Suenaga, Yasuhito; Kitasaka, Takayuki; Mekada, Yoshito

2008-03-01

Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) is a new clinical technology permitting the visualization of the small bowel, the most difficult segment of the digestive tract. The major drawback of this technology is the high amount of time for video diagnosis. In this study, we propose a method for informative frame detection by isolating useless frames that are substantially covered by turbid fluids or their contamination with other materials, e.g., faecal, semi-processed or unabsorbed foods etc. Such materials and fluids present a wide range of colors, from brown to yellow, and/or bubble-like texture patterns. The detection scheme, therefore, consists of two stages: highly contaminated non-bubbled (HCN) frame detection and significantly bubbled (SB) frame detection. Local color moments in the Ohta color space are used to characterize HCN frames, which are isolated by the Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier in Stage-1. The rest of the frames go to the Stage-2, where Laguerre gauss Circular Harmonic Functions (LG-CHFs) extract the characteristics of the bubble-structures in a multi-resolution framework. An automatic segmentation method is designed to extract the bubbled regions based on local absolute energies of the CHF responses, derived from the grayscale version of the original color image. Final detection of the informative frames is obtained by using threshold operation on the extracted regions. An experiment with 20,558 frames from the three videos shows the excellent average detection accuracy (96.75%) by the proposed method, when compared with the Gabor based- (74.29%) and discrete wavelet based features (62.21%).

The influence of polymeric membrane gas spargers on hydrodynamics and mass transfer in bubble column bioreactors.

PubMed

Tirunehe, Gossaye; Norddahl, B

2016-04-01

Gas sparging performances of a flat sheet and tubular polymeric membranes were investigated in 3.1 m bubble column bioreactor operated in a semi batch mode. Air-water and air-CMC (Carboxymethyl cellulose) solutions of 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 % w/w were used as interacting gas-liquid mediums. CMC solutions were employed in the study to simulate rheological properties of bioreactor broth. Gas holdup, bubble size distribution, interfacial area and gas-liquid mass transfer were studied in the homogeneous bubbly flow hydrodynamic regime with superficial gas velocity (U(G)) range of 0.0004-0.0025 m/s. The study indicated that the tubular membrane sparger produced the highest gas holdup and densely populated fine bubbles with narrow size distribution. An increase in liquid viscosity promoted a shift in bubble size distribution to large stable bubbles and smaller specific interfacial area. The tubular membrane sparger achieved greater interfacial area and an enhanced overall mass transfer coefficient (K(L)a) by a factor of 1.2-1.9 compared to the flat sheet membrane.

Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography for the Packed Bed Reactor ISS Flight Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marashdeh, Qussai; Motil, Brian; Wang, Aining; Liang-Shih, Fan

2013-01-01

Fixed packed bed reactors are compact, require minimum power and maintenance to operate, and are highly reliable. These features make this technology a highly desirable unit operation for long duration life support systems in space. NASA is developing an ISS experiment to address this technology with particular focus on water reclamation and air revitalization. Earlier research and development efforts funded by NASA have resulted in two hydrodynamic models which require validation with appropriate instrumentation in an extended microgravity environment. To validate these models, the instantaneous distribution of the gas and liquid phases must be measured.Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography (ECVT) is a non-invasive imaging technology recently developed for multi-phase flow applications. It is based on distributing flexible capacitance plates on the peripheral of a flow column and collecting real-time measurements of inter-electrode capacitances. Capacitance measurements here are directly related to dielectric constant distribution, a physical property that is also related to material distribution in the imaging domain. Reconstruction algorithms are employed to map volume images of dielectric distribution in the imaging domain, which is in turn related to phase distribution. ECVT is suitable for imaging interacting materials of different dielectric constants, typical in multi-phase flow systems. ECVT is being used extensively for measuring flow variables in various gas-liquid and gas-solid flow systems. Recent application of ECVT include flows in risers and exit regions of circulating fluidized beds, gas-liquid and gas-solid bubble columns, trickle beds, and slurry bubble columns. ECVT is also used to validate flow models and CFD simulations. The technology is uniquely qualified for imaging phase concentrations in packed bed reactors for the ISS flight experiments as it exhibits favorable features of compact size, low profile sensors, high imaging speed, and flexibility to fit around columns of various shapes and sizes. ECVT is also safer than other commonly used imaging modalities as it operates in the range of low frequencies (1 MHz) and does not radiate radioactive energy. In this effort, ECVT is being used to image flow parameters in a packed bed reactor for an ISS flight experiment.

1300-m-high rising bubbles from mud volcanoes at 2080 m in the Black Sea: Hydroacoustic characteristics and temporal variability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greinert, Jens; Artemov, Yuriy; Egorov, Viktor; De Batist, Marc; McGinnis, Daniel

2006-04-01

A mud volcano area in the deep waters (> 2000 m) of the Black Sea was studied by hydroacoustic measurements during several cruises between January 2002 and June 2004. Gas bubbles in the water column give strong backscatter signals and thus can be detected even in great water depths by echosounders as the 38 kHz EK500 scientific split-beam system that was used during the surveys. Because of their shape in echograms and to differentiate against geochemical plumes and real upwelling bubble-water plumes, we call these hydroacoustic manifestations of bubbles in the water column 'flares'. Digital recording and processing of the data allows a 3D visualization and data comparison over the entire observation period, without artefacts caused by changing system settings. During our surveys, we discovered bubble release from three separate mud volcanoes, Dvurechenskiy (DMV), Vodianitskiy (VMV) and the Nameless Seep Site (NSS), in about 2080 m water depth simultaneously. Bubble release was observed between 9 June 2003 and 5 June 2004. The most frequently surveyed, DMV, was found to be inactive during very intensive studies in January 2002. The first activity was observed on 27 June 2002, which finally ceased between 5 and 15 June 2004 after a period of continuously decreasing activity. This observed 2-yr bubble-release period at a mud volcano may give an indication for the duration of active periods. The absence of short-term variations (within days or hours) may indicate that the bubble release from the observed mud volcanoes does not undergo rapid changes. The recorded echograms show that bubbles rise about 1300 m high through the water column, to a final water depth of about 770 m, which is ˜75 m below the phase boundary of pure methane hydrate in the Black Sea. With a release depth from 2068 m and a detected rise height of 1300 m, the flare at VMV is among the deepest and highest reported so far, and gives evidence of highly extended bubble life times (up to 108 min) in deep marine environments. To better understand how a methane bubble (gas analyses of the pore water and gas hydrate gave 99.4% methane) can rise so high without dissolving, we applied a recently developed bubble dissolution model that takes into account a decreased mass transfer due to an immediately formed gas-hydrate rim. Using the hydroacoustically determined bubble rising speeds (19-22 cm/s at the bottom; 12-14 cm/s at the flare top) and the relation between the rising speed of 'dirty'/gas hydrate rimmed bubbles and the bubble size, we could validate that a gas-hydrate-rimmed bubble with a diameter of 9 mm could survive the 1300-m-rise through the water column, before it is finally dissolved. A diameter of about 9 mm is reasonable for bubbles released at seep sites and the coincidence between the observed bubble rising speed and the model approach of a 9-mm bubble supports the assumption of gas-hydrate-rimmed bubbles.

Bubble column and CFD simulation for chemical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alzuhairi, Mohammed

2018-05-01

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is an important simulation tool, which uses powerful computer to get optimal design in industrial processes. New approach technique of bubble column for three phases has been used with respect to chemical recycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). The porous ceramic has been used in thin plate (5 mm) with a narrow pore size distribution. Excellent agreement between CFD has been predicted and experimental profiles of hold-up and velocity close to wall have been observed for a column diameter 0.08 m, column height 0.15 m (HD), and superficial gas velocity (VG) 0.05 m/s. The main purpose of the current study is to highlight depolymerization of PET chemically by using the close system of Ethylene Glycol, PET-Catalyzed, and Nitrogen glycolysis process in bubble column of three phases technique by using Nano catalyst, SiO2 with various weight percent (0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5) based on PET weight and preheated Nitrogen up to 100° C by extra heater in bubble column reactor. The depolymerization time could be reduced in order to improve heat and mass transfer in comparison with the traditional methods. Little amount not exceeding 0.01% of Nano SiO2 is enough for completing depolymerization. The final product of PET depolymerization has full characterization by FTIR, AFM, CHN tests and has been used as a vital additive for Bitumen, it has been investigated as a moisture-proof, water seepage-proof material, and as a tough resistant to environmental conditions.

Performance and microbial community composition dynamics of aerobic granular sludge from sequencing batch bubble column reactors operated at 20 degrees C, 30 degrees C, and 35 degrees C.

PubMed

Ebrahimi, Sirous; Gabus, Sébastien; Rohrbach-Brandt, Emmanuelle; Hosseini, Maryam; Rossi, Pierre; Maillard, Julien; Holliger, Christof

2010-07-01

Two bubble column sequencing batch reactors fed with an artificial wastewater were operated at 20 degrees C, 30 degrees C, and 35 degrees C. In a first stage, stable granules were obtained at 20 degrees C, whereas fluffy structures were observed at 30 degrees C. Molecular analysis revealed high abundance of the operational taxonomic unit 208 (OTU 208) affiliating with filamentous bacteria Leptothrix spp. at 30 degrees C, an OTU much less abundant at 20 degrees C. The granular sludge obtained at 20 degrees C was used for the second stage during which one reactor was maintained at 20 degrees C and the second operated at 30 degrees C and 35 degrees C after prior gradual increase of temperature. Aerobic granular sludge with similar physical properties developed in both reactors but it had different nutrient elimination performances and microbial communities. At 20 degrees C, acetate was consumed during anaerobic feeding, and biological phosphorous removal was observed when Rhodocyclaceae-affiliating OTU 214 was present. At 30 degrees C and 35 degrees C, acetate was mainly consumed during aeration and phosphorous removal was insignificant. OTU 214 was almost absent but the Gammaproteobacteria-affiliating OTU 239 was more abundant than at 20 degrees C. Aerobic granular sludge at all temperatures contained abundantly the OTUs 224 and 289 affiliating with Sphingomonadaceae indicating that this bacterial family played an important role in maintaining stable granular structures.

Acoustic mapping of shallow water gas releases using shipborne multibeam systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Urban, Peter; Köser, Kevin; Weiß, Tim; Greinert, Jens

2015-04-01

Water column imaging (WCI) shipborne multibeam systems are effective tools for investigating marine free gas (bubble) release. Like single- and splitbeam systems they are very sensitive towards gas bubbles in the water column, and have the advantage of the wide swath opening angle, 120° or more allowing a better mapping and possible 3D investigations of targets in the water column. On the downside, WCI data are degraded by specific noise from side-lobe effects and are usually not calibrated for target backscattering strength analysis. Most approaches so far concentrated on manual investigations of bubbles in the water column data. Such investigations allow the detection of bubble streams (flares) and make it possible to get an impression about the strength of detected flares/the gas release. Because of the subjective character of these investigations it is difficult to understand how well an area has been investigated by a flare mapping survey and subjective impressions about flare strength can easily be fooled by the many acoustic effects multibeam systems create. Here we present a semi-automated approach that uses the behavior of bubble streams in varying water currents to detect and map their exact source positions. The focus of the method is application of objective rules for flare detection, which makes it possible to extract information about the quality of the seepage mapping survey, perform automated noise reduction and create acoustic maps with quality discriminators indicating how well an area has been mapped.

Separation of emulsified crude oil in saline water by flotation with micro- and nanobubbles generated by a multiphase pump.

PubMed

Oliveira, H A; Azevedo, A C; Etchepare, R; Rubio, J

2017-11-01

The flocculation-column flotation with hydraulic loading (HL, >10 m h -1 ) was studied for the treatment of oil-in-water emulsions containing 70-400 mg L -1 (turbidity = 70-226 NTU) of oil and salinity (30 and 100 g L -1 ). A polyacrylamide (Dismulgan, 20 mg L -1 ) flocculated the oil droplets, using two floc generator reactors, with rapid and slow mixing stages (head loss = 0.9 to 3.5 bar). Flotation was conducted in two cells (1.5 and 2.5 m) with microbubbles (MBs, 5-80 μm) and nanobubbles (NBs, 50-300 nm diameter, concentration of 10 8 NBs mL -1 ). Bubbles were formed using a centrifugal multiphase pump, with optimized parameters and a needle valve. The results showed higher efficiency with the taller column reducing the residual oil content to 4 mg L -1 and turbidity to 7 NTU. At high HL (27.5 m h -1 ), the residual oil concentrations were below the standard emission (29 mg L -1 ), reaching 18 mg L -1 . The best results were obtained with high concentration of NBs (apart from the bigger bubbles). Mechanisms involved appear to be attachment and entrapment of the NBs onto and inside the flocs. Thus, the aggregates were readily captured, by bigger bubbles (mostly MBs) aiding shear withstanding. Advantages are the small footprint of the cells, low residence time and high processing rate.

Processes and catalysts for conducting fischer-tropsch synthesis in a slurry bubble column reactor

DOEpatents

Singleton, Alan H.; Oukaci, Rachid; Goodwin, James G.

1999-01-01

Processes and catalysts for conducting Fischer-Tropsch synthesis in a slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR). One aspect of the invention involves the use of cobalt catalysts without noble metal promotion in an SBCR. Another aspect involves using palladium promoted cobalt catalysts in an SBCR. Methods for preparing noble metal promoted catalysts via totally aqueous impregnation and procedures for producing attrition resistant catalysts are also provided.

Production of the biopesticide azadirachtin by hairy root cultivation of Azadirachta indica in liquid-phase bioreactors.

PubMed

Srivastava, Smita; Srivastava, Ashok K

2013-11-01

Batch cultivation of Azadirachta indica hairy roots was carried out in different liquid-phase bioreactor configurations (stirred-tank, bubble column, bubble column with polypropylene basket, and polyurethane foam disc as root supports) to investigate possible scale-up of the A. indica hairy root culture for in vitro production of the biopesticide azadirachtin. The hairy roots failed to grow in the conventional bioreactor designs (stirred tank and bubble column). However, modified bubble column reactor (with polyurethane foam as root support) configuration facilitated high-density culture of A. indica hairy roots with a biomass production of 9.2 g l(-1)dry weight and azadirachtin yield of 3.2 mg g(-1) leading to a volumetric productivity of azadirachtin as 1.14 mg l(-1) day(-1). The antifeedant activity in the hairy roots was also evaluated by no choice feeding tests with known concentrations of the hairy root powder and its solvent extract separately on the desert locust Schistocerca gregaria. The hairy root powder and its solvent extract demonstrated a high level of antifeedant activity (with an antifeedant index of 97 % at a concentration of 2 % w/v and 83 % at a concentration of 0.05 % (w/v), respectively, in ethanol).

HAER Level II Documentation of Launch Complexes 1/2, 3/4, 9/10, 14, and 34 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

Helium was used for first stage pressurization, for upper-stage in-flight storage spheres, and for liquid oxygen tank bubbling to prevent temperature ...LOX liquid oxygen MFL Missile Firing Laboratory MIPR Military Interdepartmental Purchase Request MTTP multi-service tactics, techniques, and...TR-16-1 vi Introduction Background Congress codified the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), the nation’s most effective cultural

Pump for molten metal or other fluid

DOEpatents

Horton, James A.; Brown, Donald L.

1994-01-01

A pump having no moving parts which can be used to pump high temperature molten metal or other fluids in a vacuum or low pressure environment, and a method for pumping such fluids. The pump combines elements of a bubble pump with a trap which isolates the vacuum or low pressure region from the gas used to create the bubbles. When used in a vacuum the trap prevents the pumping gas from escaping into the isolated region and thereby reducing the quality of the vacuum. The pump includes a channel in which a pumping gas is forced under pressure into a cavity where bubbles are formed. The cavity is in contact with a reservoir which contains the molten metal or other fluid which is to be pumped. The bubbles rise up into a column (or pump tube) carrying the fluid with them. At the top of the column is located a deflector which causes the bubbles to burst and the drops of pumped fluid to fall into a trap. The fluid accumulates in the trap, eventually forcing its way to an outlet. A roughing pump can be used to withdraw the pumping gas from the top of the column and assist with maintaining the vacuum or low pressure environment.

Technical Note: Detection of gas bubble leakage via correlation of water column multibeam images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider von Deimling, J.; Papenberg, C.

2012-03-01

Hydroacoustic detection of natural gas release from the seafloor has been conducted in the past by using singlebeam echosounders. In contrast, modern multibeam swath mapping systems allow much wider coverage, higher resolution, and offer 3-D spatial correlation. Up to the present, the extremely high data rate hampers water column backscatter investigations and more sophisticated visualization and processing techniques are needed. Here, we present water column backscatter data acquired with a 50 kHz prototype multibeam system over a period of 75 seconds. Display types are of swath-images as well as of a "re-sorted" singlebeam presentation. Thus, individual and/or groups of gas bubbles rising from the 24 m deep seafloor clearly emerge in the acoustic images, making it possible to estimate rise velocities. A sophisticated processing scheme is introduced to identify those rising gas bubbles in the hydroacoustic data. We apply a cross-correlation technique adapted from particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) to the acoustic backscatter images. Temporal and spatial drift patterns of the bubbles are assessed and are shown to match very well to measured and theoretical rise patterns. The application of this processing to our field data gives clear results with respect to unambiguous bubble detection and remote bubble rise velocimetry. The method can identify and exclude the main source of misinterpretations, i.e. fish-mediated echoes. Although image-based cross-correlation techniques are well known in the field of fluid mechanics for high resolution and non-inversive current flow field analysis, we present the first application of this technique as an acoustic bubble detector.

Processes and catalysts for conducting Fischer-Tropsch synthesis in a slurry bubble column reactor

DOEpatents

Singleton, A.H.; Oukaci, R.; Goodwin, J.G.

1999-08-17

Processes and catalysts are disclosed for conducting Fischer-Tropsch synthesis in a slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR). One aspect of the invention involves the use of cobalt catalysts without noble metal promotion in an SBCR. Another aspect involves using palladium promoted cobalt catalysts in an SBCR. Methods for preparing noble metal promoted catalysts via totally aqueous impregnation and procedures for producing attrition resistant catalysts are also provided. 1 fig.

Applications of multi-frequency single beam sonar fisheries analysis methods for seep quantification and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Price, V.; Weber, T.; Jerram, K.; Doucet, M.

2016-12-01

The analysis of multi-frequency, narrow-band single-beam acoustic data for fisheries applications has long been established, with methodology focusing on characterizing targets in the water column by utilizing complex algorithms and false-color time series data to create and compare frequency response curves for dissimilar biological groups. These methods were built on concepts developed for multi-frequency analysis of satellite imagery for terrestrial analysis and have been applied to a broad range of data types and applications. Single-beam systems operating at multiple frequencies are also used for the detection and identification of seeps in water column data. Here we incorporate the same analysis and visualization techniques used for fisheries applications to attempt to characterize and quantify seeps by creating and comparing frequency response curves and applying false coloration to shallow and deep multi-channel seep data. From this information, we can establish methods to differentiate bubble size in the echogram and differentiate seep composition. These techniques are also useful in differentiating plume content from biological noise (volume reverberation) created by euphausid layers and fish with gas-filled swim bladders. The combining of the multiple frequencies using false coloring and other image analysis techniques after applying established normalization and beam pattern correction algorithms is a novel approach to quantitatively describing seeps. Further, this information could be paired with geological models, backscatter, and bathymetry data to assess seep distribution.

Study of a Novel Method for the Thermolysis of Solutes in Aqueous Solution Using a Low Temperature Bubble Column Evaporator.

PubMed

Shahid, Muhammad; Xue, Xinkai; Fan, Chao; Ninham, Barry W; Pashley, Richard M

2015-06-25

An enhanced thermal decomposition of chemical compounds in aqueous solution has been achieved at reduced solution temperatures. The technique exploits hitherto unrecognized properties of a bubble column evaporator (BCE). It offers better heat transfer efficiency than conventional heat transfer equipment. This is obtained via a continuous flow of hot, dry air bubbles of optimal (1-3 mm) size. Optimal bubble size is maintained by using the bubble coalescence inhibition property of some salts. This novel method is illustrated by a study of thermal decomposition of ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) and potassium persulfate (K2S2O8) in aqueous solutions. The decomposition occurs at significantly lower temperatures than those needed in bulk solution. The process appears to work via the continuous production of hot (e.g., 150 °C) dry air bubbles, which do not heat the solution significantly but produce a transient hot surface layer around each rising bubble. This causes the thermal decomposition of the solute. The decomposition occurs due to the effective collision of the solute with the surface of the hot bubbles. The new process could, for example, be applied to the regeneration of the ammonium bicarbonate draw solution used in forward osmosis.

Gas transport and vesicularity in low-viscosity liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pioli, Laura; Bonadonna, Costanza; Abdulkareem, Lokman; Azzopardi, Barry; Phillips, Jeremy

2010-05-01

Vesicle textures of basaltic scoria preserve information on magma bubble content at fragmentation and are commonly used to constrain degassing, vesiculation and magma permeability. These studies are based on the assumption that microscale textures are representative of the conduit-scale structures and processes. However, the conditions for which this assumption is valid have not been investigated in detail. We have investigated conduit-scale structures by performing a series of experiments of separate two-phase flows in a 6.5-m high cylindrical bubble column using a combination of air with pure glucose syrup, water-syrup mixtures and pure water to reproduce open-system degassing and strombolian activity conditions in the upper volcanic conduit (i.e. at very low or zero liquid fluxes). We have varied gas fluxes, initial liquid height, gas inlet configuration and liquid viscosity and analyzed flow regimes and properties. Temperature and pressure were measured at several heights along the pipe and vesicularity was calculated using pressure data, liquid level measurements and an Electrical Capacitance tomography (ECT) system, which measures instantaneous vesicularity and phase distribution from capacitance measurements between pairs of electrodes placed uniformly around the pipe circumference. The aim of the experiments was to identify the effect of gas-flow rates on the flow regimes (i.e. bubbly, slug, churn and annular), the main degassing structures and the total gas content of the column. The effect of increasing and decreasing gas flow rates was also studied to check hysteresis effects. Results indicate that the vesicularity of the liquid column depends primarily on gas flux, whereas flow regimes exert a minor control. In fact, vesicularity increases with gas flux following a power-law trend whose exponent depends on the viscosity of the liquid. In addition, distributions of instantaneous gas fraction in the column cross section during syrup experiments have shown that gas is mainly transported by large, conduit-size bubbles rising in a microvesicular liquid. Coalescence processes occur throughout the whole column, and are strongly affected by bubble size, shearing and flow dynamics. Increasing gas fluxes increases frequency and length of the large bubbles but does not affect the concentration of small bubbles in the liquid matrix. Scaling of these experiments suggest that these conditions could be met in low viscosity, crystal-poor magmas and we therefore suggest that this dynamics could also characterize two-phase flow in open conduit mafic systems.

Methane Bubbles Transport Particles From Contaminated Sediment to a Lake Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delwiche, K.; Hemond, H.

2017-12-01

Methane bubbling from aquatic sediments has long been known to transport carbon to the atmosphere, but new evidence presented here suggests that methane bubbles also transport particulate matter to a lake surface. This transport pathway is of particular importance in lakes with contaminated sediments, as bubble transport could increase human exposure to toxic metals. The Upper Mystic Lake in Arlington, MA has a documented history of methane bubbling and sediment contamination by arsenic and other heavy metals, and we have conducted laboratory and field studies demonstrating that methane bubbles are capable of transporting sediment particles over depths as great as 15 m in Upper Mystic Lake. Methane bubble traps were used in-situ to capture particles adhered to bubble interfaces, and to relate particle mass transport to bubble flux. Laboratory studies were conducted in a custom-made 15 m tall water column to quantify the relationship between water column height and the mass of particulate transport. We then couple this particle transport data with historical estimates of ebullition from Upper Mystic Lake to quantify the significance of bubble-mediated particle transport to heavy metal cycling within the lake. Results suggest that methane bubbles can represent a significant pathway for contaminated sediment to reach surface waters even in relatively deep water bodies. Given the frequent co-occurrence of contaminated sediments and high bubble flux rates, and the potential for human exposure to heavy metals, it will be critical to study the significance of this transport pathway for a range of sediment and contaminant types.

Mixing on the Heard Island Plateau during HEOBI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robertson, R.

2016-12-01

On the plateau near Heard and McDonald Islands, the water column was nearly always well mixed. Typically, temperature differences between the surface and the bottom, 100-200 m, were less than 0.2oC and often less that 0.1oC. Surface stratification developed through insolation and deep primarily through a combination of upwelling from canyons and over the edge of the plateau and tidal advection. This stratification was primarily removed by a combination of wind and tidal mixing. Persistent winds of 30 knots mixed the upper 20-50 m. Strong wind events, 40-60 knots, mixed the water column to 100-200 m depth, which over the plateau, was often the entire water column. Benthic tidal friction mixed the bottom 30-50 m. Although the water column was unstratified at the two plume sites intensively investigated, tidal velocities were baroclinic, probably due to topographic controls. Tidal advection changed the bottom temperatures by 0.5oC within 8 hours, more than doubling the prior stratification. Wind mixing quickly homogenized the water column, resulting in the surface often showing the deeper upwelling and advective events. Although acoustic plumes with bubbles were observed in the water column, there was no evidence of geothermal vents or geothermal influence on temperatures. Mixing by bubbles rising in the water column was indistinguishable from the wind and tidal mixing, although the strongest upward vertical velocities were observed at the sites of these acoustic/bubble plumes.

Multi-stage classification method oriented to aerial image based on low-rank recovery and multi-feature fusion sparse representation.

PubMed

Ma, Xu; Cheng, Yongmei; Hao, Shuai

2016-12-10

Automatic classification of terrain surfaces from an aerial image is essential for an autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) landing at an unprepared site by using vision. Diverse terrain surfaces may show similar spectral properties due to the illumination and noise that easily cause poor classification performance. To address this issue, a multi-stage classification algorithm based on low-rank recovery and multi-feature fusion sparse representation is proposed. First, color moments and Gabor texture feature are extracted from training data and stacked as column vectors of a dictionary. Then we perform low-rank matrix recovery for the dictionary by using augmented Lagrange multipliers and construct a multi-stage terrain classifier. Experimental results on an aerial map database that we prepared verify the classification accuracy and robustness of the proposed method.

Self assembly, mobilization, and flotation of crude oil contaminated sand particles as granular shells on gas bubbles in water.

PubMed

Tansel, Berrin; Boglaienko, Daria

2017-01-01

Contaminant fate and transport studies and models include transport mechanisms for colloidal particles and dissolved ions which can be easily moved with water currents. However, mobilization of much larger contaminated granular particles (i.e., sand) in sediments have not been considered as a possible mechanism due to the relatively larger size of sand particles and their high bulk density. We conducted experiments to demonstrate that oil contaminated granular particles (which exhibit hydrophobic characteristics) can attach on gas bubbles to form granular shells and transfer from the sediment phase to the water column. The interactions and conditions necessary for the oil contaminated granular particles to self assemble as tightly packed granular shells on the gas bubbles which transfer from sediment phase to the water column were evaluated both experimentally and theoretically for South Louisiana crude oil and quartz sand particles. Analyses showed that buoyancy forces can be adequate to move the granular shell forming around the air bubbles if the bubble radius is above 0.001mm for the sand particles with 0.28mm diameter. Relatively high magnitude of the Hamaker constant for the oil film between sand and air (5.81×10 -20 J for air-oil-sand) indicates that air bubbles have high affinity to attach on the oil film that is on the sand particles in comparison to attaching to the sand particles without the oil film in water (1.60×10 -20 J for air-water-sand). The mobilization mechanism of the contaminated granular particles with gas bubbles can occur in natural environments resulting in transfer of granular particles from sediments to the water column. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magma Vesiculation and Infrasonic Activity in Open Conduit Volcanoes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colo', L.; Baker, D. R.; Polacci, M.; Ripepe, M.

2007-12-01

At persistently active basaltic volcanoes such as Stromboli, Italy degassing of the magma column can occur in "passive" and "active" conditions. Passive degassing is generally understood as a continuous, non explosive release of gas mainly from the open summit vents and subordinately from the conduit's wall or from fumaroles. In passive degassing generally gas is in equilibrium with atmospheric pressure, while in active degassing the gas approaches the surface at overpressurized conditions. During active degassing (or puffing), the magma column is interested by the bursting of small gas bubbles at the magma free surface and, as a consequence, the active degassing process generates infrasonic signals. We postulated, in this study, that the rate and the amplitude of infrasonic activity is somehow linked to the rate and the volume of the overpressured gas bubbles, which are generated in the magma column. Our hypothesis is that infrasound is controlled by the quantities of gas exsolved in the magma column and then, that a relationship between infrasound and the vesiculation process should exist. In order to achieve this goal, infrasonic records and bubble size distributions of scoria samples from normal explosive activity at Stromboli processed via X ray tomography have been compared. We observed that the cumulative distribution for both data sets follow similar power laws, indicating that both processes are controlled by a scale invariant phenomenon. However the power law is not stable but changes in different scoria clasts, reflecting when gas bubble nucleation is predominant over bubbles coalescence and viceversa. The power law also changes for the infrasonic activity from time to time, suggesting that infrasound may be controlled also by a different gas exsolution within the magma column. Changes in power law distributions are the same for infrasound and scoria indicating that they are linked to the same process acting in the magmatic system. We suggest that monitoring infrasound on an active volcano could represent an alternative way to monitor the vesiculation process of an open conduit system.

Aeration costs in stirred-tank and bubble column bioreactors

DOE PAGES

Humbird, D.; Davis, R.; McMillan, J. D.

2017-08-10

To overcome knowledge gaps in the economics of large-scale aeration for production of commodity products, Aspen Plus is used to simulate steady-state oxygen delivery in both stirred-tank and bubble column bioreactors, using published engineering correlations for oxygen mass transfer as a function of aeration rate and power input, coupled with new equipment cost estimates developed in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator and validated against vendor quotations. Here, these simulations describe the cost efficiency of oxygen delivery as a function of oxygen uptake rate and vessel size, and show that capital and operating costs for oxygen delivery drop considerably moving from standard-sizemore » (200 m 3) to world-class size (500 m 3) reactors, but only marginally in further scaling up to hypothetically large (1000 m 3) reactors. Finally, this analysis suggests bubble-column reactor systems can reduce overall costs for oxygen delivery by 10-20% relative to stirred tanks at low to moderate oxygen transfer rates up to 150 mmol/L-h.« less

Aeration costs in stirred-tank and bubble column bioreactors

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

Humbird, D.; Davis, R.; McMillan, J. D.

To overcome knowledge gaps in the economics of large-scale aeration for production of commodity products, Aspen Plus is used to simulate steady-state oxygen delivery in both stirred-tank and bubble column bioreactors, using published engineering correlations for oxygen mass transfer as a function of aeration rate and power input, coupled with new equipment cost estimates developed in Aspen Capital Cost Estimator and validated against vendor quotations. Here, these simulations describe the cost efficiency of oxygen delivery as a function of oxygen uptake rate and vessel size, and show that capital and operating costs for oxygen delivery drop considerably moving from standard-sizemore » (200 m 3) to world-class size (500 m 3) reactors, but only marginally in further scaling up to hypothetically large (1000 m 3) reactors. Finally, this analysis suggests bubble-column reactor systems can reduce overall costs for oxygen delivery by 10-20% relative to stirred tanks at low to moderate oxygen transfer rates up to 150 mmol/L-h.« less

Enhancing gas-liquid mass transfer rates in non-newtonian fermentations by confining mycelial growth to microbeads in a bubble column

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

Gbewonyo, K.; Wang, D.I.C.

The performance of a penicillin fermentation was assessed in a laboratory-scale bubble column fermentor, with mycelial growth confined to the pore matrix of celite beads. Final cell densities of 29 g/L and penicillin titres of 5.5 g/L were obtained in the confined cell cultures. In comparison, cultures of free mycelial cells grown in the absence of beads experienced dissolved oxygen limitations in the bubble column, giving only 17 g/L final cell concentrations with equally low penicillin titres of 2 g/L. The better performance of the confined cell cultures was attributed to enhanced gas liquid mass transfer rates, with mass transfermore » coefficients (k /SUB L/ a) two to three times higher than those determined in the free cell cultures. Furthermore, the confined cell cultures showed more efficient utilization of power input for mass transfer, providing up to 50% reduction in energy requirements for aeration.« less

Effects of Solution Chemistry on Nano-Bubbles Transport in Saturated Porous Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamamoto, S.; Takemura, T.; Suzuki, K.; Nihei, N.; Nishimura, T.

2017-12-01

Nano-bubbles (NBs) have a considerable potential for the remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated by organic compounds, especially when used in conjunction with bioremediation technologies. Understanding the transport mechanisms of NBs in soils is essential to optimize NB-based remediation techniques. In this study, one-dimensional column transport experiments using glass beads with 0.1 mm size were conducted, where NBs created by oxygen gas at different pH and ionic strength were injected to the column at the constant flow rate. The NBs concentration in the effluent was quantified using a resonant mass measurement technique. Effects of solution chemistry of the NBs water on NB transport in the porous media were investigated. The results showed that attachment of NBs was enhanced under higher ionic strength and lower pH conditions, caused by the reduced repulsive force between NBs and glass beads. In addition, bubble size distributions in the effluents showed that relatively larger NBs were retained in the column. This trend was more significant at lower pH condition.

CO2 Absorption from Biogas by Glycerol: Conducted in Semi-Batch Bubble Column

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

puji lestari, Pratiwi; Mindaryani, Aswati; Wirawan, S. K.

2018-03-01

Biogas is a renewable energy source that has been developed recently. The main contents of Biogas itself are Methane and carbon dioxide (CO2) where Methane is the main component of biogas with CO2 as the highest impurities. The quality of biogas depends on the CO2 content, the lower CO2 levels, the higher biogas quality. Absorption is one of the methods to reduce CO2 level. The selections of absorbent and appropriate operating parameters are important factors in the CO2 absorption from biogas. This study aimed to find out the design parameters for CO2 absorption using glycerol that represented by the overall mass transfer coefficient (KLa) and Henry’s constant (H). This study was conducted in semi-batch bubble column. Mixed gas was contacted with glycerol in a bubble column. The concentration of CO2 in the feed gas inlet and outlet columns were analysed by Gas Chromatograph. The variables observed in this study were superficial gas velocity and temperatures. The results showed that higher superficial gas velocity and lower temperature increased the rate of absorption process and the amount of CO2 absorbed.

CFD Simulation of flow pattern in a bubble column reactor for forming aerobic granules and its development.

PubMed

Fan, Wenwen; Yuan, LinJiang; Li, Yonglin

2018-06-22

The flow pattern is considered to play an important role in the formation of aerobic granular sludge in a bubble column reactor; therefore, it is necessary to understand the behavior of the flow in the reactor. A three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation for bubble column reactor was established to visualize the flow patterns of two-phase air-liquid flow and three-phase air-liquid-sludge flow under different ratios of height to diameter (H/D ratio) and superficial gas upflow velocities (SGVs). Moreover, a simulation of the three-phase flow pattern at the same SGV and different characteristics of the sludge was performed in this study. The results show that not only SGV but also properties of sludge involve the transformation of flow behaviors and relative velocity between liquid and sludge. For the original activated sludge floc to cultivate aerobic granules, the flow pattern has nothing to do with sludge, but is influenced by SGV, and the vortices is occurred and the relative velocity is increased with an increase in SGV; the two-phase flow can simplify the three-phase flow that predicts the flow pattern development in bubble column reactor (BCR) for aerobic granulation. For the aerobic granules, the liquid flow behavior developed from the symmetrical circular flow to numbers and small-size vortices with an increase in the sludge diameter, the relative velocity is amount up to u r  = 5.0, it is 29.4 times of original floc sludge.

Champagne experiences various rhythmical bubbling regimes in a flute.

PubMed

Liger-Belair, Gérard; Tufaile, Alberto; Jeandet, Philippe; Sartorelli, José-Carlos

2006-09-20

Bubble trains are seen rising gracefully from a few points on the glass wall (called nucleation sites) whenever champagne is poured into a glass. As time passes during the gas-discharging process, the careful observation of some given bubble columns reveals that the interbubble distance may change suddenly, thus revealing different rhythmical bubbling regimes. Here, it is reported that the transitions between the different bubbling regimes of some nucleation sites during gas discharging is a process which may be ruled by a strong interaction between tiny gas pockets trapped inside the nucleation site and/or also by an interaction between the tiny bubbles just blown from the nucleation site.

In silico metabolic engineering of Clostridium ljungdahlii for synthesis gas fermentation.

PubMed

Chen, Jin; Henson, Michael A

2016-11-01

Synthesis gas fermentation is one of the most promising routes to convert synthesis gas (syngas; mainly comprised of H 2 and CO) to renewable liquid fuels and chemicals by specialized bacteria. The most commonly studied syngas fermenting bacterium is Clostridium ljungdahlii, which produces acetate and ethanol as its primary metabolic byproducts. Engineering of C. ljungdahlii metabolism to overproduce ethanol, enhance the synthesize of the native byproducts lactate and 2,3-butanediol, and introduce the synthesis of non-native products such as butanol and butyrate has substantial commercial value. We performed in silico metabolic engineering studies using a genome-scale reconstruction of C. ljungdahlii metabolism and the OptKnock computational framework to identify gene knockouts that were predicted to enhance the synthesis of these native products and non-native products, introduced through insertion of the necessary heterologous pathways. The OptKnock derived strategies were often difficult to assess because increase product synthesis was invariably accompanied by decreased growth. Therefore, the OptKnock strategies were further evaluated using a spatiotemporal metabolic model of a syngas bubble column reactor, a popular technology for large-scale gas fermentation. Unlike flux balance analysis, the bubble column model accounted for the complex tradeoffs between increased product synthesis and reduced growth rates of engineered mutants within the spatially varying column environment. The two-stage methodology for deriving and evaluating metabolic engineering strategies was shown to yield new C. ljungdahlii gene targets that offer the potential for increased product synthesis under realistic syngas fermentation conditions. Copyright © 2016 International Metabolic Engineering Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Method for enhancing selectivity and recovery in the fractional flotation of particles in a flotation column

DOEpatents

Klunder, Edgar B [Bethel Park, PA

2011-08-09

The method relates to particle separation from a feed stream. The feed stream is injected directly into the froth zone of a vertical flotation column in the presence of a counter-current reflux stream. A froth breaker generates a reflux stream and a concentrate stream, and the reflux stream is injected into the froth zone to mix with the interstitial liquid between bubbles in the froth zone. Counter-current flow between the plurality of bubbles and the interstitial liquid facilitates the attachment of higher hydrophobicity particles to bubble surfaces as lower hydrophobicity particles detach. The height of the feed stream injection and the reflux ratio may be varied in order to optimize the concentrate or tailing stream recoveries desired based on existing operating conditions.

Bubbles in extended inflation and multi-production of universes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakai, Nobuyuki; Maeda, Kei-ichi

Developing the thin-wall method of Israel, we present a formalism to investigate bubble dynamics in generalized Einstein theories. We derive the equations of motion for a bubble, finding that the space-time inside a bubble is always inhomogeneous. Applying this formalism to extended inflation, we find the following two results: (1) Any true vacuum bubble expands, contrary to the results of Goldwirth-Zaglauer, who claim that bubbles created initially later collapse. We show that their initial conditions for collapsing bubbles are physically inconsistent. (2) Concerning the global space-time structure of the Universe in extended inflation, we show that worm-holes are produced as in old inflation, resulting in the multi-production of universes.

The effects of a decompression on seismic parameter profiles in a gas-charged magma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sturton, Susan; Neuberg, Jürgen

2003-11-01

Seismic velocities in a gas-charged magma vary with depth and time. Relationships between pressure, density, exsolved gas content, and seismic velocity are derived and used in conjunction with expressions describing diffusive bubble growth to find a series of velocity profiles which depend on time. An equilibrium solution is obtained by considering a column of magma in which the gas distribution corresponds to the magmastatic pressure profile with depth. Decompression events of various sizes are simulated, and the resulting disequilibrium between the gas pressure and magmastatic pressure leads to bubble growth and therefore to a change of seismic velocity and density with time. Bubble growth stops when the system reaches a new equilibrium. The corresponding volume increase is accommodated by accelerating the magma column upwards and an extrusion of lava. A timescale for the system to return to equilibrium can be obtained. The effect of changes in magma viscosity and bubble number density is examined.

Hydrodynamic effects of air sparging on hollow fiber membranes in a bubble column reactor.

PubMed

Xia, Lijun; Law, Adrian Wing-Keung; Fane, Anthony G

2013-07-01

Air sparging is now a standard approach to reduce concentration polarization and fouling of membrane modules in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). The hydrodynamic shear stresses, bubble-induced turbulence and cross flows scour the membrane surfaces and help reduce the deposit of foulants onto the membrane surface. However, the detailed quantitative knowledge on the effect of air sparging remains lacking in the literature due to the complex hydrodynamics generated by the gas-liquid flows. To date, there is no valid model that describes the relationship between the membrane fouling performance and the flow hydrodynamics. The present study aims to examine the impact of hydrodynamics induced by air sparging on the membrane fouling mitigation in a quantitative manner. A modelled hollow fiber module was placed in a cylindrical bubble column reactor at different axial heights with the trans-membrane pressure (TMP) monitored under constant flux conditions. The configuration of bubble column without the membrane module immersed was identical to that studied by Gan et al. (2011) using Phase Doppler Anemometry (PDA), to ensure a good quantitative understanding of turbulent flow conditions along the column height. The experimental results showed that the meandering flow regime which exhibits high flow instability at the 0.3 m is more beneficial to fouling alleviation compared with the steady flow circulation regime at the 0.6 m. The filtration tests also confirmed the existence of an optimal superficial air velocity beyond which a further increase is of no significant benefit on the membrane fouling reduction. In addition, the alternate aeration provided by two air stones mounted at the opposite end of the diameter of the bubble column was also studied to investigate the associated flow dynamics and its influence on the membrane filtration performance. It was found that with a proper switching interval and membrane module orientation, the membrane fouling can be effectively controlled with even smaller superficial air velocity than the optimal value provided by a single air stone. Finally, the testing results with both inorganic and organic feeds showed that the solid particle composition and particle size distribution all contribute to the cake formation in a membrane filtration system. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fermi Bubbles: an elephant in the gamma-ray sky

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malyshev, Dmitry

2017-03-01

The Fermi bubbles are one of the most remarkable features in the gamma-ray sky revealed by the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT). The nature of the gamma-ray emission and the origin of the bubbles are still open questions. In this note, we will review some basic features of leptonic and hadronic modes of gamma-ray production. At the moment, gamma rays are our best method to study the bubbles, but in order to resolve the origin of the bubbles multi-wavelength and multi-messenger observations will be crucial.

Hydrodynamics, mass transfer, and yeast culture performance of a column bioreactor with ejector.

PubMed

Prokop, A; Janík, P; Sobotka, M; Krumphanzl, V

1983-04-01

A bubble column fitted with an ejector has been tested for its physical and biological performance. The axial diffusion coefficient of the liquid phase in the presence of electrolytes and ethanol was measured by a stimulus-response technique with subsequent evaluation by means of a diffusion model. In contrast to ordinary bubble columns, the coefficient of axial mixing is inversely dependent on the superficial air velocity. The liquid velocity acts in an opposite direction to the backmixing flow in the column. The measurement of volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient in the presence of electrolytes and ethanol was performed using a dynamic gassing-in method adapted for a column. The data were correlated with the superficial air and liquid velocities, total power input, and power for aeration and mixing; the economy coefficient of oxygen transfer was used for finding an optimum ratio of power for aeration and pumping. Growth experiments with Candida utilis on ethanol confirmed some of the above results. Biomass productivity of 2.5 g L(-1) h(-1) testifies about a good transfer capability of the column. Columns fitted with pneumatic and/or hydraulic energy input may be promising for aerobic fermentations considering their mass transfer and mixing characteristics.

Characterization of oxygen transfer in miniature and lab-scale bubble column bioreactors and comparison of microbial growth performance based on constant k(L)a.

PubMed

Doig, Steven D; Ortiz-Ochoa, Kenny; Ward, John M; Baganz, Frank

2005-01-01

This work describes the engineering characterization of miniature (2 mL) and laboratory-scale (100 mL) bubble column bioreactors useful for the cultivation of microbial cells. These bioreactors were constructed of glass and used a range of sintered glass gas diffusers with differently sized pores to disperse humidified air within the liquid biomedium. The effect of the pressure of this supplied air on the breakthrough point for gas diffusers with different pore sizes was examined and could be predicted using the Laplace-Young equation. The influence of the superficial gas velocity (u(g)) on the volumetric mass transfer coefficient (k(L)a) was determined, and values of up to 0.09 s(-1) were observed in this work. Two modeling approaches were considered in order to predict and provide comparison criteria. The first related the volumetric power consumption (P/V) to the k(L)a and a good correlation was obtained for differently sized reactors with a given pore size, but this correlation was not satisfactory for bubble columns with different gas diffusers. Values for P/V ranged from about 10 to 400 W.m(-3). Second, a model was developed predicting bubble size (d(b)), bubble rising velocity (u(b)), gas hold-up (phi), liquid side mass transfer coefficient (k(L)), and thus the k(L)a using established theory and empirical correlations. Good agreement was found with our experimental data at different scales and pore sizes. Values for d(b) varied from 0.1 to 0.6 mm, and k(L) values between 1.7 and 9.8 x 10(-4) m.s(-1) were determined. Several E. coli cultivations were performed in the miniature bubble column at low and high k(L)a values, and the results were compared to those from a conventional stirred tank operated under identical k(L)a values. Results from the two systems were similar in terms of biomass growth rate and carbon source utilization.

Formation of electron energy spectra during magnetic reconnection in laser-produced plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Kai; Lu, Quanming; Huang, Can; Dong, Quanli; Wang, Huanyu; Fan, Feibin; Sheng, Zhengming; Wang, Shui; Zhang, Jie

2017-10-01

Energetic electron spectra formed during magnetic reconnection between two laser-produced plasma bubbles are investigated by the use of two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. It is found that the evolution of such an interaction between the two plasma bubbles can be separated into two distinct stages: squeezing and reconnection stages. In the squeezing stage, when the two plasma bubbles expand quickly and collide with each other, the magnetic field in the inflow region is greatly enhanced. In the second stage, a thin current sheet is formed between the two plasma bubbles, and then, magnetic reconnection occurs therein. During the squeezing stage, electrons are heated in the perpendicular direction by betatron acceleration due to the enhancement of the magnetic field around the plasma bubbles. Meanwhile, non-thermal electrons are generated by the Fermi mechanism when these electrons bounce between the two plasma bubbles approaching quickly and get accelerated mainly by the convective electric field associated with the plasma bubbles. During the reconnection stage, electrons get further accelerated mainly by the reconnection electric field in the vicinity of the X line. When the expanding speed of the plasma bubbles is sufficiently large, the formed electron energy spectra have a kappa distribution, where the lower energy part satisfies a Maxwellian function and the higher energy part is a power-law distribution. Moreover, the increase in the expanding speed will result in the hardening of formed power-law spectra in both the squeezing and reconnection stages.

Improvement of ore recovery efficiency in a flotation column cell using ultra-sonic enhanced bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filippov, L. O.; Royer, J. J.; Filippova, I. V.

2017-07-01

The ore process flotation technique is enhanced by using external ultra-sonic waves. Compared to the classical flotation method, the application of ultrasounds to flotation fluids generates micro-bubbles by hydrodynamic cavitation. Flotation performances increase was modelled as a result of increased probabilities of the particle-bubble attachment and reduced detachment probability under sonication. A simplified analytical Navier-Stokes model is used to predict the effect of ultrasonic waves on bubble behavior. If the theory is verified by experimentation, it predicts that the ultrasonic waves would create cavitation micro-bubbles, smaller than the flotation bubble added by the gas sparger. This effect leads to increasing the number of small bubbles in the liquid which promote particle-bubble attachment through coalescence between bubbles and micro-bubbles. The decrease in the radius of the flotation bubbles under external vibration forces has an additional effect by enhancing the bubble-particle collision. Preliminary results performed on a potash ore seem to confirm the theory.

A Better Method for Filling Pasteur Pipet Chromatography Columns

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ruekberg, Ben

2006-01-01

An alternative method for the preparation of Pasteur pipet chromatography columns is presented that allows the column to be filled with solvent without bubbles and allows greater control of fluid flow while the materials to be separated are added. Students are required to wear gloves and goggles and caution should be used while handling glass…

Abundances of Deuterium, Oxygen and Nitrogen in the Local Interstellar Medium: Overview of First Results from the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moos, H. W.; Sembach, K. R.; Vidal-Madjar, A.; York, D. G.; Friedman, S. D.; Hebrard, G.; Kruk, J. W.; Lehner, N.; Lemoine, M.; Sonneborn, G.;

A Multi-Wavelength Study of the Hot Component of the Interstellar Medium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nichols, Joy; Oliversen, Ronald K. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The goals of this research are as follows: (1) Using the large number of lines of sight available in the ME database, identify the lines of sight with high-velocity components in interstellar lines, from neutral species through Si VI, C IV, and N V; (2) Compare the column density of the main components (i.e. low velocity components) of the interstellar lines with distance, galactic longitude and latitude, and galactic radial position. Derive statistics on the distribution of components in space (e.g. mean free path, mean column density of a component). Compare with model predictions for the column densities in the walls of old SNR bubbles and superbubbles, in evaporating cloud boundaries and in turbulent mixing layers; (3) For the lines of sight associated with multiple high velocity, high ionization components, model the shock parameters for the associated superbubble and SNR to provide more accurate energy input information for hot phase models and galactic halo models. Thus far 49 lines of sight with at least one high velocity component to the C IV lines have been identified; and (4) Obtain higher resolution data for the lines of sight with high velocity components (and a few without) to further refine these models.

Semi-industrial experimental study on bauxite separation using a cell-column integration process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ning-ning; Zhou, Chang-chun; Cong, Long-fei; Cao, Wen-long; Zhou, You

2016-01-01

The cyclonic-static micro-bubble flotation column (FCSMC) is a highly efficient mineral processing equipment. In this study, a cell-column (FCSMC) integration process was investigated for the separation of bauxite and its feasibility was analyzed on a theoretical basis. The properties of low-grade bauxite ore from Henan Province, China were analyzed. Parameters such as reagent dosage, scraping bubble time, and pressure of the circulating pump during the sorting process were investigated and optimized to improve the flotation efficiency. On the basis of these parameters, continuous separation experiments were conducted. Bauxite concentrate with an aluminum-to-silicon (A/S) mass ratio of 6.37 and a 77.63wt% recovery rate were achieved via a flow sheet consisting of "fast flotation using a flotation cell, one roughing flotation and one cleaning flotation using flotation columns". Compared with the full-flotation-cells process, the cell-column integration process resulted in an increase of the A/S ratio by 0.41 and the recovery rate by 17.58wt%. Cell-column integration separation technology represents a new approach for the separation of middle-to-low-grade bauxite ore.

Contactless Inductive Bubble Detection in a Liquid Metal Flow

PubMed Central

Gundrum, Thomas; Büttner, Philipp; Dekdouk, Bachir; Peyton, Anthony; Wondrak, Thomas; Galindo, Vladimir; Eckert, Sven

2016-01-01

The detection of bubbles in liquid metals is important for many technical applications. The opaqueness and the high temperature of liquid metals set high demands on the measurement system. The high electrical conductivity of the liquid metal can be exploited for contactless methods based on electromagnetic induction. We will present a measurement system which consists of one excitation coil and a pickup coil system on the opposite sides of the pipe. With this sensor we were able to detect bubbles in a sodium flow inside a stainless steel pipe and bubbles in a column filled with a liquid Gallium alloy. PMID:26751444

A translating stage system for µ-PIV measurements surrounding the tip of a migrating semi-infinite bubble.

PubMed

Smith, B J; Yamaguchi, E; Gaver, D P

2010-01-01

We have designed, fabricated and evaluated a novel translating stage system (TSS) that augments a conventional micro particle image velocimetry (µ-PIV) system. The TSS has been used to enhance the ability to measure flow fields surrounding the tip of a migrating semi-infinite bubble in a glass capillary tube under both steady and pulsatile reopening conditions. With conventional µ-PIV systems, observations near the bubble tip are challenging because the forward progress of the bubble rapidly sweeps the air-liquid interface across the microscopic field of view. The translating stage mechanically cancels the mean bubble tip velocity, keeping the interface within the microscope field of view and providing a tenfold increase in data collection efficiency compared to fixed-stage techniques. This dramatic improvement allows nearly continuous observation of the flow field over long propagation distances. A large (136-frame) ensemble-averaged velocity field recorded with the TSS near the tip of a steadily migrating bubble is shown to compare well with fixed-stage results under identical flow conditions. Use of the TSS allows the ensemble-averaged measurement of pulsatile bubble propagation flow fields, which would be practically impossible using conventional fixed-stage techniques. We demonstrate our ability to analyze these time-dependent two-phase flows using the ensemble-averaged flow field at four points in the oscillatory cycle.

Ozonation kinetics of winery wastewater in a pilot-scale bubble column reactor.

PubMed

Lucas, Marco S; Peres, José A; Lan, Bing Yan; Li Puma, Gianluca

2009-04-01

The degradation of organic substances present in winery wastewater was studied in a pilot-scale, bubble column ozonation reactor. A steady reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was observed under the action of ozone at the natural pH of the wastewater (pH 4). At alkaline and neutral pH the degradation rate was accelerated by the formation of radical species from the decomposition of ozone. Furthermore, the reaction of hydrogen peroxide (formed from natural organic matter in the wastewater) and ozone enhances the oxidation capacity of the ozonation process. The monitoring of pH, redox potential (ORP), UV absorbance (254 nm), polyphenol content and ozone consumption was correlated with the oxidation of the organic species in the water. The ozonation of winery wastewater in the bubble column was analysed in terms of a mole balance coupled with ozonation kinetics modeled by the two-film theory of mass transfer and chemical reaction. It was determined that the ozonation reaction can develop both in and across different kinetic regimes: fast, moderate and slow, depending on the experimental conditions. The dynamic change of the rate coefficient estimated by the model was correlated with changes in the water composition and oxidant species.

Implementation of an acoustic-based methane flux estimation methodology in the Eastern Siberian Arctic Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weidner, E. F.; Weber, T. C.; Mayer, L. A.

2017-12-01

Quantifying methane flux originating from marine seep systems in climatically sensitive regions is of critically importance for current and future climate studies. Yet, the methane contribution from these systems has been difficult to estimate given the broad spatial scale of the ocean and the heterogeneity of seep activity. One such region is the Eastern Siberian Arctic Sea (ESAS), where bubble release into the shallow water column (<40 meters average depth) facilitates transport of methane to the atmosphere without oxidation. Quantifying the current seep methane flux from the ESAS is necessary to understand not only the total ocean methane budget, but also to provide baseline estimates against which future climate-induced changes can be measured. At the 2016 AGU fall meeting, we presented a new acoustic-based flux methodology using a calibrated broadband split-beam echosounder. The broad (14-24 kHz) bandwidth provides a vertical resolution of 10 cm, making possible the identification of single bubbles. After calibration using 64 mm copper sphere of known backscatter, the acoustic backscatter of individual bubbles is measured and compared to analytical models to estimate bubble radius. Additionally, bubbles are precisely located and traced upwards through the water column to estimate rise velocity. The combination of radius and rise velocity allows for gas flux estimation. Here, we follow up with the completed implementation of this methodology applied to the Herald Canyon region of the western ESAS. From the 68 recognized seeps, bubble radii and rise velocity were computed for more than 550 individual bubbles. The range of bubble radii, 1-6 mm, is comparable to those published by other investigators, while the radius dependent rise velocities are consistent with published models. Methane flux for the Herald Canyon region was estimated by extrapolation from individual seep flux values.

Revising the Local Bubble Model due to Solar Wind Charge Exchange X-ray Emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shelton, Robin L.

The hot Local Bubble surrounding the solar neighborhood has been primarily studied through observations of its soft X-ray emission. The measurements were obtained by attributing all of the observed local soft X-rays to the bubble. However, mounting evidence shows that the heliosphere also produces diffuse X-rays. The source is solar wind ions that have received an electron from another atom. The presence of this alternate explanation for locally produced diffuse X-rays calls into question the existence and character of the Local Bubble. This article addresses these questions. It reviews the literature on solar wind charge exchange (SWCX) X-ray production, finding that SWCX accounts for roughly half of the observed local 1/4 keV X-rays found at low latitudes. This article also makes predictions for the heliospheric O VI column density and intensity, finding them to be smaller than the observational error bars. Evidence for the continued belief that the Local Bubble contains hot gas includes the remaining local 1/4 keV intensity, the observed local O VI column density, and the need to fill the local region with some sort of plasma. If the true Local Bubble is half as bright as previously thought, then its electron density and thermal pressure are 1/sqrt{2} as great as previously thought, and its energy requirements and emission measure are 1/2 as great as previously thought. These adjustments can be accommodated easily, and, in fact, bring the Local Bubble's pressure more in line with that of the adjacent material. Suggestions for future work are made.

Well-posed Euler model of shock-induced two-phase flow in bubbly liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tukhvatullina, R. R.; Frolov, S. M.

2018-03-01

A well-posed mathematical model of non-isothermal two-phase two-velocity flow of bubbly liquid is proposed. The model is based on the two-phase Euler equations with the introduction of an additional pressure at the gas bubble surface, which ensures the well-posedness of the Cauchy problem for a system of governing equations with homogeneous initial conditions, and the Rayleigh-Plesset equation for radial pulsations of gas bubbles. The applicability conditions of the model are formulated. The model is validated by comparing one-dimensional calculations of shock wave propagation in liquids with gas bubbles with a gas volume fraction of 0.005-0.3 with experimental data. The model is shown to provide satisfactory results for the shock propagation velocity, pressure profiles, and the shock-induced motion of the bubbly liquid column.

Effect of electrolytes on bubble coalescence in columns observed with visualization techniques.

PubMed

Aguilera, María Eugenia; Ojeda, Antonieta; Rondón, Carolina; López De Ramos, Aura

2002-10-01

Bubble coalescence and the effect of electrolytes on this phenomenon have been previously studied. This interfacial phenomenon has attracted attention for reactor design/operation and enhanced oil recovery. Predicting bubble coalescence may help prevent low yields in reactors and predict crude oil recovery. Because of the importance of bubble coalescence, the objectives of this work were to improve the accuracy of measuring the percentage of coalescing bubbles and to observe the interfacial gas-liquid behavior. An experimental setup was designed and constructed. Bubble interactions were monitored with a visualization setup. The percentage of air bubble coalescence was 100% in distilled water, about 50% in 0.1 M sodium chloride (NaCl) aqueous solution, and 0% in 0.145 M NaCl aqueous solution. A reduction of the contact gas-liquid area was observed in distillate water. The volume of the resulting bubble was the sum of the original bubble volumes. Repulsion of bubbles was observed in NaCl solutions exceeding 0.07 M. The percentage of bubble coalescence diminishes as the concentration of NaCl chloride increases. High-speed video recording is an accurate technique to measure the percentage of bubble coalescence, and represents an important advance in gas-liquid interfacial studies.

Predicting the fate of methane emanating from the seafloor using a marine two-phase gas model in one dimension (M2PG1) - Example from a known Arctic methane seep site offshore Svalbard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jansson, Pär; Ferré, Benedicte

2017-04-01

Transport of methane in seawater occurs by diffusion and advection in the dissolved phase, and/or as free gas in form of bubbles. The fate of methane in bubbles emitted from the seafloor depends on both bubble size and ambient conditions. Larger bubbles can transport methane higher into the water column, potentially reaching the atmosphere and contributing to greenhouse gas concentrations and impacts. Single bubble or plume models have been used to predict the fate of bubble mediated methane gas emissions. Here, we present a new process based two-phase (free and dissolved) gas model in one dimension, which has the capability to dynamically couple water column properties such as temperature, salinity and dissolved gases with the free gas species contained in bubbles. The marine two-phase gas model in one dimension (M2PG1) uses a spectrum of bubbles and an Eulerian formulation, discretized on a finite-volume grid. It employs the most up-to-date equations for solubility and compressibility of the included gases, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and methane. M2PG1 is an extension of PROBE (Omstedt, 2011), which facilitates atmospheric coupling and turbulence closures to realistically predict vertical mixing of all properties, including dissolved methane. This work presents the model's first application in an Arctic Ocean environment at the landward limit of the methane-hydrate stability zone west of Svalbard, where we observe substantial methane bubble release over longer time periods. The research is part of the Centre for Arctic Gas Hydrate, Environment and Climate (CAGE) and is supported by the Research Council of Norway through its Centres of Excellence funding scheme grant No. 223259 and UiT. Omstedt, A. (2011). Guide to process based modeling of lakes and coastal seas: Springer.

Shallow-water gaseohydrothermal plume studies after massive eruption at Panarea, Aeolian Islands, Italy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tudino, T.; Bortoluzzi, G.; Aliani, S.

2014-03-01

Marine water dynamics in the near field of a massive gas eruption near Panarea (Aeolian Islands volcanic arc, SE Tyrrhenian Sea) is described. ADCP current-meters were deployed during the paroxysmal phase in 2002 and 2003 a few meters from the degassing vent, recording day-long time series. Datasets were sorted to remove errors and select good quality ensembles over the entire water column. Standard deviation of error velocity was considered a proxy for inhomogeneous velocity fields over beams. Time series intervals had been selected when the basic ADCP assumptions were fulfilled and random errors minimized. Backscatter data were also processed to identify bubbles in the water column with the aim of locating bubble-free ensembles. Reliable time series are selected combining these data. Two possible scenarios have been described: firstly, a highly dynamic situation with visible surface diverging rings of waves, entrainment on the lower part of the gas column, detrainment in the upper part and a stagnation line (SL) at mid depth where currents were close to zero and most of the gas bubbles spread laterally; secondly, a less dynamic situation with water entraining into the gas plume at all depths and no surface rings of diverging waves. Reasons for these different dynamics may be ascribed to changes in gas fluxes (one order of magnitude higher in 2002). Description of SL is important to quantify its position in the water column and timing for entrainment-detrainment, and it can be measured by ADCP and calculated from models.

Integration of Gas Enhanced Oil Recovery in Multiphase Fermentations for the Microbial Production of Fuels and Chemicals.

PubMed

Pedraza-de la Cuesta, Susana; Keijzers, Lore; van der Wielen, Luuk A M; Cuellar, Maria C

2018-04-01

In multiphase fermentations where the product forms a second liquid phase or where solvents are added for product extraction, turbulent conditions disperse the oil phase as droplets. Surface-active components (SACs) present in the fermentation broth can stabilize the product droplets thus forming an emulsion. Breaking this emulsion increases process complexity and consequently the production cost. In previous works, it has been proposed to promote demulsification of oil/supernatant emulsions in an off-line batch bubble column operating at low gas flow rate. The aim of this study is to test the performance of this recovery method integrated to a fermentation, allowing for continuous removal of the oil phase. A 500 mL bubble column is successfully integrated with a 2 L reactor during 24 h without affecting cell growth or cell viability. However, higher levels of surfactants and emulsion stability are measured in the integrated system compared to a base case, reducing its capacity for oil recovery. This is related to release of SACs due to cellular stress when circulating through the recovery column. Therefore, it is concluded that the gas bubble-induced oil recovery method allows for oil separation and cell recycling without compromising fermentation performance; however, tuning of the column parameters considering increased levels of SACs due to cellular stress is required for improving oil recovery. © 2018 The Authors. Biotechnology Journal Published by Wiley-VCHVerlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

One-dimensional model of inertial pumping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kornilovitch, Pavel E.; Govyadinov, Alexander N.; Markel, David P.; Torniainen, Erik D.

2013-02-01

A one-dimensional model of inertial pumping is introduced and solved. The pump is driven by a high-pressure vapor bubble generated by a microheater positioned asymmetrically in a microchannel. The bubble is approximated as a short-term impulse delivered to the two fluidic columns inside the channel. Fluid dynamics is described by a Newton-like equation with a variable mass, but without the mass derivative term. Because of smaller inertia, the short column refills the channel faster and accumulates a larger mechanical momentum. After bubble collapse the total fluid momentum is nonzero, resulting in a net flow. Two different versions of the model are analyzed in detail, analytically and numerically. In the symmetrical model, the pressure at the channel-reservoir connection plane is assumed constant, whereas in the asymmetrical model it is reduced by a Bernoulli term. For low and intermediate vapor bubble pressures, both models predict the existence of an optimal microheater location. The predicted net flow in the asymmetrical model is smaller by a factor of about 2. For unphysically large vapor pressures, the asymmetrical model predicts saturation of the effect, while in the symmetrical model net flow increases indefinitely. Pumping is reduced by nonzero viscosity, but to a different degree depending on the microheater location.

One-dimensional model of inertial pumping.

PubMed

Kornilovitch, Pavel E; Govyadinov, Alexander N; Markel, David P; Torniainen, Erik D

2013-02-01

A one-dimensional model of inertial pumping is introduced and solved. The pump is driven by a high-pressure vapor bubble generated by a microheater positioned asymmetrically in a microchannel. The bubble is approximated as a short-term impulse delivered to the two fluidic columns inside the channel. Fluid dynamics is described by a Newton-like equation with a variable mass, but without the mass derivative term. Because of smaller inertia, the short column refills the channel faster and accumulates a larger mechanical momentum. After bubble collapse the total fluid momentum is nonzero, resulting in a net flow. Two different versions of the model are analyzed in detail, analytically and numerically. In the symmetrical model, the pressure at the channel-reservoir connection plane is assumed constant, whereas in the asymmetrical model it is reduced by a Bernoulli term. For low and intermediate vapor bubble pressures, both models predict the existence of an optimal microheater location. The predicted net flow in the asymmetrical model is smaller by a factor of about 2. For unphysically large vapor pressures, the asymmetrical model predicts saturation of the effect, while in the symmetrical model net flow increases indefinitely. Pumping is reduced by nonzero viscosity, but to a different degree depending on the microheater location.

Investigating the emission, dissolution, and oxidation of CH4 within and around a seep bubble plume in the Gulf of Mexico.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leonte, M.; Kessler, J. D.; Socolofsky, S. A.

2016-02-01

One of the largest carbon reservoirs on the planet is stored as methane (CH4) in and below the seafloor. However, a large discrepancy exists between estimated fluxes of CH4 into the water column and CH4 fluxes from the sea surface to the atmosphere, suggesting that a significant fraction of CH4 released from seafloor seeps is dissolved and potentially removed through microbial oxidation. Here we present data investigating the fate of CH4 released from the Sleeping Dragon seep site in the Gulf of Mexico. The bubble plume was followed from the seafloor until it fully dissolved using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). Water samples were collected by the ROV at different depths as well as lateral transects through the bubble plume. These samples were analyzed for dissolved concentrations of methane, ethane, propane, and butane as well as the 13C isotopic ratio of methane. Furthermore, seep bubbles from the seafloor were also collected and analyzed for the same properties. Based on these chemical data, the rate of CH4 emission from the seafloor, oxidation in the water column, and dissolution are investigated.

Theoretical modelling and optimization of bubble column dehumidifier for a solar driven humidification-dehumidification system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjitha, P. Raj; Ratheesh, R.; Jayakumar, J. S.; Balakrishnan, Shankar

2018-02-01

Availability and utilization of energy and water are the top most global challenges being faced by the new millennium. At the present state water scarcity has become a global as well as a regional challenge. 40 % of world population faces water shortage. Challenge of water scarcity can be tackled only with increase in water supply beyond what is obtained from hydrological cycle. This can be achieved either by desalinating the sea water or by reusing the waste water. High energy requirement need to be overcome for either of the two processes. Of many desalination technologies, humidification dehumidification (HDH) technology powered by solar energy is widely accepted for small scale production. Detailed optimization studies on system have the potential to effectively utilize the solar energy for brackish water desalination. Dehumidification technology, specifically, require further study because the dehumidifier effectiveness control the energetic performance of the entire HDH system. The reason attributes to the high resistance involved to diffuse dilute vapor through air in a dehumidifier. The present work intends to optimize the design of a bubble column dehumidifier for a solar energy driven desalination process. Optimization is carried out using Matlab simulation. Design process will identify the unique needs of a bubble column dehumidifier in HDH system.

Gas holdup and flow regime transition in spider-sparger bubble column: effect of liquid phase properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Besagni, G.; Inzoli, F.; De Guido, G.; Pellegrini, L. A.

2017-01-01

This paper discusses the effects of the liquid velocity and the liquid phase properties on the gas holdup and the flow regime transition in a large-diameter and large-scale counter-current two-phase bubble column. In particular, we compared and analysed the experimental data obtained in our previous experimental studies. The bubble column is 5.3 m in height, has an inner diameter of 0.24 m, it was operated with gas superficial velocities in the range of 0.004-0.20 m/s and, in the counter-current mode, the liquid was recirculated up to a superficial velocity of -0.09 m/s. Air was used as the dispersed phase and various fluids (tap water, aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, ethanol and monoethylene glycol) were employed as liquid phases. The experimental dataset consist in gas holdup measurements and was used to investigate the global fluid dynamics and the flow regime transition between the homogeneous flow regime and the transition flow regime. We found that the liquid velocity and the liquid phase properties significantly affect the gas holdup and the flow regime transition. In this respect, a possible relationship (based on the lift force) between the flow regime transition and the gas holdup was proposed.

CFD simulation of fatty acid methyl ester production in bubble column reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salleh, N. S. Mohd; Nasir, N. F.

2017-09-01

Non-catalytic transesterification is one of the method that was used to produce the fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) by blowing superheated methanol bubbles continuously into the vegetable oil without using any catalyst. This research aimed to simulate the production of FAME from palm oil in a bubble column reactor. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulation was used to predict the distribution of fatty acid methyl ester and other product in the reactor. The fluid flow and component of concentration along the reaction time was investigated and the effects of reaction temperature (523 K and 563 K) on the non-catalytic transesterification process has been examined. The study was carried out using ANSYS CFX 17.1. The finding from the study shows that increasing the temperature leads to higher amount of fatty acid methyl ester can be produced in shorter time. On the other hand, concentration of the component such as triglyceride (TG), glycerol (GL) and fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) can be known when reaching the optimum condition.

Revising the Local Bubble Model due to Solar Wind Charge Exchange X-ray Emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shelton, Robin L.

2009-03-01

The hot Local Bubble surrounding the solar neighborhood has been primarily studied through observations of its soft X-ray emission. The measurements were obtained by attributing all of the observed local soft X-rays to the bubble. However, mounting evidence shows that the heliosphere also produces diffuse X-rays. The source is solar wind ions that have received an electron from another atom. The presence of this alternate explanation for locally produced diffuse X-rays calls into question the existence and character of the Local Bubble. This article addresses these questions. It reviews the literature on solar wind charge exchange (SWCX) X-ray production, finding that SWCX accounts for roughly half of the observed local 1/4 keV X-rays found at low latitudes. This article also makes predictions for the heliospheric O VI column density and intensity, finding them to be smaller than the observational error bars. Evidence for the continued belief that the Local Bubble contains hot gas includes the remaining local 1/4 keV intensity, the observed local O VI column density, and the need to fill the local region with some sort of plasma. If the true Local Bubble is half as bright as previously thought, then its electron density and thermal pressure are 1/sqrt{2} as great as previously thought, and its energy requirements and emission measure are 1/2 as great as previously thought. These adjustments can be accommodated easily, and, in fact, bring the Local Bubble’s pressure more in line with that of the adjacent material. Suggestions for future work are made.

Using a Novel Optical Sensor to Characterize Methane Ebullition Processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delwiche, K.; Hemond, H.; Senft-Grupp, S.

2015-12-01

We have built a novel bubble size sensor that is rugged, economical to build, and capable of accurately measuring methane bubble sizes in aquatic environments over long deployment periods. Accurate knowledge of methane bubble size is important to calculating atmospheric methane emissions from in-land waters. By routing bubbles past pairs of optical detectors, the sensor accurately measures bubbles sizes for bubbles between 0.01 mL and 1 mL, with slightly reduced accuracy for bubbles from 1 mL to 1.5 mL. The sensor can handle flow rates up to approximately 3 bubbles per second. Optional sensor attachments include a gas collection chamber for methane sampling and volume verification, and a detachable extension funnel to customize the quantity of intercepted bubbles. Additional features include a data-cable running from the deployed sensor to a custom surface buoy, allowing us to download data without disturbing on-going bubble measurements. We have successfully deployed numerous sensors in Upper Mystic Lake at depths down to 18 m, 1 m above the sediment. The resulting data gives us bubble size distributions and the precise timing of bubbling events over a period of several months. In addition to allowing us to characterize typical bubble size distributions, this data allows us to draw important conclusions about temporal variations in bubble sizes, as well as bubble dissolution rates within the water column.

Bubbles in Titan’s Seas: Nucleation, Growth, and RADAR Signature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cordier, Daniel; Liger-Belair, Gérard

2018-05-01

In the polar regions of Titan, the main satellite of Saturn, hydrocarbon seas have been discovered by the Cassini–Huygens mission. RADAR observations have revealed surprising and transient bright areas over the Ligeia Mare surface. As suggested by recent research, bubbles could explain these strange features. However, the nucleation and growth of such bubbles, together with their RADAR reflectivity, have never been investigated. All of these aspects are critical to an actual observation. We have thus applied the classical nucleation theory to our context, and we developed a specific radiative transfer model that is appropriate for bubble streams in cryogenic liquids. According to our results, the sea bed appears to be the most plausible place for the generation of bubbles, leading to a signal comparable to observations. This conclusion is supported by thermodynamic arguments and by RADAR properties of a bubbly column. The latter are also valid in the case of bubble plumes, due to gas leaking from the sea floor.

The hot chocolate effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crawford, Frank S.

1982-05-01

The ''hot chocolate effect'' was investigated quantitatively, using water. If a tall glass cylinder is filled nearly completely with water and tapped on the bottom with a softened mallet one can detect the lowest longitudinal mode of the water column, for which the height of the water column is one-quarter wavelength. If the cylinder is rapidly filled with hot tap water containing dissolved air the pitch of that mode may descend by nearly three octaves during the first few seconds as the air comes out of solution and forms bubbles. Then the pitch gradually rises as the bubbles float to the top. A simple theoretical expression for the pitch ratio is derived and compared with experiment. The agreement is good to within the 10% accuracy of the experiments.

Role of fluid in the mechanism of formation of volcaniclastic and coherent kimberlite facies: a diamond perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fedortchouk, Yana; Chinn, Ingrid

2016-04-01

Dissolution features on diamonds recovered from kimberlites vary depending on the dissolution conditions and can be used as a reliable proxy for volatiles and their role in kimberlite emplacement. Volatiles determine the mechanism of magma emplacement; variation in volatile content and CO2/CO2+H2O ratio may affect the geology of kimberlite bodies and formation of coherent vs. volcaniclastic kimberlite facies. Here we examine the evolution of a kimberlite system during ascent using the resorption morphology of its diamond population. We use 655 macro-diamonds from a complex kimberlite pipe in the Orapa kimberlite field (Botswana) to examine the role of volatiles in the formation of the three facies comprising this pipe: two coherent kimberlite facies (CKA and CKB) and one massive volcaniclastic facies (MVK). The diamonds come from three drillholes through each of the studied kimberlite facies. Separate diamond samples derived from 2 - 13 m intervals were combined into 40 m depth intervals for statistical purposes. Four independent morphological methods allowed us to reliably discriminate products of resorption in kimberlite magma from resorption in the mantle, and use the former in our study. We found that the proportion of diamonds with kimberlitic resorption is the lowest in CKA - 22%, medium in MVK - 50%, and highest in CKB - 73%, and it increases with depth in each of the drillholes. Each kimberlite facies shows its own style of kimberlite-induced resorption on rounded tetrahexahedron (THH) diamonds: glossy surfaces in MVK, rough corroded surfaces in CKB, and combination of glossy surfaces with chains of circular pits in CKA, where these pits represent the initial stages of development of corrosive features observed on CKB diamonds. Based on the results of our previous experimental studies we propose that resorption of MVK diamonds is a product of interaction with COH fluid, resorption of CKB diamonds is a product of interaction with a volatile-undersaturated melt (possibly carbonatitic), and CKA diamonds show an overprint of melt-controlled resorption over a fluid-controlled resorption. We propose an early separation of the fluid phase during the ascent of this kimberlite magma, segregation of this fluid and rise towards the top of the magma column. Over-pressurisation caused by the expansion of this fluid worked as a driving force for the magma ascent acceleration. The magma column has separated into two parts: (1) the bubble-rich magma towards the top, explosive emplacement of which formed the MVK facies, followed by the "tailing" bubble-poor magma quietly arriving to form the CKA facies, and (2) magma that lost volatiles to the upwardly escaping bubbles, in which a slower ascent caused more intensive diamond resorption and delayed emplacement, forming the CKB facie. It is possible that formation, buoyancy, and growth of fluid bubbles controls the ascent of the kimberlite magma, where emplacement of bubble-rich magma forms volcaniclastic kimberlite facies, while fast rise of the bubbles through the magma column separates the fluid-rich phase that moves up preparing the conduit in the surrounding rocks and forms an explosive pipe at the surface, from a volatile-depleted magma, which slowly rises and fills the pipe with CK kimberlite facies.

Physics of beer tapping.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Javier; Casado-Chacón, Almudena; Fuster, Daniel

2014-11-21

The popular bar prank known in colloquial English as beer tapping consists in hitting the top of a beer bottle with a solid object, usually another bottle, to trigger the foaming over of the former within a few seconds. Despite the trick being known for a long time, to the best of our knowledge, the phenomenon still lacks scientific explanation. Although it seems natural to think that shock-induced cavitation enhances the diffusion of CO2 from the supersaturated bulk liquid into the bubbles by breaking them up, the subtle mechanism by which this happens remains unknown. Here, we show that the overall foaming-over process can be divided into three stages where different physical phenomena take place in different time scales: namely, the bubble-collapse (or cavitation) stage, the diffusion-driven stage, and the buoyancy-driven stage. In the bubble-collapse stage, the impact generates a train of expansion-compression waves in the liquid that leads to the fragmentation of preexisting gas cavities. Upon bubble fragmentation, the sudden increase of the interface-area-to-volume ratio enhances mass transfer significantly, which makes the bubble volume grow by a large factor until CO2 is locally depleted. At that point buoyancy takes over, making the bubble clouds rise and eventually form buoyant vortex rings whose volume grows fast due to the feedback between the buoyancy-induced rising speed and the advection-enhanced CO2 transport from the bulk liquid to the bubble. The physics behind this explosive process sheds insight into the dynamics of geological phenomena such as limnic eruptions.

Physics of Beer Tapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Javier; Casado-Chacón, Almudena; Fuster, Daniel

2014-11-01

The popular bar prank known in colloquial English as beer tapping consists in hitting the top of a beer bottle with a solid object, usually another bottle, to trigger the foaming over of the former within a few seconds. Despite the trick being known for a long time, to the best of our knowledge, the phenomenon still lacks scientific explanation. Although it seems natural to think that shock-induced cavitation enhances the diffusion of CO2 from the supersaturated bulk liquid into the bubbles by breaking them up, the subtle mechanism by which this happens remains unknown. Here, we show that the overall foaming-over process can be divided into three stages where different physical phenomena take place in different time scales: namely, the bubble-collapse (or cavitation) stage, the diffusion-driven stage, and the buoyancy-driven stage. In the bubble-collapse stage, the impact generates a train of expansion-compression waves in the liquid that leads to the fragmentation of preexisting gas cavities. Upon bubble fragmentation, the sudden increase of the interface-area-to-volume ratio enhances mass transfer significantly, which makes the bubble volume grow by a large factor until CO2 is locally depleted. At that point buoyancy takes over, making the bubble clouds rise and eventually form buoyant vortex rings whose volume grows fast due to the feedback between the buoyancy-induced rising speed and the advection-enhanced CO2 transport from the bulk liquid to the bubble. The physics behind this explosive process sheds insight into the dynamics of geological phenomena such as limnic eruptions.

Infrared dust bubble CS51 and its interaction with the surrounding interstellar medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Swagat R.; Tej, Anandmayee; Vig, Sarita; Liu, Hong-Li; Liu, Tie; Ishwara Chandra, C. H.; Ghosh, Swarna K.

2017-12-01

A multiwavelength investigation of the southern infrared dust bubble CS51 is presented in this paper. We probe the associated ionized, cold dust, molecular and stellar components. Radio continuum emission mapped at 610 and 1300 MHz, using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope, India, reveals the presence of three compact emission components (A, B, and C) apart from large-scale diffuse emission within the bubble interior. Radio spectral index map shows the co-existence of thermal and non-thermal emission components. Modified blackbody fits to the thermal dust emission using Herschel Photodetector Array Camera and Spectrometer and Spectral and Photometric Imaging Receiver data is performed to generate dust temperature and column density maps. We identify five dust clumps associated with CS51 with masses and radius in the range 810-4600 M⊙ and 1.0-1.9 pc, respectively. We further construct the column density probability distribution functions of the surrounding cold dust which display the impact of ionization feedback from high-mass stars. The estimated dynamical and fragmentation time-scales indicate the possibility of collect and collapse mechanism in play at the bubble border. Molecular line emission from the Millimeter Astronomy Legacy Team 90 GHz survey is used to understand the nature of two clumps which show signatures of expansion of CS51.

Probing the Southern Fermi Bubble in Ultraviolet Absorption Using Distant AGNs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karim, Md Tanveer; Fox, Andrew J.; Jenkins, Edward B.; Bordoloi, Rongmon; Wakker, Bart P.; Savage, Blair D.; Lockman, Felix J.; Crawford, Steven M.; Jorgenson, Regina A.; Bland-Hawthorn, Joss

2018-06-01

The Fermi Bubbles are two giant gamma-ray emitting lobes extending 55° above and below the Galactic center. While the Northern Bubble has been extensively studied in ultraviolet (UV) absorption, little is known about the gas kinematics of the southern Bubble. We use UV absorption-line spectra from the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) on the Hubble Space Telescope to probe the southern Fermi Bubble using a sample of 17 background AGNs projected behind or near the Bubble. We measure the incidence of high-velocity clouds (HVC), finding that 4 out of 6 sightlines passing through the Bubble show HVC absorption, versus 6 out of 11 passing outside. We find strong evidence that the maximum absolute LSR velocity of the HVC components decreases as a function of galactic latitude within the Bubble, for both blueshifted and redshifted components, as expected for a decelerating outflow. We explore whether the column density ratios Si IV/Si III, Si IV/Si II, and Si III/Si II correlate with the absolute galactic latitude within the Bubble. These results demonstrate the use of UV absorption-line spectroscopy to characterize the kinematics and ionization conditions of embedded clouds in the Galactic center outflow.

Fate of Methane Emitted from Dissociating Marine Hydrates: Modeling, Laboratory, and Field Constraints

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

Juanes, Ruben

The overall goals of this research are: (1) to determine the physical fate of single and multiple methane bubbles emitted to the water column by dissociating gas hydrates at seep sites deep within the hydrate stability zone or at the updip limit of gas hydrate stability, and (2) to quantitatively link theoretical and laboratory findings on methane transport to the analysis of real-world field-scale methane plume data placed within the context of the degrading methane hydrate province on the US Atlantic margin. The project is arranged to advance on three interrelated fronts (numerical modeling, laboratory experiments, and analysis of field-basedmore » plume data) simultaneously. The fundamental objectives of each component are the following: Numerical modeling: Constraining the conditions under which rising bubbles become armored with hydrate, the impact of hydrate armoring on the eventual fate of a bubble’s methane, and the role of multiple bubble interactions in survival of methane plumes to very shallow depths in the water column. Laboratory experiments: Exploring the parameter space (e.g., bubble size, gas saturation in the liquid phase, “proximity” to the stability boundary) for formation of a hydrate shell around a free bubble in water, the rise rate of such bubbles, and the bubble’s acoustic characteristics using field-scale frequencies. Field component: Extending the results of numerical modeling and laboratory experiments to the field-scale using brand new, existing, public-domain, state-of-the-art real world data on US Atlantic margin methane seeps, without acquiring new field data in the course of this particular project. This component quantitatively analyzes data on Atlantic margin methane plumes and place those new plumes and their corresponding seeps within the context of gas hydrate degradation processes on this margin.« less

Chromatographic hydrogen isotope separation

DOEpatents

Aldridge, F.T.

Intermetallic compounds with the CaCu/sub 5/ type of crystal structure, particularly LaNiCo/sub 4/ and CaNi/sub 5/, exhibit high separation factors and fast equilibrium times and therefore are useful for packing a chromatographic hydrogen isotope separation column. The addition of an inert metal to dilute the hydride improves performance of the column. A large scale multi-stage chromatographic separation process run as a secondary process off a hydrogen feedstream from an industrial plant which uses large volumes of hydrogen cn produce large quantities of heavy water at an effective cost for use in heavy water reactors.

Bubble coalescence in a Newtonian fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garg, Vishrut; Basaran, Osman

2017-11-01

Bubble coalescence plays a central role in the hydrodynamics of gas-liquid systems such as bubble column reactors, spargers, and foams. Two bubbles approaching each other at velocity V coalesce when the thin film between them ruptures, which is often the rate-limiting step. Experimental studies of this system are difficult, and recent works provide conflicting results on the effect of V on coalescence times. We simulate the head-on approach of two bubbles of equal radii R in an incompressible Newtonian fluid (density ρ, viscosity μ, and surface tension σ) by solving numerically the free boundary problem comprised of the Navier Stokes and continuity equations. Simulations are made challenging by the existence of highly disparate lengthscales, i.e. film thickness and drop radii, which are resolved by using the method of elliptic mesh generation. For a given liquid, the bubbles are shown to coalesce for all velocities below a critical value. The effects of Ohnesorge number Oh = μ /√{ ρσR } on coalescence time and critical velocity are also investigated.

DO-increasing effects of a microscopic bubble generating system in a fish farm.

PubMed

Endo, Akira; Srithongouthai, Sarawut; Nashiki, Hisatsune; Teshiba, Ichiro; Iwasaki, Takaaki; Hama, Daigo; Tsutsumi, Hiroaki

2008-01-01

We have developed a "microscopic bubble generating system for the fish farm" and evaluated its ability to improve the quality of seawater and costs of it in marine cages of red sea bream (Pagrus major) in Kusuura Bay, Japan. Our results revealed that DO concentration of bubbling net pens increased and became significantly higher than the level outside the net pen (between 0.52 and 0.87 mg/L), and the whole water column was nearly saturated. Temperatures of the bubbling net pens decreased slightly between 0.08 and 0.12 degrees C in all the layers. Furthermore, micro-bubbles seemed to reach the deeper water due to the downward flow and diffusion. This study demonstrated that the microscopic bubble generating system developed in our research project could increase efficiently the dissolved oxygen concentration throughout all water layers of the fish farm. A capital and operation costs of the system is recoverable within a year.

Stable sonoluminescence within a water hammer tube.

PubMed

Chakravarty, Avik; Georghiou, Theo; Phillipson, Tacye E; Walton, Alan J

2004-06-01

The sonoluminescence (SL) from the collapse of a single gas bubble within a liquid can be produced repetitively using an acoustic resonator. An alternative technique using a water hammer tube, producing SL from bubbles of greater size, is described here. A sealed vertical tube partly filled with a liquid and a gas at low pressure is subjected to vertical vibrations. The oscillation of the pressure within the liquid column, due to inertial forces, excites cavitation bubbles to grow and collapse. Rotation is used to confine the bubbles to the axis of the tube. Bright SL emissions were observed in a number of liquids. Repetitive emission was produced from bubbles in condensed phosphoric acid. Bubbles of 0.4 mm ambient radius (containing 2x 10(14) xenon atoms) were excited by vibration at 35 Hz. Approximately 10(12) photons were emitted per collapse in the range 400-700 nm (over four orders of magnitude greater than the brightest SL reported previously), corresponding to a 1% efficiency of the conversion of mechanical energy into light.

Effects of pH on nano-bubble stability and transport in saturated porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamamoto, Shoichiro; Takemura, Takato; Suzuki, Kenichiro; Nishimura, Taku

2018-01-01

An understanding of nano-scale bubble (NB) transport in porous media is important for potential application of NBs in soil/groundwater remediation. It is expected that the solution chemistry of NB water highly influences the surface characteristics of NBs and porous media and the interaction between them, thus affecting the stability and transport characteristics of NB. In this study, in addition to stability experiments, one-dimensional column transport experiments using glass beads were conducted to investigate the effects of pH on the NB transport behavior. The results showed that the NBs were more stable under higher pH. Column transport experiments revealed that entrapment of NBs, especially larger ones, was enhanced in lower-pH water, likely suggesting pH-dependent NB attachment and physical straining, both of which are also probably influenced by bubble size. Although relatively smaller NBs were released after switching the eluting fluid to one with lower ionic strength, most of the NBs in lower-pH water were still retained in the porous media even altering the chemical condition.

Effects of pH on nano-bubble stability and transport in saturated porous media.

PubMed

Hamamoto, Shoichiro; Takemura, Takato; Suzuki, Kenichiro; Nishimura, Taku

2018-01-01

An understanding of nano-scale bubble (NB) transport in porous media is important for potential application of NBs in soil/groundwater remediation. It is expected that the solution chemistry of NB water highly influences the surface characteristics of NBs and porous media and the interaction between them, thus affecting the stability and transport characteristics of NB. In this study, in addition to stability experiments, one-dimensional column transport experiments using glass beads were conducted to investigate the effects of pH on the NB transport behavior. The results showed that the NBs were more stable under higher pH. Column transport experiments revealed that entrapment of NBs, especially larger ones, was enhanced in lower-pH water, likely suggesting pH-dependent NB attachment and physical straining, both of which are also probably influenced by bubble size. Although relatively smaller NBs were released after switching the eluting fluid to one with lower ionic strength, most of the NBs in lower-pH water were still retained in the porous media even altering the chemical condition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The hot chocolate effect

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

Crawford, Frank S.

1982-05-01

The "hot chocolate effect" was investigated quantitatively, using water. If a tall glass cylinder is filled nearly completely with water and tapped on the bottom with a softened mallet one can detect the lowest longitudinal mode of the water column, for which the height of the water column is one quarter wavelength. If the cylinder is rapidly filled with hot tap water containing dissolved air the pitch of that mode may descend by nearly three octaves during the first few seconds as the air comes out of solution and forms bubbles. Then the pitch gradually rises as the bubbles floatmore » to the top. A simple theoretical expression for the pitch ratio is derived and compared with experiment. The agreement is good to within the ten percent accuracy of the experiments.« less

Hot chocolate effect

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

Crawford, F.S.

1982-05-01

The ''hot chocolate effect'' was investigated quantitatively, using water. If a tall glass cylinder is filled nearly completely with water and tapped on the bottom with a softened mallet one can detect the lowest longitudinal mode of the water column, for which the height of the water column is one-quarter wavelength. If the cylinder is rapidly filled with hot tap water containing dissolved air the pitch of that mode may descend by nearly three octaves during the first few seconds as the air comes out of solution and forms bubbles. Then the pitch gradually rises as the bubbles float tomore » the top. A simple theoretical expression for the pitch ratio is derived and compared with experiment. The agreement is good to within the 10% accuracy of the experiments.« less

Precipitated Silica from Pumice and Carbon Dioxide Gas (Co2) in Bubble Column Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewati, R.; Suprihatin, S.; Sumada, K.; Muljani, S.; Familya, M.; Ariani, S.

2018-01-01

Precipitated silica from silica and carbon dioxide gas has been studied successfully. The source of silica was obtained from pumice stone while precipitation process was carried out with carbon dioxide gas (CO2). The sodium silicate solution was obtained by extracting the silica from pumice stone with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution and heated to 100 °C for 1 h. The carbon dioxide gas is injected into the aqueous solution of sodium silicate in a bubble column reactor to form precipitated silica. m2/g. The results indicate that the products obtained are precipitate silica have surface area in the range of 100 - 227 m2/g, silica concentration more than 80%, white in appearance, and silica concentration reached 90% at pH 7.

Gas Bubble Dynamics under Mechanical Vibrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohagheghian, Shahrouz; Elbing, Brian

2017-11-01

The scientific community has a limited understanding of the bubble dynamics under mechanical oscillations due to over simplification of Navier-Stockes equation by neglecting the shear stress tensor and not accounting for body forces when calculating the acoustic radiation force. The current work experimental investigates bubble dynamics under mechanical vibration and resulting acoustic field by measuring the bubble size and velocity using high-speed imaging. The experimental setup consists of a custom-designed shaker table, cast acrylic bubble column, compressed air injection manifold and an optical imaging system. The mechanical vibrations resulted in accelerations between 0.25 to 10 times gravitational acceleration corresponding to frequency and amplitude range of 8 - 22Hz and 1 - 10mm respectively. Throughout testing the void fraction was limited to <5%. The bubble size is larger than resonance size and smaller than acoustic wavelength. The amplitude of acoustic pressure wave was estimated using the definition of Bjerknes force in combination with Rayleigh-Plesset equation. Physical behavior of the system was capture and classified. Bubble size, velocity as well as size and spatial distribution will be presented.

Dissolution of methane bubbles with hydrate armoring in deep ocean conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovalchuk, Margarita; Socolofsky, Scott

2017-11-01

The deep ocean is a storehouse of natural gas. Methane bubble moving upwards from marine sediments may become trapped in gas hydrates. It is uncertain precisely how hydrate armoring affects dissolution, or mass transfer from the bubble to the surrounding water column. The Texas A&M Oilspill Calculator was used to simulate a series of gas bubble dissolution experiments conducted in the United States Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory High Pressure Water Tunnel. Several variations of the mass transfer coefficient were calculated based on gas or hydrate phase solubility and clean or dirty bubble correlations. Results suggest the mass transfer coefficient may be most closely modeled with gas phase solubility and dirty bubble correlation equations. Further investigation of hydrate bubble dissolution behavior will refine current numeric models which aid in understanding gas flux to the atmosphere and plumes such as oil spills. Research funded in part by the Texas A&M University 2017 Undergraduate Summer Research Grant and a Grant from the Methane Gas Hydrates Program of the US DOE National Energy Technology Laboratory.

CS Emission Near MIR-bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watson, C.; Devine, Kathryn; Quintanar, N.; Candelaria, T.

2016-02-01

We survey 44 young stellar objects located near the edges of mid-IR-identified bubbles in CS (1-0) using the Green Bank Telescope. We detect emission in 18 sources, indicating young protostars that are good candidates for being triggered by the expansion of the bubble. We calculate CS column densities and abundances. Three sources show evidence of infall through non-Gaussian line-shapes. Two of these sources are associated with dark clouds and are promising candidates for further exploration of potential triggered star formation. We obtained on-the-fly maps in CS (1-0) of three sources, showing evidence of significant interactions between the sources and the surrounding environment.

Prospecting for zones of contaminated ground-water discharge to streams using bottom-sediment gas bubbles

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vroblesky, Don A.; Lorah, Michelle M.

1991-01-01

Decomposition of organic-rich bottom sediment in a tidal creek in Maryland results in production of gas bubbles in the bottom sediment during summer and fall. In areas where volatile organic contaminants discharge from ground water, through the bottom sediment, and into the creek, part of the volatile contamination diffuses into the gas bubbles and is released to the atmosphere by ebullition. Collection and analysis of gas bubbles for their volatile organic contaminant content indicate that relative concentrations of the volatile organic contaminants in the gas bubbles are substantially higher in areas where the same contaminants occur in the ground water that discharges to the streams. Analyses of the bubbles located an area of previously unknown ground-water contamination. The method developed for this study consisted of disturbing the bottom sediment to release gas bubbles, and then capturing the bubbles in a polyethylene bag at the water-column surface. The captured gas was transferred either into sealable polyethylene bags for immediate analysis with a photoionization detector or by syringe to glass tubes containing wires coated with an activated-carbon adsorbent. Relative concentrations were determined by mass spectral analysis for chloroform and trichloroethylene.

Self-regenerating column chromatography

DOEpatents

Park, Woo K.

1995-05-30

The present invention provides a process for treating both cations and anions by using a self-regenerating, multi-ionic exchange resin column system which requires no separate regeneration steps. The process involves alternating ion-exchange chromatography for cations and anions in a multi-ionic exchange column packed with a mixture of cation and anion exchange resins. The multi-ionic mixed-charge resin column works as a multi-function column, capable of independently processing either cationic or anionic exchange, or simultaneously processing both cationic and anionic exchanges. The major advantage offered by the alternating multi-function ion exchange process is the self-regeneration of the resins.

Domestic atmospheric pressure thermal deaerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Egorov, P. V.; Gimmelberg, A. S.; Mikhailov, V. G.; Baeva, A. N.; Chuprakov, M. V.; Grigoriev, G. V.

2016-04-01

Based on many years of experience and proven technical solutions, modern atmospheric pressure deaerators of the capacity of 0.4 to 800 t/h were designed and developed. The construction of such deaerators is based on known and explored technical solutions. A two-stage deaeration scheme is applied where the first stage is a jet dripping level (in a column) and the second one is a bubble level (in a tank). In the design of deaeration columns, low-pressure hydraulic nozzles (Δ p < 0.15 MPa) and jet trays are used, and in deaerator tank, a developed "flooded" sparger is applied, which allows to significantly increase the intensity of the heat and mass exchange processes in the apparatus. The use of the two efficient stages in a column and a "flooded" sparger in a tank allows to reliably guarantee the necessary water heating and deaeration. Steam or "superheated" water of the temperature of t ≥ 125°C can be used as the coolant in the deaerators. The commissioning tests of the new deaerator prototypes of the capacity of 800 and 500 t/h in the HPP conditions showed their sustainable, reliable, and efficient work in the designed range of hydraulic and thermal loads. The content of solved oxygen and free carbon dioxide in make-up water after deaerators meets the requirements of State Standard GOST 16860-88, the operating rules and regulations, and the customer's specifications. Based on these results, the proposals were developed on the structure and the design of deaerators of the productivity of more than 800 t/h for the use in circuits of large heating systems and the preparation of feed water to the TPP at heating and industrial-heating plants. The atmospheric pressure thermal deaerators developed at NPO TsKTI with consideration of the current requirements are recommended for the use in water preparation schemes of various power facilities.

A bubble column evaporator with basic flat-plate condenser for brackish and seawater desalination.

PubMed

Schmack, Mario; Ho, Goen; Anda, Martin

2016-01-01

This paper describes the development and experimental evaluation of a novel bubble column-based humidification-dehumidification system, for small-scale desalination of saline groundwater or seawater in remote regions. A bubble evaporator prototype was built and matched with a simple flat-plate type condenser for concept assessment. Consistent bubble evaporation rates of between 80 and 88 ml per hour were demonstrated. Particular focus was on the performance of the simple condenser prototype, manufactured from rectangular polyvinylchlorid plastic pipe and copper sheet, a material with a high thermal conductivity that quickly allows for conduction of the heat energy. Under laboratory conditions, a long narrow condenser model of 1500 mm length and 100 mm width achieved condensate recovery rates of around 73%, without the need for external cooling. The condenser prototype was assessed under a range of different physical conditions, that is, external water cooling, partial insulation and aspects of air circulation, via implementing an internal honeycomb screen structure. Estimated by extrapolation, an up-scaled bubble desalination system with a 1 m2 condenser may produce around 19 l of distilled water per day. Sodium chloride salt removal was found to be highly effective with condensate salt concentrations between 70 and 135 µS. Based on findings and with the intent to reduce material cost of the system, a shorter condenser length of 750 mm for the non-cooled (passive) condenser and of 500 mm for the water-cooled condenser was considered to be equally efficient as the experimentally evaluated prototype of 1500 mm length.

Shock/vortex interaction and vortex-breakdown modes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kandil, Osama A.; Kandil, H. A.; Liu, C. H.

1992-01-01

Computational simulation and study of shock/vortex interaction and vortex-breakdown modes are considered for bound (internal) and unbound (external) flow domains. The problem is formulated using the unsteady, compressible, full Navier-Stokes (NS) equations which are solved using an implicit, flux-difference splitting, finite-volume scheme. For the bound flow domain, a supersonic swirling flow is considered in a configured circular duct and the problem is solved for quasi-axisymmetric and three-dimensional flows. For the unbound domain, a supersonic swirling flow issued from a nozzle into a uniform supersonic flow of lower Mach number is considered for quasi-axisymmetric and three-dimensional flows. The results show several modes of breakdown; e.g., no-breakdown, transient single-bubble breakdown, transient multi-bubble breakdown, periodic multi-bubble multi-frequency breakdown and helical breakdown.

Theory of supercompression of vapor bubbles and nanoscale thermonuclear fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nigmatulin, Robert I.; Akhatov, Iskander Sh.; Topolnikov, Andrey S.; Bolotnova, Raisa Kh.; Vakhitova, Nailya K.; Lahey, Richard T.; Taleyarkhan, Rusi P.

2005-10-01

This paper provides the theoretical basis for energetic vapor bubble implosions induced by a standing acoustic wave. Its primary goal is to describe, explain, and demonstrate the plausibility of the experimental observations by Taleyarkhan et al. [Science 295, 1868 (2002); Phys. Rev. E 69, 036109 (2004)] of thermonuclear fusion for imploding cavitation bubbles in chilled deuterated acetone. A detailed description and analysis of these data, including a resolution of the criticisms that have been raised, together with some preliminary HYDRO code simulations, has been given by Nigmatulin et al. [Vestnik ANRB (Ufa, Russia) 4, 3 (2002); J. Power Energy 218-A, 345 (2004)] and Lahey et al. [Adv. Heat Transfer (to be published)]. In this paper a hydrodynamic shock (i.e., HYDRO) code model of the spherically symmetric motion for a vapor bubble in an acoustically forced liquid is presented. This model describes cavitation bubble cluster growth during the expansion period, followed by a violent implosion during the compression period of the acoustic cycle. There are two stages of the bubble dynamics process. The first, low Mach number stage, comprises almost all the time of the acoustic cycle. During this stage, the radial velocities are much less than the sound speeds in the vapor and liquid, the vapor pressure is very close to uniform, and the liquid is practically incompressible. This process is characterized by the inertia of the liquid, heat conduction, and the evaporation or condensation of the vapor. The second, very short, high Mach number stage is when the radial velocities are the same order, or higher, than the sound speeds in the vapor and liquid. In this stage high temperatures, pressures, and densities of the vapor and liquid take place. The model presented herein has realistic equations of state for the compressible liquid and vapor phases, and accounts for nonequilibrium evaporation/condensation kinetics at the liquid/vapor interface. There are interacting shock waves in both phases, which converge toward and reflect from the center of the bubble, causing dissociation, ionization, and other related plasma physics phenomena during the final stage of bubble collapse. For a vapor bubble in a deuterated organic liquid (e.g., acetone), during the final stage of collapse there is a nanoscale region (diameter ˜100nm) near the center of the bubble in which, for a fraction of a picosecond, the temperatures and densities are extremely high (˜108K and ˜10g/cm3, respectively) such that thermonuclear fusion may take place. To quantify this, the kinetics of the local deuterium/deuterium (D/D) nuclear fusion reactions was used in the HYDRO code to determine the intensity of the fusion reactions. Numerical HYDRO code simulations of the bubble implosion process have been carried out for the experimental conditions used by Taleyarkhan et al. [Science 295, 1868 (2002); Phys. Rev. E 69, 036109 (2004)] at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The results show good agreement with the experimental data on bubble fusion that was measured in chilled deuterated acetone.

Effects of nutrient ratios and carbon dioxide bio-sequestration on biomass growth of Chlorella sp. in bubble column photobioreactor.

PubMed

Vo, Hoang-Nhat-Phong; Bui, Xuan-Thanh; Nguyen, Thanh-Tin; Nguyen, Dinh Duc; Dao, Thanh-Son; Cao, Ngoc-Dan-Thanh; Vo, Thi-Kim-Quyen

2018-08-01

Photobioreactor technology, especially bubble column configuration, employing microalgae cultivation (e.g., Chlorella sp.), is an ideal man-made environment to achieve sufficient microalgae biomass through its strictly operational control. Nutrients, typically N and P, are necessary elements in the cultivation process, which determine biomass yield and productivity. Specifically, N:P ratios have certain effects on microalgae's biomass growth. It is also attractive that microalgae can sequester CO 2 by using that carbon source for photosynthesis and, subsequently, reducing CO 2 emission. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of N:P ratios on Chlorella sp.'s growth, and to study the dynamic of CO 2 fixation in the bubble column photobioreactor. According to our results, N:P ratio of 15:1 could produce the highest biomass yield (3568 ± 158 mg L -1 ). The maximum algae concentration was 105 × 10 6  cells mL -1 , receiving after 92 h. Chlorella sp. was also able to sequester CO 2 at 28 ± 1.2%, while the specific growth rate and carbon fixation rate were observed at 0.064 h -1 and 68.9 ± 1.91 mg L -1  h -1 , respectively. The types of carbon sources (e.g., organic and inorganic carbon) possessed potential impact on microalgae's cultivation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Heat transfer and hydrodynamic investigations of a baffled slurry bubble column

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saxena, S. C.; Chen, Z. D.

1992-09-01

Heat transfer and hydrodynamic investigations have been conducted in a 0.108 m internal diameter bubble column at ambient conditions. The column is equipped with seven 19mm diameter tubes arranged in an equilateral triangular pitch of 36.5 mm. A Monsanto synthetic heat transfer fluid, Therminol-66 having a viscosity of 39.8 cP at 303 K, is used as a liquid medium. Magnetite powders, average diameters 27.7 and 36.6 µm, in five concentrations up to 50 weight percent in the slurry, are used. As a gas phase, industrial grade nitrogen of purity 99.6 percent is employed. Gas holdup in different operating modes and regimes have been measured for the two- and three-phase systems over a superficial gas velocity range up to 0.20 m/s in the semi-batch mode. Heat transfer coefficients are measured at different tube locations in the bundle at different radial and vertical locations over a range of operating conditions. All these data are compared with the existing literature correlations and models. New correlations are proposed.

Dynamics of sonoluminescing bubbles within a liquid hammer device.

PubMed

Urteaga, Raúl; García-Martínez, Pablo Luis; Bonetto, Fabián J

2009-01-01

We studied the dynamics of a single sonoluminescing bubble (SBSL) in a liquid hammer device. In particular, we investigated the phosphoric acid-xenon system, in which pulses up to four orders of magnitude brighter than SBSL in water systems (about 10;{12} photons per pulse) have been previously reported [Chakravarty, Phys. Rev. E 69, 066317 (2004)]. We used stroboscopic photography and a Mie scattering technique in order to measure the radius evolution of the bubbles. Under adequate conditions we may position a bubble at the bottom of the tube (cavity) and a second bubble trapped at the middle of the tube (upper bubble). During its collapse, the cavity produces the compression of the liquid column. This compression drives impulsively the dynamics of the upper bubble. Our measurements reveal that the observed light emissions produced by the upper bubble are generated at its second collapse. We employed a simple numerical model to investigate the conditions that occur during the upper bubble collapse. We found good agreement between numerical and experimental values for the light intensity (fluence) and light pulse widths. Results from the model show that the light emission is increased mainly due to an increase in noble gas ambient radius and not because the maximum temperature increases. Even for the brightest pulses obtained ( 2x10;{13} photons, about 20W of peak power) the maximum temperatures computed for the upper bubble are always lower than 20000K .

Bubble Plumes at NW Rota-1 Submarine Volcano, Mariana Arc: Visualization and Analysis of Multibeam Water Column Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merle, S. G.; Chadwick, W. W.; Embley, R. W.; Doucet, M.

2012-12-01

During a March 2010 expedition to NW Rota-1 submarine volcano in the Mariana arc a new EM122 multibeam sonar system on the R/V Kilo Moana was used to repeatedly image bubble plumes in the water column over the volcano. The EM122 (12 kHz) system collects seafloor bathymetry and backscatter data, as well as acoustic return water column data. Previous expeditions to NW Rota-1 have included seafloor mapping / CTD tow-yo surveys and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2009. Much of the focus has been on the one main eruptive vent, Brimstone, located on the south side of the summit at a depth of ~440m, which has been persistently active during all ROV visits. Extensive degassing of CO2 bubbles have been observed by the ROV during frequent eruptive bursts from the vent. Between expeditions in April 2009 and March 2010 a major eruption and landslide occurred at NW Rota-1. ROV dives in 2010 revealed that after the landslide the eruptive vent had been reorganized from a single site to a line of vents. Brimstone vent was still active, but 4 other new eruptive vents had also emerged in a NW/SE line below the summit extending ~100 m from the westernmost to easternmost vents. During the ROV dives, the eruptive vents were observed to turn on and off from day to day and hour to hour. Throughout the 2010 expedition numerous passes were made over the volcano summit to image the bubble plumes above the eruptive vents in the water column, in order to capture the variability of the plumes over time and to relate them to the eruptive output of the volcano. The mid-water sonar data set totals >95 hours of observations over a 12-day period. Generally, the ship drove repeatedly over the eruptive vents at a range of ship speeds (0.5-4 knots) and headings. In addition, some mid-water data was collected during three ROV dives when the ship was stationary over the vents. We used the FMMidwater software program (part of QPS Fledermaus) to visualize and analyze the data collected with this new mid-water technology. The data show that during some passes over the vent all 5 eruptive vents were contributing to the plume above the volcano, whereas on other passes only 1 vent was visible. However, it was common that multiple vents were active at any one time. The highest observed rise of a bubble plume in the water column came from the easternmost vent, with the main plume rising 415 meters from the vent to within 175 m of the surface. In some cases, wisps from the main plume rose to heights less than 100 m from the surface. This analysis shows that water column imaging multibeam sonar data can be used as a proxy to determine the level of eruptive activity above submarine volcanoes that have robust CO2 output. We plan to compare this data set to other data sets including hydrophone recordings, ADCP data and ROV visual observations.

Bubble video experiments in the marine waters off Panarea Island (Italy): real-world data for modelling CO2 bubble dissolution and evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaubien, Stan; De Vittor, Cinzia; McGinnis, Dan; Bigi, Sabina; Comici, Cinzia; Ingrosso, Gianmarco; Lombardi, Salvatore; Ruggiero, Livio

2014-05-01

Carbon capture and storage is expected to provide an important, short-term contribution to mitigate global climate change due to anthropogenic emissions of CO2. Offshore reservoirs are particularly favourable, however concerns exist regarding the potential for CO2 leakage into the water column (with possible ecosystem impacts) and the atmosphere. Although laboratory experiments and modelling can examine these issues, the study of natural systems can provide a more complete and realistic understanding. For this reason the natural CO2 emission site off the coast of Panarea Island (Italy) was chosen for study within the EC-funded ECO2 project. The present paper discusses the results of field experiments conducted at this site to better understand the fate of CO2 gas bubbles as they rise through the water column, and to use this real-world data as input to test the predictive capabilities of a bubble model. Experiments were conducted using a 1m wide x 1m deep x 3m tall, hollow-tube structure equipped with a vertical guide on the front face and a dark, graduated cloth for contrast and depth reference on the back. A Plexiglas box was filled with the naturally emitted gas and fixed on the seafloor inside the structure. Tubes exit the top of the box to make bubbles of different diameters, while valves on each tube control bubble release rate. Bubble rise velocity was measured by tracking each bubble with a HD video camera mounted in the guide and calculating values over 20 cm intervals. Bubble diameter was measured by filming the bubbles as they collide with a graduated Plexiglas sheet deployed horizontally at the measurement height. Bubble gas was collected at different heights using a funnel and analysed in the laboratory for CO2, O2+Ar, N2, and CH4. Water parameters were measured by performing a CTD cast beside the structure and collecting water samples at four depths using a Niskin bottle; samples were analysed in the laboratory for all carbonate system species, DO, and dissolved gases. An in-house developed GasPro sensor was also mounted on the structure to monitor pCO2 over the entire 2.5 hour duration of the experiment. The obtained data were used as input into the Discrete Bubble Model (DBM) (e.g., McGinnis et al., 2011, doi:10.1029/2010JC006557). The DBM uses mass balance to predict the gas flux across the bubble surface, whereby gas flux direction depends on internal bubble gas concentration and ambient concentration, and considering the Henry's coefficient and partial pressure of the gas. The model uses bubble-size dependent relationships for the mass transfer rate and the bubble rise velocity. Important model input parameters include: bubble size; depth; ambient dissolved gas concentrations, temperature and salinity; and initial bubble gas concentrations. Measured and modelled results are compared, showing good general agreement. Based on the concentrations measured at the lowest level, the modelled and measured bubble concentrations match very closely. Bubble size values do not match as well if this initial concentration is used, however they improve as a value closer to 100% CO2 is applied. This preliminary study has shown promising results and highlight areas where experimental design and data quality should be improved in the next phase of the study.

Early Warning Signals of Financial Crises with Multi-Scale Quantile Regressions of Log-Periodic Power Law Singularities.

PubMed

Zhang, Qun; Zhang, Qunzhi; Sornette, Didier

2016-01-01

We augment the existing literature using the Log-Periodic Power Law Singular (LPPLS) structures in the log-price dynamics to diagnose financial bubbles by providing three main innovations. First, we introduce the quantile regression to the LPPLS detection problem. This allows us to disentangle (at least partially) the genuine LPPLS signal and the a priori unknown complicated residuals. Second, we propose to combine the many quantile regressions with a multi-scale analysis, which aggregates and consolidates the obtained ensembles of scenarios. Third, we define and implement the so-called DS LPPLS Confidence™ and Trust™ indicators that enrich considerably the diagnostic of bubbles. Using a detailed study of the "S&P 500 1987" bubble and presenting analyses of 16 historical bubbles, we show that the quantile regression of LPPLS signals contributes useful early warning signals. The comparison between the constructed signals and the price development in these 16 historical bubbles demonstrates their significant predictive ability around the real critical time when the burst/rally occurs.

Eruptive dynamics during magma decompression: a laboratory approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spina, L.; Cimarelli, C.; Scheu, B.; Wadsworth, F.; Dingwell, D. B.

2013-12-01

A variety of eruptive styles characterizes the activity of a given volcano. Indeed, eruptive styles can range from effusive phenomena to explosive eruptions, with related implications for hazard management. Rapid changes in eruptive style can occur during an ongoing eruption. These changes are, amongst other, related to variations in the magma ascent rate, a key parameter affecting the eruptive style. Ascent rate is in turn dependent on several factors such as the pressure in the magma chamber, the physical properties of the magma and the rate at which these properties change. According to the high number of involved parameters, laboratory decompression experiments are the best way to achieve quantitative information on the interplay of each of those factors and the related impact on the eruption style, i.e. by analyzing the flow and deformation behavior of the transparent volatile-bearing analogue fluid. We carried out decompression experiments following different decompression paths and using silicone oil as an analogue for the melt, with which we can simulate a range of melt viscosity values. For a set of experiments we added rigid particles to simulate the presence of crystals in the magma. The pure liquid or suspension was mounted into a transparent autoclave and pressurized to different final pressures. Then the sample was saturated with argon for a fixed amount of time. The decompression path consists of a slow decompression from the initial pressure to the atmospheric condition. Alternatively, samples were decompressed almost instantaneously, after established steps of slow decompression. The decompression path was monitored with pressure transducers and a high-speed video camera. Image analysis of the videos gives quantitative information on the bubble distribution with respect to depth in the liquid, pressure and time of nucleation and on their characteristics and behavior during the ongoing magma ascent. Furthermore, we also monitored the evolution of the expanding height of the silicone oil column with time after the decompression, due to the exsolution of the volatile argon and subsequent bubble growth. Contrastingly, autoclave-wall resolved shear strain of bubbles promotes rapid coalescence until a critical point when permeable outgassing is more efficient than continuing exsolution and bubble growth. At this point the column destabilizes and partially collapses. Collapse progresses until the top of the column is again impermeable and outgassing-driven column expansion resumes. This process repeats in cycles of growth, deformation, destabilization and densification until the melt is at equilibrium saturation with argon and the column collapses completely. We propose that direct observation of the timescales of growth and collapse of a decompressing, shearing column has important implications for decompression-driven rapid conduit ascent of low-viscosity, low-crystallinity magmas. Therefore, even at high exsolution rates, permeable outgassing can transiently retard magma ascent.

Modeling the impediment of methane ebullition bubbles by seasonal lake ice

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

Greene, S.; Walter Anthony, K. M.; Archer, D.

Microbial methane (CH 4) ebullition (bubbling) from anoxic lake sediments comprises a globally significant flux to the atmosphere, but ebullition bubbles in temperate and polar lakes can be trapped by winter ice cover and later released during spring thaw. This "ice-bubble storage" (IBS) constitutes a novel mode of CH 4 emission. Before bubbles are encapsulated by downward-growing ice, some of their CH 4 dissolves into the lake water, where it may be subject to oxidation. We present field characterization and a model of the annual CH 4 cycle in Goldstream Lake, a thermokarst (thaw) lake in interior Alaska. We findmore » that summertime ebullition dominates annual CH 4 emissions to the atmosphere. Eighty percent of CH 4 in bubbles trapped by ice dissolves into the lake water column in winter, and about half of that is oxidized. The ice growth rate and the magnitude of the CH 4 ebullition flux are important controlling factors of bubble dissolution. Seven percent of annual ebullition CH 4 is trapped as IBS and later emitted as ice melts. In a future warmer climate, there will likely be less seasonal ice cover, less IBS, less CH 4 dissolution from trapped bubbles, and greater CH 4 emissions from northern lakes.« less

Modeling the impediment of methane ebullition bubbles by seasonal lake ice

DOE PAGES

Greene, S.; Walter Anthony, K. M.; Archer, D.; ...

2014-12-08

Microbial methane (CH 4) ebullition (bubbling) from anoxic lake sediments comprises a globally significant flux to the atmosphere, but ebullition bubbles in temperate and polar lakes can be trapped by winter ice cover and later released during spring thaw. This "ice-bubble storage" (IBS) constitutes a novel mode of CH 4 emission. Before bubbles are encapsulated by downward-growing ice, some of their CH 4 dissolves into the lake water, where it may be subject to oxidation. We present field characterization and a model of the annual CH 4 cycle in Goldstream Lake, a thermokarst (thaw) lake in interior Alaska. We findmore » that summertime ebullition dominates annual CH 4 emissions to the atmosphere. Eighty percent of CH 4 in bubbles trapped by ice dissolves into the lake water column in winter, and about half of that is oxidized. The ice growth rate and the magnitude of the CH 4 ebullition flux are important controlling factors of bubble dissolution. Seven percent of annual ebullition CH 4 is trapped as IBS and later emitted as ice melts. In a future warmer climate, there will likely be less seasonal ice cover, less IBS, less CH 4 dissolution from trapped bubbles, and greater CH 4 emissions from northern lakes.« less

Simulations of Bubble Motion in an Oscillating Liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraynik, A. M.; Romero, L. A.; Torczynski, J. R.

2010-11-01

Finite-element simulations are used to investigate the motion of a gas bubble in a liquid undergoing vertical vibration. The effect of bubble compressibility is studied by comparing "compressible" bubbles that obey the ideal gas law with "incompressible" bubbles that are taken to have constant volume. Compressible bubbles exhibit a net downward motion away from the free surface that does not exist for incompressible bubbles. Net (rectified) velocities are extracted from the simulations and compared with theoretical predictions. The dependence of the rectified velocity on ambient gas pressure, bubble diameter, and bubble depth are in agreement with the theory. Sandia National Laboratories is a multi-program laboratory managed and operated by Sandia Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation, for the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration under contract DE-AC04-94AL85000.

Microhydrodynamics of flotation processes in the sea surface layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grammatika, Marianne; Zimmerman, William B.

2001-10-01

The uppermost surface of the ocean forms a peculiarly important ecosystem, the sea surface microlayer (SML). Comprising the top 1-1000 μm of the ocean surface, the SML concentrates many chemical substances, particularly those that are surface active. Important economically as a nursery for fish eggs and larvae, the SML unfortunately is also especially vulnerable to pollution. Contaminants that settle out from the air, have low solubility, or attach to floatable matter tend to accumulate in the SML. Bubbles contribute prominently to the dynamics of air-sea exchanges, playing an important role in geochemical cycling of material in the upper ocean and SML. In addition to the movement of bubbles, the development of a bubble cloud interrelates with the single particle dynamics of all other bubbles and particles. In the early sixties, several in situ oceanographic techniques revealed an "unbelievably immense" number of coastal bubbles of radius 15-300 μm. The spatial and temporal variation of bubble numbers were studied; acoustical oceanographers now use bubbles as tracers to determine ocean processes near the ocean surface. Sea state and rain noises have both been definitively ascribed to the radiation from huge numbers of infant micro bubbles [The Acoustic Bubble. Academic Press, San Diego]. Our research programme aims at constructing a hydrodynamic model for particle transport processes occurring at the microscale, in multi-phase flotation suspensions. Current research addresses bubble and floc microhydrodynamics as building blocks for a microscale transport model. This paper reviews sea surface transport processes in the microlayer and the lower atmosphere, and identifies those amenable to microhydrodynamic modelling and simulation. It presents preliminary simulation results including the multi-body hydrodynamic mobility functions for the modelling of "dynamic bubble filters" and floc suspensions. Hydrodynamic interactions versus spatial anisotropy and size of particle clouds are investigated.

Microalgal-biotechnology as a platform for an integral biogas upgrading and nutrient removal from anaerobic effluents.

PubMed

Bahr, Melanie; Díaz, Ignacio; Dominguez, Antonio; González Sánchez, Armando; Muñoz, Raul

2014-01-01

The potential of a pilot high rate algal pond (HRAP) interconnected via liquid recirculation with an external absorption column for the simultaneous removal of H2S and CO2 from biogas using an alkaliphilic microalgal-bacterial consortium was evaluated. A bubble column was preferred as external absorption unit to a packed bed column based on its ease of operation, despite showing a comparable CO2 mass transfer capacity. When the combined HRAP-bubble column system was operated under continuous mode with mineral salt medium at a biogas residence time of 30 min in the absorption column, the system removed 100% of the H2S (up to 5000 ppmv) and 90% of the CO2 supplied, with O2 concentrations in the upgraded biogas below 0.2%. The use of diluted centrates as a free nutrient source resulted in a gradual decrease in CO2 removal to steady values of 40%, while H2S removal remained at 100%. The anaerobic digestion of the algal-bacterial biomass produced during biogas upgrading resulted in a CH4 yield of 0.21-0.27 L/gVS, which could satisfy up to 60% of the overall energy demand for biogas upgrading. This proof of concept study confirmed that algal-bacterial photobioreactors can support an integral upgrading without biogas contamination, with a net negative CO2 footprint, energy production, and a reduction of the eutrophication potential of the residual anaerobic effluents.

Fabrication of magnetic bubble memory overlay

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

Self-contained magnetic bubble memory overlay is fabricated by process that employs epitaxial deposition to form multi-layered complex of magnetically active components on single chip. Overlay fabrication comprises three metal deposition steps followed by subtractive etch.

In Situ Raman Spectroscopic Observations of Gas-Saturated Rising Oil droplets: Simulation with Decane as an Oil-Equivalent Substitute

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peltzer, E. T.; Walz, P. M.; Brewer, P. G.

2016-02-01

Oil droplets rising from the sea floor, whether from seeps or well leakage, contain very large quantities of dissolved gas that profoundly affects their density and critical oil-water interfacial characteristics. The primary dissolved gas is methane which may be up to 30% of the molar volume. This can create a hydrate skin as the methane gas is shed from the oil as it rises through the water column, thus decreasing in pressure and increasing in temperature, and steadily changing the rising droplet buoyancy. We have explored this phenomenon by executing controlled ROV based experiments with a "bubble cup" technique in which a small volume of gas saturated decane (saturated with pure methane, a mix of methane and nitrogen , or a mix of methane and CO2) is interrogated by laser Raman spectroscopy. The use of decane as an oil "substitute" is required since natural oil samples are highly fluorescent due to the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. We have devised Matlab techniques for extracting the spectroscopic dissolved methane signal from the thicket of decane peaks that surround it. We have directly observed the rate at which gases are lost from the "oil" per unit area at depths in the water column that are both within and outside the hydrate forming phase boundary. We have compared the behavior of both a non-hydrate forming dissolved gas (nitrogen) with CO2 where the hydrate phase boundary is at significantly shallower depth. The results indicate complex interfacial behavior and physical chemistry. We did not observe direct gas bubble formation on the decane outer surface but did observe gas bubble formation within the oil droplets as they rose through the water column. Because there are significant energy barriers for homogeneous bubble formation within the decane phase, we took this as evidence of significant gas super-saturation within the oil droplet. The gas loss rates increased significantly in all cases when the hydrate phase boundary was crossed.

CFD Study of Full-Scale Aerobic Bioreactors: Evaluation of Dynamic O2 Distribution, Gas-Liquid Mass Transfer and Reaction

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

Humbird, David; Sitaraman, Hariswaran; Stickel, Jonathan

If advanced biofuels are to measurably displace fossil fuels in the near term, they will have to operate at levels of scale, efficiency, and margin unprecedented in the current biotech industry. For aerobically-grown products in particular, scale-up is complex and the practical size, cost, and operability of extremely large reactors is not well understood. Put simply, the problem of how to attain fuel-class production scales comes down to cost-effective delivery of oxygen at high mass transfer rates and low capital and operating costs. To that end, very large reactor vessels (>500 m3) are proposed in order to achieve favorable economiesmore » of scale. Additionally, techno-economic evaluation indicates that bubble-column reactors are more cost-effective than stirred-tank reactors in many low-viscosity cultures. In order to advance the design of extremely large aerobic bioreactors, we have performed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of bubble-column reactors. A multiphase Euler-Euler model is used to explicitly account for the spatial distribution of air (i.e., gas bubbles) in the reactor. Expanding on the existing bioreactor CFD literature (typically focused on the hydrodynamics of bubbly flows), our simulations include interphase mass transfer of oxygen and a simple phenomenological reaction representing the uptake and consumption of dissolved oxygen by submerged cells. The simulations reproduce the expected flow profiles, with net upward flow in the center of column and downward flow near the wall. At high simulated oxygen uptake rates (OUR), oxygen-depleted regions can be observed in the reactor. By increasing the gas flow to enhance mixing and eliminate depleted areas, a maximum oxygen transfer (OTR) rate is obtained as a function of superficial velocity. These insights regarding minimum superficial velocity and maximum reactor size are incorporated into NREL's larger techno-economic models to supplement standard reactor design equations.« less

Time-series measurements of bubble plume variability and water column methane distribution above Southern Hydrate Ridge, Oregon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Philip, Brendan T.; Denny, Alden R.; Solomon, Evan A.; Kelley, Deborah S.

2016-03-01

An estimated 500-2500 gigatons of methane carbon is sequestered in gas hydrate at continental margins and some of these deposits are associated with overlying methane seeps. To constrain the impact that seeps have on methane concentrations in overlying ocean waters and to characterize the bubble plumes that transport methane vertically into the ocean, water samples and time-series acoustic images were collected above Southern Hydrate Ridge (SHR), a well-studied hydrate-bearing seep site ˜90 km west of Newport, Oregon. These data were coregistered with robotic vehicle observations to determine the origin of the seeps, the plume rise heights above the seafloor, and the temporal variability in bubble emissions. Results show that the locations of seep activity and bubble release remained unchanged over the 3 year time-series investigation, however, the magnitude of gas release was highly variable on hourly time scales. Bubble plumes were detected to depths of 320-620 m below sea level (mbsl), in several cases exceeding the upper limit of hydrate stability by ˜190 m. For the first time, sustained gas release was imaged at the Pinnacle site and in-between the Pinnacle and the Summit area of venting, indicating that the subseafloor transport of fluid and gas is not restricted to the Summit at SHR, requiring a revision of fluid-flow models. Dissolved methane concentrations above background levels from 100 to 300 mbsl are consistent with long-term seep gas transport into the upper water column, which may lead to the build-up of seep-derived carbon in regional subsurface waters and to increases in associated biological activity.

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) Battery Replacement Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-29

selection of the Reynold’s number enables use of water for simulation of gas or liquid flow. Introduction of dye to the flow stream, with video...calibrated using a soap -film flow meter (Bubble-o-meter, Dublin, OH). Eleven Array system temperature regions were set as follows prior to start of...expected. The ar- ray flow proceeds down the columns: column effects would be more likely than row effects from a design of experiments perspective

Low temperature MS2 (ATCC15597-B1) virus inactivation using a hot bubble column evaporator (HBCE).

PubMed

Garrido, A; Pashley, R M; Ninham, B W

2017-03-01

In the treatment of household wastewater viruses are hard to eliminate. A new technique is described which tackles this major problem. The MS2 (ATCC15597-B1) virus was used as a surrogate to estimate the inactivation rates for enteric viruses by a hot (150°C) air bubble column evaporator (HBCE) system Its surface charging properties obtained by dynamic light scattering, have been studied in a range of aqueous salt solutions and secondary treated synthetic sewage water. A combination of MS2 virus surface charge properties with thermal inactivation rates, and an improved double layer plaque assay technique, allows an assessment of the efficiency of the HBCE process for virus removal in water. The system is a new energy efficient treatment for water reuse applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Immobilization of Trametes versicolor cultures for improving laccase production in bubble column reactor intensified by sonication.

PubMed

Wang, Feng; Guo, Chen; Liu, Chun-Zhao

2013-01-01

The mycelia of Trametes versicolor immobilized in alginate beads provided higher laccase production than that in pelleted form. An efficient ultrasonic treatment enhanced laccase production from the immobilized T. versicolor cultures. The optimized treatment process consisted of exposing 36-h-old bead cultures to 7-min ultrasonic treatments twice with a 12-h interval using a fixed ultrasonic power and frequency (120 W, 40 kHz). Using the intensification strategy with sonication, laccase production increased by more than 2.1-fold greater than the untreated control in both flasks and bubble column reactors. The enhancement of laccase production by ultrasonic treatment is related to the improved mass transfer of nutrients and product between the liquid medium and the gel matrix. These results provide a basis for the large-scale and highly-efficient production of laccase using sonobioreactors.

Intense gas bubble emissions in the Kerch seep area - A newly discovered high-flux seep site in the Black Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Römer, M.; Sahling, H.; Pape, T.; Bahr, A.; Feseker, T.; Wintersteller, P.; Bohrmann, G.

2012-04-01

More than 500 bubble-induced hydroacoustic anomalies (flares) were found in the water column above the seafloor in the study area comprising about 430 km2 at the Don-Kuban paleo-fan (Eastern Black Sea) by using ship mounted single beam and multibeam echosounders. Almost all flares originated from the seafloor above the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ), which in that region is located below ~700 m water depth. This observation confirms the sealing mechanism of gas hydrate, which impedes migration of free gas through the GHSZ and subsequent bubble emission from the seafloor. However, an intense seep site, called the "Kerch seep area" was discovered as an exception at 890 m water depth well within the GHSZ. In situ temperature measurements in shallow sediments indicate locally elevated temperatures probably caused by enhanced upward fluid flow. The base of the GHSZ in this region is generally situated at about 150 m below the seafloor. However, the local thermal anomalies result in a thinning of the gas hydrate occurrence zone to only a few meters below the seafloor and allow free gas to reach the seafloor. At sites where gas migrated into near-surface deposits, shallow gas hydrate deposits evolved and up-doming of overlying sediments led to the formation of mounds rising several meters from the surrounding seafloor. Further gas bubbles ascending from greater depth are accumulated below the gas hydrate layer at the base of the mound structures and migrate horizontally to their rims. At the mound edges gas bubbles either might form fresh gas hydrates and increase the extent of the mound structures by pushing up overlying sediments or escape at several sites into the water column. Two mounds were mapped in ultra-high resolution during dives with the autonomous underwater vehicle 'AUV MARUM SEAL 5000'. Several individual flares were detected in the Kerch seep area using hydroacoustic systems. Repeated surveys in that area conducted during three cruises within four years suggested that gas discharge varied spatially and temporally while the total number of flares remained rather constant. During seafloor inspections with MARUḾs remotely operated vehicle 'ROV QUEST 4000 m' gas bubble emission sites were investigated in detail. Gas bubbles collected during the ROV dives mainly consisted of methane predominantly of microbial origin. By analyzing the high-definition video material the gas flux from several bubble emission sites was calculated. In combination with the hydroacoustic results (flare distributions) it is estimated that about 2.2 - 87 × 106 mol CH4/yr are emitted from the seafloor at the Kerch seep area. Despite this high mass of methane injected into the hydrosphere, the peak of the highest flares at ~350 m water depth as revealed by echosounder recording suggest that the ascending methane completely dissolves in the water column and does not pass the sea-atmosphere boundary.

Analysis, Design and Optimization of Non-Cylindrical Fuselage for Blended-Wing-Body (BWB) Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukhopadhyay, V.; Sobieszczanski-Sobieski, J.; Kosaka, I.; Quinn, G.; Charpentier, C.

2002-01-01

Initial results of an investigation towards finding an efficient non-cylindrical fuselage configuration for a conceptual blended-wing-body flight vehicle were presented. A simplified 2-D beam column analysis and optimization was performed first. Then a set of detailed finite element models of deep sandwich panel and ribbed shell construction concepts were analyzed and optimized. Generally these concepts with flat surfaces were found to be structurally inefficient to withstand internal pressure and resultant compressive loads simultaneously. Alternatively, a set of multi-bubble fuselage configuration concepts were developed for balancing internal cabin pressure load efficiently, through membrane stress in inner-stiffened shell and inter-cabin walls. An outer-ribbed shell was designed to prevent buckling due to external resultant compressive loads. Initial results from finite element analysis appear to be promising. These concepts should be developed further to exploit their inherent structurally efficiency.

Methane rising from the Deep: Hydrates, Bubbles, Oil Spills, and Global Warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leifer, I.; Rehder, G. J.; Solomon, E. A.; Kastner, M.; Asper, V. L.; Joye, S. B.

2011-12-01

Elevated methane concentrations in near-surface waters and the atmosphere have been reported for seepage from depths of nearly 1 km at the Gulf of Mexico hydrate observatory (MC118), suggesting that for some methane sources, deepsea methane is not trapped and can contribute to atmospheric greenhouse gas budgets. Ebullition is key with important sensitivity to the formation of hydrate skins and oil coatings, high-pressure solubility, bubble size and bubble plume processes. Bubble ROV tracking studies showed survival to near thermocline depths. Studies with a numerical bubble propagation model demonstrated that consideration of structure I hydrate skins transported most methane only to mid-water column depths. Instead, consideration of structure II hydrates, which are stable to far shallower depths and appropriate for natural gas mixtures, allows bubbles to survive to far shallower depths. Moreover, model predictions of vertical methane and alkane profiles and bubble size evolution were in better agreement with observations after consideration of structure II hydrate properties as well as an improved implementation of plume properties, such as currents. These results demonstrate the importance of correctly incorporating bubble hydrate processes in efforts to predict the impact of deepsea seepage as well as to understand the fate of bubble-transported oil and methane from deepsea pipeline leaks and well blowouts. Application to the DWH spill demonstrated the importance of deepsea processes to the fate of spilled subsurface oil. Because several of these parameters vary temporally (bubble flux, currents, temperature), sensitivity studies indicate the importance of real-time monitoring data.

Viscous decay of nonlinear oscillations of a spherical bubble at large Reynolds number

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, W. R.; Wang, Q. X.

2017-08-01

The long-time viscous decay of large-amplitude bubble oscillations is considered in an incompressible Newtonian fluid, based on the Rayleigh-Plesset equation. At large Reynolds numbers, this is a multi-scaled problem with a short time scale associated with inertial oscillation and a long time scale associated with viscous damping. A multi-scaled perturbation method is thus employed to solve the problem. The leading-order analytical solution of the bubble radius history is obtained to the Rayleigh-Plesset equation in a closed form including both viscous and surface tension effects. Some important formulae are derived including the following: the average energy loss rate of the bubble system during each cycle of oscillation, an explicit formula for the dependence of the oscillation frequency on the energy, and an implicit formula for the amplitude envelope of the bubble radius as a function of the energy. Our theory shows that the energy of the bubble system and the frequency of oscillation do not change on the inertial time scale at leading order, the energy loss rate on the long viscous time scale being inversely proportional to the Reynolds number. These asymptotic predictions remain valid during each cycle of oscillation whether or not compressibility effects are significant. A systematic parametric analysis is carried out using the above formula for the energy of the bubble system, frequency of oscillation, and minimum/maximum bubble radii in terms of the Reynolds number, the dimensionless initial pressure of the bubble gases, and the Weber number. Our results show that the frequency and the decay rate have substantial variations over the lifetime of a decaying oscillation. The results also reveal that large-amplitude bubble oscillations are very sensitive to small changes in the initial conditions through large changes in the phase shift.

A 1-1/2-level on-chip-decoding bubble memory chip design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, T. T.

1975-01-01

Design includes multi-channel replicator which can reduce chip-writing requirement, selective annihilating switch which can effectively annihilate bubbles with minimum delay, and modified transfer switch which can be used as selective steering-type decoder.

Simultaneous observation of nascent plasma and bubble induced by laser ablation in water with various pulse durations

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

Tamura, Ayaka, E-mail: atamura@hiroshima-u.ac.jp; Matsumoto, Ayumu; Nishi, Naoya

2015-05-07

We investigate the effects of pulse duration on the dynamics of the nascent plasma and bubble induced by laser ablation in water. To examine the relationship between the nascent plasma and the bubble without disturbed by shot-to-shot fluctuation, we observe the images of the plasma and the bubble simultaneously by using two intensified charge coupled device detectors. We successfully observe the images of the plasma and bubble during the pulsed-irradiation, when the bubble size is as small as 20 μm. The light-emitting region of the plasma during the laser irradiation seems to exceed the bubble boundary in the case of themore » short-pulse (30-ns pulse) irradiation, while the size of the plasma is significantly smaller than that of the bubble in the case of the long-pulse (100-ns pulse) irradiation. The results suggest that the extent of the plasma quenching in the initial stage significantly depends on the pulse duration. Also, we investigate how the plasma-bubble relationship in the very early stage affects the shape of the atomic spectral lines observed at the later delay time of 600 ns. The present work gives important information to obtain high quality spectra in the application of underwater laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, as well as to clarify the mechanism of liquid-phase laser ablation.« less

Early Warning Signals of Financial Crises with Multi-Scale Quantile Regressions of Log-Periodic Power Law Singularities

PubMed Central

Zhang, Qun; Zhang, Qunzhi; Sornette, Didier

2016-01-01

We augment the existing literature using the Log-Periodic Power Law Singular (LPPLS) structures in the log-price dynamics to diagnose financial bubbles by providing three main innovations. First, we introduce the quantile regression to the LPPLS detection problem. This allows us to disentangle (at least partially) the genuine LPPLS signal and the a priori unknown complicated residuals. Second, we propose to combine the many quantile regressions with a multi-scale analysis, which aggregates and consolidates the obtained ensembles of scenarios. Third, we define and implement the so-called DS LPPLS Confidence™ and Trust™ indicators that enrich considerably the diagnostic of bubbles. Using a detailed study of the “S&P 500 1987” bubble and presenting analyses of 16 historical bubbles, we show that the quantile regression of LPPLS signals contributes useful early warning signals. The comparison between the constructed signals and the price development in these 16 historical bubbles demonstrates their significant predictive ability around the real critical time when the burst/rally occurs. PMID:27806093

The footprint of CO2 leakage in the water-column: Insights from numerical modeling based on a North Sea gas release experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vielstädte, L.; Linke, P.; Schmidt, M.; Sommer, S.; Wallmann, K.; McGinnis, D. F.; Haeckel, M.

2013-12-01

Assessing the environmental impact of potential CO2 leakage from offshore carbon dioxide storage sites necessitates the investigation of the corresponding pH change in the water-column. Numerical models have been developed to simulate the buoyant rise and dissolution of CO2 bubbles in the water-column and the subsequent near-field dispersion of dissolved CO2 in seawater under ocean current and tidal forcing. In order to test and improve numerical models a gas release experiment has been conducted at 80 m water-depth within the Sleipner area (North Sea). CO2 and Kr (used as inert tracer gas) were released on top of a benthic lander at varying gas flows (<140 kg/day) and bubble sizes (de: 1-6 mm). pCO2 and pH were measured by in situ sensors to monitor the spread of the solute in different vertical heights and distances downstream of the artificial leak. The experiment and numerical analysis show that the impact of such leakage rates is limited to the near-field bottom waters, due to the rapid dissolution of CO2 bubbles in seawater (CO2 is being stripped within the first two to five meters of bubble rise). In particular, small bubbles, which will dissolve close to the seafloor, may cause a dangerous low-pH environment for the marine benthos. However, on the larger scale, the advective transport by e.g. tidal currents, dominates the CO2 dispersal in the North Sea and dilutes the CO2 peak quickly. The model results show that at the small scales (<100 m) of the CO2 plume the lateral eddy diffusion (~0.01 m2/s) has only a negligible effect. Overall, we can postulate that CO2 leakage at a rate of ~ 100 kg per day as in our experiment will only have a localized impact on the marine environment, thereby reducing pH substantially (by 0.4 units) within a diameter of less than 50 m around the release spot (depending on the duration of leakage and the current velocities). Strong currents and tidal cycles significantly reduce the spreading of low-pH water masses into the far-field by efficiently diluting the amount of CO2 in ambient seawater.

Numerical investigation of shock induced bubble collapse in water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apazidis, N.

2016-04-01

A semi-conservative, stable, interphase-capturing numerical scheme for shock propagation in heterogeneous systems is applied to the problem of shock propagation in liquid-gas systems. The scheme is based on the volume-fraction formulation of the equations of motion for liquid and gas phases with separate equations of state. The semi-conservative formulation of the governing equations ensures the absence of spurious pressure oscillations at the material interphases between liquid and gas. Interaction of a planar shock in water with a single spherical bubble as well as twin adjacent bubbles is investigated. Several stages of the interaction process are considered, including focusing of the transmitted shock within the deformed bubble, creation of a water-hammer shock as well as generation of high-speed liquid jet in the later stages of the process.

Characteristics of Pool Boiling on Graphite-Copper Composite Surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, Nengli; Chao, David F.; Yang, Wen-Jei

2002-01-01

Nucleate pool boiling performance of different liquids on graphite-copper composite (Gr-Cu) surfaces has been experimentally studied and modeled. Both highly wetting fluids, such as freon-113 and pentane, and a moderately wetting fluid (water) were tested on the Gr-Cu surfaces with different graphite-fiber volume fractions to reveal the enhancement effects of the composite surfaces on the nucleate pool boiling. Results of the experiments show that the graphite-fiber volume fraction has an optimum value. The Gr-Cu composite surface with 25 percent graphite-fiber volume (f=0.25) has a maximum enhancement effect on the nucleate boiling heat transfer comparing to the pure copper surface. For the highly wetting fluid, the nucleate boiling heat transfer is generally enhanced on the Gr- Cu composite surfaces by 3 to 6 times shown. In the low heat flux region, the enhancement is over 6 times, but in the high heat flux region, the enhancement is reduced to about 40%. For the moderately wetting fluid (water), stronger enhancement of nucleate boiling heat transfer is achieved on the composite surface. It shown the experimental results in which one observes the nucleate boiling heat transfer enhancement of 5 to 10 times in the low heat flux region and an enhancement of 3 to 5 times in the high heat flux region. Photographs of bubble departure during the initial stage of nucleate boiling indicate that the bubbles detached from the composite surface are much smaller in diameter than those detached from the pure copper surface. Typical photographs are presented.It shows that the bubbles departed from the composite surface have diameters of only O(0.1) mm, while those departed from the pure copper surface have diameters of O(1) mm. It is also found that the bubbles depart from the composite surface at a much higher frequency, thus forming vapor columns. These two phenomena combined with high thermal conductivity of the graphite fiber are considered the mechanisms for such a significant augmentation in nucleate boiling heat transfer on the composite surfaces. A physical model is developed to describe the phenomenon of bubble departure from the composite surface: The preferred site of bubble nucleation is the fiber tip because of higher tip temperature than the surrounding copper base and poor wettability of the graphite tip compared with that of the base material (copper). The high evaporation rate near the contact line produces the vapor cutback due to the vapor recoil pushing the three-phase line outwards from the fiber tip, and so a neck of the bubble is formed near the bubble bottom. Evaporation and surface tension accelerate the necking process and finally result in the bubble departure while a new small bubble is formed at the tip when the surface tension pushes the three-phase line back to the tip. The process is schematically shown. The proposed model is based on and confirmed by experimental results.

Laboratory Experiments on Propagating Plasma Bubbles into Vacuum, Vacuum Magnetic Field, and Background Plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lynn, Alan G.; Zhang, Yue; Gilmore, Mark; Hsu, Scott

2014-10-01

We discuss the dynamics of plasma ``bubbles'' as they propagate through a variety of background media. These bubbles are formed by a pulsed coaxial gun with an externally applied magnetic field. Bubble parameters are typically ne ~1020 m-3, Te ~ 5 - 10 eV, and Ti ~ 10 - 15 eV. The structure of the bubbles can range from unmagnetized jet-like structures to spheromak-like structures with complex magnetic flux surfaces. Some of the background media the bubbles interact with are vacuum, vacuum with magnetic field, and other magnetized plasmas. These bubbles exhibit different qualitative behavior depending on coaxial gun parameters such as gas species, gun current, and gun bias magnetic field. Their behavior also depends on the parameters of the background they propagate through. Multi-frame fast camera imaging and magnetic probe data are used to characterize the bubble evolution under various conditions.

A multi-functional bubble-based microfluidic system

PubMed Central

Khoshmanesh, Khashayar; Almansouri, Abdullah; Albloushi, Hamad; Yi, Pyshar; Soffe, Rebecca; Kalantar-zadeh, Kourosh

2015-01-01

Recently, the bubble-based systems have offered a new paradigm in microfluidics. Gas bubbles are highly flexible, controllable and barely mix with liquids, and thus can be used for the creation of reconfigurable microfluidic systems. In this work, a hydrodynamically actuated bubble-based microfluidic system is introduced. This system enables the precise movement of air bubbles via axillary feeder channels to alter the geometry of the main channel and consequently the flow characteristics of the system. Mixing of neighbouring streams is demonstrated by oscillating the bubble at desired displacements and frequencies. Flow control is achieved by pushing the bubble to partially or fully close the main channel. Patterning of suspended particles is also demonstrated by creating a large bubble along the sidewalls. Rigorous analytical and numerical calculations are presented to describe the operation of the system. The examples presented in this paper highlight the versatility of the developed bubble-based actuator for a variety of applications; thus providing a vision that can be expanded for future highly reconfigurable microfluidics. PMID:25906043

Vortex shedding within laminar separation bubbles forming over an airfoil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirk, Thomas M.; Yarusevych, Serhiy

2017-05-01

Vortex shedding within laminar separation bubbles forming over the suction side of a NACA 0018 airfoil is studied through a combination of high-speed flow visualization and boundary layer measurements. Wind tunnel experiments are performed at a chord-based Reynolds number of 100,000 and four angles of attack. The high-speed flow visualization is complemented by quantitative velocity and surface pressure measurements. The structures are shown to originate from the natural amplification of small-amplitude disturbances, and the shear layer roll-up is found to occur coherently across the span. However, significant cycle-to-cycle variations are observed in vortex characteristics, including shedding period and roll-up location. The formation of the roll-up vortices precedes the later stages of transition, during which these structures undergo significant deformations and breakdown to smaller scales. During this stage of flow development, vortex merging is also observed. The results provide new insight into the development of coherent structures in separation bubbles and their relation to the overall bubble dynamics and mean bubble topology.

Dynamics of gas-driven eruptions: Experimental simulations using CO2-H2O-polymer system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Youxue; Sturtevant, B.; Stolper, E. M.

1997-02-01

We report exploratory experiments simulating gas-driven eruptions using the CO2-H2O system at room temperature as an analog of natural eruptive systems. The experimental apparatus consists of a test cell and a large tank. Initially, up to 1.0 wt% of CO2 is dissolved in liquid water under a pressure of up to 735 kPa in the test cell. The experiment is initiated by suddenly reducing the pressure of the test cell to a typical tank pressure of 10 kPa. The following are the main results: (1) The style of the process depends on the decompression ratio. There is a threshold decompression ratio above which rapid eruption occurs. (2) During rapid eruption, there is always fragmentation at the liquid-vapor interface. Fragmentation may also occur in the flow interior. (3) Initially, the top of the erupting column ascends at a constant acceleration (instead of constant velocity). (4) Average bubble radius grows as t2/3. (5) When viscosity is 20 times that of pure water or greater, a static foam may be stable after expansion to 97% vesicularity. The experiments provide several insights into natural gas-driven eruptions, including (1) the interplay between bubble growth and ascent of the erupting column must be considered for realistic modeling of bubble growth during gas-driven eruptions, (2) buoyant rise of the bubbly magma is not necessary during an explosive volcanic eruption, and (3) CO2-driven limnic eruptions can be explosive. The violence increases with the initial CO2 content dissolved in water.

Experimental constraints on the outgassing dynamics of basaltic magmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pioli, L.; Bonadonna, C.; Azzopardi, B. J.; Phillips, J. C.; Ripepe, M.

2012-03-01

The dynamics of separated two-phase flow of basaltic magmas in cylindrical conduits has been explored combining large-scale experiments and theoretical studies. Experiments consisted of the continuous injection of air into water or glucose syrup in a 0.24 m diameter, 6.5 m long bubble column. The model calculates vesicularity and pressure gradient for a range of gas superficial velocities (volume flow rates/pipe area, 10-2-102 m/s), conduit diameters (100-2 m), and magma viscosities (3-300 Pa s). The model is calibrated with the experimental results to extrapolate key flow parameters such as Co (distribution parameter) and Froude number, which control the maximum vesicularity of the magma in the column, and the gas rise speed of gas slugs. It predicts that magma vesicularity increases with increasing gas volume flow rate and decreases with increasing conduit diameter, until a threshold value (45 vol.%), which characterizes churn and annular flow regimes. Transition to annular flow regimes is expected to occur at minimum gas volume flow rates of 103-104 m3/s. The vertical pressure gradient decreases with increasing gas flow rates and is controlled by magma vesicularity (in bubbly flows) or the length and spacing of gas slugs. This study also shows that until conditions for separated flow are met, increases in magma viscosity favor stability of slug flow over bubbly flow but suggests coexistence between gas slugs and small bubbles, which contribute to a small fraction of the total gas outflux. Gas flow promotes effective convection of the liquid, favoring magma homogeneity and stable conditions.

The Character and Formation of Elongated Depressions on the Upper Bulgarian Slope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Cuiling; Greinert, Jens; Haeckel, Matthias; Bialas, Jörg; Dimitrov, Lyubomir; Zhao, Guangtao

2018-06-01

Seafloor elongated depressions are indicators of gas seepage or slope instability. Here we report a sequence of slopeparallel elongated depressions that link to headwalls of sediment slides on upper slope. The depressions of about 250 m in width and several kilometers in length are areas of focused gas discharge indicated by bubble-release into the water column and methane enriched pore waters. Sparker seismic profiles running perpendicular and parallel to the coast, show gas migration pathways and trapped gas underneath these depressions with bright spots and seismic blanking. The data indicate that upward gas migration is the initial reason for fracturing sedimentary layers. In the top sediment where two young stages of landslides can be detected, the slopeparallel sediment weakening lengthens and deepens the surficial fractures, creating the elongated depressions in the seafloor supported by sediment erosion due to slope-parallel water currents.

Behavior and dynamics of bubble breakup in gas pipeline leaks and accidental subsea oil well blowouts.

PubMed

Wang, Binbin; Socolofsky, Scott A; Lai, Chris C K; Adams, E Eric; Boufadel, Michel C

2018-06-01

Subsea oil well blowouts and pipeline leaks release oil and gas to the environment through vigorous jets. Predicting the breakup of the released fluids in oil droplets and gas bubbles is critical to predict the fate of petroleum compounds in the marine water column. To predict the gas bubble size in oil well blowouts and pipeline leaks, we observed and quantified the flow behavior and breakup process of gas for a wide range of orifice diameters and flow rates. Flow behavior at the orifice transitions from pulsing flow to continuous discharge as the jet crosses the sonic point. Breakup dynamics transition from laminar to turbulent at a critical value of the Weber number. Very strong pure gas jets and most gas/liquid co-flowing jets exhibit atomization breakup. Bubble sizes in the atomization regime scale with the jet-to-plume transition length scale and follow -3/5 power-law scaling for a mixture Weber number. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design of slurry bubble column reactors: novel technique for optimum catalyst size selection contractual origin of the invention

DOEpatents

Gamwo, Isaac K [Murrysville, PA; Gidaspow, Dimitri [Northbrook, IL; Jung, Jonghwun [Naperville, IL

2009-11-17

A method for determining optimum catalyst particle size for a gas-solid, liquid-solid, or gas-liquid-solid fluidized bed reactor such as a slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR) for converting synthesis gas into liquid fuels considers the complete granular temperature balance based on the kinetic theory of granular flow, the effect of a volumetric mass transfer coefficient between the liquid and the gas, and the water gas shift reaction. The granular temperature of the catalyst particles representing the kinetic energy of the catalyst particles is measured and the volumetric mass transfer coefficient between the gas and liquid phases is calculated using the granular temperature. Catalyst particle size is varied from 20 .mu.m to 120 .mu.m and a maximum mass transfer coefficient corresponding to optimum liquid hydrocarbon fuel production is determined. Optimum catalyst particle size for maximum methanol production in a SBCR was determined to be in the range of 60-70 .mu.m.

Externally triggered renewed bubble nucleation in basaltic magma: the 12 October 2008 eruption at Halema‘uma‘u Overlook vent, Kīlauea, Hawai‘i, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Carey, Rebecca J.; Manga, Michael; Degruyter, Wim; Swanson, Donald; Houghton, Bruce F.; Orr, Tim R.; Patrick, Matthew R.

2012-01-01

From October 2008 until present, dozens of small impulsive explosive eruptions occurred from the Overlook vent on the southeast side of Halema‘uma‘u Crater, at Kīlauea volcano, USA. These eruptions were triggered by rockfalls from the walls of the volcanic vent and conduit onto the top of the lava column. Here we use microtextural observations and data from clasts erupted during the well-characterized 12 October 2008 explosive eruption at Halema‘uma‘u to extend existing models of eruption triggering. We present a potential mechanism for this eruption by combining microtextural observations with existing geophysical and visual data sets. We measure the size and number density of bubbles preserved in juvenile ejecta using 2D images and X-ray microtomography. Our data suggest that accumulations of large bubbles with diameters of >50μm to at least millimeters existed at shallow levels within the conduit prior to the 12 October 2008 explosion. Furthermore, a high number density of small bubbles <50 μm is measured in the clasts, implying very rapid nucleation of bubbles. Visual observations, combined with preexisting geophysical data, suggest that the impact of rockfalls onto the magma free surface induces pressure changes over short timescales that (1) nucleated new additional bubbles in the shallow conduit leading to high number densities of small bubbles and (2) expanded the preexisting bubbles driving upward acceleration. The trigger of eruption and bubble nucleation is thus external to the degassing system.

Bubble-facilitated VOC transport: Laboratory experiments and numerical modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mumford, K. G.; Soucy, N. C.

2017-12-01

Most conceptual and numerical models of vapor intrusion assume that the transport of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the source to near the building foundation is a diffusion-limited processes. However, the transport of VOCs by mobilized gas bubbles through the saturated zone could lead to increased rates of transport and advection through the unsaturated zone, thereby increasing mass flux and risks associated with vapor intrusion. This mobilized gas could be biogenic (methanogenic) but could also result from the partitioning of VOC to trapped atmospheric gases in light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) smear zones. The potential for bubble-facilitated VOC transport to increase mass flux was investigated in a series of 1D and 2D laboratory experiments. Pentane source zones were emplaced in sand using sequential drainage and imbibition steps to mimic a water table fluctuation and trap air alongside LNAPL residual. This source was placed below an uncontaminated, water saturated sand (occlusion zone) and a gravel-sized (glass beads) unsaturated zone. Water was pumped laterally through the source zone and occlusion zone to deliver the dissolved gases (air) that are required for the expansion of trapped gas bubbles. Images from 2D flow cell experiments were used to demonstrate fluid rearrangement in the source zone and gas expansion to the occlusion zone, and 1D column experiments were used to measure gas-phase pentane mass flux. This flux was found to be 1-2 orders of magnitude greater than that measured in diffusion-dominated control columns, and showed intermittent behavior consistent with bubble transport by repeated expansion, mobilization, coalescence and trapping. Numerical simulation results under a variety of conditions using an approach that couples macroscopic invasion percolation with mass transfer (MIP-MT) between the aqueous and gas phases will also be presented. The results of this study demonstrate the potential for bubble-facilitated transport to increase transport rates linked to vapor intrusion, and will serve as a basis for further development of conceptual and numerical models to investigate the conditions under which this mechanism may play an important role.

Revealing the Location of the Mixing Layer in a Hot Bubble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guerrero, M. A.; Fang, X.; Chu, Y.-H.; Toalá, J. A.; Gruendl, R. A.

2017-10-01

The fast stellar winds can blow bubbles in the circumstellar material ejected from previous phases of stellar evolution. These are found at different scales, from planetary nebulae (PNe) around stars evolving to the white dwarf stage, to Wolf-Rayet (WR) bubbles and up to large-scale bubbles around massive star clusters. In all cases, the fast stellar wind is shock-heated and a hot bubble is produced. Processes of mass evaporation and mixing of nebular material and heat conduction occurring at the mixing layer between the hot bubble and the optical nebula are key to determine the thermal structure of these bubbles and their evolution. In this contribution we review our current understanding of the X-ray observations of hot bubbles in PNe and present the first spatially-resolved study of a mixing layer in a PN.

Layered storage of biogenic methane-enriched gas bubbles in peat: A lumped capacitance model controlled by soil structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, X.; Comas, X.; Binley, A. M.; Slater, L. D.

2017-12-01

Methane can accumulate in the gaseous phase in peats, and enter the atmosphere as gas bubbles with a mass flux higher than that via diffusion and plant-mediated pathways. A complete understanding of the mechanisms regulating bubble storage in peats remains incomplete. We developed a layered model to quantify the storage of gas bubbles over a peat column based on a general lumped capacitance model. This conceptual model was applied to explain the effects of peat structure on bubble storage at different depths observed in a laboratory experiment. A peat monolith was collected from the Everglades, a subtropical wetland located in Florida (USA), and kept submerged in a cuboid chamber over 102 days until gas bubble saturation was achieved. Time-lapse ground-penetrating radar (GPR) was used to estimate changes in gas content of each layer and the corresponding average dimensions of stored gas bubbles. The results highlight a hotspot layer of bubble accumulation at depths between 5 and 10 cm below the monolith surface. Bubbles in this shallow hotspot layer were larger relative to those in deeper layers, whilst the degree of decomposition of the upper layers was generally smaller than that of the lower layers based on von Post humification tests. X-ray Computer tomography (CT) was applied to resin-impregnated peat sections from different depths and the results showed that a higher porosity promotes bubbles storage. The stored gas bubbles were released by changing water levels and the air CH4 concentrations above the peat monolith were measured using a flow-through chamber system to confirm the high CH4 concentration in the stored bubbles. Our findings suggest that bubble capacitance is related to the difference in size between gas bubbles and peat pores. This work has implications for better understanding how changes in water table elevation associated with climate change and sea level rise (particularly for freshwater wetlands near coastal areas like the Everglades) may potentially alter bubble sizes, thus bubble storage in peats.

Reliable prediction of heat transfer coefficient in three-phase bubble column reactor via adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and regularization network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garmroodi Asil, A.; Nakhaei Pour, A.; Mirzaei, Sh.

2018-04-01

In the present article, generalization performances of regularization network (RN) and optimize adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) are compared with a conventional software for prediction of heat transfer coefficient (HTC) as a function of superficial gas velocity (5-25 cm/s) and solid fraction (0-40 wt%) at different axial and radial locations. The networks were trained by resorting several sets of experimental data collected from a specific system of air/hydrocarbon liquid phase/silica particle in a slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR). A special convection HTC measurement probe was manufactured and positioned in an axial distance of 40 and 130 cm above the sparger at center and near the wall of SBCR. The simulation results show that both in-house RN and optimized ANFIS due to powerful noise filtering capabilities provide superior performances compared to the conventional software of MATLAB ANFIS and ANN toolbox. For the case of 40 and 130 cm axial distance from center of sparger, at constant superficial gas velocity of 25 cm/s, adding 40 wt% silica particles to liquid phase leads to about 66% and 69% increasing in HTC respectively. The HTC in the column center for all the cases studied are about 9-14% larger than those near the wall region.

Bubble Formation at a Submerged Orifice in Reduced Gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buyevich, Yu A.; Webbon, Bruce W.

1994-01-01

The dynamic regime of gas injection through a circular plate orifice into an ideally wetting liquid is considered, when successively detached bubbles may be regarded as separate identities. In normal gravity and at relatively low gas flow rates, a growing bubble is modeled as a spherical segment touching the orifice perimeter during the whole time of its evolution. If the flow rate exceeds a certain threshold value, another stage of the detachment process takes place in which an almost spherical gas envelope is connected with the orifice by a nearly cylindrical stem that lengthens as the bubble rises above the plate. The bubble shape resembles then that of a mushroom and the upper envelope continues to grow until the gas supply through the stem is completely cut off. Such a stage is always present under conditions of sufficiently low gravity, irrespective of the flow rate. Two major reasons make for bubble detachment: the buoyancy force and the force due to the momentum inflow into the bubble with the injected gas. The former force dominates the process at normal gravity whereas the second one plays a key role under negligible gravity conditions. It is precisely this fundamental factor that conditions the drastic influence on bubble growth and detachment that changes in gravity are able to cause. The frequency of bubble formation is proportional to and the volume of detached bubbles is independent of the gas flow rate in sufficiently low gravity, while at normal and moderately reduced gravity conditions the first variable slightly decreases and the second one almost linearly increases as the flow rate grows. Effects of other parameters, such as the orifice radius, gas and liquid densities, and surface tension are discussed.

[Recent advances and applications of capillary electrochromatography and pressurized capillary electrochromatography].

PubMed

Wu, Yi; Zhang, Xiaohui; Wei, Juan; Xue, Yunyun; Bahatibieke, Marjan; Wang, Yan; Yan, Chao

2009-09-01

Capillary electrochromatography (CEC), in which electroosmotic flow (EOF) created from the electrical double layer is made to act as a pump to drive the mobile phase in a capillary column packed with micro-particulates or coated with stationary phase. Both neutral and charged species can be resolved by CEC. It has been demonstrated that the efficiency of a separation obtained by electroosmotic propulsion is superior to that obtained by pressure-driven flow (as is the case in HPLC). CEC combines the best features of CE and versatile selectivity and large sample capacity of HPLC, promising high efficiency, high resolution, high selectivity and high peak capacity. However, in practice, when CEC is used without pressure, often used on a commercial CE instrument, there are problems and difficulties associated with bubbles formation and column dry-out. These difficulties can be overcome by a pressurized CEC (pCEC) system, in which a supplementary pressure is applied to the column in addition to the EOF. In such a system, a pressure can be applied to the capillary column to suppress bubbles formation. Quantitative sample introduction in pCEC can be easily achieved through a rotary-type injector. Most importantly, it is amenable for a solvent gradient mode, similar to that in HPLC, by programming the composition of mobile phase. The article brings a comprehensive survey of recent development of CEC and pCEC, including the development of instrumentation, capillary columns and stationary phase as well as CEC and pCEC applications in life science, biotechnology, pharmaceutical analysis, food safety and environmental security. Prospects for CEC and pCEC development and application are also discussed.

Rational Speculative Bubble Size in Gold, Hang Seng, S&P 500 and Nikkei 225 Index During Year 2008 to 2016

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borhan, Nurharyanti; Halim, Nurfadhlina Abdul; Amir, W. Ahmad Wan Muhammad

2017-09-01

A rational speculative bubble is a surge in asset prices that exceed its intrinsic value. Rational speculative bubbles are among the ascription which may lead to the collapse of an economic system. Rational speculative bubble cannot be created but it comes into existence when assets started to be traded. Financial rational speculative bubble and burst have negative effect on the economy and markets. Financial rational speculative bubbles are difficult to detect. This study aims to shows the size of rational speculative bubble in four markets, which are gold, Hang Seng, S&P500 and Nikkei 225 during year 2008 to 2016. In this study, generalized Johansen-Ledoit-Sornette model are used to find the size of the rational speculative bubble. Bubble detection is important for both sides of macro-economic decision makers and to the trader. Especially for a trading system that requires detailed knowledge about the time and the stage of the bubble burst.

Dynamic evolution of Rayleigh-Taylor bubbles from sinusoidal, W-shaped, and random perturbations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Zhi-Rui; Zhang, You-Sheng; Tian, Bao-Lin

2018-03-01

Implicit large eddy simulations of two-dimensional Rayleigh-Taylor instability at different density ratios (i.e., Atwood number A =0.05 , 0.5, and 0.9) are conducted to investigate the late-time dynamics of bubbles. To produce a flow field full of bounded, semibounded, and chaotic bubbles, three problems with distinct perturbations are simulated: (I) periodic sinusoidal perturbation, (II) isolated W-shaped perturbation, and (III) random short-wave perturbations. The evolution of height h , velocity v , and diameter D of the (dominant) bubble with time t are formulated and analyzed. In problem I, during the quasisteady stage, the simulations confirm Goncharov's prediction of the terminal speed v∞=Fr√{A g λ /(1 +A ) } , where Fr=1 /√{3 π } . Moreover, the diameter D at this stage is found to be proportional to the initial perturbation wavelength λ as D ≈λ . This differed from Daly's simulation result of D =λ (1 +A )/2 . In problem II, a W-shaped perturbation is designed to produce a bubble environment similar to that of chaotic bubbles in problem III. We obtain a similar terminal speed relationship as above, but Fr is replaced by Frw≈0.63 . In problem III, the simulations show that h grows quadratically with the bubble acceleration constant α ≡h /(A g t2)≈0.05 , and D expands self-similarly with a steady aspect ratio β ≡D /h ≈(1 +A )/2 , which differs from existing theories. Therefore, following the mechanism of self-similar growth, we derive a relationship of β =4 α (1 +A ) /Frw2 to relate the evolution of chaotic bubbles in problem III to that of semibounded bubbles in problem II. The validity of this relationship highlights the fact that the dynamics of chaotic bubbles in problem III are similar to the semibounded isolated bubbles in problem II, but not to that of bounded periodic bubbles in problem I.

In-situ observations of bubble growth in basaltic, andesitic and rhyodacitic melts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masotta, M.; Ni, H.; Keppler, H.

2013-12-01

Bubble growth strongly affects the physical properties of degassing magmas and their eruption dynamics. Natural samples and products from quench experiments provide only a snapshot of the final state of volatile exsolution, leaving the processes occurring during its early stages unconstrained. In order to fill this gap, we present in-situ high-temperature observations of bubble growth in magmas of different compositions (basalt, andesite and rhyodacite) at 1100 to 1240 °C and 1 bar, obtained using a moissanite cell apparatus. The data show that nucleation occurs at very small degrees of supersaturaturation (<20 MPa in basalt and andesite, ca. 100 MPa in rhyodacite), probably due to heterogeneous nucleation of bubbles occurring simultaneously with the nucleation of crystals. During the early stages of exsolution, melt degassing is the driving mechanism of bubble growth, with coalescence becoming increasingly important as exsolution progresses. Ostwald ripening occurs only at the end of the process and only in basaltic melt. The average bubble growth rate (GR) ranges from 3.4*10-6 to 5.2*10-7 mm/s, with basalt and andesite showing faster growth rates than rhyodacite. The bubble number density (NB) at nucleation ranges from 1.8*108 to 7.9*107 cm-3 and decreases exponentially over time. While the rhyodacite melt maintained a well-sorted bubble-size distribution (BSD) through time, the BSD's of basalt and andesite are much more inhomogeneous. Our experimental observations demonstrate that bubble growth cannot be ascribed to a single mechanism but is rather a combination of many processes, which depend on the physical properties of the melt. Depending on coalescence rate, annealing of bubbles following a single nucleation event can produce complex bubble size distributions. In natural samples, such BSD's may be misinterpreted as resulting from several separate nucleation events. Incipient crystallization upon cooling of a magma may allow bubble nucleation already at very small degrees of supersaturation and could therefore be an important trigger for volatile release and explosive eruptions.

Hydrodynamic models for slurry bubble column reactors

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

Gidaspow, D.

1995-12-31

The objective of this investigation is to convert a {open_quotes}learning gas-solid-liquid{close_quotes} fluidization model into a predictive design model. This model is capable of predicting local gas, liquid and solids hold-ups and the basic flow regimes: the uniform bubbling, the industrially practical churn-turbulent (bubble coalescence) and the slugging regimes. Current reactor models incorrectly assume that the gas and the particle hold-ups (volume fractions) are uniform in the reactor. They must be given in terms of empirical correlations determined under conditions that radically differ from reactor operation. In the proposed hydrodynamic approach these hold-ups are computed from separate phase momentum balances. Furthermore,more » the kinetic theory approach computes the high slurry viscosities from collisions of the catalyst particles. Thus particle rheology is not an input into the model.« less

Sonar gas seepage characterization using high resolution systems at short ranges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider von Deimling, J.; Lohrberg, A.; Mücke, I.

2017-12-01

Sonar is extremely sensitive in regard to submarine remote sensing of free gas bubbles. Known reasons for this are (1) high impedance contrast between water and gas, holding true also at larger depths with higher hydrostatic pressures and thus greater mole density in a gas bubble; (2) resonating behavior at a specific depth-frequency-size/shape relation with highly non-linear behavior; (3) an overlooked property being valuable for gas seepage detection and characterization is the movement of bubbles controlled by their overall trajectory governed by buoyancy, upwelling effects, tides, eddies, and currents. Moving objects are an unusual seismo-acoustic target in solid earth geophysics, and most processors hardly consider such short term movement. However, analyzing movement pattern over time and space highly improves human and algorithmic bubble detection and helps mitigation of false alarms often caused by fish's swim bladders. We optimized our sonar surveys for gas bubble trajectory analyses using calibrated split-beam and broadband/short pulse multibeam to gather very high quality sonar images. Thus we present sonar data patterns of gas seepage sites recorded at shorter ranges showing individual bubbles or groups of bubbles. Subsequent analyses of bubble trajectories and sonar strength can be used to quantify minor gas fluxes with high accuracy. Moreover, we analyzed strong gas bubble seepage sites with significant upwelling. Acoustic inversion of such major seep fluxes is extremely challenging if not even impossible given uncertainties in bubble size spectra, upwelling velocities, and beam geometry position of targets. Our 3D analyses of the water column multibeam data unraveled that some major bubble flows prescribe spiral vortex trajectories. The phenomenon was first found at an abandoned well site in the North Sea, but our recent investigations confirm such complex bubble trajectories exist at natural seeps, i.e. at the CO2 seep site Panarea (Italy). We hypothesize that accurate 3D analyses of plume shape and trajectory analyses might help to estimate threshold for fluxes.

Experiments on the Expansion of a Dense Plasma into a Background Magnetoplasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gekelman, Walter; Vanzeeland, Mike; Vincena, Steve; Pribyl, Pat

2003-10-01

There are many situations, which occur in space (coronal mass ejections, or are man-made (upper atmospheric detonations) as well as the initial stages of a supernovae, in which a dense plasma expands into a background magnetized plasma, that can support Alfvèn waves. The upgraded LArge Plasma Device (LAPD) is a machine, at UCLA, in which Alfvèn wave propagation in homogeneous and inhomogeneous plasmas has been studied. We describe a series of experiments,which involve the expansion of a dense (initially, n_laser-plasma/n_0≫1) laser-produced plasma into an ambient highly magnetized background plasma capable of supporting Alfvèn waves will be presented. The 150 MW laser is pulsed at the same 1 Hz repetition rate as the plasma in a highly reproducible experiment. The interaction results in the production of intense shear Alfvèn waves, as well as large density perturbations. The waves propagate away from the target and are observed to become plasma column resonances. In the initial phase the background magnetic field is expelled from a plasma bubble. Currents in the main body of the plasma are generated to neutralize the positively charged bubble. The current system which results, becomes that of a spectrum of shear Alfvèn waves. Spatial patterns of the wave magnetic fields waves are measured at over 10^4 locations. As the dense plasma expands across the magnetic field it seeds the column with shear waves. Most of the Alfvèn wave energy is in shear waves, which become field line resonances after a machine transit time. The interplay between waves, currents, inductive electric fields and space charge is analyzed in great detail. Dramatic movies of the measured wave fields and their associated currents will be presented. Work supported by ONR, and DOE /NSF.

The behavior of vapor bubbles during boiling enhanced with acoustics and open microchannels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boziuk, Thomas; Smith, Marc K.; Glezer, Ari

2012-11-01

Boiling heat transfer on a submerged heated surface is enhanced by combining a grid of surface micromachined open channels and ultrasonic acoustic actuation to control the formation and evolution of vapor bubbles and to inhibit the instability that leads to film boiling at the critical heat flux (CHF). The microchannels provide nucleation sites for vapor bubble formation and enable the entrainment of bulk subcooled fluid to these sites for sustained evaporation. Acoustic actuation excites interfacial oscillations of the detached bubbles and leads to accelerated condensation in the bulk fluid, thereby limiting the formation of vapor columns that precede the CHF instability. The combined effects of microchannels and acoustic actuation are investigated experimentally with emphasis on bubble nucleation, growth, detachment, and condensation. It is shown that this hybrid approach leads to a significant increase in the critical heat flux, a reduction of the vapor mass above the surface, and the breakup of low-frequency vapor slug formation. A large-scale model of the microchannel grid reveals details of the flow near the nucleation site and shows that the presence of the microchannels decreases the surface superheat at a given heat flux. Supported by ONR.

Improved Visualization of Hydroacoustic Plumes Using the Split-Beam Aperture Coherence.

PubMed

Blomberg, Ann E A; Weber, Thomas C; Austeng, Andreas

2018-06-25

Natural seepage of methane into the oceans is considerable, and plays a role in the global carbon cycle. Estimating the amount of this greenhouse gas entering the water column is important in order to understand their environmental impact. In addition, leakage from man-made structures such as gas pipelines may have environmental and economical consequences and should be promptly detected. Split beam echo sounders (SBES) detect hydroacoustic plumes due to the significant contrast in acoustic impedance between water and free gas. SBES are also powerful tools for plume characterization, with the ability to provide absolute acoustic measurements, estimate bubble trajectories, and capture the frequency dependent response of bubbles. However, under challenging conditions such as deep water and considerable background noise, it can be difficult to detect the presence of gas seepage from the acoustic imagery alone. The spatial coherence of the wavefield measured across the split beam sectors, quantified by the coherence factor (CF), is a computationally simple, easily available quantity which complements the acoustic imagery and may ease the ability to automatically or visually detect bubbles in the water column. We demonstrate the benefits of CF processing using SBES data from the Hudson Canyon, acquired using the Simrad EK80 SBES. We observe that hydroacoustic plumes appear more clearly defined and are easier to detect in the CF imagery than in the acoustic backscatter images.

Influence of the Fluid on the Parameters and Limits of Bubble Detonation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinaev, A. V.; Prokhorov, E. S.

2017-12-01

The compression and inflammation of reactive gas bubbles in bubble detonation waves have been studied, and the considerable influence of the fluid (liquid or vapor) on the detonation parameters has been found. It has been shown numerically that the final values of the pressure and temperature significantly decrease if the temperature dependence of the adiabatic index is taken into account at the compression stage. The parameters of reactive gas combustion products in the bubble have been calculated in terms of an equilibrium model, and the influence of the fluid that remains in the bubble in the form of microdroplets and vapor on these parameters has been investigated.

Surface tension effects on the behavior of a cavity growing, collapsing, and rebounding near a rigid wall.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhen-yu; Zhang, Hui-sheng

2004-11-01

Surface tension effects on the behavior of a pure vapor cavity or a cavity containing some noncondensible contents, which is growing, collapsing, and rebounding axisymmetrically near a rigid wall, are investigated numerically by the boundary integral method for different values of dimensionless stand-off parameter gamma, buoyancy parameter delta, and surface tension parameter beta. It is found that at the late stage of the collapse, if the resultant action of the Bjerknes force and the buoyancy force is not small, surface tension will not have significant effects on bubble behavior except that the bubble collapse time is shortened and the liquid jet becomes wider. If the resultant action of the two force is small enough, surface tension will have significant and in some cases substantial effects on bubble behavior, such as changing the direction of the liquid jet, making a new liquid jet appear, in some cases preventing the bubble from rebound before jet impact, and in other cases causing the bubble to rebound or even recollapse before jet impact. The mechanism of surface tension effects on the collapsing behavior of a cavity has been analyzed. The mechanisms of some complicated phenomena induced by surface tension effects are illustrated by analysis of the computed velocity fields and pressure contours of the liquid flow outside the bubble at different stages of the bubble evolution.

Fischer-Tropsch Slurry Reactor modeling

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

Soong, Y.; Gamwo, I.K.; Harke, F.W.

1995-12-31

This paper reports experimental and theoretical results on hydrodynamic studies. The experiments were conducted in a hot-pressurized Slurry-Bubble Column Reactor (SBCR). It includes experimental results of Drakeol-10 oil/nitrogen/glass beads hydrodynamic study and the development of an ultrasonic technique for measuring solids concentration. A model to describe the flow behavior in reactors was developed. The hydrodynamic properties in a 10.16 cm diameter bubble column with a perforated-plate gas distributor were studied at pressures ranging from 0.1 to 1.36 MPa, and at temperatures from 20 to 200{degrees}C, using a dual hot-wire probe with nitrogen, glass beads, and Drakeol-10 oil as the gas,more » solid, and liquid phase, respectively. It was found that the addition of 20 oil wt% glass beads in the system has a slight effect on the average gas holdup and bubble size. A well-posed three-dimensional model for bed dynamics was developed from an ill-posed model. The new model has computed solid holdup distributions consistent with experimental observations with no artificial {open_quotes}fountain{close_quotes} as predicted by the earlier model. The model can be applied to a variety of multiphase flows of practical interest. An ultrasonic technique is being developed to measure solids concentration in a three-phase slurry reactor. Preliminary measurements have been made on slurries consisting of molten paraffin wax, glass beads, and nitrogen bubbles at 180 {degrees}C and 0.1 MPa. The data show that both the sound speed and attenuation are well-defined functions of both the solid and gas concentrations in the slurries. The results suggest possibilities to directly measure solids concentration during the operation of an autoclave reactor containing molten wax.« less

Bubble Departure from Metal-Graphite Composite Surfaces and Its Effects on Pool Boiling Heat Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, David F.; Sankovic, John M.; Motil, Brian J.; Yang, W-J.; Zhang, Nengli

2010-01-01

The formation and growth processes of a bubble in the vicinity of graphite micro-fiber tips on metal-graphite composite boiling surfaces and their effects on boiling behavior are investigated. It is discovered that a large number of micro bubbles are formed first at the micro scratches and cavities on the metal matrix in pool boiling. By virtue of the non-wetting property of graphite, once the growing micro bubbles touch the graphite tips, the micro bubbles are sucked by the tips and merged into larger micro bubbles sitting on the end of the tips. The micro bubbles grow rapidly and coalesce to form macro bubbles, each spanning several tips. The necking process of a detaching macro bubble is analyzed. It is revealed that a liquid jet is produced by sudden break-off of the bubble throat. The composite surfaces not only have higher temperatures in micro- and macrolayers but also make higher frequency of the bubble departure, which increase the average heat fluxes in both the bubble growth stage and in the bubble departure period. Based on these analyses, the enhancement mechanism of pool boiling heat transfer on composite surfaces is clearly revealed.

Soap bubbles in paintings: Art and science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behroozi, F.

2008-12-01

Soap bubbles became popular in 17th century paintings and prints primarily as a metaphor for the impermanence and fragility of life. The Dancing Couple (1663) by the Dutch painter Jan Steen is a good example which, among many other symbols, shows a young boy blowing soap bubbles. In the 18th century the French painter Jean-Simeon Chardin used soap bubbles not only as metaphor but also to express a sense of play and wonder. In his most famous painting, Soap Bubbles (1733/1734) a translucent and quavering soap bubble takes center stage. Chardin's contemporary Charles Van Loo painted his Soap Bubbles (1764) after seeing Chardin's work. In both paintings the soap bubbles have a hint of color and show two bright reflection spots. We discuss the physics involved and explain how keenly the painters have observed the interaction of light and soap bubbles. We show that the two reflection spots on the soap bubbles are images of the light source, one real and one virtual, formed by the curved surface of the bubble. The faint colors are due to thin film interference effects.

Enantioseparation on cellulose dimethylphenylcarbamate-modified zirconia monolithic columns by reversed-phase capillary electrochromatography.

PubMed

Kumar, Avvaru Praveen; Park, Jung Hag

2010-06-25

This work reports the preparation of monolithic zirconia chiral columns for separation of enantiomeric compounds by capillary electrochromatography (CEC). Using sol-gel technology, a porous monolith having interconnected globular-like structure with through-pores is synthesized in the capillary column as a first step in the synthesis of monolithic zirconia chiral capillary columns. In the second step, the surface of the monolith is modified by coating with cellulose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) (CDMPC) as the chiral stationary phase to obtain a chiral column (CDMPCZM). The process of the preparation of the zirconia monolithic capillary column was investigated by varying the concentrations of the components of the sol solution including polyethylene glycol, water and acetic acid. CDMPCZM is mechanically stable and no bubble formation was detected with the applied current of up to 30 microA. The enantioseparation behavior of the CDMPCZM columns was investigated by separating a set of 10 representative chiral compounds by varying the applied voltage and pH and organic composition of the aqueous organic mobile phases. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Carbon dioxide induced bubble formation in a CH4-CO2-H2O ternary system: a molecular dynamics simulation study.

PubMed

Sujith, K S; Ramachandran, C N

2016-02-07

The extraction of methane from its hydrates using carbon dioxide involves the decomposition of the hydrate resulting in a CH4-CO2-H2O ternary solution. Using classical molecular dynamics simulations, we investigate the evolution of dissolved gas molecules in the ternary system at different concentrations of CO2. Various compositions considered in the present study resemble the solution formed during the decomposition of methane hydrates at the initial stages of the extraction process. We find that the presence of CO2 aids the formation of CH4 bubbles by causing its early nucleation. Elucidation of the composition of the bubble revealed that in ternary solutions with high concentration of CO2, mixed gas bubbles composed of CO2 and CH4 are formed. To understand the role of CO2 in the nucleation of CH4 bubbles, the structure of the bubble formed was analyzed, which revealed that there is an accumulation of CO2 at the interface of the bubble and the surrounding water. The aggregation of CO2 at the bubble-water interface occurs predominantly when the concentration of CO2 is high. Radial distribution function for the CH4-CO2 pair indicates that there is an increasingly favorable direct contact between dissolved CH4 and CO2 molecules in the bubble-water interface. It is also observed that the presence of CO2 at the interface results in the decrease in surface tension. Thus, CO2 leads to greater stability of the bubble-water interface thereby bringing down the critical size of the bubble nuclei. The results suggest that a rise in concentration of CO2 helps in the removal of dissolved CH4 thereby preventing the accumulation of methane in the liquid phase. Thus, the presence of CO2 is predicted to assist the decomposition of methane hydrates in the initial stages of the replacement process.

Modeling quiescent phase transport of air bubbles induced by breaking waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Fengyan; Kirby, James T.; Ma, Gangfeng

Simultaneous modeling of both the acoustic phase and quiescent phase of breaking wave-induced air bubbles involves a large range of length scales from microns to meters and time scales from milliseconds to seconds, and thus is computational unaffordable in a surfzone-scale computational domain. In this study, we use an air bubble entrainment formula in a two-fluid model to predict air bubble evolution in the quiescent phase in a breaking wave event. The breaking wave-induced air bubble entrainment is formulated by connecting the shear production at the air-water interface and the bubble number intensity with a certain bubble size spectra observed in laboratory experiments. A two-fluid model is developed based on the partial differential equations of the gas-liquid mixture phase and the continuum bubble phase, which has multiple size bubble groups representing a polydisperse bubble population. An enhanced 2-DV VOF (Volume of Fluid) model with a k - ɛ turbulence closure is used to model the mixture phase. The bubble phase is governed by the advection-diffusion equations of the gas molar concentration and bubble intensity for groups of bubbles with different sizes. The model is used to simulate air bubble plumes measured in laboratory experiments. Numerical results indicate that, with an appropriate parameter in the air entrainment formula, the model is able to predict the main features of bubbly flows as evidenced by reasonable agreement with measured void fraction. Bubbles larger than an intermediate radius of O(1 mm) make a major contribution to void fraction in the near-crest region. Smaller bubbles tend to penetrate deeper and stay longer in the water column, resulting in significant contribution to the cross-sectional area of the bubble cloud. An underprediction of void fraction is found at the beginning of wave breaking when large air pockets take place. The core region of high void fraction predicted by the model is dislocated due to use of the shear production in the algorithm for initial bubble entrainment. The study demonstrates a potential use of an entrainment formula in simulations of air bubble population in a surfzone-scale domain. It also reveals some difficulties in use of the two-fluid model for predicting large air pockets induced by wave breaking, and suggests that it may be necessary to use a gas-liquid two-phase model as the basic model framework for the mixture phase and to develop an algorithm to allow for transfer of discrete air pockets to the continuum bubble phase. A more theoretically justifiable air entrainment formulation should be developed.

Concept of a staged FEL enabled by fast synchrotron radiation cooling of laser-plasma accelerated beam by solenoidal magnetic fields in plasma bubble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seryi, Andrei; Lesz, Zsolt; Andreev, Alexander; Konoplev, Ivan

2017-03-01

A novel method for generating GigaGauss solenoidal fields in a laser-plasma bubble, using screw-shaped laser pulses, has been recently presented. Such magnetic fields enable fast synchrotron radiation cooling of the beam emittance of laser-plasma accelerated leptons. This recent finding opens a novel approach for design of laser-plasma FELs or colliders, where the acceleration stages are interleaved with laser-plasma emittance cooling stages. In this concept paper, we present an outline of what a staged plasma-acceleration FEL could look like, and discuss further studies needed to investigate the feasibility of the concept in detail.

A Green Bank Telescope 21cm survey of HI clouds in the Milky Way's nuclear wind

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denbo, Sara; Endsley, Ryan; Lockman, Felix J.; Ford, Alyson

2015-01-01

Feedback processes such as large-scale galactic winds are thought to be responsible for distributing enriched gas throughout a galaxy and even into the IGM. Such winds have been found in many galaxies with active star formation near their center, and the Fermi bubbles provide evidence for such a nuclear wind in our own Milky Way. A recent 21 cm HI survey by the Australia Telescope Compact Array discovered a population of compact, isolated clouds surrounding the Galactic Center that may be entrained in the Fermi bubble wind. We present data from a survey of 21cm HI over an extended region around the Galactic Center using the Green Bank Telescope. These observations provide more strict constraints on neutral clouds in the Fermi bubble wind, and a more robust description of the parameters of HI clouds (i.e., mass, column density, and lifetime) near the Galactic Center.

Interaction mechanism of double bubbles in hydrodynamic cavitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Fengchao; Cai, Jun; Huai, Xiulan; Liu, Bin

2013-06-01

Bubble-bubble interaction is an important factor in cavitation bubble dynamics. In this paper, the dynamic behaviors of double cavitation bubbles driven by varying pressure field downstream of an orifice plate in hydrodynamic cavitation reactor are examined. The bubble-bubble interaction between two bubbles with different radii is considered. We have shown the different dynamic behaviors between double cavitation bubbles and a single bubble by solving two coupling nonlinear equations using the Runge-Kutta fourth order method with adaptive step size control. The simulation results indicate that, when considering the role of the neighbor smaller bubble, the oscillation of the bigger bubble gradually exhibits a lag in comparison with the single-bubble case, and the extent of the lag becomes much more obvious as time goes by. This phenomenon is more easily observed with the increase of the initial radius of the smaller bubble. In comparison with the single-bubble case, the oscillation of the bigger bubble is enhanced by the neighbor smaller bubble. Especially, the pressure pulse of the bigger bubble rises intensely when the sizes of two bubbles approach, and a series of peak values for different initial radii are acquired when the initial radius ratio of two bubbles is in the range of 0.9˜1.0. Although the increase of the center distance between two bubbles can weaken the mutual interaction, it has no significant influence on the enhancement trend. On the one hand, the interaction between two bubbles with different radii can suppress the growth of the smaller bubble; on the other hand, it also can enhance the growth of the bigger one at the same time. The significant enhancement effect due to the interaction of multi-bubbles should be paid more attention because it can be used to reinforce the cavitation intensity for various potential applications in future.

Growth of second stage mineral in Lytechinus variegatus.

PubMed

Stock, S R; Seto, Jong; Deymier, A C; Rack, A; Veis, A

2017-10-30

Purpose and Aims: Sea urchin teeth consist of calcite and form in two stages with different magnesium contents. The first stage structures of independently formed plates and needle-prisms define the shape of the tooth, and the columns of the second stage mineral cements the first stage structures together and control the fracture behavior of the mature tooth. This study investigates the nucleation and growth of the second stage mineral. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and synchrotron microComputed Tomography characterized the structures of the second phase material found in developing of Lytechinus variegatus teeth. Although the column development is a continuous process, defining four phases of column formation captures the changes that occur in teeth of L. variegatus. The earliest phase consists of small 1-2 µm diameter hemispheres, and the second of 5-10 µm diameter, mound-like structures with a nodular surface, develops from the hemispheres. The mounds eventually bridge the syncytium between adjacent plates and form hyperboloid structures (phase three) that appear like mesas when plates separate during the fracture. The mesa diameter increases with time until the column diameter is significantly larger than its height, defining the fourth phase of column development. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy confirms that the columns contain more magnesium than the underlying plates; the ratios of magnesium to calcium are consistent with compositions derived from x-ray diffraction. Columns grow from both bounding plates. The presence of first phase columns interspersed among third stage mesas indicates very localized control of mineralization.

Dynamics of primary and secondary microbubbles created by laser-induced breakdown of an optically trapped nanoparticle

PubMed Central

Arita, Y.; Antkowiak, M.; Venugopalan, V.; Gunn-Moore, F. J.; Dholakia, K.

2012-01-01

Laser-induced breakdown of an optically trapped nanoparticle is a unique system for studying cavitation dynamics. It offers additional degrees of freedom, namely the nanoparticle material, its size, and the relative position between the laser focus and the center of the optically trapped nanoparticle. We quantify the spatial and temporal dynamics of the cavitation and secondary bubbles created in this system and use hydrodynamic modeling to quantify the observed dynamic shear stress of the expanding bubble. In the final stage of bubble collapse, we visualize the formation of multiple submicrometer secondary bubbles around the toroidal bubble on the substrate. We show that the pattern of the secondary bubbles typically has its circular symmetry broken along an axis whose unique angle rotates over time. This is a result of vorticity along the jet towards the boundary upon bubble collapse near solid boundaries. PMID:22400669

Dissolution of spherical cap CO2 bubbles attached to flat surfaces in air-saturated water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peñas, Pablo; Parrales, Miguel A.; Rodriguez-Rodriguez, Javier

2014-11-01

Bubbles attached to flat surfaces immersed in quiescent liquid environments often display a spherical cap (SC) shape. Their dissolution is a phenomenon commonly observed experimentally. Modelling these bubbles as fully spherical may lead to an inaccurate estimate of the bubble dissolution rate. We develop a theoretical model for the diffusion-driven dissolution or growth of such multi-component SC gas bubbles under constant pressure and temperature conditions. Provided the contact angle of the bubble with the surface is large, the concentration gradients in the liquid may be approximated as spherically symmetric. The area available for mass transfer depends on the instantaneous bubble contact angle, whose dynamics is computed from the adhesion hysteresis model [Hong et al., Langmuir, vol. 27, 6890-6896 (2011)]. Numerical simulations and experimental measurements on the dissolution of SC CO2 bubbles immersed in air-saturated water support the validity of our model. We verify that contact line pinning slows down the dissolution rate, and the fact that any bubble immersed in a saturated gas-liquid solution eventually attains a final equilibrium size. Funded by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through Grant DPI2011-28356-C03-0.

Generating Singlet Oxygen Bubbles: A New Mechanism for Gas-Liquid Oxidations in Water

PubMed Central

Bartusik, Dorota; Aebisher, David; Ghafari, BiBi

2012-01-01

Laser-coupled microphotoreactors were developed to bubble singlet oxygen [1O2 (1Δg)] into an aqueous solution containing an oxidizable compound. The reactors consisted of custom-modified SMA fiber-optic receptacles loaded with 150-μm silicon phthalocyanine glass sensitizer particles, where the particles were isolated from direct contact with water by a membrane adhesively bonded to the bottom of each device. A tube fed O2 gas to the reactor chambers. In the presence of O2, singlet oxygen was generated by illuminating the sensitizer particles with 669-nm light from an optical fiber coupled to the top of the reactor. The generated 1O2 was transported through the membrane by the O2 stream and formed bubbles in solution. In solution, singlet oxygen reacted with probe compounds (either 9,10-anthracene dipropionate dianion, trans-2-methyl-2-pentanoate anion, N-benzoyl-D,L-methionine, and N-acetyl-D,L-methionine) to give oxidized products in two stages. The early stage was rapid and showed that 1O2 transfer occurred via bubbles mainly in the bulk water solution. The later stage was slow, it arose only from 1O2-probe molecule contact at the gas/liquid interface. A mechanism is proposed that involves 1O2 mass transfer and solvation, where smaller bubbles provide better penetration of 1O2 into the flowing stream due to higher surface-to-volume contact between the probe molecules and 1O2. PMID:22260325

In situ observations of bubble growth in basaltic, andesitic and rhyodacitic melts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masotta, M.; Ni, H.; Keppler, H.

2014-02-01

Bubble growth strongly affects the physical properties of degassing magmas and their eruption dynamics. Natural samples and products from quench experiments provide only a snapshot of the final state of volatile exsolution, leaving the processes occurring during its early stages unconstrained. In order to fill this gap, we present in situ high-temperature observations of bubble growth in magmas of different compositions (basalt, andesite and rhyodacite) at 1,100 to 1,240 °C and 0.1 MPa (1 bar), obtained using a moissanite cell apparatus. The data show that nucleation occurs at very small degrees of supersaturaturation (<60 MPa in basalt and andesite, 200 MPa in rhyodacite), probably due to heterogeneous nucleation of bubbles occurring simultaneously with the nucleation of crystals. During the early stages of exsolution, melt degassing is the driving mechanism of bubble growth, with coalescence becoming increasingly important as exsolution progresses. Ostwald ripening occurs only at the end of the process and only in basaltic melt. The average bubble growth rate ( G R) ranges from 3.4 × 10-6 to 5.2 × 10-7 mm/s, with basalt and andesite showing faster growth rates than rhyodacite. The bubble number density ( N B) at nucleation ranges from 7.9 × 104 mm-3 to 1.8 × 105 mm-3 and decreases exponentially over time. While the rhyodacite melt maintained a well-sorted bubble size distribution (BSD) through time, the BSDs of basalt and andesite are much more inhomogeneous. Our experimental observations demonstrate that bubble growth cannot be ascribed to a single mechanism but is rather a combination of many processes, which depend on the physical properties of the melt. Depending on coalescence rate, annealing of bubbles following a single nucleation event can produce complex bubble size distributions. In natural samples, such BSDs may be misinterpreted as resulting from several separate nucleation events. Incipient crystallization upon cooling of a magma may allow bubble nucleation already at very small degrees of supersaturation and could therefore be an important trigger for volatile release and explosive eruptions.

Gas depletion through single gas bubble diffusive growth and its effect on subsequent bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moreno Soto, Alvaro; Prosperetti, Andrea; Lohse, Detlef; van der Meer, Devaraj; Physics of Fluid Group Collaboration; MCEC Netherlands CenterMultiscale Catalytic Energy Conversion Collaboration

2016-11-01

In weakly supersaturated mixtures, bubbles are known to grow quasi-statically as diffusion-driven mass transfer governs the process. In the final stage of the evolution, before detachment, there is an enhancement of mass transfer, which changes from diffusion to natural convection. Once the bubble detaches, it leaves behind a gas-depleted area. The diffusive mass transfer towards that region cannot compensate for the amount of gas which is taken away by the bubble. Consequently, the consecutive bubble will grow in an environment which contains less gas than for the previous one. This reduces the local supersaturation of the mixture around the nucleation site, leading to a reduced bubble growth rate. We present quantitative experimental data on this effect and the theoretical model for depletion during the bubble growth rate. This work was supported by the Netherlands Center for Multiscale Catalytic Energy Conversion (MCEC), an NWO Gravitation programme funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science of the government of the Netherlands.

Maximization of organic acids production by Aspergillus niger in a bubble column bioreactor for V and Ni recovery enhancement from power plant residual ash in spent-medium bioleaching experiments.

PubMed

Rasoulnia, P; Mousavi, S M

2016-09-01

Spent-medium bioleaching of V and Ni from a power plant residual ash (PPR ash) was conducted using organic acids produced by Aspergillus niger. The production of organic acids in a bubble column bioreactor was optimized through selecting three most influencing factors. Under optimum condition of aeration rate of 762.5(ml/min), sucrose concentration of 101.9(g/l) and inoculum size of 40(ml/l), respectively 17,185, 4539, 1042 and 502(ppm) of oxalic, gluconic, citric and malic acids were produced. Leaching experiments were carried out using biogenic produced organic acids under leaching environment temperature of 60°C and rotary shaking speed of 135rpm, with various pulp densities of 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 9(%w/v). The results showed that biogenic produced organic acids leached V much more efficiently than Ni so that even at high pulp density of 9(%w/v), 83% of V was recovered while Ni recovery yield was 30%. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of liquid medium on the activity of a low-alpha Fischer-Tropsch catalyst

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

Gormley, R.J.; Zarochak, M.F.; Deffenbaugh, P.W.

1995-12-31

The purpose of this research was to measure activity, selectivity, and the maintenance of these properties in slurry autoclave experiments with a Fischer-Tropsch (FT) catalyst that was used in the {open_quotes}FT II{close_quotes} bubble-column test, conducted at the Alternative Fuels Development Unit (AFDU) at LaPorte, Texas during May 1994. The catalyst contained iron, copper, and potassium and was formulated to produce mainly hydrocarbons in the gasoline range with lesser production of diesel-range products and wax. The probability of chain growth was thus deliberately kept low. Principal goals of the autoclave work have been to find the true activity of this catalystmore » in a stirred tank reactor, unhindered by heat or mass transfer effects, and to obtain a steady conversion and selectivity over the approximately 15 days of each test. Slurry autoclave testing of the catalyst in heavier waxes also allows insight into operation of larger slurry bubble column reactors. The stability of reactor operation in these experiments, particularly at loadings exceeding 20 weight %, suggests the likely stability of operations on a larger scale.« less

Synergistic effects of oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula glutinis and microalga Chlorella vulgaris for enhancement of biomass and lipid yields.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhiping; Ji, Hairui; Gong, Guiping; Zhang, Xu; Tan, Tianwei

2014-07-01

The optimal mixed culture model of oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula glutinis and microalga Chlorella vulgaris was confirmed to enhance lipid production. A double system bubble column photo-bioreactor was designed and used for demonstrating the relationship of yeast and alga in mixed culture. The results showed that using the log-phase cultures of yeast and alga as seeds for mixed culture, the improvements of biomass and lipid yields reached 17.3% and 70.9%, respectively, compared with those of monocultures. Growth curves of two species were confirmed in the double system bubble column photo-bioreactor, and the second growth of yeast was observed during 36-48 h of mixed culture. Synergistic effects of two species for cell growth and lipid accumulation were demonstrated on O2/CO2 balance, substance exchange, dissolved oxygen and pH adjustment in mixed culture. This study provided a theoretical basis and culture model for producing lipids by mixed culture in place of monoculture. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Liquid phase fluid dynamic (methanol) run in the LaPorte alternative fuels development unit

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

Bharat L. Bhatt

1997-05-01

A fluid dynamic study was successfully completed in a bubble column at DOE's Alternative Fuels Development Unit (AFDU) in LaPorte, Texas. Significant fluid dynamic information was gathered at pilot scale during three weeks of Liquid Phase Methanol (LPMEOJP) operations in June 1995. In addition to the usual nuclear density and temperature measurements, unique differential pressure data were collected using Sandia's high-speed data acquisition system to gain insight on flow regime characteristics and bubble size distribution. Statistical analysis of the fluctuations in the pressure data suggests that the column was being operated in the churn turbulent regime at most of themore » velocities considered. Dynamic gas disengagement experiments showed a different behavior than seen in low-pressure, cold-flow work. Operation with a superficial gas velocity of 1.2 ft/sec was achieved during this run, with stable fluid dynamics and catalyst performance. Improvements included for catalyst activation in the design of the Clean Coal III LPMEOH{trademark} plant at Kingsport, Tennessee, were also confirmed. In addition, an alternate catalyst was demonstrated for LPMEOH{trademark}.« less

Influence of mass transfer on the ozonation of wastewater from the glass fiber industry.

PubMed

Byun, S; Cho, S H; Yoon, J; Geissen, S U; Vogelpohl, A; Kim, S M

2004-01-01

The mass transfer rate (kLa) is one of the most important parameters in the ozonation of wastewater, because it frequently constitutes the rate-determining step. This study investigated the influence of kLa on the ozonation of glass fiber wastewater using a high-performance jet loop reactor (HJLR), which is well known for its high mass transfer property, and compared the results of this investigation with those obtained using the bubble column reactor. It was found that the higher kLa achieved by increasing the energy input did not lead to higher ozonation efficiency, since the reaction involving the OH radical was greatly hindered at the low pH produced as a result of ozonation. By maintaining the pH at a value greater than 8.0, the higher kLa in the HJLR reactor contributed to increasing not only the TOC removal of wastewater, but also the ozone consumption efficiency, as expressed by the specific ozone consumption. The specific ozone consumption in the HJLR reactor (7.1 g ozone/ g TOC) was 20% better than that in the bubble column reactor.

Dissolution enhancement and mathematical modeling of removal of residual trichloroethene in sands by ozonation during flushing with micro-nano-bubble solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sung, Menghau; Teng, Chun-Hao; Yang, Tsung-Hsien

2017-07-01

Soil flushing using micro-nano-sized bubbles (MNB) in water as the flushing solution was tested in laboratory sand columns for the cleanup of residual trichloroethene (TCE) non-aqueous-phase-liquid (NAPL). Experiments considering flushing with MNB as well as ozone MNB (OZMNB) in water to treat soils contaminated with residual TCE liquid were conducted to examine effects of ozone on dissolution enhancement. The degrees of residual TCE saturation in soils, ranging from 0.44% to 7.6%, were tested. During flushings, aqueous TCE concentrations at the column exit were monitored and TCE masses remained in the columns after flushing were determined. Experimental results between runs with MNB and OZMNB in water revealed that dissolution enhancement was dependent on residual saturation conditions, and the maximum enhancement was around 9%. Governing equations consisting of three coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) were developed to model the system, and high-order finite difference (HOFD) method was employed to solve these PDEs. From mathematical modeling of reactive mass transfer under low residual saturation conditions (0.44% and 1.9%), experimental data were simulated and important controlling mechanisms were identified. It was concluded that a specific parameter pertinent to NAPL-water interfacial area in the Sherwood number had to be modified to satisfactorily describe the dissolution of TCE in the presence of MNB in water.

The effect of dissolve gas concentration in the initial growth stage of multi cavitation bubbles. Differences between vacuum degassing and ultrasound degassing.

PubMed

Yanagida, Hirotaka

2008-04-01

The sonochemical luminescence intensity from luminol was measured at a sampling rate of several kilohertz. This was noted at three different periods: first, the latent period in which no light emission occurs at all; second, the increased emission period from the start of light emission to the time when a steady state is reached; and third, the steady state period in which light emission occurs at the steady state value. When irradiated with ultrasound of different intensities, the times of the latent period and increased emission period are shorter for higher ultrasound intensities. To know how the dissolved oxygen content is involved in early-stage cavitation growth, an experiment was conducted using solutions with varying dissolved oxygen contents from 100% to 37%. For dissolved air content of 50% or less, it was found that the latent period was 30 times longer in a saturated condition. It was also found that the increased emission period was 10 times longer. However, the emission intensity in the steady state did not change at all even when the initial dissolved gas concentration of the sample was changed. From this, it was found that the reuse of collapsed bubbles takes place efficiently in the steady state. Dissolved oxygen was reduced by the use of a vacuum pump and by the degassing action of ultrasound, and it was discovered that the behavior of transient emission differed for the two ways of degassing.

The Fate of Volatiles in Subaqueous Explosive Eruptions: An Analysis of Steam Condensation in the Water Column

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cahalan, R. C.; Dufek, J.

2015-12-01

A model has been developed to determine the theoretical limits of steam survival in a water column during a subaqueous explosive eruption. Understanding the role of steam dynamics in particle transport and the evolution of the thermal budget is critical to addressing the first order questions of subaqueous eruption mechanics. Ash transport in subaqueous eruptions is initially coupled to the fate of volatile transport. The survival of steam bubbles to the water surface could enable non-wetted ash transport from the vent to a subaerial ash cloud. Current eruption models assume a very simple plume mixing geometry, that cold water mixes with the plume immediately after erupting, and that the total volume of steam condenses in the initial phase of mixing. This limits the survival of steam to within tens of meters above the vent. Though these assumptions may be valid, they are unproven, and the calculations based on them do not take into account any kinetic constraints on condensation. The following model has been developed to evaluate the limits of juvenile steam survival in a subaqueous explosive eruption. This model utilizes the analytical model for condensation of steam injected into a sub-cooled pool produced in Park et al. (2007). Necessary parameterizations require an iterative internal calculation of the steam saturation temperature and vapor density for each modeled time step. The contribution of volumetric expansion due to depressurization of a rising bubble is calculated and used in conjunction with condensation rate to calculate the temporal evolution of bubble volume and radius. Using steam bubble volume with the BBO equation for Lagrangian transport in a fluid, the bubble rise velocity is calculated and used to evaluate the rise distance. The steam rise model proves a useful tool to compare the effects of steam condensation, volumetric expansion, volume flux, and water depth on the dynamics of juvenile steam. The modeled results show that a sufficiently high volatile flux could lead to the survival of steam bubbles from >1km depths to the ocean surface, though low to intermediate fluxes lead to fairly rapid condensation. Building on this result we also present the results of simulations of multiphase steam jets and consider the likelihood of collapse inside a vapor envelope.

Three column intermittent simulated moving bed chromatography: 3. Cascade operation for center-cut separations.

PubMed

Jermann, Simon; Meijssen, Mattheus; Mazzotti, Marco

2015-01-23

A general design methodology for chromatographic three fraction separation by application of the three column intermittent simulated moving bed (3C-ISMB) cascade is proposed and experimentally validated by studying the purification of an intermediately retained stereoisomer of nadolol, from an equimolar mixture of its four stereoisomers. The theoretical part shows that the 3C-ISMB cascade can be easily designed by applying Triangle Theory. Moreover, a re-scaling approach for the second stage is proposed so as to account for the fact that the feed flow rates to stage 2 are generally higher as compared to stage 1 due to dilution in the latter. Scaling the columns of the second stage accordingly enables to run both stages under optimal conditions with respect to switching time and step ratio, which is an important advantage as compared to integrated ternary processes. The experimental part starts with studying the linear adsorption behavior of nadolol in heptane/ethanol/DEA on Chiralpak AD for varying ratios of heptane and ethanol. Based on that, a solvent composition of Hept/EtOH/DEA 30/70/0.3 (v/v/v) is selected and the competitive multi-component Langmuir isotherm of the quaternary mixture is determined by frontal analysis. The resulting isotherm parameters are used to design several first stage experiments aiming at removal of the most retained component. The resulting ternary intermediate product is reprocessed in several second stage experiments studying various configurations. Finally, the dilution of the intermediate product with Hept/DEA yielding a solvent composition of Hept/EtOH/DEA 60/40/0.3 (v/v/v) is examined showing that the resulting increase in retention is beneficial for final product purities. Moreover, the reduction in viscosity compensates for the dilution as it enables higher flow rates. Dilution of the intermediate product is hence the best option, yielding highest overall cascade productivity (2.10gl(-1)h(-1)) and highest product purity (97.8%) requiring a specific solvent consumption of 12l/g of product. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

What are the limits of energy focusing in sonoluminescence?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Putterman, Seth; Camara, C.; Kappus, B.; Su, C. K.; Kirilov, E.

2003-04-01

Sonoluminescence [SL] is amazing for the extraordinary degree by which ultrasonic energy can be focused by a cavitating bubble. Local energy dissipation exceeds Kirkhoff's law by 1E15 and the acoustic energy density concentrates by 12 orders of magnitude to create picosecond flashes of broadband ultraviolet light. At the minimum bubble radius, the acceleration exceeds 1E11 g and a megabar level shock wave is emitted into the surrounding fluid. For single bubbles driven at 30 KHz, SL is nature's smallest blackbody. This implies that the bubble's interior is such a dense plasma that the photon-matter mean free path is shorter than the wavelength of light, and suggests that SL originates in an unusual state of matter. Excitation of a vertical column of fluid [~10 Hz] so as to create a water hammer leads to the upscaling of SL and generation of flashes of light with 3E8 photons and peak powers approaching 1 W. At 1 MHz, the spectrum resembles bremsstrahlung from a transparent plasma with a temperature ~1 MK. At 10 MHz the collapsed size of the SL bubble approaches 10 nm, which raises the possibility that the SL parameter space may extend to the domain of quantum mechanics. [Research supported by DARPA and DOE.

The effect of air bubbles on rabbit blood brain barrier.

PubMed

Hjelde, A; Bolstad, G; Brubakk, A O

2002-01-01

Several investigators have claimed that the blood brain barrier (BBB) may be broken by circulating bubbles, resulting in brain tissue edema. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of air bubbles on the permeability of BBB. Three groups of 6 rabbits were infused an isoosmotic solution of NaCl w/macrodex and 1% Tween. The solution was saturated with air bubbles and infused at rates of 50-100 ml hr(-1), a total of 1.6, 3.3, or 6.6 ml in each group, respectively. Two groups, each consisting of 6 rabbits, served as controls; one was infused by a degassed isoosmotic NaCl solution and one was sham-operated. All animals were left for 30 min before they were sacrificed. Specific gravity of brain tissue samples was determined using a brombenzene/kerosene gradient column, where a decrease in specific gravity indicates local brain edema. Specific gravity was significantly lower for left (P = 0.037) and right (P = 0.012) hemisphere white matter and left (P = 0.0015) and right (P = 0.002) hemisphere gray matter for the bubble-infused animals compared to the sham-operated ones. Infusion of degassed NaCl solution alone affected white left (P= 0.011) and right (P= 0.013), but not gray matter of both hemispheres. We speculate that insufficient degassing of the fluid may cause the effect of NaCl solution on the BBB of the white matter, indicating that the vessels of the white matter are more sensitive to gas bubbles than gray matter. Increasing the number of infused bubbles had no further impact on the development of cerebral edema, indicating that a threshold value was reached already at the lowest concentration of bubbles.

Study of CO2 bubble dynamics in seawater from QICS field Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, B.; Dewar, M.; Sellami, N.; Stahl, H.; Blackford, J.

2011-12-01

One of the concerns of employing CCS at engineering scale is the risk of leakage of storage CO2 on the environment and especially on the marine life. QICS, a scientific research project was launched with an aim to study the effects of a potential leak from a CCS system on the UK marine environment [1]. The project involves the injection of CO2 from a shore-based lab into shallow marine sediments. One of the main objectives of the project is to generate experimental data to be compared with the developed physical models. The results of the models are vital for the biogeochemical and ecological models in order to predict the impact of a CO2 leak in a variety of situations. For the evaluation of the fate of the CO2 bubbles into the surrounding seawater, the physical model requires two key parameters to be used as input which are: (i) a correlation of the drag coefficient as function of the CO2 bubble Reynolds number and (ii) the CO2 bubble size distribution. By precisely measuring the CO2 bubble size and rising speed, these two parameters can be established. For this purpose, the dynamical characteristics of the rising CO2 bubbles in Scottish seawater were investigated experimentally within the QICS project. Observations of the CO2 bubbles plume rising freely in the in seawater column were captured by video survey using a ruler positioned at the leakage pockmark as dimension reference. This observation made it possible, for the first time, to discuss the dynamics of the CO2 bubbles released in seawater. [1] QICS, QICS: Quantifying and Monitoring Potential Ecosystem Impacts of Geological Carbon Storage. (Accessed 15.07.13), http://www.bgs.ac.uk/qics/home.html

Study of CO2 bubble dynamics in seawater from QICS field Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, B.; Dewar, M.; Sellami, N.; Stahl, H.; Blackford, J.

2013-12-01

One of the concerns of employing CCS at engineering scale is the risk of leakage of storage CO2 on the environment and especially on the marine life. QICS, a scientific research project was launched with an aim to study the effects of a potential leak from a CCS system on the UK marine environment [1]. The project involves the injection of CO2 from a shore-based lab into shallow marine sediments. One of the main objectives of the project is to generate experimental data to be compared with the developed physical models. The results of the models are vital for the biogeochemical and ecological models in order to predict the impact of a CO2 leak in a variety of situations. For the evaluation of the fate of the CO2 bubbles into the surrounding seawater, the physical model requires two key parameters to be used as input which are: (i) a correlation of the drag coefficient as function of the CO2 bubble Reynolds number and (ii) the CO2 bubble size distribution. By precisely measuring the CO2 bubble size and rising speed, these two parameters can be established. For this purpose, the dynamical characteristics of the rising CO2 bubbles in Scottish seawater were investigated experimentally within the QICS project. Observations of the CO2 bubbles plume rising freely in the in seawater column were captured by video survey using a ruler positioned at the leakage pockmark as dimension reference. This observation made it possible, for the first time, to discuss the dynamics of the CO2 bubbles released in seawater. [1] QICS, QICS: Quantifying and Monitoring Potential Ecosystem Impacts of Geological Carbon Storage. (Accessed 15.07.13), http://www.bgs.ac.uk/qics/home.html

Studies in Three Phase Gas-Liquid Fluidised Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Awofisayo, Joyce Ololade

1992-01-01

Available from UMI in association with The British Library. The work is a logical continuation of research started at Aston some years ago when studies were conducted on fermentations in bubble columns. The present work highlights typical design and operating problems that could arise in such systems as waste water, chemical, biochemical and petroleum operations involving three-phase, gas-liquid -solid fluidisation; such systems are in increasing use. It is believed that this is one of few studies concerned with "true" three-phase, gas-liquid-solid fluidised systems, and that this work will contribute significantly to closing some of the gaps in knowledge in this area. The research work was experimentally based and involved studies of the hydrodynamic parameters, phase holdups (gas and solid), particle mixing and segregation, and phase flow dynamics (flow regime and circulation patterns). The studies have focused particularly on the solid behaviour and the influence of properties of solids present on the above parameters in three-phase, gas-liquid-solid fluidised systems containing single particle components and those containing binary and ternary mixtures of particles. All particles were near spherical in shape and two particle sizes and total concentration levels were used. Experiments were carried out in two- and three-dimensional bubble columns. Quantitative results are presented in graphical form and are supported by qualitative results from visual studies which are also shown as schematic diagrams and in photographic form. Gas and solid holdup results are compared for air-water containing single, binary and ternary component particle mixtures. It should be noted that the criteria for selection of the materials used are very important if true three-phase fluidisation is to be achieved: this is very evident when comparing the results with those in the literature. The fluid flow and circulation patterns observed were assessed for validation of the generally accepted patterns, and the author believes that the present work provides more accurate insight into the modelling of liquid circulation in bubble columns. The characteristic bubbly flow at low gas velocity in a two-phase system is suppressed in the three-phase system. The degree of mixing within the system is found to be dependent on flow regime, liquid circulation and the ratio of solid phase physical properties.

Calculation of Thermodynamic Parameters and Degree of Ionization of Nitrogen and Its Mixtures with Argon in Typical Single-Bubble Sonoluminescence Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borisenok, V. A.; Medvedev, A. B.

2017-12-01

The results of numerical simulation of the behavior of a system consisting of a spherical bubble filled with nitrogen or its mixtures with argon and surrounding water under external influence typical of experimental study of single-bubble sonoluminescence are presented. Comparison of the results of calculations and experiments shows that gas heated at the bubble compression stage cannot be regarded as the only source of radiation. This circumstance requires the presence of other, basic, sources. In the polarization model, this is the channel of electrical breakdown in a liquid. Possible electrical effects accompanying the liquid-solid phase transformation in water near the moment of the maximum compression of the bubble are assumed.

The effect of gravity-induced pressure gradient on bubble luminescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Supponen, Outi; Obreschkow, Danail; Kobel, Philippe; Dorsaz, Nicolas; Tinguely, Marc; Farhat, Mohamed

2014-11-01

The violent collapse of a bubble can heat up its gaseous contents to temperatures exceeding those on the sun's surface, resulting in a short luminescence flash. Occurring at the very moment of the collapse, luminescence must be highly sensitive to the bubble geometry at the preceding final stage. This represents an important feature as any pressure anisotropy in the surrounding liquid will result in a deformation of an initially spherical bubble, inducing a micro-jet that pierces the bubble and makes it experience a toroidal collapse. We therefore present these as complementary phenomena by investigating the link between jets and luminescence of laser-generated single bubbles. Through ultra-high-speed imaging, the micro-jet formation and evolution of a single bubble are observed with unprecedented detail, whilst the bubble light emission is analyzed by means of a spectrometer. The bubble energy and the micro-jet size are controlled by adjusting the laser-pulse and by varying the gravity level aboard ESA parabolic flights, respectively. We here provide systematic evidence on how bubble-jets suppress luminescence in a considerable manner, even in normal gravity where the jet is barely observable. We conclude that gravity must be accounted for in accurate models of luminescence.

Multi-Scale Porous Ultra High Temperature Ceramics

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-08

different techniques: replica, particle stabilized foams, ice templating (freeze casting) and partial sintering. The pore morphology (closed-bubble...the porosity, pore size, shape and morphology . X-Ray Tomography was used to study their 3D microstructure. The 3D microstructures captured with...four different techniques: replica, particle stabilized foams, ice templating (freeze casting) and partial sintering. The pore morphology (closed-bubble

A scintillator purification plant and fluid handling system for SNO+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ford, Richard J.

2015-08-01

A large capacity purification plant and fluid handling system has been constructed for the SNO+ neutrino and double-beta decay experiment, located 6800 feet underground at SNOLAB, Canada. SNO+ is a refurbishment of the SNO detector to fill the acrylic vessel with liquid scintillator based on Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB) and 2 g/L PPO, and also has a phase to load natural tellurium into the scintillator for a double-beta decay experiment with 130Te. The plant includes processes multi-stage dual-stream distillation, column water extraction, steam stripping, and functionalized silica gel adsorption columns. The plant also includes systems for preparing the scintillator with PPO and metal-loading the scintillator for double-beta decay exposure. We review the basis of design, the purification principles, specifications for the plant, and the construction and installations. The construction and commissioning status is updated.

Modeling the impact of bubbling bed hydrodynamics on tar yield and its fluctuations during biomass fast pyrolysis

DOE PAGES

Xiong, Qingang; Ramirez, Emilio; Pannala, Sreekanth; ...

2015-10-09

The impact of bubbling bed hydrodynamics on temporal variations in the exit tar yield for biomass fast pyrolysis was investigated using computational simulations of an experimental laboratory-scale reactor. A multi-fluid computational fluid dynamics model was employed to simulate the differential conservation equations in the reactor, and this was combined with a multi-component, multi-step pyrolysis kinetics scheme for biomass to account for chemical reactions. The predicted mean tar yields at the reactor exit appear to match corresponding experimental observations. Parametric studies predicted that increasing the fluidization velocity should improve the mean tar yield but increase its temporal variations. Increases in themore » mean tar yield coincide with reducing the diameter of sand particles or increasing the initial sand bed height. However, trends in tar yield variability are more complex than the trends in mean yield. The standard deviation in tar yield reaches a maximum with changes in sand particle size. As a result, the standard deviation in tar yield increases with the increases in initial bed height in freely bubbling state, while reaches a maximum in slugging state.« less

Oxidation of ammonium sulfite by a multi-needle-to-plate gas phase pulsed corona discharge reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Hua; Lu, Na; Shang, Kefeng; Li, Jie; Wu, Yan

2013-03-01

The oxidation of ammonium sulfite in the ammonia-based flue gas desulfurization (FGD) process was investigated in a multi-needle-to-plate gas phase pulsed corona discharge reactor in this paper. The effect of several parameters, including capacitance and peak pulse voltage of discharge system, electrode gap and bubbling gas flow rate on the oxidation rate of ammonium sulfite was reviewed. The oxidation rate of ammonium sulfite could reach 47.2% at the capacitance, the peak pulse voltage, electrode gap and bubbling gas flow rate equal to 2 nF, -24.6 k V, 35 mm and 4 L min-1 within treatment time of 40 min The experimental results indicate that the gas phase pulsed discharge system with a multi-needle-to-plate electrode can oxide the ammonium sulfite. The oxidation rate increased with the applied capacitance and peak pulse voltage and decreased with the electrode gap. As the bubbling gas flow rate increased, the oxidation rate increased first and then tended to reach a stationary value. These results would be important for the process optimization of the (NH4)2SO3 to (NH4)2SO4 oxidation.

TEM and XAS investigation of fission gas behaviors in U-Mo alloy fuels through ion beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zang, Hang; Yun, Di; Mo, Kun; Wang, Kunpeng; Mohamed, Walid; Kirk, Marquis A.; Velázquez, Daniel; Seibert, Rachel; Logan, Kevin; Terry, Jeffrey; Baldo, Peter; Yacout, Abdellatif M.; Liu, Wenbo; Zhang, Bo; Gao, Yedong; Du, Yang; Liu, Jing

2017-10-01

In this study, smaller-grained (hundred nano-meter size grain) and larger-grained (micro-meter size grain) U-10Mo specimens have been irradiated (implanted) with 250 keV Xe+ beam and were in situ characterized by TEM. Xe bubbles were not seen in the specimen after an implantation fluence of 2 × 1020 ions/m2 at room temperature. Nucleation of Xe bubbles happened during heating of the specimen to a final temperature of 300 °C. By comparing measured Xe bubble statistics, the nucleation and growth behaviors of Xe bubbles were investigated in smaller-grained and larger-grained U-10Mo specimens. A multi-atom kind of nucleation mechanism has been observed in both specimens. X-ray Absorption spectroscopy showed the edge position in the bubbles to be the same as that of Xe gas. The size of Xe bubbles has been shown to be bigger in larger-grained specimens than in smaller-grained specimens at the same implantation conditions.

Numerical studies of cavitation erosion on an elastic-plastic material caused by shock-induced bubble collapse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turangan, C. K.; Ball, G. J.; Jamaluddin, A. R.; Leighton, T. G.

2017-09-01

We present a study of shock-induced collapse of single bubbles near/attached to an elastic-plastic solid using the free-Lagrange method, which forms the latest part of our shock-induced collapse studies. We simulated the collapse of 40 μm radius single bubbles near/attached to rigid and aluminium walls by a 60 MPa lithotripter shock for various scenarios based on bubble-wall separations, and the collapse of a 255 μm radius bubble attached to aluminium foil with a 65 MPa lithotripter shock. The coupling of the multi-phases, compressibility, axisymmetric geometry and elastic-plastic material model within a single solver has enabled us to examine the impingement of high-speed liquid jets from the shock-induced collapsing bubbles, which imposes an extreme compression in the aluminium that leads to pitting and plastic deformation. For certain scenarios, instead of the high-speed jet, a radially inwards flow along the aluminium surface contracts the bubble to produce a `mushroom shape'. This work provides methods for quantifying which parameters (e.g. bubble sizes and separations from the solid) might promote or inhibit erosion on solid surfaces.

Modeling of single film bubble and numerical study of the plateau structure in foam system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Zhong-guo; Ni, Ni; Sun, Yi-jie; Xi, Guang

2018-02-01

The single-film bubble has a special geometry with a certain amount of gas shrouded by a thin layer of liquid film under the surface tension force both on the inside and outside surfaces of the bubble. Based on the mesh-less moving particle semi-implicit (MPS) method, a single-film double-gas-liquid-interface surface tension (SDST) model is established for the single-film bubble, which characteristically has totally two gas-liquid interfaces on both sides of the film. Within this framework, the conventional surface free energy surface tension model is improved by using a higher order potential energy equation between particles, and the modification results in higher accuracy and better symmetry properties. The complex interface movement in the oscillation process of the single-film bubble is numerically captured, as well as typical flow phenomena and deformation characteristics of the liquid film. In addition, the basic behaviors of the coalescence and connection process between two and even three single-film bubbles are studied, and the cases with bubbles of different sizes are also included. Furthermore, the classic plateau structure in the foam system is reproduced and numerically proved to be in the steady state for multi-bubble connections.

Combustion dynamics of low vapour pressure nanofuel droplets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Khushboo; Chattopadhyay, Kamanio; Basu, Saptarshi

2017-07-01

Multiscale combustion dynamics, shape oscillations, secondary atomization, and precipitate formation have been elucidated for low vapour pressure nanofuel [n-dodecane seeded with alumina nanoparticles (NPs)] droplets. Dilute nanoparticle loading rates (0.1%-1%) have been considered. Contrary to our previous studies of ethanol-water blend (high vapour pressure fuel), pure dodecane droplets do not exhibit internal boiling after ignition. However, variation in surface tension due to temperature causes shape deformations for pure dodecane droplets. In the case of nanofuels, intense heat release from the enveloping flame leads to the formation of micron-size aggregates (of alumina NPS) which serve as nucleation sites promoting heterogeneous boiling. Three boiling regimes (A, B, and C) have been identified with varying bubble dynamics. We have deciphered key mechanisms responsible for the growth, transport, and rupture of the bubbles. Bubble rupture causes ejections of liquid droplets termed as secondary atomization. Ejection of small bubbles (mode 1) resembles the classical vapour bubble collapse mechanism near a flat free surface. However, large bubbles induce severe shape deformations as well as bulk oscillations. Rupture of large bubbles results in high speed liquid jet formation which undergoes Rayleigh-Plateau tip break-up. Both modes contribute towards direct fuel transfer from the droplet surface to flame envelope bypassing diffusion limitations. Combustion lifetime of nanofuel droplets consequently has two stages: stage I (where bubble dynamics are dominant) and stage II (formation of gelatinous mass due to continuous fuel depletion; NP agglomeration). In the present work, variation of flame dynamics and spatio-temporal heat release (HR) have been analysed using high speed OH* chemiluminescence imaging. Fluctuations in droplet shape and flame heat release are found to be well correlated. Droplet flame is bifurcated in two zones (I and II). Flame response is manifested in two frequency ranges: (i) buoyant flame flickering and (ii) auxiliary frequencies arising from high intensity secondary ejections due to bubble ruptures. Addition of alumina NPs enhances the heat absorption rate and ensures the rapid transfer of fuel parcels (detached daughter droplets) from droplet surface to flame front through secondary ejections. Therefore, average HR shows an increasing trend with particle loading rate (PLR). The perikinetic agglomeration model is used to explain the formation of gelatinous sheath during the last phase of droplet burning. Gelatinous mass formed results in bubble entrapment. SEM images of combustion precipitates show entrapped bubble cavities along with surface and sub-surface blowholes. Morphology of combustion precipitate shows a strong variation with PLRs. We have established the coupling mechanisms among heat release, shape oscillations, and secondary atomizations that underline the combustion behaviour of such low vapour pressure nanofuels.

Modeling solubility of CO2/hydrocarbon gas in ionic liquid ([emim][FAP]) using Aspen Plus simulations.

PubMed

Bagchi, Bishwadeep; Sati, Sushmita; Shilapuram, Vidyasagar

2017-08-01

The Peng-Robinson equation of state with quadratic van der Waals (vdW) mixing rule model was chosen to perform the thermodynamic calculations in Flash3 column of Aspen Plus to predict the solubility of CO 2 or any one of the hydrocarbons (HCs) among methane, ethane, propane, and butane in an ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate ([emim][FAP]). Bubble point pressure, solubility, bubble point temperature, fugacity, and partial molar volume at infinite dilution were obtained from the simulations, and enthalpy of absorption, Gibbs free energy of solvation, and entropy change of absorption were estimated by thermodynamic relations. Results show that carbon chain length has a significant effect on the bubble point pressure. Methane has the highest bubble point pressure among all the considered HCs and CO 2 . The bubble point pressure and fugacity variation with temperature is different for CO 2 as compared to HCs for mole fractions above 0.2. Two different profiles are noticed for enthalpy of absorption when plotted as a function of mole fraction of gas soluble in IL. Partial molar volume of CO 2 decreases with increase in temperature in [emim][FAP], while it is increased for HCs. Bubble point temperature decreases with increase in the mole fraction of the solute. Entropy of solvation increases with temperature till a particular value followed by a decrease with further increase in temperature. Gibbs free energy change of solvation showed that the process of solubility was spontaneous.

INTERACTIONS OF THE INFRARED BUBBLE N4 WITH ITS SURROUNDINGS

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

Liu, Hong-Li; Li, Jin-Zeng; Yuan, Jing-Hua

The physical mechanisms that induce the transformation of a certain mass of gas in new stars are far from being well understood. Infrared bubbles associated with H ii regions have been considered to be good samples for investigating triggered star formation. In this paper we report on the investigation of the dust properties of the infrared bubble N4 around the H ii region G11.898+0.747, analyzing its interaction with its surroundings and star formation histories therein, with the aim of determining the possibility of star formation triggered by the expansion of the bubble. Using Herschel PACS and SPIRE images with a widemore » wavelength coverage, we reveal the dust properties over the entire bubble. Meanwhile, we are able to identify six dust clumps surrounding the bubble, with a mean size of 0.50 pc, temperature of about 22 K, mean column density of 1.7 × 10{sup 22} cm{sup −2}, mean volume density of about 4.4 × 10{sup 4} cm{sup −3}, and a mean mass of 320 M{sub ⊙}. In addition, from PAH emission seen at 8 μm, free–free emission detected at 20 cm, and a probability density function in special regions, we could identify clear signatures of the influence of the H ii region on the surroundings. There are hints of star formation, though further investigation is required to demonstrate that N4 is the triggering source.« less

Attrition resistant bulk iron catalysts and processes for preparing and using same

DOEpatents

Jothimurugesan, Kandaswamy [Ponca City, OK; Goodwin, Jr., James G.; Gangwal, Santosh K [Cary, NC

2007-08-21

An attrition resistant precipitated bulk iron catalyst is prepared from iron oxide precursor and a binder by spray drying. The catalysts are preferably used in carbon monoxide hydrogenation processes such as Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. These catalysts are suitable for use in fluidized-bed reactors, transport reactors and, especially, slurry bubble column reactors.

40 CFR 86.522-78 - Carbon monoxide analyzer calibration.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... performance on the most sensitive range. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with either zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Bubble a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2 through water at room temperature and... action. (Use of conditioning columns is one form of corrective action which may be taken.) (b) Initial...

40 CFR 89.421 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS bag sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See... and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at room temperature, produces an equivalent CO response, as measured on the most...

40 CFR 89.421 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS bag sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See... and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at room temperature, produces an equivalent CO response, as measured on the most...

40 CFR 89.421 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS bag sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See... and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at room temperature, produces an equivalent CO response, as measured on the most...

40 CFR 89.421 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS bag sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See... and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at room temperature, produces an equivalent CO response, as measured on the most...

40 CFR 89.421 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS bag sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See... and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at room temperature, produces an equivalent CO response, as measured on the most...

Water column imaging on hydrothermal vent in Central Indian Ridge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koh, J.; Park, Y.

2017-12-01

Water column imaging with Multibeam echosounder systems (MBES) is recently becoming of increasing interest for oceanographic studies. Especially gas bubbles and hot water exposed from hydrothermal vents make acoustic impedance anomalies in cold seawater, water column imaging is very useful for the researchers who want to detect some kinds of hydrothermal activity. We conducted a hydrothermal exploration program, called "INVENT17", using the MBES system, KONGBERG EM122 (12kHz, 1°×1°), mounted on R/V ISABU and we deployed other equipments including video guided hydraulic grab, tow-yo CTD and general CTD with MAPR (Miniature Autonomous Plume Recorder) in 2017. First, to evaluate its capabilities of detection of hydrothermal vent, the surveys using the MBES were conducted at the Solitaire Field, previously identified hydrothermal area of the Central Indian Ridge. The bathymetric data obtained from MBES provided information about detailed morphology of seafloor, but we were not able to achieve the information from the water column imaging data. But the clue of existence of active hydrothermal vent was detected through the values of ΔNTU, dEh/dt, and OPR gained from MAPR, the data means that the hydrothermal activity affects 100m from the seafloor. It could be the reason that we can't find the hydrothermal activity because the range resolution of water column imaging is pretty rough so that the size of 100m-scaled activity has low possibility to distinguish from seafloor. The other reason is there are no sufficient objects to cause strong scattering like as CO2 bubbles or droplets unlike in the mid-Okinawa Trough. And this suggests that can be a important standard to identify properties of hydrothermal vent sites depending on the presence of scattering objects in water mass. To justify this, we should perform more chemical analysis of hot water emanating from hydrothermal vent and collected several bottles of water sample to do that.

Leptonic v.s. Hadronic Origin of the Gamma-ray Emission of the Fermi bubbles: Updates from Fermi-LAT and Forecast for Future Gamma-ray Telescopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Meng

2014-06-01

Data from the Fermi-LAT revealed two large gamma-ray bubbles, extending 50 degrees above and below the Galactic center, with a width of about 40 degrees in longitude. Such structure has been confirmed with multi-wavelength observations. With the most up to date Fermi-LAT data analysis, I will show that the Fermi bubbles have a spectral cutoff at both low energy < 1 GeV and high energy > 150 GeV. Detailed analysis of the spectral features will help us to distinguish the leptonic origin from hadronic origin of the gamma-ray emission from the bubbles. I will also describe what we expect to learn about the bubbles from future gamma-ray telescopes after Fermi, with an emphasis on Dark Matter Particle Explorer and Pair Production Gamma-ray Unit.

Effect of high-energy electron irradiation in an electron microscope column on fluorides of alkaline earth elements (CaF2, SrF2, and BaF2)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikolaichik, V. I.; Sobolev, B. P.; Zaporozhets, M. A.; Avilov, A. S.

2012-03-01

The effect of high-energy (150 eV) electron irradiation in an electron microscope column on crystals of fluorides of alkaline earth elements CaF2, SrF2, and BaF2 is studied. During structural investigations by electron diffraction and electron microscopy, the electron irradiation causes chemical changes in MF2 crystals such as the desorption of fluorine and the accumulation of oxygen in the irradiated area with the formation of oxide MO. The fluorine desorption rate increases significantly when the electron-beam density exceeds the threshold value of ˜2 × 103 pA/cm2). In BaF2 samples, the transformation of BaO into Ba(OH)2 was observed when irradiation stopped. The renewal of irradiation is accompanied by the inverse transformation of Ba(OH)2 into BaO. In the initial stage of irradiation of all MF2 compounds, the oxide phase is in the single-crystal state with a lattice highly matched with the MF2 matrix. When the irradiation dose is increased, the oxide phase passes to the polycrystalline phase. Gaseous products of MF2 destruction (in the form of bubbles several nanometers in diameter) form a rectangular array with a period of ˜20 nm in the sample.

Star formation in shells of colliding multi-SNe bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasiliev, Evgenii O.; Shchekinov, Yuri A.

2017-12-01

It is believed that when bubbles formed by multiple supernovae explosions interact with one another, they stimulate star formation in overlapping shells. We consider the evolution of a shocked layer formed by the collision of two identical bubbles each of which originated from OB clusters of ˜ 50 members and ˜ 50 pc. The clusters are separated by 200-400 pc.We found that depending on evolutionary status of colliding bubbles the shocked layer can either be destroyed into diffuse lumps, or be fragmented into dense clumps: the former occurs in collisions of young bubbles with continuing supernovae explosions, and the latter occurs in older bubble interactions.We argue that fragmentation efficiency in shells depends on external heating: for a heating rate <˜ 1.7×10-24 erg s-1 the number of fragments formed in a collision of two old bubbles reaches several tens at t ˜ 4 Myr, while a heating rate >˜ 7 × 10-24 erg s-1 prevents fragmentation. The clumps formed in freely expanding parts of bubbles are gradually destroyed and disappear on t <˜ 1 Myr,whereas those formed in the overlapping shells survive much longer. Because of this the number of fragments in an isolated bubble begins to decrease after reaching a maximum, while in collision of two old bubbles it fluctuates around 60-70 until longer than t ˜ 5 Myr.

Flow Behavior Around a Fast-Starting Robotic Fish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Ganzhong; Currier, Todd; Modarres-Sadeghi, Yahya

2017-11-01

A robotic fish is used to study the flow behavior around the body of a fast-starting fish as it experiences a fast-start. The robotic fish is designed and built emulating a Northern Pike, Esox Lucius, which can accelerate at up to 245 m/s2. In previous studies, we had focused on the flow around the tail during the fast-start, by using a tail which acted flexibly in the preparatory stage and rigidly in the propulsive stage. We have extended that study by including the fish body in the experimental setup, where the body can bend into a C-shape, so that the influence of the body motion on the resulting flow around the structure can be understood as well. In the tests, the fish can rotate about a vertical axis, where a multi-axis force sensor measures flow forces acting on the body. Synchronized with the force measurement, flow visualizations using bubble image velocimetry are conducted, and the observed shed vortices are related to the peak forces observed during the maneuver.

Shock-induced collapse of a bubble inside a deformable vessel

PubMed Central

Coralic, Vedran; Colonius, Tim

2013-01-01

Shockwave lithotripsy repeatedly focuses shockwaves on kidney stones to induce their fracture, partially through cavitation erosion. A typical side effect of the procedure is hemorrhage, which is potentially the result of the growth and collapse of bubbles inside blood vessels. To identify the mechanisms by which shock-induced collapse could lead to the onset of injury, we study an idealized problem involving a preexisting bubble in a deformable vessel. We utilize a high-order accurate, shock- and interface-capturing, finite-volume scheme and simulate the three-dimensional shock-induced collapse of an air bubble immersed in a cylindrical water column which is embedded in a gelatin/water mixture. The mixture is a soft tissue simulant, 10% gelatin by weight, and is modeled by the stiffened gas equation of state. The bubble dynamics of this model configuration are characterized by the collapse of the bubble and its subsequent jetting in the direction of the propagation of the shockwave. The vessel wall, which is defined by the material interface between the water and gelatin/water mixture, is invaginated by the collapse and distended by the impact of the jet. The present results show that the highest measured pressures and deformations occur when the volumetric confinement of the bubble is strongest, the bubble is nearest the vessel wall and/or the angle of incidence of the shockwave reduces the distance between the jet tip and the nearest vessel surface. For a particular case considered, the 40 MPa shockwave utilized in this study to collapse the bubble generated a vessel wall pressure of almost 450 MPa and produced both an invagination and distention of nearly 50% of the initial vessel radius on a 𝒪(10) ns timescale. These results are indicative of the significant potential of shock-induced collapse to contribute to the injury of blood vessels in shockwave lithotripsy. PMID:24015027

Freezing Bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kingett, Christian; Ahmadi, Farzad; Nath, Saurabh; Boreyko, Jonathan

2017-11-01

The two-stage freezing process of a liquid droplet on a substrate is well known; however, how bubbles freeze has not yet been studied. We first deposited bubbles on a silicon substrate that was chilled at temperatures ranging from -10 °C to -40 °C, while the air was at room temperature. We observed that the freeze front moved very slowly up the bubble, and in some cases, even came to a complete halt at a critical height. This slow freezing front propagation can be explained by the low thermal conductivity of the thin soap film, and can be observed more clearly when the bubble size or the surface temperature is increased. This delayed freezing allows the frozen portion of the bubble to cool the air within the bubble while the top part is still liquid, which induces a vapor pressure mismatch that either collapses the top or causes the top to pop. In cases where the freeze front reaches the top of the bubble, a portion of the top may melt and slowly refreeze; this can happen more than just once for a single bubble. We also investigated freezing bubbles inside of a freezer where the air was held at -20 °C. In this case, the bubbles freeze quickly and the ice grows radially from nucleation sites instead of perpendicular to the surface, which provides a clear contrast with the conduction limited room temperature bubbles.

Experimental and numerical study of the effects of a wall on the coalescence and collapse of bubble pairs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Rui; Zhang, A.-Man; Li, Shuai; Zong, Zhi

2018-04-01

Two-bubble interaction is the most fundamental problem in multi-bubbles dynamics, which is crucial in many practical applications involving air-gun arrays and underwater explosions. In this paper, we experimentally and numerically investigate coalescence, collapse, and rebound of non-buoyant bubble pairs below a rigid wall. Two oscillating vapor bubbles with similar size are generated simultaneously near a rigid wall in axisymmetric configuration using the underwater electric discharge method, and the physical process is captured by a high-speed camera. Numerical simulations are conducted based on potential flow theory coupled with the boundary integral method. Our numerical results show excellent agreement with the experimental data until the splashing of the jet impact sets in. With different ranges of γbw (the dimensionless distance between the rigid wall and the nearest bubble center), the interaction between the coalesced bubble and the rigid wall is divided into three types, i.e., "weak," "intermediate," and "strong." As γbw decreases, the contact point of the two axial jets migrates toward the wall. In "strong interaction" cases, only an upward jet towards the upper rigid wall forms and a secondary jet with a larger width appears at the base of the first jet. The collapsing coalesced bubble in a toroidal form splits into many smaller bubbles due to the instabilities and presents as bubble clouds during the rebounding phase, which may lead to a weakened pressure wave because the focusing energy associated with the collapsing bubble is disintegrated.

Pyroclast textural variation as an indicator of eruption column steadiness in andesitic Plinian eruptions at Mt. Ruapehu

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pardo, Natalia; Cronin, Shane J.; Wright, Heather M.N.; Schipper, C. Ian; Smith, Ian; Stewart, Bob

2014-01-01

Between 27 and 11 cal. ka BP, a transition is observed in Plinian eruptions at Mt. Ruapehu, indicating evolution from non-collapsing (steady and oscillatory) eruption columns to partially collapsing columns (both wet and dry). To determine the causes of these variations over this eruptive interval, we examined lapilli fall deposits from four eruptions representing the climactic phases of each column type. All eruptions involve andesite to basaltic andesite magmas containing plagioclase, clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene and magnetite phenocrysts. Differences occur in the dominant pumice texture, the degree of bulk chemistry and textural variability, the average microcrystallinity and the composition of groundmass glass. In order to investigate the role of ascent and degassing processes on column stability, vesicle textures were quantified by gas volume pycnometry (porosity), X-ray synchrotron and computed microtomography (μ-CT) imagery from representative clasts from each eruption. These data were linked to groundmass crystallinity and glass geochemistry. Pumice textures were classified into six types (foamy, sheared, fibrous, microvesicular, microsheared and dense) according to the vesicle content, size and shape and microlite content. Bulk porosities vary from 19 to 95 % among all textural types. Melt-referenced vesicle number density ranges between 1.8 × 102 and 8.9 × 102 mm−3, except in fibrous textures, where it spans from 0.3 × 102 to 53 × 102 mm−3. Vesicle-free magnetite number density varies within an order of magnitude from 0.4 × 102 to 4.5 × 102 mm−3 in samples with dacitic groundmass glass and between 0.0 and 2.3 × 102 mm−3 in samples with rhyolitic groundmass. The data indicate that columns that collapsed to produce pyroclastic flows contained pumice with the greatest variation in bulk composition (which overlaps with but extends to slightly more silicic compositions than other eruptive products); textures indicating heterogeneous bubble nucleation, progressively more complex growth history and shear-localization; and the highest degrees of microlite crystallization, most evolved melt compositions and lowest relative temperatures. These findings suggest that collapsing columns in Ruapehu have been produced when strain localization is prominent, early bubble nucleation occurs and variation in decompression rate across the conduit is greatest. This study shows that examination of pumice from steady phases that precede column collapse may be used to predict subsequent column behaviour.

Influence of cavitation bubble growth by rectified diffusion on cavitation-enhanced HIFU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okita, Kohei; Sugiyama, Kazuyasu; Takagi, Shu; Matsumoto, Yoichiro

2017-11-01

Cavitation is becoming increasingly important in therapeutic ultrasound applications such as diagnostic, tumor ablation and lithotripsy. Mass transfer through gas-liquid interface due to rectified diffusion is important role in an initial stage of cavitation bubble growth. In the present study, influences of the rectified diffusion on cavitation-enhanced high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) was investigated numerically. Firstly, the mass transfer rate of gas from the surrounding medium to the bubble was examined as function of the initial bubble radius and the driving pressure amplitude. As the result, the pressure required to bubble growth was decreases with increasing the initial bubble radius. Next, the cavitation-enhanced HIFU, which generates cavitation bubbles by high-intensity burst and induces the localized heating owing to cavitation bubble oscillation by low-intensity continuous waves, was reproduced by the present simulation. The heating region obtained by the simulation is agree to the treatment region of an in vitro experiment. Additionally, the simulation result shows that the localized heating is enhanced by the increase of the equilibrium bubble size due to the rectified diffusion. This work was supported by JSPS KAKENHI Grant Numbers JP26420125,JP17K06170.

On shapes and motion of an elongated bubble in downward liquid pipe flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fershtman, A.; Babin, V.; Barnea, D.; Shemer, L.

2017-11-01

In stagnant liquid, or in a steady upward liquid pipe flow, an elongated (Taylor) bubble has a symmetric shape. The translational velocity of the bubble is determined by buoyancy and the liquid velocity profile ahead of it. In downward flow, however, the symmetry of the bubble nose can be lost. Taylor bubble motion in downward flow is important in numerous applications such as chemical plants and cooling systems that often contain countercurrent gas-liquid flow. In the present study, the relation between the Taylor bubble shape and its translational velocity is investigated experimentally in a vertical pipe for various downward liquid flow rates. At higher downward velocities, the bubble may be forced by the background flow to propagate downward against buoyancy. In order to include those cases as well in our experimental analysis, the bubbles were initially injected into stagnant liquid, whereas the downward flow was initiated at a later stage. This experimental procedure allowed us to identify three distinct modes of translational velocities for a given downward background liquid flow; each velocity corresponds to a different bubble shape. Hydrodynamic mechanisms that govern the transition between the modes observed in the present study are discussed.

Physical properties of the WAIS Divide ice core

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fitzpatrick, Joan J.; Voigt, Donald E.; Fegyveresi, John M.; Stevens, Nathan T.; Spencer, Matthew K.; Cole-Dai, Jihong; Alley, Richard B.; Jardine, Gabriella E.; Cravens, Eric; Wilen, Lawrence A.; Fudge, T. J.; McConnell, Joseph R.

2014-01-01

The WAIS (West Antarctic Ice Sheet) Divide deep ice core was recently completed to a total depth of 3405 m, ending ∼50 m above the bed. Investigation of the visual stratigraphy and grain characteristics indicates that the ice column at the drilling location is undisturbed by any large-scale overturning or discontinuity. The climate record developed from this core is therefore likely to be continuous and robust. Measured grain-growth rates, recrystallization characteristics, and grain-size response at climate transitions fit within current understanding. Significant impurity control on grain size is indicated from correlation analysis between impurity loading and grain size. Bubble-number densities and bubble sizes and shapes are presented through the full extent of the bubbly ice. Where bubble elongation is observed, the direction of elongation is preferentially parallel to the trace of the basal (0001) plane. Preferred crystallographic orientation of grains is present in the shallowest samples measured, and increases with depth, progressing to a vertical-girdle pattern that tightens to a vertical single-maximum fabric. This single-maximum fabric switches into multiple maxima as the grain size increases rapidly in the deepest, warmest ice. A strong dependence of the fabric on the impurity-mediated grain size is apparent in the deepest samples.

Multiple eigenmodes of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability observed for a fluid interface with smoothly varying density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, C. X.; Xue, C.; Liu, J.; Hu, X. Y.; Liu, Y. Y.; Ye, W. H.; Wang, L. F.; Wu, J. F.; Fan, Z. F.

2018-01-01

In this article, multiple eigen-systems including linear growth rates and eigen-functions have been discovered for the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) by numerically solving the Sturm-Liouville eigen-value problem in the case of two-dimensional plane geometry. The system called the first mode has the maximal linear growth rate and is just extensively studied in literature. Higher modes have smaller eigen-values, but possess multi-peak eigen-functions which bring on multiple pairs of vortices in the vorticity field. A general fitting expression for the first four eigen-modes is presented. Direct numerical simulations show that high modes lead to appearances of multi-layered spike-bubble pairs, and lots of secondary spikes and bubbles are also generated due to the interactions between internal spikes and bubbles. The present work has potential applications in many research and engineering areas, e.g., in reducing the RTI growth during capsule implosions in inertial confinement fusion.

Interaction of lithotripter shockwaves with single inertial cavitation bubbles

PubMed Central

Klaseboer, Evert; Fong, Siew Wan; Turangan, Cary K.; Khoo, Boo Cheong; Szeri, Andrew J.; Calvisi, Michael L.; Sankin, Georgy N.; Zhong, Pei

2008-01-01

The dynamic interaction of a shockwave (modelled as a pressure pulse) with an initially spherically oscillating bubble is investigated. Upon the shockwave impact, the bubble deforms non-spherically and the flow field surrounding the bubble is determined with potential flow theory using the boundary-element method (BEM). The primary advantage of this method is its computational efficiency. The simulation process is repeated until the two opposite sides of the bubble surface collide with each other (i.e. the formation of a jet along the shockwave propagation direction). The collapse time of the bubble, its shape and the velocity of the jet are calculated. Moreover, the impact pressure is estimated based on water-hammer pressure theory. The Kelvin impulse, kinetic energy and bubble displacement (all at the moment of jet impact) are also determined. Overall, the simulated results compare favourably with experimental observations of lithotripter shockwave interaction with single bubbles (using laser-induced bubbles at various oscillation stages). The simulations confirm the experimental observation that the most intense collapse, with the highest jet velocity and impact pressure, occurs for bubbles with intermediate size during the contraction phase when the collapse time of the bubble is approximately equal to the compressive pulse duration of the shock wave. Under this condition, the maximum amount of energy of the incident shockwave is transferred to the collapsing bubble. Further, the effect of the bubble contents (ideal gas with different initial pressures) and the initial conditions of the bubble (initially oscillating vs. non-oscillating) on the dynamics of the shockwave–bubble interaction are discussed. PMID:19018296

Interaction of lithotripter shockwaves with single inertial cavitation bubbles.

PubMed

Klaseboer, Evert; Fong, Siew Wan; Turangan, Cary K; Khoo, Boo Cheong; Szeri, Andrew J; Calvisi, Michael L; Sankin, Georgy N; Zhong, Pei

2007-01-01

The dynamic interaction of a shockwave (modelled as a pressure pulse) with an initially spherically oscillating bubble is investigated. Upon the shockwave impact, the bubble deforms non-spherically and the flow field surrounding the bubble is determined with potential flow theory using the boundary-element method (BEM). The primary advantage of this method is its computational efficiency. The simulation process is repeated until the two opposite sides of the bubble surface collide with each other (i.e. the formation of a jet along the shockwave propagation direction). The collapse time of the bubble, its shape and the velocity of the jet are calculated. Moreover, the impact pressure is estimated based on water-hammer pressure theory. The Kelvin impulse, kinetic energy and bubble displacement (all at the moment of jet impact) are also determined. Overall, the simulated results compare favourably with experimental observations of lithotripter shockwave interaction with single bubbles (using laser-induced bubbles at various oscillation stages). The simulations confirm the experimental observation that the most intense collapse, with the highest jet velocity and impact pressure, occurs for bubbles with intermediate size during the contraction phase when the collapse time of the bubble is approximately equal to the compressive pulse duration of the shock wave. Under this condition, the maximum amount of energy of the incident shockwave is transferred to the collapsing bubble. Further, the effect of the bubble contents (ideal gas with different initial pressures) and the initial conditions of the bubble (initially oscillating vs. non-oscillating) on the dynamics of the shockwave-bubble interaction are discussed.

Bubble dynamics inside an outgassing hydrogel confined in a Hele-Shaw cell.

PubMed

Haudin, Florence; Noblin, Xavier; Bouret, Yann; Argentina, Médéric; Raufaste, Christophe

2016-08-01

We report an experimental study of bubble dynamics in a non-Newtonian fluid subjected to a pressure decrease. The fluid is a hydrogel, composed of water and a synthetic clay, prepared and sandwiched between two glass plates in a Hele-Shaw geometry. The rheological properties of the material can be tuned by the clay concentration. As the imposed pressure decreases, the gas initially dissolved in the hydrogel triggers bubble formation. Different stages of the process are observed: bubble nucleation, growth, interaction, and creation of domains by bubble contact or coalescence. Initially bubble behave independently. They are trapped and advected by the mean deformation of the hydrogel, and the bubble growth is mainly driven by the diffusion of the dissolved gas through the hydrogel and its outgassing at the reactive-advected hydrogel-bubble interface. In this regime, the rheology of the fluid does not play a significant role on the bubble growth. A model is proposed and gives a simple scaling that relates the bubble growth rate and the imposed pressure. Carbon dioxide is shown to be the gas at play, and the hydrogel is degassing at the millimeter scale as a water solution does at a smaller scale. Later, bubbles are not independent anymore. The growth rate decreases, and the morphology becomes more anisotropic as bubbles interact because they are separated by a distance smaller than the individual stress field extension. Our measurements show that the interaction distance scales with the bubbles' size.

Are winds in cities always slower than in the countryside? Modelling the Urban Wind Island Effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Droste, Arjan; Steeneveld, Gert-Jan

2017-04-01

Though the Urban Heat Island has been extensively studied, relatively little has been documented about differences in wind between the city as a whole and the countryside. Urban winds are difficult to capture in both observations and modelling, due to the complex urban canyon and neighbourhood geometry. This study uses a straightforward mixed-layer model (Tennekes & Driedonks, 1981) to investigate the contrast between the diurnal cycle of wind in the urban and the rural environment. The model contains one urban and one rural column, to identify differences in wind patterns between city and countryside under equal geostrophic forcing. The model has been evaluated against rural observations from the 213 m. Cabauw tower (the Netherlands), and the urban observations from the BUBBLE campaign (Basel, Rotach et al., 2005). The influence of the urban fabric on the wind is investigated by varying the surface underneath the column model using the 10 urban Local Climate Zones, thereby altering building height, fraction of impervious surface, and initial boundary-layer depth. First results show that for high initial urban boundary-layer depths compared to the rural boundary-layer depth, the urban column can be much windier than its rural counterpart: i.e. the urban Wind Island Effect. The effect appears to be most prominent in the morning and the late afternoon (up to 1 m/s), for Local Climate Zones with lower buildings (3 or 7). BUBBLE observations confirm the timing of the Wind Island Effect, though with weaker magnitude.

Extreme conditions in a dissolving air nanobubble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasui, Kyuichi; Tuziuti, Toru; Kanematsu, Wataru

2016-07-01

Numerical simulations of the dissolution of an air nanobubble in water have been performed taking into account the effect of bubble dynamics (inertia of the surrounding liquid). The presence of stable bulk nanobubbles is not assumed in the present study because the bubble radius inevitably passes the nanoscale in the complete dissolution of a bubble. The bubble surface is assumed to be clean because attachment of hydrophobic materials on the bubble surface could considerably change the gas diffusion rate. The speed of the bubble collapse (the bubble wall speed) increases to about 90 m/s or less. The shape of a bubble is kept nearly spherical because the amplitude of the nonspherical component of the bubble shape is negligible compared to the instantaneous bubble radius. In other words, a bubble never disintegrates into daughter bubbles during the dissolution. At the final moment of the dissolution, the temperature inside a bubble increases to about 3000 K due to the quasiadiabatic compression. The bubble temperature is higher than 1000 K only for the final 19 ps. However, the Knudsen number is more than 0.2 for this moment, and the error associated with the continuum model should be considerable. In the final 2.3 ns, only nitrogen molecules are present inside a bubble as the solubility of nitrogen is the lowest among the gas species. The radical formation inside a bubble is negligible because the probability of nitrogen dissociation is only on the order of 10-15. The pressure inside a bubble, as well as the liquid pressure at the bubble wall, increases to about 5 GPa at the final moment of dissolution. The pressure is higher than 1 GPa for the final 0.7 ns inside a bubble and for the final 0.6 ns in the liquid at the bubble wall. The liquid temperature at the bubble wall increases to about 360 K from 293 K at the final stage of the complete dissolution.

Completing the evolution of supernova remnants and their bubbles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Slavin, Jonathan D.; Cox, Donald P.

1992-01-01

The filling fraction of hot gas in the ISM is reexamined with new calculations of the very long term evolution of SNRs and their fossil hot bubbles. Results are presented of a 1D numerical solution of the evolution of an SNR in a homogeneous medium with a nonthermal pressure corresponding to a 5-micro-G magnetic field and density of 0.2/cu cm. Comparison is made with a control simulation having no magnetic field pressure. It is found that the evolutions, once they have become radiative, differ in several significant ways, while both differ appreciably from qualitative pictures presented in the past. Over most of the evolution of either case, the hot bubble in the interior occupies only a small fraction of the shocked volume, the remainder in a thick shell of slightly compressed material. Column densities and radial distributions of O VI, N V, C IV, and Si IV as well as examples of absorption profiles for their strong UV lines are presented.

CFD-DEM study of effect of bed thickness for bubbling fluidized beds

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

Tingwen, Li; Gopalakrishnan, Pradeep; Garg, Rahul

2011-10-01

The effect of bed thickness in rectangular fluidized beds is investigated through the CFD–DEM simulations of small-scale systems. Numerical results are compared for bubbling fluidized beds of various bed thicknesses with respect to particle packing, bed expansion, bubble behavior, solids velocities, and particle kinetic energy. Good two-dimensional (2D) flow behavior is observed in the bed having a thickness of up to 20 particle diameters. However, a strong three-dimensional (3D) flow behavior is observed in beds with a thickness of 40 particle diameters, indicating the transition from 2D flow to 3D flow within the range of 20–40 particle diameters. Comparison ofmore » velocity profiles near the walls and at the center of the bed shows significant impact of the front and back walls on the flow hydrodynamics of pseudo-2D fluidized beds. Hence, for quantitative comparison with experiments in pseudo-2D columns, the effect of walls has to be accounted for in numerical simulations.« less

Shock-induced bubble collapse in a vessel: Implications for vascular injury in shockwave lithotripsy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coralic, Vedran; Colonius, Tim

2014-11-01

In shockwave lithotripsy, shocks are repeatedly focused on kidney stones so to break them. The process leads to cavitation in tissue, which leads to hemorrhage. We hypothesize that shock-induced collapse (SIC) of preexisting bubbles is a potential mechanism for vascular injury. We study it numerically with an idealized problem consisting of the three-dimensional SIC of an air bubble immersed in a cylindrical water column embedded in gelatin. The gelatin is a tissue simulant and can be treated as a fluid due to fast time scales and small spatial scales of collapse. We thus model the problem as a compressible multicomponent flow and simulate it with a shock- and interface-capturing numerical method. The method is high-order, conservative and non-oscillatory. Fifth-order WENO is used for spatial reconstruction and an HLLC Riemann solver upwinds the fluxes. A third-order TVD-RK scheme evolves the solution. We evaluate the potential for injury in SIC for a range of pressures, bubble and vessel sizes, and tissue properties. We assess the potential for injury by comparing the finite strains in tissue, obtained by particle tracking, to ultimate strains from experiments. We conclude that SIC may contribute to vascular rupture and discuss the smallest bubble sizes needed for injury. This research was supported by NIH Grant No. 2PO1DK043881 and utilized XSEDE, which is supported by NSF Grant No. OCI-1053575.

Investigating ebullition in a sand column using dissolved gas analysis and reactive transport modeling

USGS Publications Warehouse

Amos, Richard T.; Mayer, K. Ulrich

2006-01-01

Ebullition of gas bubbles through saturated sediments can enhance the migration of gases through the subsurface, affect the rate of biogeochemical processes, and potentially enhance the emission of important greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. To better understand the parameters controlling ebullition, methanogenic conditions were produced in a column experiment and ebullition through the column was monitored and quantified through dissolved gas analysis and reactive transport modeling. Dissolved gas analysis showed rapid transport of CH4 vertically through the column at rates several times faster than the bromide tracer and the more soluble gas CO2, indicating that ebullition was the main transport mechanism for CH4. An empirically derived formulation describing ebullition was integrated into the reactive transport code MIN3P allowing this process to be investigated on the REV scale in a complex geochemical framework. The simulations provided insights into the parameters controlling ebullition and show that, over the duration of the experiment, 36% of the CH4 and 19% of the CO2 produced were transported to the top of the column through ebullition.

Dynamic Modeling and Control Studies of a Two-Stage Bubbling Fluidized Bed Adsorber-Reactor for Solid-Sorbent CO{sub 2} Capture

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

Modekurti, Srinivasarao; Bhattacharyya, Debangsu; Zitney, Stephen E.

2013-07-31

A one-dimensional, non-isothermal, pressure-driven dynamic model has been developed for a two-stage bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) adsorber-reactor for solid-sorbent carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}) capture using Aspen Custom Modeler® (ACM). The BFB model for the flow of gas through a continuous phase of downward moving solids considers three regions: emulsion, bubble, and cloud-wake. Both the upper and lower reactor stages are of overflow-type configuration, i.e., the solids leave from the top of each stage. In addition, dynamic models have been developed for the downcomer that transfers solids between the stages and the exit hopper that removes solids from the bottom ofmore » the bed. The models of all auxiliary equipment such as valves and gas distributor have been integrated with the main model of the two-stage adsorber reactor. Using the developed dynamic model, the transient responses of various process variables such as CO{sub 2} capture rate and flue gas outlet temperatures have been studied by simulating typical disturbances such as change in the temperature, flowrate, and composition of the incoming flue gas from pulverized coal-fired power plants. In control studies, the performance of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, feedback-augmented feedforward controller, and linear model predictive controller (LMPC) are evaluated for maintaining the overall CO{sub 2} capture rate at a desired level in the face of typical disturbances.« less

Simulation and observation of line-slip structures in columnar structures of soft spheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winkelmann, J.; Haffner, B.; Weaire, D.; Mughal, A.; Hutzler, S.

2017-07-01

We present the computed phase diagram of columnar structures of soft spheres under pressure, of which the main feature is the appearance and disappearance of line slips, the shearing of adjacent spirals, as pressure is increased. A comparable experimental observation is made on a column of bubbles under forced drainage, clearly exhibiting the expected line slip.

Simulation and observation of line-slip structures in columnar structures of soft spheres.

PubMed

Winkelmann, J; Haffner, B; Weaire, D; Mughal, A; Hutzler, S

2017-07-01

We present the computed phase diagram of columnar structures of soft spheres under pressure, of which the main feature is the appearance and disappearance of line slips, the shearing of adjacent spirals, as pressure is increased. A comparable experimental observation is made on a column of bubbles under forced drainage, clearly exhibiting the expected line slip.

40 CFR 91.423 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS grab sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See §§ 91.317 and 91.320.) (3) A CO instrument will be considered to be essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of three percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at...

40 CFR 91.423 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS grab sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See §§ 91.317 and 91.320.) (3) A CO instrument will be considered to be essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of three percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at...

40 CFR 91.423 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS grab sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See §§ 91.317 and 91.320.) (3) A CO instrument will be considered to be essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of three percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at...

40 CFR 91.423 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS grab sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See §§ 91.317 and 91.320.) (3) A CO instrument will be considered to be essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of three percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at...

40 CFR 91.423 - Exhaust gas analytical system; CVS grab sample.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... and water vapor interference, the use of the conditioning column may be deleted. (See §§ 91.317 and 91.320.) (3) A CO instrument will be considered to be essentially free of CO2 and water vapor interference if its response to a mixture of three percent CO2 in N2, which has been bubbled through water at...

Further experimentation on bubble generation during transformer overload

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

Oommen, T.V.

1992-03-01

This report covers additional work done during 1990 and 1991 on gas bubble generation under overload conditions. To improve visual bubble detection, a single disc coil was used. To further improve detection, a corona device was also used which signaled the onset of corona activity in the early stages of bubble formation. A total of fourteen model tests were conducted, half of which used the Inertaire system, and the remaining, a conservator (COPS). Moisture content of paper in the coil varied from 1.0% to 8.0%; gas (nitrogen) content varied from 1.0% to 8.8%. The results confirmed earlier observations that themore » mathematical bubble prediction model was not valid for high gas content model with relatively low moisture levels in the coil. An empirical relationship was formulated to accurately predict bubble evolution temperatures from known moisture and gas content values. For low moisture content models (below 2%), the simple Piper relationship was sufficient to predict bubble evolution temperatures, regardless of gas content. Moisture in the coil appears to be the key factor in bubble generation. Gas blanketed (Inertaire) systems do not appear to be prone to premature bubble generation from overloads as previously thought. The new bubble prediction model reveals that for a coil with 2% moisture, the bubble evolution temperature would be about 140{degrees}C. Since old transformers in service may have as much as 2% moisture in paper, the 140{degrees}C bubble evolution temperature may be taken as the lower limit of bubble evolution temperature under overload conditions for operating transformers. Drier insulation would raise the bubble evolution temperature.« less

Technology development for iron Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. Technical progress report No. 8, July 1, 1992--September 30, 1992

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

Frame, R.R.; Gala, H.B.

1992-12-31

The objectives of this contract are to develop a technology for the production of active and stable iron Fischer-Tropsch catalysts for use in slurry-phase synthesis reactors and to develop a scaleup procedure for large-scale synthesis of such catalysts for process development and long-term testing in slurry bubble-column reactors. With a feed containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the molar ratio of 0.5 to 1.0 to the slurry bubble-column reactor, the catalyst performance target is 88% CO + H{sub 2} conversion at a minimum space velocity of 2.4 NL/hr/gFe. The desired sum of methane and ethane selectivities is no more thanmore » 4%, and the conversion loss per week is not to exceed 1%. Contract Tasks are as follows: 1.0--Catalyst development, 1.1--Technology assessment, 1.2--Precipitated catalyst preparation method development, 1.3--Novel catalyst preparation methods investigation, 1.4--Catalyst pretreatment, 1.5--Catalyst characterization, 2.0--Catalyst testing, 3.0--Catalyst aging studies, and 4.0--Preliminary design and cost estimate of a catalyst synthesis facility. This paper reports progress made on Task 1.« less

Modelling of microalgal growth and lipid production in Dunaliella tertiolecta using nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer medium in sintered disk chromatographic glass bubble column.

PubMed

Kumar, Anup; Guria, Chandan; Chitres, G; Chakraborty, Arunangshu; Pathak, A K

2016-10-01

A comprehensive mathematical model involving NPK-10:26:26 fertilizer, NaCl, NaHCO3, light and temperature operating variables for Dunaliella tertiolecta cultivation is formulated to predict microalgae-biomass and lipid productivity. Proposed model includes Monod/Andrews kinetics for the absorption of essential nutrients into algae-biomass and Droop model involving internal nutrient cell quota for microalgae growth, assuming algae-biomass is composed of sugar, functional-pool and neutral-lipid. Biokinetic model parameters are determined by minimizing the residual-sum-of-square-errors between experimental and computed microalgae-biomass and lipid productivity using genetic algorithm. Developed model is validated with the experiments of Dunaliella tertiolecta cultivation using air-agitated sintered-disk chromatographic glass-bubble column and the effects of operating variables on microalgae-biomass and lipid productivity is investigated. Finally, parametric sensitivity analysis is carried out to know the sensitivity of model parameters on the obtained results in the input parameter space. Proposed model may be helpful in scale-up studies and implementation of model-based control strategy in large-scale algal cultivation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A scintillator purification plant and fluid handling system for SNO+

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

Ford, Richard J., E-mail: ford@snolab.ca

A large capacity purification plant and fluid handling system has been constructed for the SNO+ neutrino and double-beta decay experiment, located 6800 feet underground at SNOLAB, Canada. SNO+ is a refurbishment of the SNO detector to fill the acrylic vessel with liquid scintillator based on Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB) and 2 g/L PPO, and also has a phase to load natural tellurium into the scintillator for a double-beta decay experiment with {sup 130}Te. The plant includes processes multi-stage dual-stream distillation, column water extraction, steam stripping, and functionalized silica gel adsorption columns. The plant also includes systems for preparing the scintillator with PPOmore » and metal-loading the scintillator for double-beta decay exposure. We review the basis of design, the purification principles, specifications for the plant, and the construction and installations. The construction and commissioning status is updated.« less

Dissecting Diffuse X-ray Emission in 30 Doradus with T-ReX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Townsley, Leisa K.; Broos, Patrick

2017-08-01

30 Doradus (the Tarantula Nebula) offers us a microscope on starburst astrophysics, having endured 25 Myrs of the birth and death of the most massive stars known. Across 30 Dor's 250-pc extent, stellar winds and supernovae have carved its ISM into an amazing display of arcs, pillars, and bubbles. For over 40 years, we have also known that 30 Dor is a bright X-ray emitter, so its familiar stars and cold ISM structures suffer irradiation by multi-million-degree plasmas. The 2-Ms Chandra X-ray Visionary Project ``The Tarantula -- Revealed by X-rays'' (T-ReX) exploits Chandra's fine spatial resolution and the ACIS-I field of view to study ISM interfaces on 1--10 pc scales across the entire 30 Dor complex. Here we give preliminary results from ongoing analyses of these data, focusing on the diffuse X-ray emission. Massive star winds and cavity supernovae over the millenia have contributed to a broad mix of X-ray-emitting plasmas and absorbing columns, showing that 30 Dor's hot ISM is just as complex and confusing as that seen at colder temperatures.

Design and Construction of Multi-Variable Vortex-Ring Bubble Generator for Use in Interactive Exhibit

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

providing the opportunity to teach complex subjects related to stable and unstable equilibrium, stochastic systems, and conservation laws. The...bubbles through adjustment of three variables. The seal pressure, actuating pressure, and cycle time of the triggering solenoid valve each contribute to...stable and unstable equilibrium, stochastic systems, and conservation laws. The diaphragm valve designed in this thesis provides the centerpiece for

A theoretical method for selecting space craft and space suit atmospheres.

PubMed

Vann, R D; Torre-Bueno, J R

1984-12-01

A theoretical method for selecting space craft and space suit atmospheres assumes that gas bubbles cause decompression sickness and that the risk increases when a critical bubble volume is exceeded. The method is consistent with empirical decompression exposures for humans under conditions of nitrogen equilibrium between the lungs and tissues. Space station atmospheres are selected so that flight crews may decompress immediately from sea level to station pressure without preoxygenation. Bubbles form as a result of this decompression but are less than the critical volume. The bubbles are absorbed during an equilibration period after which immediate transition to suit pressure is possible. Exercise after decompression and incomplete nitrogen equilibrium are shown to increase bubble size, and limit the usefulness of one previously tested stage decompression procedure for the Shuttle. The method might be helpful for evaluating decompression procedures before testing.

Diffusion-reaction modelling of early diagenesis of sediments affected by acid mine drainage.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torres, E.; Ayora, C.; Arias, J. L.; Garcia Robledo, E.; Papaspyrou, S.; Corzo, A.

2012-04-01

The Sancho Reservoir (SW Spain) is a monomictic water reservoir affected by acid mine drainage. It has a pH of ~4, with high sulfate (200 ppm) and heavy metal concentrations in the water column. The reservoir develops reducing conditions at the bottom during the stratification period. A laboratory experiment was carried out to study the effect of this oxygen variation on the early diagenesis processes and the cycling of metals. Sediment cores and bottom water were collected during the stratification period and brought to the laboratory. The cores were maintained in an aquarium bubbled with nitrogen gas to maintain hypoxic conditions (~10 µmol O2 L-1) for 1 day. Then, oxic conditions were induced by bubbling with air and maintained for 50 days. Finally, hypoxia was re-established for 10 days. Triplicate cores were sliced in a anaerobic glove box at each stage. Pore water was extracted by centrifugation and: Eh, pH, DO, DOC, sulfate, Fe and trace metals were analyzed. The sediment was freeze-dried and a sequential extraction protocol was applied to determine the exchangeable, AVS, Fe-(oxy)hydroxides, Fe-oxides, organic matter, pyrite sulfur and residual phase iron fractions. Organic carbon and total C, N, H and S were also analyzed in the sediment. A reactive diffusion model has been used to obtain the rates of biogeochemical reactions by fitting to the experimental data. During hypoxic conditions sulfate and Fe-(oxy)hydroxides are reduced, due to the anaerobic oxidation of organic matter, at the very first few cm, releasing sulfide and Fe(II) which precipitate as iron sulfide. When oxygen diffuses in the sediment, sulfate-reduction and the sulfide peaks are displaced deeper into the sediment. Oxygen penetration depth and its consumption rates in the sediment increase quickly, resulting in the reoxidation of the iron sulfides that had precipitated during hypoxic conditions. Sulfide and Fe(II) are released and are again oxidized to Fe(III) and sulfate respectively. Arsenic can be adsorbed onto the iron sulfides and pyrite. During the dissolution of the iron sulfide As will be released and will diffuse to the water column. Copper and zinc can also precipitate as metal sulfides.

Sizes of nanobubbles from nucleation rate measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilemski, G.

2003-03-01

In homogeneous bubble nucleation, the critical nucleus typically has nanometer dimensions. The volume V of a critical bubble can be determined from the simple equation (partial W/partial p)_T=V, where W is the reversible work of nucleus formation and p is the ambient pressure of the liquid phase in which bubble formation is occurring. The relation, W/kT=-ln J+ln A, where J is the steady state nucleation rate and A is the weakly pressure-dependent kinetic prefactor, allows V to be determined from rate measurements. The original derivation of this equation for V from the nucleation theorem was limited to one-component, ideal gas bubbles with a gas density much smaller than that of the ambient liquid. [D. Kashchiev, Nucleation: basic theory with applications (Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford, 2000) p. 226.] The result is actually much more general, and it will be shown that it applies to multi-component, nonideal gas bubbles, provided the same density inequality holds. When the bubble phase and liquid densities are comparable, a more complicated, but also general and rigorous result is found.

Analytical study of the acoustic field in a spherical resonator for single bubble sonoluminescence.

PubMed

Dellavale, Damián; Urteaga, Raúl; Bonetto, Fabián J

2010-01-01

The acoustic field in the liquid within a spherical solid shell is calculated. The proposed model takes into account Stoke's wave equation in the viscous fluid, the membrane theory to describe the solid shell motion and the energy loss through the external couplings of the system. A point source at the resonator center is included to reproduce the acoustic emission of a sonoluminescence bubble. Particular calculations of the resulting acoustic field are performed for viscous liquids of interest in single bubble sonoluminescence. The model reveals that in case of radially symmetric modes of low frequency, the quality factor is mainly determined by the acoustic energy flowing through the mechanical coupling of the resonator. Alternatively, for high frequency modes the quality factor is mainly determined by the viscous dissipation in the liquid. Furthermore, the interaction between the bubble acoustic emission and the resonator modes is analyzed. It was found that the bubble acoustic emission produces local maxima in the resonator response. The calculated amplitudes and relative phases of the harmonics constituting the bubble acoustic environment can be used to improve multi-frequency driving in sonoluminescence.

Status On Multi-microsecond Prepulse Technique On Sphinx Machine Going From Nested To Single Wire Array For 800 ns Implosion Time Z-pinch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maury, P.; Calamy, H.; Grunenwald, J.; Lassalle, F.; Zucchini, F.; Loyen, A.; Georges, A.; Morell, A.; Bedoch, J. P.

2009-01-01

The Sphinx machine[1] is a 6 MA, 1 μS driver based on the LTD technology, used for Z-pinch experiments. Important improvements of Sphinx radiation output were recently obtained using a multi-microsecond current prepulse[2]. Total power per unit of length is multiplied by a factor of 6 and FWHM divided by a factor of 2.5. Early breakdown of the wires during the prepulse phase dramatically changes the ablation phase leading to an improvement of axial homogeneity of both the implosion and the final radiating column. As a consequence, the cathode bubble observed on classical shots is definitively removed. The implosion is then centered and zippering effect is reduced, leading to simultaneous x-ray emission of the whole length. A great reproducibility is obtained. Nested arrays were used before to mitigate the Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities during the implosion phase. Further experiments with pre-pulse technique are described here were inner array was removed. The goal of these experiments was to see if long prepulse could give stable enough implosion with single array and at the same time increase the η parameter by reducing the mass of the load. Experimental results of single wire array loads of typical dimension 5 cm in height with implosion time between 700 and 900 ns and diameter varying between 80 and 140 mm are given. Parameters of the loads were varying in term of radius and number of wires. Comparisons with nested wire array loads are done and trends are proposed. Characteristics of both the implosion and the final radiating column are shown. 2D MHD numerical simulations of single wire array become easier as there is no interaction between outer and inner array anymore. A systematic study was done using injection mass model to benchmark simulation with experiments.

Impact of methane flow through deformable lake sediments on atmospheric release

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scandella, B.; Juanes, R.

2010-12-01

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is generated geothermally and biologically in lake and ocean sediments. Free gas bubbles may escape oxidative traps and contribute more to the atmospheric source than dissolved methane, but the details of the methane release depend on the interactions between the multiple fluid phases and the deformable porous medium. We present a model and supporting laboratory experiments of methane release through “breathing” dynamic flow conduits that open in response to drops in the hydrostatic load on lake sediments, which has been validated against a high-resolution record of free gas flux and hydrostatic pressure in Upper Mystic Lake, MA. In contrast to previous linear elastic fracture mechanics analysis of gassy sediments, the evolution of gas transport in a deformable compliant sediment is presented within the framework of multiphase poroplasticity. Experiments address how strongly the mode and rate of gas flow, captured by our model, impacts the size of bubbles released into the water column. A bubble's size in turn determines how efficiently it transports methane to the atmosphere, and integrating this effect will be critical to improving estimates of the atmospheric methane source from lakes. Cross-sectional schematic of lake sediments showing two venting sites: one open at left and one closed at right. The vertical release of gas bubbles (red) at the open venting site creates a local pressure drop, which drives both bubble formation from the methane-rich pore water (higher concentrations shaded darker red) and lateral advection of dissolved methane (purple arrows). Even as bubbles in the open site escape, those at the closed site remain trapped.

Counteracting moment device for reduction of earthquake-induced excursions of multi-level buildings.

PubMed

Nagaya, K; Fukushima, T; Kosugi, Y

1999-05-01

A vibration-control mechanism for beams and columns was presented in our previous report in which the earthquake force was transformed into a vibration-control force by using a gear train mechanism. In our previous report, however, only the principle of transforming the earthquake force into the control force was presented; the discussion for real structures and the design method were not presented. The present article provides a theoretical analysis of the column which is used in multi-layered buildings. Experimental tests were carried out for a model of multi-layered buildings in the frequency range of a principal earthquake wave. Theoretical results are compared to the experimental data. The optimal design of the control mechanism, which is of importance in the column design, is presented. Numerical calculations are carried out for the optimal design. It is shown that vibrations of the column involving the mechanism are suppressed remarkably. The optimal design method and the analytical results are applicable to the design of the column.

Electrohydrodynamic bubbling: an alternative route to fabricate porous structures of silk fibroin based materials.

PubMed

Ekemen, Zeynep; Ahmad, Zeeshan; Stride, Eleanor; Kaplan, David; Edirisinghe, Mohan

2013-05-13

Conventional fabrication techniques and structures employed in the design of silk fibroin (SF) based porous materials provide only limited control over pore size and require several processing stages. In this study, it is shown that, by utilizing electrohydrodynamic bubbling, not only can new hollow spherical structures of SF be formed in a single step by means of bubbles, but the resulting bubbles can serve as pore generators when dehydrated. The bubble characteristics can be controlled through simple adjustments to the processing parameters. Bubbles with diameters in the range of 240-1000 μm were fabricated in controlled fashion. FT-IR characterization confirmed that the rate of air infused during processing enhanced β-sheet packing in SF at higher flow rates. Dynamic mechanical analysis also demonstrated a correlation between air flow rate and film tensile strength. Results indicate that electrohydrodynamically generated SF and their composite bubbles can be employed as new tools to generate porous structures in a controlled manner with a range of potential applications in biocoatings and tissue engineering scaffolds.

Analysis of intergranular fission-gas bubble-size distributions in irradiated uranium-molybdenum alloy fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rest, J.; Hofman, G. L.; Kim, Yeon Soo

2009-04-01

An analytical model for the nucleation and growth of intra and intergranular fission-gas bubbles is used to characterize fission-gas bubble development in low-enriched U-Mo alloy fuel irradiated in the advanced test reactor in Idaho as part of the Reduced Enrichment for Research and Test Reactor (RERTR) program. Fuel burnup was limited to less than ˜7.8 at.% U in order to capture the fuel-swelling stage prior to irradiation-induced recrystallization. The model couples the calculation of the time evolution of the average intergranular bubble radius and number density to the calculation of the intergranular bubble-size distribution based on differential growth rate and sputtering coalescence processes. Recent results on TEM analysis of intragranular bubbles in U-Mo were used to set the irradiation-induced diffusivity and re-solution rate in the bubble-swelling model. Using these values, good agreement was obtained for intergranular bubble distribution compared against measured post-irradiation examination (PIE) data using grain-boundary diffusion enhancement factors of 15-125, depending on the Mo concentration. This range of enhancement factors is consistent with values obtained in the literature.

Selecting the swimming mechanisms of colloidal particles: bubble propulsion versus self-diffusiophoresis.

PubMed

Wang, Sijia; Wu, Ning

2014-04-01

Bubble propulsion and self-diffusiophoresis are two common mechanisms that can drive autonomous motion of microparticles in hydrogen peroxide. Although microtubular particles, when coated with platinum in their interior concave surfaces, can propel due to the formation and release of bubbles from one end, the convex Janus particles usually do not generate any visible bubble. They move primarily due to the self-diffusiophoresis. Coincidentally, the platinum films on those particles were typically coated by physical evaporation. In this paper, we use a simple chemical deposition method to make platinum-polystyrene Janus dimers. Surprisingly, those particles are propelled by periodic growth and collapse of bubbles on the platinum-coated lobes. We find that both high catalytic activity and rough surface are necessary to change the propulsion mode from self-diffusiophoresis to bubble propulsion. Our Janus dimers, with combined geometric and interfacial anisotropy, also exhibit distinctive motions at the respective stages of bubble growth and collapse, which differ by 5-6 orders of magnitude in time. Our study not only provides insight into the link between self-diffusiophoresis and bubble propulsion but also reveals the intriguing impacts of the combined geometric and interfacial anisotropy on self-propulsion of particles.

Steady State Vapor Bubble in Pool Boiling

PubMed Central

Zou, An; Chanana, Ashish; Agrawal, Amit; Wayner, Peter C.; Maroo, Shalabh C.

2016-01-01

Boiling, a dynamic and multiscale process, has been studied for several decades; however, a comprehensive understanding of the process is still lacking. The bubble ebullition cycle, which occurs over millisecond time-span, makes it extremely challenging to study near-surface interfacial characteristics of a single bubble. Here, we create a steady-state vapor bubble that can remain stable for hours in a pool of sub-cooled water using a femtosecond laser source. The stability of the bubble allows us to measure the contact-angle and perform in-situ imaging of the contact-line region and the microlayer, on hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces and in both degassed and regular (with dissolved air) water. The early growth stage of vapor bubble in degassed water shows a completely wetted bubble base with the microlayer, and the bubble does not depart from the surface due to reduced liquid pressure in the microlayer. Using experimental data and numerical simulations, we obtain permissible range of maximum heat transfer coefficient possible in nucleate boiling and the width of the evaporating layer in the contact-line region. This technique of creating and measuring fundamental characteristics of a stable vapor bubble will facilitate rational design of nanostructures for boiling enhancement and advance thermal management in electronics. PMID:26837464

Mathematical and experimental modelling of the dynamic bubble processes occurring in a two-phase cyclonic separation device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schrage, Dean Stewart

1998-11-01

This dissertation presents a combined mathematical and experimental analysis of the fluid dynamics of a gas- liquid, dispersed-phase cyclonic separation device. The global objective of this research is to develop a simulation model of separation process in order to predict the void fraction field within a cyclonic separation device. The separation process is approximated by analyzing the dynamic motion of many single-bubbles, moving under the influence of the far-field, interacting with physical boundaries and other bubbles. The dynamic motion of the bubble is described by treating the bubble as a point-mass and writing an inertial force balance, equating the force applied to the bubble-point-location to the inertial acceleration of the bubble mass (also applied to the point-location). The forces which are applied to the bubble are determined by an integration of the surface pressure over the bubble. The surface pressure is coupled to the intrinsic motion of the bubble, and is very difficult to obtain exactly. However, under moderate Reynolds number, the wake trailing a bubble is small and the near-field flow field can be approximated as an inviscid flow field. Unconventional potential flow techniques are employed to solve for the surface pressure; the hydrodyamic forces are described as a hydrodynamic mass tensor operating on the bubble acceleration vector. The inviscid flow model is augmented with adjunct forces which describe: drag forces, dynamic lift, far-field pressure forces. The dynamic equations of motion are solved both analytically and numerically for the bubble trajectory in specific flow field examples. A validation of these equations is performed by comparing to an experimentally-derived trajectory of a single- bubble, which is released into a cylindrical Couette flow field (inner cylinder rotating) at varying positions. Finally, a simulation of a cyclonic separation device is performed by extending the single-bubble dynamic model to a multi-bubble ensemble. A simplified model is developed to predict the effects of bubble-interaction. The simulation qualitatively depicts the separation physics encountered in an actual cyclonic separation device, supporting the original tenet that the separation process can be approximated by the collective motions of single- bubbles.

Detection potential of the KM3NeT detector for high-energy neutrinos from the Fermi bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

KM3NeT Collaboration; Adrián-Martínez, S.; Ageron, M.; Aguilar, J. A.; Aharonian, F.; Aiello, S.; Albert, A.; Alexandri, M.; Ameli, F.; Anassontzis, E. G.; Anghinolfi, M.; Anton, G.; Anvar, S.; Ardid, M.; Assis Jesus, A.; Aubert, J.-J.; Bakker, R.; Ball, A. E.; Barbarino, G.; Barbarito, E.; Barbato, F.; Baret, B.; de Bel, M.; Belias, A.; Bellou, N.; Berbee, E.; Berkien, A.; Bersani, A.; Bertin, V.; Beurthey, S.; Biagi, S.; Bigongiari, C.; Bigourdan, B.; Billault, M.; de Boer, R.; Boer Rookhuizen, H.; Bonori, M.; Borghini, M.; Bou-Cabo, M.; Bouhadef, B.; Bourlis, G.; Bouwhuis, M.; Bradbury, S.; Brown, A.; Bruni, F.; Brunner, J.; Brunoldi, M.; Busto, J.; Cacopardo, G.; Caillat, L.; Calvo Díaz-Aldagalán, D.; Calzas, A.; Canals, M.; Capone, A.; Carr, J.; Castorina, E.; Cecchini, S.; Ceres, A.; Cereseto, R.; Chaleil, Th.; Chateau, F.; Chiarusi, T.; Choqueuse, D.; Christopoulou, P. E.; Chronis, G.; Ciaffoni, O.; Circella, M.; Cocimano, R.; Cohen, F.; Colijn, F.; Coniglione, R.; Cordelli, M.; Cosquer, A.; Costa, M.; Coyle, P.; Craig, J.; Creusot, A.; Curtil, C.; D'Amico, A.; Damy, G.; De Asmundis, R.; De Bonis, G.; Decock, G.; Decowski, P.; Delagnes, E.; De Rosa, G.; Distefano, C.; Donzaud, C.; Dornic, D.; Dorosti-Hasankiadeh, Q.; Drogou, J.; Drouhin, D.; Druillole, F.; Drury, L.; Durand, D.; Durand, G. A.; Eberl, T.; Emanuele, U.; Enzenhöfer, A.; Ernenwein, J.-P.; Escoffier, S.; Espinosa, V.; Etiope, G.; Favali, P.; Felea, D.; Ferri, M.; Ferry, S.; Flaminio, V.; Folger, F.; Fotiou, A.; Fritsch, U.; Gajanana, D.; Garaguso, R.; Gasparini, G. P.; Gasparoni, F.; Gautard, V.; Gensolen, F.; Geyer, K.; Giacomelli, G.; Gialas, I.; Giordano, V.; Giraud, J.; Gizani, N.; Gleixner, A.; Gojak, C.; Gómez-González, J. P.; Graf, K.; Grasso, D.; Grimaldi, A.; Groenewegen, R.; Guédé, Z.; Guillard, G.; Guilloux, F.; Habel, R.; Hallewell, G.; van Haren, H.; van Heerwaarden, J.; Heijboer, A.; Heine, E.; Hernández-Rey, J. J.; Herold, B.; Hillebrand, T.; van de Hoek, M.; Hogenbirk, J.; Hößl, J.; Hsu, C. C.; Imbesi, M.; Jamieson, A.; Jansweijer, P.; de Jong, M.; Jouvenot, F.; Kadler, M.; Kalantar-Nayestanaki, N.; Kalekin, O.; Kappes, A.; Karolak, M.; Katz, U. F.; Kavatsyuk, O.; Keller, P.; Kiskiras, Y.; Klein, R.; Kok, H.; Kontoyiannis, H.; Kooijman, P.; Koopstra, J.; Kopper, C.; Korporaal, A.; Koske, P.; Kouchner, A.; Koutsoukos, S.; Kreykenbohm, I.; Kulikovskiy, V.; Laan, M.; La Fratta, C.; Lagier, P.; Lahmann, R.; Lamare, P.; Larosa, G.; Lattuada, D.; Leisos, A.; Lenis, D.; Leonora, E.; Le Provost, H.; Lim, G.; Llorens, C. D.; Lloret, J.; Löhner, H.; Lo Presti, D.; Lotrus, P.; Louis, F.; Lucarelli, F.; Lykousis, V.; Malyshev, D.; Mangano, S.; Marcoulaki, E. C.; Margiotta, A.; Marinaro, G.; Marinelli, A.; Mariş, O.; Markopoulos, E.; Markou, C.; Martínez-Mora, J. A.; Martini, A.; Marvaldi, J.; Masullo, R.; Maurin, G.; Migliozzi, P.; Migneco, E.; Minutoli, S.; Miraglia, A.; Mollo, C. M.; Mongelli, M.; Monmarthe, E.; Morganti, M.; Mos, S.; Motz, H.; Moudden, Y.; Mul, G.; Musico, P.; Musumeci, M.; Naumann, Ch.; Neff, M.; Nicolaou, C.; Orlando, A.; Palioselitis, D.; Papageorgiou, K.; Papaikonomou, A.; Papaleo, R.; Papazoglou, I. A.; Păvălaş, G. E.; Peek, H. Z.; Perkin, J.; Piattelli, P.; Popa, V.; Pradier, T.; Presani, E.; Priede, I. G.; Psallidas, A.; Rabouille, C.; Racca, C.; Radu, A.; Randazzo, N.; Rapidis, P. A.; Razis, P.; Real, D.; Reed, C.; Reito, S.; Resvanis, L. K.; Riccobene, G.; Richter, R.; Roensch, K.; Rolin, J.; Rose, J.; Roux, J.; Rovelli, A.; Russo, A.; Russo, G. V.; Salesa, F.; Samtleben, D.; Sapienza, P.; Schmelling, J.-W.; Schmid, J.; Schnabel, J.; Schroeder, K.; Schuller, J.-P.; Schussler, F.; Sciliberto, D.; Sedita, M.; Seitz, T.; Shanidze, R.; Simeone, F.; Siotis, I.; Sipala, V.; Sollima, C.; Sparnocchia, S.; Spies, A.; Spurio, M.; Staller, T.; Stavrakakis, S.; Stavropoulos, G.; Steijger, J.; Stolarczyk, Th.; Stransky, D.; Taiuti, M.; Taylor, A.; Thompson, L.; Timmer, P.; Tonoiu, D.; Toscano, S.; Touramanis, C.; Trasatti, L.; Traverso, P.; Trovato, A.; Tsirigotis, A.; Tzamarias, S.; Tzamariudaki, E.; Urbano, F.; Vallage, B.; Van Elewyck, V.; Vannoni, G.; Vecchi, M.; Vernin, P.; Viola, S.; Vivolo, D.; Wagner, S.; Werneke, P.; White, R. J.; Wijnker, G.; Wilms, J.; de Wolf, E.; Yepes, H.; Zhukov, V.; Zonca, E.; Zornoza, J. D.; Zúñiga, J.

2013-02-01

A recent analysis of the Fermi Large Area Telescope data provided evidence for a high-intensity emission of high-energy gamma rays with a E-2 spectrum from two large areas, spanning 50° above and below the Galactic centre (the "Fermi bubbles"). A hadronic mechanism was proposed for this gamma-ray emission making the Fermi bubbles promising source candidates of high-energy neutrino emission. In this work Monte Carlo simulations regarding the detectability of high-energy neutrinos from the Fermi bubbles with the future multi-km3 neutrino telescope KM3NeT in the Mediterranean Sea are presented. Under the hypothesis that the gamma-ray emission is completely due to hadronic processes, the results indicate that neutrinos from the bubbles could be discovered in about one year of operation, for a neutrino spectrum with a cutoff at 100 TeV and a detector with about 6 km3 of instrumented volume. The effect of a possible lower cutoff is also considered.

Neurocognitive stages of spatial cognitive mapping measured during free exploration of a large-scale virtual environment.

PubMed

Plank, Markus; Snider, Joseph; Kaestner, Erik; Halgren, Eric; Poizner, Howard

2015-02-01

Using a novel, fully mobile virtual reality paradigm, we investigated the EEG correlates of spatial representations formed during unsupervised exploration. On day 1, subjects implicitly learned the location of 39 objects by exploring a room and popping bubbles that hid the objects. On day 2, they again popped bubbles in the same environment. In most cases, the objects hidden underneath the bubbles were in the same place as on day 1. However, a varying third of them were misplaced in each block. Subjects indicated their certainty that the object was in the same location as the day before. Compared with bubble pops revealing correctly placed objects, bubble pops revealing misplaced objects evoked a decreased negativity starting at 145 ms, with scalp topography consistent with generation in medial parietal cortex. There was also an increased negativity starting at 515 ms to misplaced objects, with scalp topography consistent with generation in inferior temporal cortex. Additionally, misplaced objects elicited an increase in frontal midline theta power. These findings suggest that the successive neurocognitive stages of processing allocentric space may include an initial template matching, integration of the object within its spatial cognitive map, and memory recall, analogous to the processing negativity N400 and theta that support verbal cognitive maps in humans. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Formation of hollow nanoshells in solution-based reactions via collision coalescence of nanobubble-particle systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vongehr, Sascha; Tang, Shaochun

2016-06-01

Research on hollow nanoshells has, for years, claimed to involve free, pre-existing nanobubbles as soft templates. It is a challenge to demonstrate this due to the difficulty of in situ observation during solution-based reactions. We show that no available free-bubble theory can describe the mysterious behavior of the bubble number density n. A new mechanism of collision coalescence of bubble-particle systems is suggested to form hollow nanoshells. By approximating relative velocity as ˜R -z (R is bubble radius), numerical simulations can reproduce the counterintuitive observations in the regime 1 < z < 2. We discuss the mechanism based on successful synthesis of grain-monolayer thin, fractal-like incomplete, multi-metallic nanoshells with superior catalytic activity. The behaviors of n, R, and shell thickness h are closely reproduced by z = 1.6.

Limited transport of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes in two natural soils

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Column experiments were conducted in undisturbed and in repacked soil columns at water contents close to saturation (85–96%) to investigate the transport and retention of functionalized 14C-labeled multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in two natural soils. Additionally, a field lysimeter experiment...

Further experimentation on bubble generation during transformer overload. Final report

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

Oommen, T.V.

1992-03-01

This report covers additional work done during 1990 and 1991 on gas bubble generation under overload conditions. To improve visual bubble detection, a single disc coil was used. To further improve detection, a corona device was also used which signaled the onset of corona activity in the early stages of bubble formation. A total of fourteen model tests were conducted, half of which used the Inertaire system, and the remaining, a conservator (COPS). Moisture content of paper in the coil varied from 1.0% to 8.0%; gas (nitrogen) content varied from 1.0% to 8.8%. The results confirmed earlier observations that themore » mathematical bubble prediction model was not valid for high gas content model with relatively low moisture levels in the coil. An empirical relationship was formulated to accurately predict bubble evolution temperatures from known moisture and gas content values. For low moisture content models (below 2%), the simple Piper relationship was sufficient to predict bubble evolution temperatures, regardless of gas content. Moisture in the coil appears to be the key factor in bubble generation. Gas blanketed (Inertaire) systems do not appear to be prone to premature bubble generation from overloads as previously thought. The new bubble prediction model reveals that for a coil with 2% moisture, the bubble evolution temperature would be about 140{degrees}C. Since old transformers in service may have as much as 2% moisture in paper, the 140{degrees}C bubble evolution temperature may be taken as the lower limit of bubble evolution temperature under overload conditions for operating transformers. Drier insulation would raise the bubble evolution temperature.« less

Method to fabricate silicon chromatographic column comprising fluid ports

DOEpatents

Manginell, Ronald P.; Frye-Mason, Gregory C.; Heller, Edwin J.; Adkins, Douglas R.

2004-03-02

A new method for fabricating a silicon chromatographic column comprising through-substrate fluid ports has been developed. This new method enables the fabrication of multi-layer interconnected stacks of silicon chromatographic columns.

Study on the bubble transport mechanism in an acoustic standing wave field.

PubMed

Xi, Xiaoyu; Cegla, Frederic B; Lowe, Michael; Thiemann, Andrea; Nowak, Till; Mettin, Robert; Holsteyns, Frank; Lippert, Alexander

2011-12-01

The use of bubbles in applications such as surface chemistry, drug delivery, and ultrasonic cleaning etc. has been enormously popular in the past two decades. It has been recognized that acoustically-driven bubbles can be used to disturb the flow field near a boundary in order to accelerate physical or chemical reactions on the surface. The interactions between bubbles and a surface have been studied experimentally and analytically. However, most of the investigations focused on violently oscillating bubbles (also known as cavitation bubble), less attention has been given to understand the interactions between moderately oscillating bubbles and a boundary. Moreover, cavitation bubbles were normally generated in situ by a high intensity laser beam, little experimental work has been carried out to study the translational trajectory of a moderately oscillating bubble in an acoustic field and subsequent interactions with the surface. This paper describes the design of an ultrasonic test cell and explores the mechanism of bubble manipulation within the test cell. The test cell consists of a transducer, a liquid medium and a glass backing plate. The acoustic field within the multi-layered stack was designed in such a way that it was effectively one dimensional. This was then successfully simulated by a one dimensional network model. The model can accurately predict the impedance of the test cell as well as the mode shape (distribution of particle velocity and stress/pressure field) within the whole assembly. The mode shape of the stack was designed so that bubbles can be pushed from their injection point onto a backing glass plate. Bubble radial oscillation was simulated by a modified Keller-Miksis equation and bubble translational motion was derived from an equation obtained by applying Newton's second law to a bubble in a liquid medium. Results indicated that the bubble trajectory depends on the acoustic pressure amplitude and initial bubble size: an increase of pressure amplitude or a decrease of bubble size forces bubbles larger than their resonant size to arrive at the target plate at lower heights, while the trajectories of smaller bubbles are less influenced by these factors. The test cell is also suitable for testing the effects of drag force on the bubble motion and for studying the bubble behavior near a surface. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cavitation luminescence in a water hammer: Upscaling sonoluminescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, C.-K.; Camara, C.; Kappus, B.; Putterman, S. J.

2003-06-01

Oscillatory acceleration and deceleration of a column of water leads to a pipe hammer as well as cavitation. With a small amount of xenon gas dissolved in the water, we can detect a stream of predominantly ultraviolet subnanosecond flashes of light which are attributed to collapsing bubbles. The observed emission can exceed 108 photons for a single collapse and has a peak power over 0.4 W.

BURST OF STAR FORMATION DRIVES BUBBLE IN GALAXY'S CORE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

These NASA Hubble Space Telescope snapshots reveal dramatic activities within the core of the galaxy NGC 3079, where a lumpy bubble of hot gas is rising from a cauldron of glowing matter. The picture at left shows the bubble in the center of the galaxy's disk. The structure is more than 3,000 light-years wide and rises 3,500 light-years above the galaxy's disk. The smaller photo at right is a close-up view of the bubble. Astronomers suspect that the bubble is being blown by 'winds' (high-speed streams of particles) released during a burst of star formation. Gaseous filaments at the top of the bubble are whirling around in a vortex and are being expelled into space. Eventually, this gas will rain down upon the galaxy's disk where it may collide with gas clouds, compress them, and form a new generation of stars. The two white dots just above the bubble are probably stars in the galaxy. The close-up reveals that the bubble's surface is lumpy, consisting of four columns of gaseous filaments that tower above the galaxy's disk. The filaments disperse at a height of 2,000 light-years. Each filament is about 75 light-years wide. Velocity measurements taken by the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope in Hawaii show that the gaseous filaments are ascending at more than 4 million miles an hour (6 million kilometers an hour). According to theoretical models, the bubble formed when ongoing winds from hot stars mixed with small bubbles of very hot gas from supernova explosions. Observations of the core's structure by radio telescopes indicate that those processes are still active. The models suggest that this outflow began about a million years ago. They occur about every 10 million years. Eventually, the hot stars will die, and the bubble's energy source will fade away. Astronomers have seen evidence of previous outbursts from radio and X-ray observations. Those studies show rings of dust and gas and long plumes of material, all of which are larger than the bubble. NGC 3079 is 50 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Ursa Major. The colors in this image accentuate important details in the bubble. Glowing gas is red and starlight is blue/green. Hubble's Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 snapped this picture in 1998. The results appear in the July 1, 2001 issue of the Astrophysical Journal. Credits: NASA, Gerald Cecil (University of North Carolina), Sylvain Veilleux (University of Maryland), Joss Bland-Hawthorn (Anglo-Australian Observatory), and Alex Filippenko (University of California at Berkeley).

Effects of multi-directional vibrotactile feedback on vestibular-deficient postural performance during continuous multi-directional support surface perturbations.

PubMed

Sienko, K H; Balkwill, M D; Oddsson, L I E; Wall, C

2008-01-01

Single-axis vibrotactile feedback of trunk tilt provided in real-time has previously been shown to significantly reduce the root-mean-square (RMS) trunk sway in subjects with vestibular loss during single-axis perturbation. This research examines the effect of multi-directional vibrotactile feedback on postural sway during continuous multi-directional surface perturbations when the subjects' eyes are closed. Eight subjects with vestibular loss donned a multi-axis feedback device that mapped body tilt estimates onto their torsos with a 3-row by 16-column array of tactile actuators (tactors). Tactor row indicated tilt magnitude and tactor column indicated tilt direction. Root-mean-square trunk tilt, elliptical fits to trunk sway trajectory areas, percentage of time spent outside a no vibrotactile feedback zone, RMS center of pressure, and anchoring index parameters indicating intersegmental coordination were used to assess the efficacy of the multi-directional vibrotactile balance aid. Four tactor display configurations in addition to the tactors off configuration were evaluated. Subjects had significantly reduced RMS trunk sway, significantly smaller elliptical fits of the trajectory area, and spent significantly less time outside of the no feedback zone in the tactors on versus the tactors off configuration. Among the displays evaluated in this study, there was not an optimal tactor column configuration for standing tasks involving continuous surface perturbations. Furthermore, subjects performed worse when erroneous information was displayed. Therefore, a spatial resolution of 90 degrees (4 columns) seems to be as effective as a spatial resolution of 22.5 degrees (16 columns) for control of standing.

Effect of surfactant on single drop mass transfer for extraction of aromatics from lubricating oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izza, H.; Ben Abdessalam, S.; Korichi, M.

2018-03-01

Solvent extraction is an effective method for the reduction of the content of aromatic of lubricating oil. Frequently, with phenol, furfural, the NMP (out of N-methyl pyrrolidone). The power solvent and the selectivity can be still to increase while using surfactant as additive which facilitates the separation of phase and increases the yeild in raffinat. Liquid-liquid mass transfer coefficients for single freely rising drops in the presence of surfactant in an extraction column have been investigated. The surfactant used in this study was sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES). The experiments were performed by bubbling a solvent as a series of individual drops from the top of the column containing furfural-SLES solution. The column used in this experiment was made from glass with 17 mm inner diameter and a capacity of 125ml. The effects of the concentration of surfactant on the overall coefficient of mass transfer was investigated.

Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of Cavitation in Water

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ackeret, J.

1945-01-01

The cavitation in nozzles on airfoils of various shape and on a sphere are experimentally investigated. The limits of cavitation and the extension of the zone of the bubbles in different stages of cavitation are photographically established. The pressure in the bubble area is constant and very low, jumping to high values at the end of the area. The analogy with the gas compression shock is adduced and discussed. The collapse of the bubbles under compression shock produces very high pressures internally, which must be contributory factors to corrosion. The pressure required for purely mechanical corrosion is also discussed.

Evaluation of 9.5 PSIA as a suit pressure for prolonged extravehicular activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dixon, G. A.; Krutz, R.

1986-01-01

A study was undertaken to determine if a pressure of 9.5 psia would aid against the occurrence of decompression sickness in both males and females (without prebreathing or stage decompression requirements) during a typical simulated extravehicular activity scenario. Twenty percent of the male subjects produced grades 1 and 2 bubbles while females did not produce bubble signals at all. It is concluded that a pressure of 9.5 psia can protect the astronaut from both formation of severe bubbling and development of bends symptoms when exposed to these study conditions.

Surface-bubble-modulated liquid chromatography: a new approach for manipulation of chromatographic retention and investigation of solute distribution at water/hydrophobic interfaces.

PubMed

Nakamura, Keisuke; Nakamura, Hiroki; Saito, Shingo; Shibukawa, Masami

2015-01-20

In this paper, we present a new chromatographic method termed surface-bubble-modulated liquid chromatography (SBMLC), that has a hybrid separation medium incorporated with surface nanobubbles. Nanobubbles or nanoscale gas phases can be fixed at the interface between water and a hydrophobic material by delivering water into a dry column packed with a nanoporous material. The incorporation of a gas phase at the hydrophobic surface leads to the formation of the hybrid separation system consisting of the gas phase, hydrophobic moieties, and the water/hydrophobic interface or the interfacial water. One can change the volume of the gas phase by pressure applied to the column, which in turn alters the area of water/hydrophobic interface or the volume of the interfacial water, while the amount of the hydrophobic moiety remains constant. Therefore, this strategy provides a novel technique not only for manipulating the separation selectivity by pressure but also for elucidating the mechanism of accumulation or retention of solute compounds in aqueous solutions by a hydrophobic material. We evaluate the contributions of the interfacial water at the surface of an octadecyl bonded silica and the bonded layer itself to the retention of various solute compounds in aqueous solutions on the column packed with the material by SBMLC. The results show that the interfacial water formed at the hydrophobic surface has a key role in retention even though its volume is rather small. The manipulation of the separation selectivity of SBMLC for some organic compounds by pressure is demonstrated.

From Rising Bubble to RNA/DNA and Bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marks, Roman; Cieszyńska, Agata; Wereszka, Marzena; Borkowski, Wojciech

2017-04-01

In this study we have focused on the movement of rising bubbles in a salty water body. Experiments reviled that free buoyancy movement of bubbles forces displacement of ions, located on the outer side of the bubble wall curvatures. During the short moment of bubble passage, all ions in the vicinity of rising bubble, are separated into anions that are gathered on the bubble upper half sphere and cations that slip along the bottom concave half-sphere of a bubble and develop a sub-bubble vortex. The principle of ions separation bases on the differences in displacement resistance. In this way, relatively heavier and larger, thus more resistant to displacement anions are gathered on the rising bubble upper half sphere, while smaller and lighter cations are assembled on the bottom half sphere and within the sub-bubble vortex. The acceleration of motion generates antiparallel rotary of bi-ionic domains, what implies that anions rotate in clockwise (CW) and cationic in counter-clockwise (CCW) direction. Then, both rotational systems may undergo splicing and extreme condensing by bi-pirouette narrowing of rotary. It is suggested that such double helix motion of bi-ionic domains creates RNA/DNA molecules. Finally, when the bubble reaches the water surface it burst and the preprocessed RNA/DNA matter is ejected into the droplets. Since that stage, droplet is suspended in positively charged troposphere, thus the cationic domain is located in the droplet center, whilst negative ions are attracted to configure the outer areola. According to above, the present study implies that the rising bubbles in salty waters may incept synergistic processing of matter resulting in its rotational/spherical organization that led to assembly of RNA/DNA molecules and bacteria cells.

Determination of physical and dynamic properties of suspended particles in water column with ultrasonic scanning in between the water surface and stable sediment layer.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acar, Dursun; Alpar, Bedri; Ozeren, Sinan; Cagatay, Namık; Sari, Erol; Vardar, Denizhan; Eris, Kadir

2015-04-01

The behavior of seafloor sediment with its water column should be known against any occurrences of anoxic or oxic conditions. The most important ones of these conditions are possible leakage of natural gas or escape of liquids from sediment. On the basis of combined solid/liquid flow dynamics in sedimentation, such kind of events can change, even in an effective manner, the dynamic movements of molecules and their cumulative mass of particules, i.e. the suspended materials. The deployment of suitable sediment traps or ultrasonic transducers somewhere in the water column are not easy attempts in order to obtain useful information about the state of suspended materials during sedimentation. These are usually bulky instruments; therefore they may behave like an anti-move suppresser on the particles moving in the float direction, in oxic and anoxic manner. These instruments, on the other hand, may cover the effects of diffusive flow or bubble formed gas and fluid escape from the sediment surface into the water column. Ultrasonic scanners, however, are able to make observations in a remote manner, without affecting such artificial events. Our field trials were successfully completed at the historical estuary called Halic of Marmara sea . The physical properties; such as the velocity of particles, their travel directions, their dimensions and the ability to observe anti-compositor crushes of shock waves of the bubbles are only a few of these observations in natural ambience. The most important problem solved about water pressure during 3 atmosphere . The sensor has been tested successfully few times. We used the ''High voltage electric isolator oil filling'' to the inside of the scanner for pressure equalization between outer side and inner body of probe at a depth of (20 meters) beneath the sea surface . The transmitted signals by the planar crystal of the transducer become weaker under the pressure of overlying water column in depths. Our efforts are now focused on the improved performance of transducer at higher than over 3 atm pressure. Keywords: ultrasonic , flow , particle , Sediment , Cumulative mass

Formation of Micro-Scale Gas Pockets From Underwater Wall Orifices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pereira, Francisco A.; Gharib, Morteza

2012-11-01

Our experiments examine the formation of micro-scale gas pockets from orifices on walls with hydrophilic and hydrophobic wetting properties. Bubble injection is operated in a liquid at rest at constant flow rate and in a quasi-static regime, and the mechanism of bubble growth is investigated through high speed recordings. The growth dynamics is studied in terms of orifice size, surface wetting properties and buoyancy sign. The bubble formation is characterized by an explosive growth, with a pressure wave that causes the bubble to take highly transient shapes in its very initial stages, before stabilizing as a sphere and growing at a relatively slow rate. In case of positive buoyancy, the bubble elongates with the formation of a neck before detaching from the wall. When buoyancy acts towards the wall, the bubble attaches to the wall and expands laterally with a moving contact line. In presence of hydrophobic surfaces, the bubble attaches immediately to the wall irrespective of buoyancy direction and takes a hemispherical shape, expanding radially along the surface. A force balance is outlined to explain the different figures. The work was performed by FAP while on leave from CNR-INSEAN, and is supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR).

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

Liang, Linyun; Mei, Zhi-Gang; Yacout, Abdellatif M.

We have developed a mesoscale phase-field model for studying the effect of recrystallization on the gas-bubble-driven swelling in irradiated U-Mo alloy fuel. The model can simulate the microstructural evolution of the intergranular gas bubbles on the grain boundaries as well as the recrystallization process. Our simulation results show that the intergranular gas-bubble-induced fuel swelling exhibits two stages: slow swelling kinetics before recrystallization and rapid swelling kinetics with recrystallization. We observe that the recrystallization can significantly expedite the formation and growth of gas bubbles at high fission densities. The reason is that the recrystallization process increases the nucleation probability of gasmore » bubbles and reduces the diffusion time of fission gases from grain interior to grain boundaries by increasing the grain boundary area and decreasing the diffusion distance. The simulated gas bubble shape, size distribution, and density on the grain boundaries are consistent with experimental measurements. We investigate the effect of the recrystallization on the gas-bubble-driven fuel swelling in UMo through varying the initial grain size and grain aspect ratio. We conclude that the initial microstructure of fuel, such as grain size and grain aspect ratio, can be used to effectively control the recrystallization and therefore reduce the swelling in U-Mo fuel.« less

Staged fluidized bed

DOEpatents

Mallon, R.G.

1983-05-13

The invention relates to oil shale retorting and more particularly to staged fluidized bed oil shale retorting. Method and apparatus are disclosed for narrowing the distribution of residence times of any size particle and equalizing the residence times of large and small particles in fluidized beds. Particles are moved up one fluidized column and down a second fluidized column with the relative heights selected to equalize residence times of large and small particles. Additional pairs of columns are staged to narrow the distribution of residence times and provide complete processing of the material.

Characterization of hydrodynamics and solids mixing in fluidized beds involving biomass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fotovat, Farzam

This thesis focuses on the characterization of hydrodynamics and mixing phenomena in fluidized beds containing mixtures of sand and irregular biomass particles. The first objective of this study is understanding the effect of the large biomass particles on the bubbling characteristics and gas distribution pattern of sand fluidized beds. The second objective is the characterization of mixing/segregation of biomass and sand particles under fluidization conditions. A variety of experimental techniques are employed to study the behavior of two constituting phases of a fluidized bed, i.e., dilute (bubble) and dense (emulsion) phases. Exploring the characteristic fluidization velocities of sand-biomass mixtures unveils that the onset of bubbling in these systems occurs at a higher gas velocity compared to that of the initial fluidization velocity (Uif). The initial bubbling velocity (Uib), the final fluidization velocity ( Uff), and the transition gas velocity from bubbling to turbulent regime (Uc) rise by increasing the fraction of biomass in the mixture. Statistical analysis of the pressure signal at top of the bed reveals that increasing the biomass load hinders the evolution of bubbles at a low gas velocity (U<0.6 m/s), while at high velocities, the bubbling trend of beds containing different fractions of biomass is comparable. The addition of biomass particles to a bed of sand leads to an increase in the mean voidage of the bed; however, the voidage of each phase remains unaffected. It is observed that large biomass particles trigger a break-up of the bubbles, which results in boosting bubbling frequency. The fraction of bubbles at the center of the bed increases with the load of biomass. At the wall region, however, it starts to decrease by adding 2% wt. biomass to pure sand and then increases with the further addition of biomass. The Radioactive Particle Tracking (RPT) technique is implemented in the second section of this work to study the motion and distribution of biomass particles at U=0.36 m/s and U=0.64 m/s. In this regard, an active biomass particle is tracked for a long period of time and its instantaneous position is recorded. The acquired data is then processed to achieve the time-averaged concentration profile of biomass particles. This profile represents the segregation of biomass particles, which tend to accumulate in the upper levels of the bed. Changes in the fraction of biomass with increasing gas velocity are inferred from the local changes of the time-averaged pressure drop values at the top of the bed. To determine the parameters affecting the movement and segregation of biomass particles, their circulatory motion is also scrutinized using the RPT data. The circulation of biomass is impeded when the load of biomass rises at U=0.36 m/s, resulting in a more pronounced segregation of sand and biomass. The opposite trend is observed at U=0.64 m/s. This prompts a more uniform distribution of particles along the bed and brings about a higher degree of mixing. The average rise velocity of biomass is 0.2 times the bubble velocity, regardless of the biomass load or fluidization velocity. A one-dimensional model is proposed to predict the volume fraction of biomass along the bed. Some of the terms of this model are linked to the fluidizing behavior of biomass particles as deduced from the RPT findings. The fluidization of sand and cylindrical biomass particles is also simulated using the BARRACUDA CPFD software, which is based on the Lagrangian-Eulerian approach. Simulation and experimental results are compared in order to evaluate the capability of the numerical approach to predict the bubbling characteristics of the sand-biomass mixture for systems differing in composition and fluidization velocity. The last part of this thesis is devoted to the separation of the main components of the shredded bulky waste. A step-wise process has been developed based on the elutriation and density segregation techniques. After removal of the light and interwoven species of the shredded waste by elutriation, the nonelutriated materials are further separated into two successive fluidization columns. Polypropylene and glass beads are introduced as the fluidization media in these columns in order to make density segregation of the target and not-target components possible. Hence, undesirable combustible matters and hard plastic are separated as the overflow of the first and second fluidization steps. A second elutriation column is also devised to separate and recover fiber and soft plastic. To determine optimal operating conditions, several influential parameters, such as the elutriation velocity and time, the size and density of the fluidization media, and the initial configuration of the feedstock and bed material, are explored. The kinetics of segregation is also derived for both fluidization steps. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Portable rotating discharge plasma device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dwyer, B. L.; Brooks, N. H.; Lee, R. L.

2011-10-01

We constructed two devices for the purpose of educational demonstration: a rotating tube containing media of two densities to demonstrate axial confinement and a similar device that uses pressure variation to convert a long plasma glow discharge into a long straight arc. In the first device, the buoyant force is countered by the centripetal force, which confines less dense materials to the center of the column. Similarly, a plasma arc heats the gas through which it passes, creating a hot gaseous bubble that is less dense than the surrounding medium. Rotating its containment envelope stabilizes this gas bubble in an analogous manner to an air bubble in a rotating tube of water. In addition to stabilization, the rotating discharge also exhibits a decrease in buoyancy-driven convection currents. This limits the power loss to the walls, which decreases the field strength requirement for maintaining the arc. These devices demonstrate principles of electrodynamics, plasma physics, and fluid mechanics. They are portable and safe for classroom use. Work supported by US DOE under DE-FC02-04ER54698 and the National Undergraduate Fellowship in Fusion Science and Engineering.

Startup and oxygen concentration effects in a continuous granular mixed flow autotrophic nitrogen removal reactor.

PubMed

Varas, Rodrigo; Guzmán-Fierro, Víctor; Giustinianovich, Elisa; Behar, Jack; Fernández, Katherina; Roeckel, Marlene

2015-08-01

The startup and performance of the completely autotrophic nitrogen removal over nitrite (CANON) process was tested in a continuously fed granular bubble column reactor (BCR) with two different aeration strategies: controlling the oxygen volumetric flow and oxygen concentration. During the startup with the control of oxygen volumetric flow, the air volume was adjusted to 60mL/h and the CANON reactor had volumetric N loadings ranging from 7.35 to 100.90mgN/Ld with 36-71% total nitrogen removal and high instability. In the second stage, the reactor was operated at oxygen concentrations of 0.6, 0.4 and 0.2mg/L. The best condition was 0.2 mgO2/L with a total nitrogen removal of 75.36% with a CANON reactor activity of 0.1149gN/gVVSd and high stability. The feasibility and effectiveness of CANON processes with oxygen control was demonstrated, showing an alternative design tool for efficiently removing nitrogen species. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bubble transport and sticking in gas embolotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bull, Joseph

2002-11-01

Pressure-driven bubble transport in a two-dimensional, bifurcating channel is investigated as a model of gas emboli transport in the microcirculation. Gas emboli are relevant to a number of clinical situations, and our particular interest is a novel gas embolotherapy technique, which involves using gas bubbles to occlude blood flow to tumors. This minimally invasive treatment modality allows selective delivery of emboli. The bubbles originate as 6 micron-diameter liquid droplets of perfluorocarbon (PFC), mixed in saline, and are injected into the vascular system. The droplet forms are small enough to pass through capillary beds, so they can circulate until the next stage of the therapy. By strategically placing an ultrasound source over the artery feeding the tumor, the droplets may be vaporized at that location. Our model is developed using the Stokes equation subject to interfacial and wall boundary conditions, and is solved using the boundary element method. The conditions under which bubbles 'stick' to the channel walls and occlude flow are investigated. Clinically, these results are important because the location and homogeneity of bubble sticking determines the degree of tumor necrosis and the efficacy of the treatment.

Aspects of reheating in first-order inflation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watkins, Richard; Widrow, Lawrence M.

1991-01-01

Studied here is reheating in theories where inflation is completed by a first-order phase transition. In the scenarios, the Universe decays from its false vacuum state by bubble nucleation. In the first stage of reheating, vacuum energy is converted into kinetic energy for the bubble walls. To help understand this phase, researchers derive a simple expression for the equation of state of a universe filled with expanding bubbles. Eventually, the bubble walls collide. Researchers present numerical simulations of two-bubble collisions clarifying and extending previous work by Hawking, Moss, and Stewart. The researchers' results indicate that wall energy is efficiently converted into coherent scalar waves. Also discussed is particle production due to quantum effects. These effects lead to the decay of the coherent scalar waves. They also lead to direct particle production during bubble-wall collisions. Researchers calculate particle production for colliding walls in both sine-Gordon and theta (4) theories and show that it is far more efficient in the theta (4) case. The relevance of this work for recently proposed models of first order inflation is discussed.

Corrected Article: Simulation and observation of line-slip structures in columnar structures of soft spheres [Phys. Rev. E 96, 012610 (2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winkelmann, J.; Haffner, B.; Weaire, D.; Mughal, A.; Hutzler, S.

2017-07-01

We present the computed phase diagram of columnar structures of soft spheres under pressure, of which the main feature is the appearance and disappearance of line slips, the shearing of adjacent spirals, as pressure is increased. A comparable experimental observation is made on a column of bubbles under forced drainage, clearly exhibiting the expected line slip.

Consultancy on Large-Scale Submerged Aerobic Cultivation Process Design - Final Technical Report: February 1, 2016 -- June 30, 2016

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

Crater, Jason; Galleher, Connor; Lievense, Jeff

NREL is developing an advanced aerobic bubble column model using Aspen Custom Modeler (ACM). The objective of this work is to integrate the new fermentor model with existing techno-economic models in Aspen Plus and Excel to establish a new methodology for guiding process design. To assist this effort, NREL has contracted Genomatica to critique and make recommendations for improving NREL's bioreactor model and large scale aerobic bioreactor design for biologically producing lipids at commercial scale. Genomatica has highlighted a few areas for improving the functionality and effectiveness of the model. Genomatica recommends using a compartment model approach with an integratedmore » black-box kinetic model of the production microbe. We also suggest including calculations for stirred tank reactors to extend the models functionality and adaptability for future process designs. Genomatica also suggests making several modifications to NREL's large-scale lipid production process design. The recommended process modifications are based on Genomatica's internal techno-economic assessment experience and are focused primarily on minimizing capital and operating costs. These recommendations include selecting/engineering a thermotolerant yeast strain with lipid excretion; using bubble column fermentors; increasing the size of production fermentors; reducing the number of vessels; employing semi-continuous operation; and recycling cell mass.« less

Crystallization and precipitation of phosphate from swine wastewater by magnesium metal corrosion.

PubMed

Huang, Haiming; Liu, Jiahui; Jiang, Yang

2015-11-12

This paper presents a unique approach for magnesium dosage in struvite precipitation by Mg metal corrosion. The experimental results showed that using an air bubbling column filled with Mg metal and graphite pellets for the magnesium dosage was the optimal operation mode, which could significantly accelerate the corrosion of the Mg metal pellets due to the presence of graphite granules. The reaction mechanism experiments revealed that the solution pH could be used as the indicator for struvite crystallization by the process. Increases in the Mg metal dosage, mass ratio of graphite and magnesium metal (G:M) and airflow rate could rapidly increase the solution pH. When all three conditions were at 10 g L(-1), 1:1 and 1 L min(-1), respectively, the phosphate recovery efficiency reached 97.5%. To achieve a high level of automation for the phosphate recovery process, a continuous-flow reactor immersed with the graphite-magnesium air bubbling column was designed to harvest the phosphate from actual swine wastewater. Under conditions of intermittently supplementing small amounts of Mg metal pellets, approximately 95% of the phosphate could be stably recovered as struvite of 95.8% (±0.5) purity. An economic analysis indicated that the process proposed was technically simple and economically feasible.

Crystallization and precipitation of phosphate from swine wastewater by magnesium metal corrosion

PubMed Central

Huang, Haiming; Liu, Jiahui; Jiang, Yang

2015-01-01

This paper presents a unique approach for magnesium dosage in struvite precipitation by Mg metal corrosion. The experimental results showed that using an air bubbling column filled with Mg metal and graphite pellets for the magnesium dosage was the optimal operation mode, which could significantly accelerate the corrosion of the Mg metal pellets due to the presence of graphite granules. The reaction mechanism experiments revealed that the solution pH could be used as the indicator for struvite crystallization by the process. Increases in the Mg metal dosage, mass ratio of graphite and magnesium metal (G:M) and airflow rate could rapidly increase the solution pH. When all three conditions were at 10 g L–1, 1:1 and 1 L min–1, respectively, the phosphate recovery efficiency reached 97.5%. To achieve a high level of automation for the phosphate recovery process, a continuous-flow reactor immersed with the graphite-magnesium air bubbling column was designed to harvest the phosphate from actual swine wastewater. Under conditions of intermittently supplementing small amounts of Mg metal pellets, approximately 95% of the phosphate could be stably recovered as struvite of 95.8% (±0.5) purity. An economic analysis indicated that the process proposed was technically simple and economically feasible. PMID:26558521

Multi-Column Experimental Test Bed for Xe/Kr Separation

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

Greenhalgh, Mitchell Randy; Garn, Troy Gerry; Welty, Amy Keil

Previous research studies have shown that INL-developed engineered form sorbents are capable of capturing both Kr and Xe from various composite gas streams. The previous experimental test bed provided single column testing for capacity evaluations over a broad temperature range. To advance research capabilities, the employment of an additional column to study selective capture of target species to provide a defined final gas composition for waste storage was warranted. The second column addition also allows for compositional analyses of the final gas product to provide for final storage determinations. The INL krypton capture system was modified by adding an additionalmore » adsorption column in order to create a multi-column test bed. The purpose of this modification was to investigate the separation of xenon from krypton supplied as a mixed gas feed. The extra column was placed in a Stirling Ultra-low Temperature Cooler, capable of controlling temperatures between 190 and 253K. Additional piping and valves were incorporated into the system to allow for a variety of flow path configurations. The new column was filled with the AgZ-PAN sorbent which was utilized as the capture medium for xenon while allowing the krypton to pass through. The xenon-free gas stream was then routed to the cryostat filled with the HZ-PAN sorbent to capture the krypton at 191K. Selectivities of xenon over krypton were determined using the new column to verify the system performance and to establish the operating conditions required for multi-column testing. Results of these evaluations verified that the system was operating as designed and also demonstrated that AgZ-PAN exhibits excellent selectivity for xenon over krypton in air at or near room temperature. Two separation tests were performed utilizing a feed gas consisting of 1000 ppmv xenon and 150 ppmv krypton with the balance being made up of air. The AgZ-PAN temperature was held at 295 or 253K while the HZ-PAN was held at 191K for both tests. The effluent from the AgZ-PAN column was monitored via GC-TCD during the tests with no xenon being observed exiting the column during either test. Samples from each column were taken via evacuated sample bombs and were analyzed by GC-MS analysis. The results demonstrated the ability to separate xenon from krypton from a mixed gas feed utilizing the new multi-column system.« less

Migration of air bubbles in ice under a temperature gradient, with application to “Snowball Earth”

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dadic, Ruzica; Light, Bonnie; Warren, Stephen G.

2010-09-01

To help characterize the albedo of "sea glaciers" on Snowball Earth, a study of the migration rates of air bubbles in freshwater ice under a temperature gradient was carried out in the laboratory. The migration rates of air bubbles in both natural glacier ice and laboratory-grown ice were measured for temperatures between -36°C and -4°C and for bubble diameters of 23-2000 μm. The glacier ice was sampled from a depth near close-off (74 m) in the JEMS2 ice core from Summit, Greenland. Migration rates were measured by positioning thick sections of ice on a temperature gradient stage mounted on a microscope inside a freezer laboratory. The maximum and minimum migration rates were 5.45 μm h-1 (K cm-1)-1 at -4°C and 0.03 μm h-1 (K cm-1)-1 at -36°C. Besides a strong dependence on temperature, migration rates were found to be proportional to bubble size. We think that this is due to the internal air pressure within the bubbles, which may correlate with time since close-off and therefore with bubble size. Migration rates show no significant dependence on bubble shape. Estimates of migration rates computed as a function of bubble depth within sea glaciers indicate that the rates would be low relative to the predicted sublimation rates, such that the ice surface would not lose its air bubbles to net downward migration. It is therefore unlikely that air bubble migration could outrun the advancing sublimation front, transforming glacial ice to a nearly bubble-free ice type, analogous to low-albedo marine ice.

Separation of cannabinoids on three different mixed-mode columns containing carbon/nanodiamond/amine-polymer superficially porous particles.

PubMed

Hung, Chuan-Hsi; Zukowski, Janusz; Jensen, David S; Miles, Andrew J; Sulak, Clayton; Dadson, Andrew E; Linford, Matthew R

2015-09-01

Three mixed-mode high-performance liquid chromatography columns packed with superficially porous carbon/nanodiamond/amine-polymer particles were used to separate mixtures of cannabinoids. Columns evaluated included: (i) reversed phase (C18 ), weak anion exchange, 4.6 × 33 mm, 3.6 μm, and 4.6 × 100 mm, 3.6 μm, (ii) reversed phase, strong anion exchange (quaternary amine), 4.6×33 mm, 3.6 μm, and (iii) hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography, 4.6 × 150 mm, 3.6 μm. Different selectivities were achieved under various mobile phase and stationary phase conditions. Efficiencies and peak capacities were as high as 54 000 N/m and 56, respectively. The reversed phase mixed-mode column (C18 ) retained tetrahydrocannabinolic acid strongly under acidic conditions and weakly under basic conditions. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid was retained strongly on the reversed phase, strong anion exchange mixed-mode column under basic polar organic mobile phase conditions. The hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography column retained polar cannabinoids better than the (more) neutral ones under basic conditions. A longer reversed phase (C18 ) mixed-mode column (4.6 × 100 mm) showed better resolution for analytes (and a contaminant) than a shorter column. Fast separations were achieved in less than 5 min and sometimes 2 min. A real world sample (bubble hash extract) was also analyzed by gradient elution. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Multi-Column Experimental Test Bed Using CaSDB MOF for Xe/Kr Separation

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

Welty, Amy Keil; Greenhalgh, Mitchell Randy; Garn, Troy Gerry

Processing of spent nuclear fuel produces off-gas from which several volatile radioactive components must be separated for further treatment or storage. As part of the Off-gas Sigma Team, parallel research at INL and PNNL has produced several promising sorbents for the selective capture of xenon and krypton from these off-gas streams. In order to design full-scale treatment systems, sorbents that are promising on a laboratory scale must be proven under process conditions to be considered for pilot and then full-scale use. To that end, a bench-scale multi-column system with capability to test multiple sorbents was designed and constructed at INL.more » This report details bench-scale testing of CaSDB MOF, produced at PNNL, and compares the results to those reported last year using INL engineered sorbents. Two multi-column tests were performed with the CaSDB MOF installed in the first column, followed with HZ-PAN installed in the second column. The CaSDB MOF column was placed in a Stirling cryocooler while the cryostat was employed for the HZ-PAN column. Test temperatures of 253 K and 191 K were selected for the first column while the second column was held at 191 K for both tests. Calibrated volume sample bombs were utilized for gas stream analyses. At the conclusion of each test, samples were collected from each column and analyzed for gas composition. While CaSDB MOF does appear to have good capacity for Xe, the short time to initial breakthrough would make design of a continuous adsorption/desorption cycle difficult, requiring either very large columns or a large number of smaller columns. Because of the tenacity with which Xe and Kr adhere to the material once adsorbed, this CaSDB MOF may be more suitable for use as a long-term storage solution. Further testing is recommended to determine if CaSDB MOF is suitable for this purpose.« less

Columnar Transitions in Microscale Evaporating Liquid Jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunter, Hanif; Glezer, Ari

2007-11-01

Microscale evaporating liquid jets that are injected into a quiescent gaseous medium having adjustable ambient pressure are investigated over a range of jet speeds using a shadowgraph technique. The jets are formed by a laser-drilled 10 μm nozzle from a small-scale pressurized reservoir, and sub-atmospheric ambient pressure is maintained using a controllable, metered Venturi pump. The near-field jet features are captured by shadowgraph imaging using a pulsed ND-Yag laser and a 12 bit CCD camera where the field of view measured 200 μm on the side. As the ambient pressure is reduced, the jet column undergoes a series of spectacular transitions that are first marked by the appearance of vapor bubbles within the jet column. The transitions progress from columnar instabilities to series of column bifurcations to high-order branching and film formation and culminate in conical atomization of the jet column. In addition to the effects of the ambient pressure, the present investigation also considers effects of the liquid surface tension and vapor pressure on the onset, evolution, and hysteresis of the columnar transitions.

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

Archer, D.

A two-dimensional model of a passive continental margin was adapted to the simulation of the methane cycle on Siberian continental shelf and slope, attempting to account for the impacts of glacial/interglacial cycles in sea level, alternately exposing the continental shelf to freezing conditions with deep permafrost formation during glacial times, and immersion in the ocean in interglacial times. The model is used to gauge the impact of the glacial cycles, and potential anthropogenic warming in the deep future, on the atmospheric methane emission flux, and the sensitivities of that flux to processes such as permafrost formation and terrestrial organic carbonmore » (Yedoma) deposition. Hydrological forcing drives a freshening and ventilation of pore waters in areas exposed to the atmosphere, which is not quickly reversed by invasion of seawater upon submergence, since there is no analogous saltwater pump. This hydrological pump changes the salinity enough to affect the stability of permafrost and methane hydrates on the shelf. Permafrost formation inhibits bubble transport through the sediment column, by construction in the model. The impact of permafrost on the methane budget is to replace the bubble flux by offshore groundwater flow containing dissolved methane, rather than accumulating methane for catastrophic release when the permafrost seal fails during warming. By far the largest impact of the glacial/interglacial cycles on the atmospheric methane flux is attenuation by dissolution of bubbles in the ocean when sea level is high. Methane emissions are highest during the regression (soil freezing) part of the cycle, rather than during transgression (thawing). The model-predicted methane flux to the atmosphere in response to a warming climate is small, relative to the global methane production rate, because of the ongoing flooding of the continental shelf. A slight increase due to warming could be completely counteracted by sea level rise on geologic time scales, decreasing the efficiency of bubble transit through the water column. The methane cycle on the shelf responds to climate change on a long time constant of thousands of years, because hydrate is excluded thermodynamically from the permafrost zone by water limitation, leaving the hydrate stability zone at least 300 m below the sediment surface.« less

The energy balance within a bubble column evaporator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Chao; Shahid, Muhammad; Pashley, Richard M.

2018-05-01

Bubble column evaporator (BCE) systems have been studied and developed for many applications, such as thermal desalination, sterilization, evaporative cooling and controlled precipitation. The heat supplied from warm/hot dry bubbles is to vaporize the water in various salt solutions until the solution temperature reaches steady state, which was derived into the energy balance of the BCE. The energy balance and utilization involved in each BCE process form the fundamental theory of these applications. More importantly, it opened a new field for the thermodynamics study in the form of heat and vapor transfer in the bubbles. In this paper, the originally derived energy balance was reviewed on the basis of its physics in the BCE process and compared with new proposed energy balance equations in terms of obtained the enthalpy of vaporization (Δ H vap) values of salt solutions from BCE experiments. Based on the analysis of derivation and Δ H vap values comparison, it is demonstrated that the original balance equation has high accuracy and precision, within 2% over 19-55 °C using improved systems. Also, the experimental and theoretical techniques used for determining Δ H vap values of salt solutions were reviewed for the operation conditions and their accuracies compared to the literature data. The BCE method, as one of the most simple and accurate techniques, offers a novel way to determine Δ H vap values of salt solutions based on its energy balance equation, which had error less than 3%. The thermal energy required to heat the inlet gas, the energy used for water evaporation in the BCE and the energy conserved from water vapor condensation were estimated in an overall energy balance analysis. The good agreement observed between input and potential vapor condensation energy illustrates the efficiency of the BCE system. Typical energy consumption levels for thermal desalination for producing pure water using the BCE process was also analyzed for different inlet air temperatures, and indicated the better energy efficiency, of 7.55 kW·h per m3 of pure water, compared to traditional thermal desalination techniques.

Computation of subsonic flow around airfoil systems with multiple separation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacob, K.

1982-01-01

A numerical method for computing the subsonic flow around multi-element airfoil systems was developed, allowing for flow separation at one or more elements. Besides multiple rear separation also sort bubbles on the upper surface and cove bubbles can approximately be taken into account. Also, compressibility effects for pure subsonic flow are approximately accounted for. After presentation the method is applied to several examples and improved in some details. Finally, the present limitations and desirable extensions are discussed.

The molecular complex associated with the Galactic H II region Sh2-90: a possible site of triggered star formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samal, M. R.; Zavagno, A.; Deharveng, L.; Molinari, S.; Ojha, D. K.; Paradis, D.; Tigé, J.; Pandey, A. K.; Russeil, D.

2014-06-01

Aims: We investigate the star formation activity in the molecular complex associated with the Galactic H ii region Sh2-90. Methods: We obtain the distribution of the ionized and cold neutral gas using radio-continuum and Herschel observations. We use near-infrared and Spitzer data to investigate the stellar content of the complex. We discuss the evolutionary status of embedded massive young stellar objects (MYSOs) using their spectral energy distribution. Results: The Sh2-90 region presents a bubble morphology in the mid-infrared. Radio observations suggest it is an evolved H ii region with an electron density ~144 cm-3, emission measure ~ 6.7 × 104 cm-6 pc and an ionized mass ~55 M⊙. From Herschel and CO (J = 3 - 2) observations we found that the H ii region is part of an elongated extended molecular cloud (H2 column density ≥ 3 × 1021 cm-2 and dust temperature 18-27 K) of total mass ≥ 1 × 104 M⊙. We identify the ionizing cluster of Sh2-90, the main exciting star being an O8-O9 V star. Five cold dust clumps, four mid-IR blobs around B stars, and a compact H ii region are found at the edge of the bubble. The velocity information derived from CO data cubes suggest that most of them are associated with the Sh2-90 region. One hundred and twenty-nine low mass (≤3 M⊙) YSOs have been identified, and they are found to be distributed mostly in the regions of high column density. Four candidate Class 0/I MYSOs have been found. We suggest that multi-generation star formation is present in the complex. From evidence of interaction, time scales involved, and evolutionary status of stellar/protostellar sources, we argue that the star formation at the edges of Sh2-90 might have been triggered. However, several young sources in this complex are probably formed by some other processes. Full Table 5 is only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/566/A122

Possible high sonic velocity due to the inclusion of gas bubbles in water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banno, T.; Mikada, H.; Goto, T.; Takekawa, J.

2010-12-01

If formation water becomes multi-phase by inclusion of gas bubbles, sonic velocities would be strongly influenced. In general, sonic velocities are knocked down due to low bulk moduli of the gas bubbles. However, sonic velocities may increase depending on the size of gas bubbles, when the bubbles in water or other media oscillate due to incoming sonic waves. Sonic waves are scattered by the bubbles and the superposition of the incoming and the scattered waves result in resonant-frequency-dependent behavior. The phase velocity of sonic waves propagating in fluids containing bubbles, therefore, probably depends on their frequencies. This is a typical phenomenon called “wave dispersion.” So far we have studied about the bubble impact on sonic velocity in bubbly media, such as the formation that contains gas bubbles. As a result, it is shown that the bubble resonance effect is a key to analyze the sonic phase velocity increase. Therefore to evaluate the resonance frequency of bubbles is important to solve the frequency response of sonic velocity in formations having bubbly fluids. There are several analytical solutions of the resonance frequency of bubbles in water. Takahira et al. (1994) derived a equation that gives us the resonance frequency considering bubble - bubble interactions. We have used this theory to calculate resonance frequency of bubbles at the previous work. However, the analytical solution of the Takahira’s equation is based on several assumptions. Therefore we used a numerical approach to calculate the bubble resonance effect more precisely in the present study. We used the boundary element method (BEM) to reproduce a bubble oscillation in incompressible liquid. There are several reasons to apply the BEM. Firstly, it arrows us to model arbitrarily sets and shapes of bubbles. Secondly, it is easy to use the BEM to reproduce a boundary-surface between liquid and gas. The velocity potential of liquid surrounding a bubble satisfies the Laplace equation when the liquid is supposed to be incompressible. We got the boundary integral equation from the Laplace equation and solved the boundary integral equation by the BEM. Then, we got the gradient of the velocity potential from the BEM. We used this gradient to get time derivative of the velocity potential from the Bernouii’s equation. And we used the second order Adams-Bashforth method to execute time integration of the velocity potential. We conducted this scheme iteratively to calculate a bubble oscillation. At each time step, we input a pressure change as a sinusoidal wave. As a result, we observed a bubble oscillation following the pressure frequency. We also evaluated the resonance frequency of a bubble by changing the pressure frequency. It showed a good agreement with the analytical solution described above. Our future work is to extend the calculation into plural bubbles condition. We expect that interaction between bubbles becomes strong and resonance frequency of bubbles becomes small when distance between bubbles becomes small.

Staged fluidized bed

DOEpatents

Mallon, Richard G.

1984-01-01

Method and apparatus for narrowing the distribution of residence times of any size particle and equalizing the residence times of large and small particles in fluidized beds. Particles are moved up one fluidized column and down a second fluidized column with the relative heights selected to equalize residence times of large and small particles. Additional pairs of columns are staged to narrow the distribution of residence times and provide complete processing of the material.

Sources, extent and history of methane seepage on the continental shelf off northern Norway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauer, Simone; Lepland, Aivo; Chand, Shyam; Schubert, Carsten J.; Eichinger, Florian; Knies, Jochen

2014-05-01

Active natural hydrocarbon gas seepage was recently discovered in the Hola area on the continental shelf off Vesterålen, northern Norway. We conducted acoustic and geochemical investigations to assess the modern and past extent, source and pathways of the gas seepage . Water column echosounder surveys showed bubble plumes up to several tens of metres above the seafloor. Analyses of dissolved methane in the water column indicated slightly elevated concentrations (50 nM) close to the seafloor. To identify fluxes and origin of methane in the sediments we analysed sediment pore water chemistry, the isotopic composition of methane and of dissolved inorganic carbon (d13CCH4, d2HCH4, d13CDIC) in three closely spaced (

A fundamental study of gas formation and migration during leakage of stored carbon dioxide in subsurface formations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaki, T.; Plampin, M. R.; Lassen, R. N.; Pawar, R. J.; Komatsu, M.; Jensen, K. H.; Illangasekare, T. H.

2011-12-01

Geologic sequestration of CO2 has received significant attention as a potential method for reducing the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Potential risk of leakage of the stored CO2 to the shallow zones of the subsurface is one of the critical issues that is needed to be addressed to design effective field storage systems. If a leak occurs, gaseous CO2 reaching shallow zones of the subsurface can potentially impact the surface and groundwater sources and vegetation. With a goal of developing models that can predict these impacts, a research study is underway to improve our understanding of the fundamental processes of gas-phase formation and multi-phase flow dynamics during CO2 migration in shallow porous media. The approach involves conducting a series of highly controlled experiments in soil columns and tanks to study the effects of soil properties, temperature, pressure gradients and heterogeneities on gas formation and migration. This paper presents the results from a set of column studies. A 3.6m long column was instrumented with 16 soil moisture sensors, 15 of which were capable of measuring electrical conductivity (EC) and temperature, eight water pressure, and two gas pressure sensors. The column was filled with test sands with known hydraulic and retention characteristics with predetermined packing configurations. Deionized water saturated with CO2 under ~0.3 kPa (roughly the same as the hydrostatic pressure at the bottom of the column) was injected at the bottom of the column using a peristaltic pump. Water and gas outflow at the top of the column were monitored continuously. The results, in general, showed that 1) gas phase formation can be triggered by multiple factors such as water pressure drop, temperature rise, and heterogeneity, 2) transition to gas phase tends to occur rather within a short period of time, 3) gas phase fraction was as high as ~40% so that gas flow was not via individual bubble movement but two-phase flow, 4) water outflow that was initially equal to the inflow rate increased when gas-phase started to form (i.e., water gets displaced), and 5) gas starts to flow upward after gas phase fraction stabilizes (i.e., buoyant force overcomes). These results suggest that the generation and migration processes of gas phase CO2 can be modelled as a traditional two-phase flow with source (when CO2 gas exsolved due to complex factors) as well as sink (when gas dissolved) terms. The experimental data will be used to develop and test the conceptual models that will guide the development of numerical simulators for applications involving CO2 storage and leakage.

Hydrodynamic optical-field-ionized plasma channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shalloo, R. J.; Arran, C.; Corner, L.; Holloway, J.; Jonnerby, J.; Walczak, R.; Milchberg, H. M.; Hooker, S. M.

2018-05-01

We present experiments and numerical simulations which demonstrate that fully ionized, low-density plasma channels could be formed by hydrodynamic expansion of plasma columns produced by optical field ionization. Simulations of the hydrodynamic expansion of plasma columns formed in hydrogen by an axicon lens show the generation of 200 mm long plasma channels with axial densities of order ne(0 ) =1 ×1017cm-3 and lowest-order modes of spot size WM≈40 μ m . These simulations show that the laser energy required to generate the channels is modest: of order 1 mJ per centimeter of channel. The simulations are confirmed by experiments with a spherical lens which show the formation of short plasma channels with 1.5 ×1017cm-3≲ne(0 ) ≲1 ×1018cm-3 and 61 μ m ≳WM≳33 μ m . Low-density plasma channels of this type would appear to be well suited as multi-GeV laser-plasma accelerator stages capable of long-term operation at high pulse repetition rates.

Acoustic measurements of the 1999 basaltic eruption of Shishaldin volcano, Alaska 1. Origin of Strombolian activity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vergniolle, S.; Boichu, M.; Caplan-Auerbach, J.

2004-01-01

The 1999 basaltic eruption of Shishaldin volcano (Alaska, USA) displayed both classical Strombolian activity and an explosive Subplinian plume. Strombolian activity at Shishaldin occurred in two major phases following the Subplinian activity. In this paper, we use acoustic measurements to interpret the Strombolian activity. Acoustic measurements of the two Strombolian phases show a series of explosions that are modeled by the vibration of a large overpressurised cylindrical bubble at the top of the magma column. Results show that the bubble does not burst at its maximum radius, as expected if the liquid film is stretched beyond its elasticity. But bursting occurs after one cycle of vibration, as a consequence of an instability of the air-magma interface close to the bubble minimum radius. During each Strombolian period, estimates of bubble length and overpressure are calculated. Using an alternate method based on acoustic power, we estimate gas velocity to be 30-60 m/s, in very good agreement with synthetic waveforms. Although there is some variation within these parameters, bubble length and overpressure for the first Strombolian phase are found to be ??? 82 ?? 11 m and 0.083 MPa. For the second Strombolian phase, bubble length and overpressure are estimated at 24 ?? 12 m and 0.15 MPa for the first 17 h after which bubble overpressure shows a constant increase, reaching a peak of 1.4 MPa, just prior to the end of the second Strombolian phase. This peak suggests that, at the time, the magma in the conduit may contain a relatively large concentration of small bubbles. Maximum total gas volume and gas fluxes at the surface are estimated to be 3.3 ?? 107 and 2.9 ?? 103 m3/s for the first phase and 1.0 ?? 108 and 2.2 ?? 103 m3/s for the second phase. This gives a mass flux of 1.2 ?? 103 and 8.7 ?? 102 kg/s, respectively, for the first and the second Strombolian phases. ?? 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Assessing the Performance of a Machine Learning Algorithm in Identifying Bubbles in Dust Emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Duo; Offner, Stella S. R.

2017-12-01

Stellar feedback created by radiation and winds from massive stars plays a significant role in both physical and chemical evolution of molecular clouds. This energy and momentum leaves an identifiable signature (“bubbles”) that affects the dynamics and structure of the cloud. Most bubble searches are performed “by eye,” which is usually time-consuming, subjective, and difficult to calibrate. Automatic classifications based on machine learning make it possible to perform systematic, quantifiable, and repeatable searches for bubbles. We employ a previously developed machine learning algorithm, Brut, and quantitatively evaluate its performance in identifying bubbles using synthetic dust observations. We adopt magnetohydrodynamics simulations, which model stellar winds launching within turbulent molecular clouds, as an input to generate synthetic images. We use a publicly available three-dimensional dust continuum Monte Carlo radiative transfer code, HYPERION, to generate synthetic images of bubbles in three Spitzer bands (4.5, 8, and 24 μm). We designate half of our synthetic bubbles as a training set, which we use to train Brut along with citizen-science data from the Milky Way Project (MWP). We then assess Brut’s accuracy using the remaining synthetic observations. We find that Brut’s performance after retraining increases significantly, and it is able to identify yellow bubbles, which are likely associated with B-type stars. Brut continues to perform well on previously identified high-score bubbles, and over 10% of the MWP bubbles are reclassified as high-confidence bubbles, which were previously marginal or ambiguous detections in the MWP data. We also investigate the influence of the size of the training set, dust model, evolutionary stage, and background noise on bubble identification.

Physical conditions for trapping air by a microtrichia-covered insect cuticle during temporary submersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neumann, Dietrich; Woermann, Dietrich

2009-08-01

The intertidal midge Clunio, which reproduces on exposed rocky seashores, becomes enclosed in an irregularly shaped air bubble during short submersion by incoming waves. This water-repellent property of Clunio’s cuticle is caused by a complete cover of hydrophobic microtrichia offering an effective surf tolerance. These microtrichia not only trap a thin air layer above the cuticle but also maintain a larger air bubble between the insect’s ventral side and legs. The effectiveness of the water repellence was quantitatively characterised on the basis of a known model (Crisp and Thorpe, Discuss Faraday Soc 3:210-220, 1948). The parameters of the model are the contact angle θ (>90°) at the contact line of air/water/microtrichia and the distance between individual microtrichia and their radius. When the microtrichia are 1.1 μm apart and have a radius of 0.1 μm and an estimated contact angle θ of 140°, the air layer is stable against hydrostatic pressures of up to 3 m water column. As shown by a modified version of the model, considerably larger air bubbles can be trapped by the microtrichia cover of the legs up to distances of 0.5 mm from the body. The widely spaced (about 8 μm apart) and longer setae of Clunio are not involved in the formation of air layers and air bubble.

Simulation of the ultrasound-induced growth and collapse of a near-wall bubble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyd, Bradley; Becker, Sid

2017-11-01

In this study, we consider the acoustically driven growth and collapse of a cavitation bubble in a fluid medium exposed to an ultrasound field. The bubble dynamics are modelled using a compressible, inviscid, multiphase model. The numerical scheme consists of a conservative interface capturing scheme which uses the fifth-order WENO reconstruction with a maximum-principle-satisfying and positivity-preserving limiter, and the HLLC approximate Riemann flux. To model the ultrasound input, a moving boundary oscillates through a fixed grid of finite-volume cells. The growth phase of the simulation shows the rapid non-spherical growth of the near-wall bubble. Once the bubble reaches its maximum size and the collapse phase begins, the simulation shows the formation of a jet which penetrates the bubble towards the wall at the later stages of the collapse. For a bubble with an initial radius of 50 μ m and an ultrasound pressure amplitude of 200 kPa, the pressure experienced by the wall increased rapidly nearing the end of the collapse, reaching a peak pressure of 13 MPa. This model is an important development in the field as it represents the physics of acoustic cavitation in more detail than before. This work was supported by the Royal Society of New Zealand's Marsden Fund.

On the dynamics of a shock-bubble interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quirk, James J.; Karni, Smadar

1994-01-01

We present a detailed numerical study of the interaction of a weak shock wave with an isolated cylindrical gas inhomogenity. Such interactions have been studied experimentally in an attempt to elucidate the mechanisms whereby shock waves propagating through random media enhance mixing. Our study concentrates on the early phases of the interaction process which are dominated by repeated refractions of acoustic fronts at the bubble interface. Specifically, we have reproduced two of the experiments performed by Haas and Sturtevant : M(sub s) = 1.22 planar shock wave, moving through air, impinges on a cylindrical bubble which contains either helium or Refrigerant 22. These flows are modelled using the two-dimensional, compressible Euler equations for a two component fluid (air-helium or air-Refrigerant 22). Although simulations of shock wave phenomena are now fairly commonplace, they are mostly restricted to single component flows. Unfortunately, multi-component extensions of successful single component schemes often suffer from spurious oscillations which are generated at material interfaces. Here we avoid such problems by employing a novel, nonconservative shock-capturing scheme. In addition, we have utilized a sophisticated adaptive mesh refinement algorithm which enables extremely high resolution simulations to be performed relatively cheaply. Thus we have been able to reproduce numerically all the intricate mechanisms that were observed experimentally (e.g., transitions from regular to irregular refraction, cusp formation and shock wave focusing, multi-shock and Mach shock structures, jet formation, etc.), and we can now present an updated description for the dynamics of a shock-bubble interaction.

Prediction of Bubble Diameter at Detachment from a Wall Orifice in Liquid Cross Flow Under Reduced and Normal Gravity Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nahra, Henry K.; Kamotani, Y.

2003-01-01

Bubble formation and detachment is an integral part of the two-phase flow science. The objective of the present work is to theoretically investigate the effects of liquid cross-flow velocity, gas flow rate embodied in the momentum flux force, and orifice diameter on bubble formation in a wall-bubble injection configuration. A two-dimensional one-stage theoretical model based on a global force balance on the bubble evolving from a wall orifice in a cross liquid flow is presented in this work. In this model, relevant forces acting on the evolving bubble are expressed in terms of the bubble center of mass coordinates and solved simultaneously. Relevant forces in low gravity included the momentum flux, shear-lift, surface tension, drag and inertia forces. Under normal gravity conditions, the buoyancy force, which is dominant under such conditions, can be added to the force balance. Two detachment criteria were applicable depending on the gas to liquid momentum force ratio. For low ratios, the time when the bubble acceleration in the direction of the detachment angle is greater or equal to zero is calculated from the bubble x and y coordinates. This time is taken as the time at which all the detaching forces that are acting on the bubble are greater or equal to the attaching forces. For high gas to liquid momentum force ratios, the time at which the y coordinate less the bubble radius equals zero is calculated. The bubble diameter is evaluated at this time as the diameter at detachment from the fact that the bubble volume is simply given by the product of the gas flow rate and time elapsed. Comparison of the model s predictions was also made with predictions from a two-dimensional normal gravity model based on Kumar-Kuloor formulation and such a comparison is presented in this work.

Separation of Platinum from Palladium and Iridium in Iron Meteorites and Accurate High-Precision Determination of Platinum Isotopes by Multi-Collector ICP-MS.

PubMed

Hunt, Alison C; Ek, Mattias; Schönbächler, Maria

2017-12-01

This study presents a new measurement procedure for the isolation of Pt from iron meteorite samples. The method also allows for the separation of Pd from the same sample aliquot. The separation entails a two-stage anion-exchange procedure. In the first stage, Pt and Pd are separated from each other and from major matrix constituents including Fe and Ni. In the second stage, Ir is reduced with ascorbic acid and eluted from the column before Pt collection. Platinum yields for the total procedure were typically 50-70%. After purification, high-precision Pt isotope determinations were performed by multi-collector ICP-MS. The precision of the new method was assessed using the IIAB iron meteorite North Chile. Replicate analyses of multiple digestions of this material yielded an intermediate precision for the measurement results of 0.73 for ε 192 Pt, 0.15 for ε 194 Pt and 0.09 for ε 196 Pt (2 standard deviations). The NIST SRM 3140 Pt solution reference material was passed through the measurement procedure and yielded an isotopic composition that is identical to the unprocessed Pt reference material. This indicates that the new technique is unbiased within the limit of the estimated uncertainties. Data for three iron meteorites support that Pt isotope variations in these samples are due to exposure to galactic cosmic rays in space.

Fast selective trapping and release of picoliter droplets in a 3D microfluidic PDMS multi-trap system with bubbles.

PubMed

Rambach, Richard W; Biswas, Preetika; Yadav, Ashutosh; Garstecki, Piotr; Franke, Thomas

2018-02-12

The selective manipulation and incubation of individual picoliter drops in high-throughput droplet based microfluidic devices still remains challenging. We used a surface acoustic wave (SAW) to induce a bubble in a 3D designed multi-trap polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) device to manipulate multiple droplets and demonstrate the selection, incubation and on-demand release of aqueous droplets from a continuous oil flow. By controlling the position of the acoustic actuation, individual droplets are addressed and selectively released from a droplet stream of 460 drops per s. A complete trapping and releasing cycle can be as short as 70 ms and has no upper limit for incubation time. We characterize the fluidic function of the hybrid device in terms of electric power, pulse duration and acoustic path.

Light Scattering by Ice Crystals Containing Air Bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, J.; Panetta, R. L.; Yang, P.; Bi, L.

2014-12-01

The radiative effects of ice clouds are often difficult to estimate accurately, but are very important for interpretation of observations and for climate modeling. Our understanding of these effects is primarily based on scattering calculations, but due to the variability in ice habit it is computationally difficult to determine the required scattering and absorption properties, and the difficulties are only compounded by the need to include consideration of air and carbon inclusions of the sort frequently observed in collected samples. Much of the previous work on effects of inclusions in ice particles on scattering properties has been conducted with variants of geometric optics methods. We report on simulations of scattering by ice crystals with enclosed air bubbles using the pseudo-spectral time domain method (PSTD) and improved geometric optics method (IGOM). A Bouncing Ball Model (BBM) is proposed as a parametrization of air bubbles, and the results are compared with Monte Carlo radiative transfer calculations. Consistent with earlier studies, we find that air inclusions lead to a smoothing of variations in the phase function, weakening of halos, and a reduction of backscattering. We extend these studies by examining the effects of the particular arrangement of a fixed number of bubbles, as well as the effects of splitting a given number of bubbles into a greater number of smaller bubbles with the same total volume fraction. The result shows that the phase function will not change much for stochastic distributed air bubbles. It also shows that local maxima of phase functions are smoothed out for backward directions, when we break bubbles into small ones, single big bubble scatter favors more forward scattering than multi small internal scatters.

Chamber evaluation of a portable GC with tunable retention and microsensor-array detection for indoor air quality monitoring.

PubMed

Lu, Chia Jung; Jin, Chunguang; Zellers, Edward T

2006-02-01

The evaluation of a novel prototype instrument designed for on-site determinations of VOC mixtures found in indoor working environments is described. The instrument contains a miniature multi-stage preconcentrator, a dual-column separation module with pressure-tunable retention capabilities, and an integrated array of three polymer-coated surface acoustic wave sensors. It was challenged with dynamic test-atmospheres of a set of 15 common indoor air contaminants at parts-per-billion concentrations within a stainless-steel chamber under a range of conditions. Vapours were reliably identified at a known level of confidence by combining column retention times with sensor-array response patterns and applying a multivariate statistical test of pattern fidelity for the chromatographically resolved vapours. Estimates of vapour concentrations fell within 7% on average of those determined by EPA Method TO-17, and limits of detection ranged from 0.2 to 28 ppb at 25 degrees C for 1 L samples collected and analyzed in <12 min. No significant humidity effects were observed (0-90% RH). Increasing the chamber temperature from 25 to 30 degrees C reduced the retention times of the more volatile analytes which, in turn, demanded alterations in the scheduling of column-junction-point pressure (flow) modulations performed during the analysis. Reductions in sensor sensitivities with increasing temperature were predictable and similar among the sensors in the array such that most response patterns were not altered significantly. Short-term fluctuations in concentration were accurately tracked by the instrument. Results indicate that this type of instrument could provide routine, semi-autonomous, near-real-time, multi-vapour monitoring in support of efforts to assess air quality in office environments.

Direct Numerical Simulations of Multiphase Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tryggvason, Gretar

2013-03-01

Many natural and industrial processes, such as rain and gas exchange between the atmosphere and oceans, boiling heat transfer, atomization and chemical reactions in bubble columns, involve multiphase flows. Often the mixture can be described as a disperse flow where one phase consists of bubbles or drops. Direct numerical simulations (DNS) of disperse flow have recently been used to study the dynamics of multiphase flows with a large number of bubbles and drops, often showing that the collective motion results in relatively simple large-scale structure. Here we review simulations of bubbly flows in vertical channels where the flow direction, as well as the bubble deformability, has profound implications on the flow structure and the total flow rate. Results obtained so far are summarized and open questions identified. The resolution for DNS of multiphase flows is usually determined by a dominant scale, such as the average bubble or drop size, but in many cases much smaller scales are also present. These scales often consist of thin films, threads, or tiny drops appearing during coalescence or breakup, or are due to the presence of additional physical processes that operate on a very different time scale than the fluid flow. The presence of these small-scale features demand excessive resolution for conventional numerical approaches. However, at small flow scales the effects of surface tension are generally strong so the interface geometry is simple and viscous forces dominate the flow and keep it simple also. These are exactly the conditions under which analytical models can be used and we will discuss efforts to combine a semi-analytical description for the small-scale processes with a fully resolved simulation of the rest of the flow. We will, in particular, present an embedded analytical description to capture the mass transfer from bubbles in liquids where the diffusion of mass is much slower than the diffusion of momentum. This results in very thin mass-boundary layers that are difficult to resolve, but the new approach allows us to simulate the mass transfer from many freely evolving bubbles and examine the effect of the interactions of the bubbles with each other and the flow. We will conclude by attempting to summarize the current status of DNS of multiphase flows. Support by NSF and DOE (CASL)

Modeling of Vapor Bubble Growth Under Nucleate Boiling Conditions in Reduced Gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buyevich, Yu A.; Webbon, Bruce W.

1995-01-01

A dynamic model is developed to describe the evolution of a vapor bubble growing at a nucleation site on a superheated surface under arbitrary gravity. The bubble is separated from the surface by a thin microlayer and grows due to the evaporation from the microlayer interface. The average thickness of the microlayer increases as the bubble expands along the surface if the evaporation rate is lower than some critical value. The corresponding threshold value of the surface temperature has to be associated with the burn-out crisis. Two main reasons make for bubble separation, which are the buoyancy force and a force caused by the vapor momentum that comes to the bubble with vapor molecules. The latter force is somewhat diminished if condensation takes place at the upper bubble surface in subcooled liquids. The action of the said forces is opposed by inertia of the additional mass of liquid as the bubble center rises above the surface and by inertia of liquid being expelled by the growing bubble in radial directions. An extra pressure force arises due to the liquid inflow into the microlayer with a finite velocity. The last force helps in holding the bubble close to the surface during an initial stage of bubble evolution. Two limiting regimes with distinctly different properties can be singled out, depending on which of the forces that favor bubble detachment dominates. Under conditions of moderately reduced gravity, the situation is much the same as in normal gravity, although the bubble detachment volume increases as gravity diminishes. In microgravity, the buoyancy force is negligible. Then the bubble is capable of staying near the surface for a long time, with intensive evaporation from the microlayer. It suggests a drastic change in the physical mechanism of heat removal as gravity falls below a certain sufficiently low level. Inferences of the model and conclusions pertaining to effects caused on heat transfer processes by changes in bubble hydrodynamics induced by gravity are discussed in connection with experimental evidence, both available in current and in as yet unpublished literature.

Thermally activated vapor bubble nucleation: The Landau-Lifshitz-Van der Waals approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallo, Mirko; Magaletti, Francesco; Casciola, Carlo Massimo

2018-05-01

Vapor bubbles are formed in liquids by two mechanisms: evaporation (temperature above the boiling threshold) and cavitation (pressure below the vapor pressure). The liquid resists in these metastable (overheating and tensile, respectively) states for a long time since bubble nucleation is an activated process that needs to surmount the free energy barrier separating the liquid and the vapor states. The bubble nucleation rate is difficult to assess and, typically, only for extremely small systems treated at an atomistic level of detail. In this work a powerful approach, based on a continuum diffuse interface modeling of the two-phase fluid embedded with thermal fluctuations (fluctuating hydrodynamics), is exploited to study the nucleation process in homogeneous conditions, evaluating the bubble nucleation rates and following the long-term dynamics of the metastable system, up to the bubble coalescence and expansion stages. In comparison with more classical approaches, this methodology allows us on the one hand to deal with much larger systems observed for a much longer time than possible with even the most advanced atomistic models. On the other, it extends continuum formulations to thermally activated processes, impossible to deal with in a purely determinist setting.

Cavitation in ultrasound and shockwave therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colonius, Tim

2014-11-01

Acoustic waves, especially high-intensity ultrasound and shock waves, are used for medical imaging and intra- and extra-corporeal manipulation of cells, tissue, and urinary calculi. Waves are currently used to treat kidney stone disease, plantar fasciitis, and bone nonunion, and they are being investigated as a technique to ablate cancer tumors and mediate drug delivery. In many applications, acoustic waves induce the expansion and collapse of preexisting or newly cavitating bubbles whose presence can either mediate the generation of localized stresses or lead to collateral damage, depending on how effectively they can be controlled. We describe efforts aimed at simulating the collapse of bubbles, both individually and in clusters, with the aim to characterize the induced mechanical stresses and strains. To simulate collapse of one or a few bubbles, compressible Euler and Navier-Stokes simulations of multi-component materials are performed with WENO-based shock and interface capturing schemes. Repetitive insonification generates numerous bubbles that are difficult to resolve numerically. Such clouds are also important in traditional engineering applications such as caveating hydrofoils. Models that incorporate the dynamics of an unresolved dispersed phase consisting of the bubble cloud are also developed. The results of several model problems including bubble collapse near rigid surfaces, bubble collapse near compliant surfaces and in small capillaries are analyzed. The results are processed to determine the potential for micron-sized preexisting gas bubbles to damage capillaries. The translation of the fundamental fluid dynamics into improvements in the design and clinical application of shockwave lithotripters will be discussed. NIH Grant PO1-DK043881.

[Novel dianostics and therapeutics with ultrasound technologies and nanotechnologies].

PubMed

Suzuki, Ryo; Oda, Yusuke; Omata, Daiki; Sawaguchi, Yoshikazu; Negishi, Yoichi; Maruyama, Kazuo

2013-01-01

Ultrasound is a good tool for theranostics due to have multi-potency both of diagnostics with sonography and therapeutics with high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). In addition, microbubbles and nanobubbles are utilized as not only contrast imaging agent but also enhancer of drug and gene delivery by combination of ultrasound. Recently, we developed novel liposomal nanobubbles (Bubble liposomes) which were containing perfluoropropane. Bubble liposomes induced jet stream by low intensity ultrasound exposure and resulted in enhancing permeability of cell membrane. This phenomenon has been utilized as driving force for drug and gene delivery. On the other hand, the combination of Bubble liposomes and high intensity ultrasound induces strong jet stream and increase temperature. This condition can directly damage to tumor cells, we are applying this for cancer therapy. Therefore, their combination has potency for various cancer therapies such as gene therapy, immunotherapy and hyperthermia. In this review, we discuss about cancer therapy by the combination of Bubble liposomes and ultrasound.

Effects of Gravity on Cocurrent Two-Phase Gas-Liquid Flows Through Packed Columns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Motil, Brian J.; Balakotaiah, Vemuri; Kamotani, Yasuhiro

2001-01-01

This work presents the experimental results of research on the influence of gravity on flow pattern transitions, pressure drop and flow characteristics for cocurrent gas-liquid two-phase flow through packed columns. The flow pattern transition data indicates that the pulse flow regime exists over a wider range of gas and liquid flow rates under reduced gravity conditions compared to normal gravity cocurrent down-flow. This is illustrated by comparing the flow regime transitions found in reduced gravity with the transitions predicted by Talmor. Next, the effect of gravity on the total pressure drop in a packed column is shown to depend on the flow regime. The difference is roughly equivalent to the liquid static head for bubbly flow but begins to decrease at the onset of pulse flow. As the spray flow regime is approached by increasing the gas to liquid ratio, the effect of gravity on pressure drop becomes negligible. Finally, gravity tends to suppress the amplitude of each pressure pulse. An example of this phenomenon is presented.

Installation and service manual for the U.S. Geological Survey manometers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Craig, James D.

1983-01-01

The purpose of this manual is to describe the installation, operation, and maintenance of the bubble-gage manometers currently (1982) used by the U.S. Geological Survey. Other applications of these devices, such as the long manometer and differential manometer, are discussed, and accessories available for them are described. The bubble gage (water-stage manometer with gas-purge system) described in the Installation and Service Manual, October 1962, has been extensively modified and developed into the STACOM (stabilized and temperature compensated) device. This chapter is the manual for the STACOM unit and an update of the manual for the screw-type bubble gage. A parts list is included for both units.

Evaluating Precipitation Observed in Complex Terrain During GPM Field Campaigns with the SIMBA Data-Fusion Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wingo, S. M.; Petersen, W. A.; Gatlin, P. N.; Marks, D. A.; Wolff, D. B.; Pabla, C. S.

2017-12-01

The versatile SIMBA (System for Integrating Multi-platform data to Build the Atmospheric column) precipitation data-fusion framework produces an atmospheric column data product with multi-platform observations set into a common 3-D grid, affording an efficient starting point for multi-sensor comparisons and analysis that can be applied to any region. Supported data sources include: ground-based scanning and profiling radars (S-, X-, Ku-, K-, and Ka-band), multiple types of disdrometers and rain gauges, the GPM Core Observatory's Microwave Imager (GMI, 10-183 GHz) and Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR, Ka/Ku-band), as well as thermodynamic soundings and the Multi-Radar/Multi-Sensor QPE product. SIMBA column data files provide a unique way to evaluate the complete vertical profile of precipitation. Two post-launch (GPM Core in orbit) field campaigns focused on different facets of the GPM mission: the Olympic Mountains Experiment (OLYMPEX) was geared toward winter season (November-February) precipitation in Pacific frontal systems and their transition from the coastal to mountainous terrain of northwest Washington, while the Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology Experiment (IPHEx) sampled warm season (April-June) precipitation and supported hydrologic applications in the southern Appalachians and eastern North Carolina. Both campaigns included multiple orographic precipitation enhancement episodes. SIMBA column products generated for select OLYMPEX and IPHEx events will be used to evaluate spatial variability and vertical profiles of precipitation and drop size distribution parameters derived and/or observed by space- and ground-based sensors. Results will provide a cursory view of how well the space-based measurements represent what is observed from the ground below and an indication to how the terrain in both regions impacts the characteristics of precipitation within the column and reaching the ground.

Evaluating Precipitation Observed in Complex Terrain During GPM Field Campaigns with the SIMBA Data-Fusion Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wingo, S. M.; Petersen, W. A.; Gatlin, P. N.; Marks, D. A.; Wolff, D. B.; Pabla, C. S.

2016-12-01

The versatile SIMBA (System for Integrating Multi-platform data to Build the Atmospheric column) precipitation data-fusion framework produces an atmospheric column data product with multi-platform observations set into a common 3-D grid, affording an efficient starting point for multi-sensor comparisons and analysis that can be applied to any region. Supported data sources include: ground-based scanning and profiling radars (S-, X-, Ku-, K-, and Ka-band), multiple types of disdrometers and rain gauges, the GPM Core Observatory's Microwave Imager (GMI, 10-183 GHz) and Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR, Ka/Ku-band), as well as thermodynamic soundings and the Multi-Radar/Multi-Sensor QPE product. SIMBA column data files provide a unique way to evaluate the complete vertical profile of precipitation. Two post-launch (GPM Core in orbit) field campaigns focused on different facets of the GPM mission: the Olympic Mountains Experiment (OLYMPEX) was geared toward winter season (November-February) precipitation in Pacific frontal systems and their transition from the coastal to mountainous terrain of northwest Washington, while the Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology Experiment (IPHEx) sampled warm season (April-June) precipitation and supported hydrologic applications in the southern Appalachians and eastern North Carolina. Both campaigns included multiple orographic precipitation enhancement episodes. SIMBA column products generated for select OLYMPEX and IPHEx events will be used to evaluate spatial variability and vertical profiles of precipitation and drop size distribution parameters derived and/or observed by space- and ground-based sensors. Results will provide a cursory view of how well the space-based measurements represent what is observed from the ground below and an indication to how the terrain in both regions impacts the characteristics of precipitation within the column and reaching the ground.

Xe/Kr Selectivity Measurements using AgZ-PAN at Various Temperatures

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

Garn, Troy Gerry; Greenhalgh, Mitchell Randy; Watson, Tony Leroy

2015-05-01

In preparation for planned FY-15 Xe/Kr multi-column testing, a series of experiments were performed to determine the selectivity of Xe over Kr using the silver converted mordenite-polyacrylonitrile (AgZ-PAN) sorbent. Results from these experiments will be used for parameter selection guidelines to define test conditions for Kr gas capture purity evaluations later this year. The currently configured experimental test bed was modified by installing a new cooling apparatus to permit future multi-column testing with independent column temperature control. The modified test bed will allow for multi-column testing to facilitate a Xe separation followed by a Kr separation using engineered form sorbents.more » Selectivity experiments were run at temperatures of 295, 250 and 220 K. Two feed gas compositions of 1000 ppmv Xe, 150 ppmv Kr in either a He or an air balance were used. AgZ-PAN sorbent selectivity was calculated using Xe and Kr capacity determinations. AgZ-PAN sorbent selectivities for Xe over Kr of 72 were calculated at room temperature (295 K) using the feed gas with a He balance and 34 using the feed gas with an air balance. As the test temperatures were decreased the selectivity of Xe over Kr also decreased due to an increase in both Xe and Kr capacities. At 220 K, the sorbent selectivities for Xe over Kr were 22 using the feed gas with a He balance and 28 using the feed gas with an air balance. The selectivity results indicate that AgZ-PAN used in the first column of a multi-column configuration will provide adequate partitioning of Xe from Kr in the tested temperature range to produce a more pure Kr end product for collection.« less

The XMM-Newton View of Wolf-Rayet Bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guerrero, M.; Toala, J.

2017-10-01

The powerful stellar winds of Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars blow large bubble into the circumstellar material ejected in previous phases of stellar evolution. The shock of those stellar winds produces X-ray-emitting hot plasmas which tells us about the diffusion of processed material onto the interstellar medium, about processes of heat conduction and turbulent mixing at the interface, about the late stages of stellar evolution, and about the shaping of the circumstellar environment, just before supernova explosions. The unique sensitivity of XMM-Newton has been key for the detection, mapping and spectral analysis of the X-ray emission from the hot bubbles around WR stars. These observations underscore the importance of the structure of the interstellar medium around massive stars, but they have also unveiled unknown phenomena, such as blowouts of hot gas into the interstellar medium or spatially-resolved spectral properties of the hot gas, which disclose inhomogeneous chemical abundances and physical properties across these bubbles.

Investigation of laser induced breakdown in liquid nitromethane using nanosecond shadowgraphy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Wencan; Zheng, Xianxu; Yu, Guoyang; Zhao, Jun; Zeng, Yangyang; Liu, Cangli

2016-09-01

A nanosecond time-resolved shadowgraphy is performed to observe a laser-induced breakdown in nitromethane. The digital delays are introduced between a pump beam and an illumination light to achieve a measuring range from 40 ns to 100 ms, which enable us to study the shock wave propagation, bubble dynamics, and other process of the laser-induced breakdown. Compared with distilled water, there are two obvious differences observed in nitromethane: (1) the production of a non-evaporative gas at the final stage, and (2) an absence of the secondary shock wave after the first collapse of the bubble. We also calculated the bubble energy in nitromethane and distilled water under a different incident energy. The results indicate that the bubble energy in nitromethane is more than twice as large as that in water. It is suggested that chemical reactions contribute to the releasing of energy.

Prediction of thickness distribution of thermoformed multilayer ABS/PMMA sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jobey, Caroline; Allanic, Nadine; Mousseau, Pierre; Deterre, Rémi

2016-10-01

In thermoforming, one of the main difficulties is to avoid the presence of weak thickness in the most deformed zones. After the heating stage, a bubbling step, leading to a first rate of deformation, is often used. In this work, we assess how the initial bubbling deformation can be controlled in order to obtain a homogeneous final thickness of the product. Experiments are performed on a multilayer sheet product. An industrial mould, corresponding to a casing of a non-licensed car, was adapted on a lab thermoformer. After presenting experimental thermal profiles of the multilayer sheets measured during the heating stage, a first geometric model is investigated to predict the thickness distribution. Numerical results are compared with measurements.

The effects of total dissolved gas on chum salmon fry survival, growth, gas bubble disease, and seawater tolerance

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

Geist, David R.; Linley, Timothy J.; Cullinan, Valerie I.

2013-02-01

Chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta alevin developing in gravel habitats downstream of Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River are exposed to elevated levels of total dissolved gas (TDG) when water is spilled at the dam to move migrating salmon smolts downstream to the Pacific Ocean. Current water quality criteria for the management of dissolved gas in dam tailwaters were developed primarily to protect salmonid smolts and are assumed to be protective of alevin if adequate depth compensation is provided. We studied whether chum salmon alevin exposed to six levels of dissolved gas ranging from 100% to 130% TDG at three developmentmore » periods between hatch and emergence (hereafter early, middle, and late stage) suffered differential mortality, growth, gas bubble disease, or seawater tolerance. Each life stage was exposed for 50 d (early stage), 29 d (middle stage), or 16 d (late stage) beginning at 13, 34, and 37 d post-hatch, respectively, through 50% emergence. The mortality for all stages from exposure to emergence was estimated to be 8% (95% confidence interval (CI) of 4% to 12%) when dissolved gas levels were between 100% and 117% TDG. Mortality significantly increased as dissolved gas levels rose above 117% TDG,; with the lethal concentration that produced 50% mortality (LC50 ) was estimated to be 128.7% TDG (95% CI of 127.2% to 130.2% TDG) in the early and middle stages. By contrast, there was no evidence that dissolved gas level significantly affected growth in any life stage except that the mean wet weight at emergence of early stage fish exposed to 130% TDG was significantly less than the modeled growth of unexposed fish. The proportion of fish afflicted with gas bubble disease increased with increasing gas concentrations and occurred most commonly in the nares and gastrointestinal tract. Early stage fish exhibited higher ratios of filament to lamellar gill chloride cells than late stage fish, and these ratios increased and decreased for early and late stage fish, respectively, as gas levels increased; however, there were no significant differences in mortality between life stages after 96 h in seawater. The study results suggest that current water quality guidelines for the management of dissolved gas appear to offer a conservative level of protection to chum salmon alevin incubating in gravel habitat downstream of Bonneville Dam.« less

Enhancement of ultrasonic disintegration of sewage sludge by aeration.

PubMed

Zhao, He; Zhang, Panyue; Zhang, Guangming; Cheng, Rong

2016-04-01

Sonication is an effective way for sludge disintegration, which can significantly improve the efficiency of anaerobic digestion to reduce and recycle use of sludge. But high energy consumption limits the wide application of sonication. In order to improve ultrasonic sludge disintegration efficiency and reduce energy consumption, aeration was introduced. Results showed that sludge disintegration efficiency was improved significantly by combining aeration with ultrasound. The aeration flow rate, gas bubble size, ultrasonic density and aeration timing had impacts on sludge disintegration efficiency. Aeration that used in later stage of ultrasonic irradiation with low aeration flow rate, small gas bubbles significantly improved ultrasonic disintegration sludge efficiency. At the optimal conditions of 0.4 W/mL ultrasonic irradiation density, 30 mL/min of aeration flow rate, 5 min of aeration in later stage and small gas bubbles, ultrasonic sludge disintegration efficiency was increased by 45% and one third of ultrasonic energy was saved. This approach will greatly benefit the application of ultrasonic sludge disintegration and strongly promote the treatment and recycle of wastewater sludge. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A New Unsteady Model for Dense Cloud Cavitation in Cryogenic Fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hosangadi, A.; Ahuja, V.

2005-01-01

A new unsteady, cavitation model is presented wherein the phase change process (bubble growth/collapse) is coupled to the acoustic field in a cryogenic fluid. It predicts the number density and radius of bubbles in vapor clouds by tracking both the aggregate surface area and volume fraction of the cloud. Hence, formulations for the dynamics of individual bubbles (e.g. Rayleigh-Plesset equation) may be integrated within the macroscopic context of a dense vapor cloud i.e. a cloud that occupies a significant fraction of available volume and contains numerous bubbles. This formulation has been implemented within the CRUNCH CFD, which has a compressible real fluid formulation, a multi-element, unstructured grid framework, and has been validated extensively for liquid rocket turbopump inducers. Detailed unsteady simulations of a cavitating ogive in liquid nitrogen are presented where time-averaged mean cavity pressure and temperature depressions due to cavitation are compared with experimental data. The model also provides the spatial and temporal history of the bubble size distribution in the vapor clouds that are shed, an important physical parameter that is difficult to measure experimentally and is a significant advancement in the modeling of dense cloud cavitation.

A Multi-Model Assessment for the 2006 and 2010 Simulations under the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII) Phase 2 over North America: Part II. Evaluation of Column Variable Predictions Using Satellite Data

EPA Science Inventory

Within the context of the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative phase 2 (AQMEII2) project, this part II paper performs a multi-model assessment of major column abundances of gases, radiation, aerosol, and cloud variables for 2006 and 2010 simulations with three on...

Biosensor System for Continuous Monitoring of Organophosphate Aerosols (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-01

performed by chromatog- aphy coupled with mass selective detectors or various types of pectroscopy (Staaf and Ostman, 2005; Bjorklund et al., 2004...diverted to aste while the bubble-free flow was directed through the IMER olumns and into a single wavelength absorbance detector . The ow rate was...maintained at 2 ml/min by a second piston pump ositioned between the debubbler and the IMER columns so that he sample was under positive pressure as it

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

Archer, D.

A two-dimensional model of a sediment column, with Darcy fluid flow, biological and thermal methane production, and permafrost and methane hydrate formation, is subjected to glacial–interglacial cycles in sea level, alternately exposing the continental shelf to the cold atmosphere during glacial times and immersing it in the ocean in interglacial times. The glacial cycles are followed by a "long-tail" 100 kyr warming due to fossil fuel combustion. The salinity of the sediment column in the interior of the shelf can be decreased by hydrological forcing to depths well below sea level when the sediment is exposed to the atmosphere. Theremore » is no analogous advective seawater-injecting mechanism upon resubmergence, only slower diffusive mechanisms. This hydrological ratchet is consistent with the existence of freshwater beneath the sea floor on continental shelves around the world, left over from the last glacial period. The salt content of the sediment column affects the relative proportions of the solid and fluid H 2O-containing phases, but in the permafrost zone the salinity in the pore fluid brine is a function of temperature only, controlled by equilibrium with ice. Ice can tolerate a higher salinity in the pore fluid than methane hydrate can at low pressure and temperature, excluding methane hydrate from thermodynamic stability in the permafrost zone. The implication is that any methane hydrate existing today will be insulated from anthropogenic climate change by hundreds of meters of sediment, resulting in a response time of thousands of years. The strongest impact of the glacial–interglacial cycles on the atmospheric methane flux is due to bubbles dissolving in the ocean when sea level is high. When sea level is low and the sediment surface is exposed to the atmosphere, the atmospheric flux is sensitive to whether permafrost inhibits bubble migration in the model. If it does, the atmospheric flux is highest during the glaciating, sea level regression (soil-freezing) part of the cycle rather than during deglacial transgression (warming and thawing). The atmospheric flux response to a warming climate is small, relative to the rest of the methane sources to the atmosphere in the global budget, because of the ongoing flooding of the continental shelf. The increased methane flux due to ocean warming could be completely counteracted by a sea level rise of tens of meters on millennial timescales due to the loss of ice sheets, decreasing the efficiency of bubble transit through the water column. The model results give no indication of a mechanism by which methane emissions from the Siberian continental shelf could have a significant impact on the near-term evolution of Earth's climate, but on millennial timescales the release of carbon from hydrate and permafrost could contribute significantly to the fossil fuel carbon burden in the atmosphere–ocean–terrestrial carbon cycle.« less

Methane and sulfate dynamics in sediments from mangrove-dominated tropical coastal lagoons, Yucatan, Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chuang, P. C.; Young, Megan B.; Dale, Andrew W.; Miller, Laurence G.; Herrera-Silveira, Jorge A.; Paytan, Adina

2016-01-01

Porewater profiles in sediment cores from mangrove-dominated coastal lagoons (Celestún and Chelem) on the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, reveal the widespread coexistence of dissolved methane and sulfate. This observation is interesting since dissolved methane in porewaters is typically oxidized anaerobically by sulfate. To explain the observations we used a numerical transport-reaction model that was constrained by the field observations. The model suggests that methane in the upper sediments is produced in the sulfate reduction zone at rates ranging between 0.012 and 31 mmol m−2 d−1, concurrent with sulfate reduction rates between 1.1 and 24 mmol SO42− m−2 d−1. These processes are supported by high organic matter content in the sediment and the use of non-competitive substrates by methanogenic microorganisms. Indeed sediment slurry incubation experiments show that non-competitive substrates such as trimethylamine (TMA) and methanol can be utilized for microbial methanogenesis at the study sites. The model also indicates that a significant fraction of methane is transported to the sulfate reduction zone from deeper zones within the sedimentary column by rising bubbles and gas dissolution. The shallow depths of methane production and the fast rising methane gas bubbles reduce the likelihood for oxidation, thereby allowing a large fraction of the methane formed in the sediments to escape to the overlying water column.

Scale up of fuel ethanol production from sugar beet juice using loofa sponge immobilized bioreactor.

PubMed

Ogbonna, J C; Mashima, H; Tanaka, H

2001-01-01

Production of fuel ethanol from sugar beet juice, using cells immobilized on loofa sponge was investigated. Based on ethanol productivity and ease of cell immobilization, a flocculating yeast strain, Saccharomyces cerevisiae IR2 was selected for ethanol production from sugar beet juice. It was found that raw sugar beet juice was an optimal substrate for ethanol production, requiring neither pH adjustment nor nitrogen source supplement. When compared with a 2 l bubble column bioreactor, mixing was not sufficient in an 8 l bioreactor containing a bed of sliced loofa sponges and consequently, the immobilized cells were not uniformly distributed within the bed. Most of the cells were immobilized in the lower part of the bed and this resulted in decreased ethanol productivity. By using an external loop bioreactor, constructing the fixed bed with cylindrical loofa sponges, dividing the bed into upper, middle and lower sections with approximately 1 cm spaces between them and circulating the broth through the loop during the immobilization, uniform cell distribution within the bed was achieved. Using this method, the system was scaled up to 50 l and when compared with the 2 l bubble column bioreactor, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in ethanol productivity and yield. By using external loop bioreactor to immobilize the cells uniformly on the loofa sponge beds, efficient large scale ethanol production systems can be constructed.

Artemisinin production by plant hairy root cultures in gas- and liquid-phase bioreactors.

PubMed

Patra, Nivedita; Srivastava, Ashok K

2016-01-01

Alternative biotechnological protocol for large-scale artemisinin production was established. It featured enhanced growth and artemisinin production by cultivation of hairy roots in nutrient mist bioreactor (NMB) coupled with novel cultivation strategies. Artemisinin is used for the treatment of cerebral malaria. Presently, its main source is from seasonal plant Artemisia annua. This study featured investigation of growth and artemisinin production by A. annua hairy roots (induced by Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated genetic transformation of explants) in three bioreactor configurations-bubble column reactor, NMB and modified NMB particularly to establish their suitability for commercial production. It was observed that cultivation of hairy roots in a non-stirred bubble column reactor exhibited a biomass accumulation of 5.68 g/l only while batch cultivation in a custom-made NMB exhibited a higher biomass concentration of 8.52 g/l but relatively lower artemisinin accumulation of 0.22 mg/g was observed in this reactor. A mixture of submerged liquid-phase growth (for 5 days) followed by gas-phase cultivation in nutrient mist reactor operation strategy (for next 15 days) was adopted for hairy root cultivation in this investigation. Reasonably, high (23.02 g/l) final dry weight along with the artemisinin accumulation (1.12 mg/g, equivalent to 25.78 mg/l artemisinin) was obtained in this bioreactor, which is the highest reported artemisinin yield in the gas-phase NMB cultivation.

Multiple-stage decisions in a marine central-place forager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedlaender, Ari S.; Johnston, David W.; Tyson, Reny B.; Kaltenberg, Amanda; Goldbogen, Jeremy A.; Stimpert, Alison K.; Curtice, Corrie; Hazen, Elliott L.; Halpin, Patrick N.; Read, Andrew J.; Nowacek, Douglas P.

2016-05-01

Air-breathing marine animals face a complex set of physical challenges associated with diving that affect the decisions of how to optimize feeding. Baleen whales (Mysticeti) have evolved bulk-filter feeding mechanisms to efficiently feed on dense prey patches. Baleen whales are central place foragers where oxygen at the surface represents the central place and depth acts as the distance to prey. Although hypothesized that baleen whales will target the densest prey patches anywhere in the water column, how depth and density interact to influence foraging behaviour is poorly understood. We used multi-sensor archival tags and active acoustics to quantify Antarctic humpback whale foraging behaviour relative to prey. Our analyses reveal multi-stage foraging decisions driven by both krill depth and density. During daylight hours when whales did not feed, krill were found in deep high-density patches. As krill migrated vertically into larger and less dense patches near the surface, whales began to forage. During foraging bouts, we found that feeding rates (number of feeding lunges per hour) were greatest when prey was shallowest, and feeding rates decreased with increasing dive depth. This strategy is consistent with previous models of how air-breathing diving animals optimize foraging efficiency. Thus, humpback whales forage mainly when prey is more broadly distributed and shallower, presumably to minimize diving and searching costs and to increase feeding rates overall and thus foraging efficiency. Using direct measurements of feeding behaviour from animal-borne tags and prey availability from echosounders, our study demonstrates a multi-stage foraging process in a central place forager that we suggest acts to optimize overall efficiency by maximizing net energy gain over time. These data reveal a previously unrecognized level of complexity in predator-prey interactions and underscores the need to simultaneously measure prey distribution in marine central place forager studies.

Multiple-stage decisions in a marine central-place forager.

PubMed

Friedlaender, Ari S; Johnston, David W; Tyson, Reny B; Kaltenberg, Amanda; Goldbogen, Jeremy A; Stimpert, Alison K; Curtice, Corrie; Hazen, Elliott L; Halpin, Patrick N; Read, Andrew J; Nowacek, Douglas P

2016-05-01

Air-breathing marine animals face a complex set of physical challenges associated with diving that affect the decisions of how to optimize feeding. Baleen whales (Mysticeti) have evolved bulk-filter feeding mechanisms to efficiently feed on dense prey patches. Baleen whales are central place foragers where oxygen at the surface represents the central place and depth acts as the distance to prey. Although hypothesized that baleen whales will target the densest prey patches anywhere in the water column, how depth and density interact to influence foraging behaviour is poorly understood. We used multi-sensor archival tags and active acoustics to quantify Antarctic humpback whale foraging behaviour relative to prey. Our analyses reveal multi-stage foraging decisions driven by both krill depth and density. During daylight hours when whales did not feed, krill were found in deep high-density patches. As krill migrated vertically into larger and less dense patches near the surface, whales began to forage. During foraging bouts, we found that feeding rates (number of feeding lunges per hour) were greatest when prey was shallowest, and feeding rates decreased with increasing dive depth. This strategy is consistent with previous models of how air-breathing diving animals optimize foraging efficiency. Thus, humpback whales forage mainly when prey is more broadly distributed and shallower, presumably to minimize diving and searching costs and to increase feeding rates overall and thus foraging efficiency. Using direct measurements of feeding behaviour from animal-borne tags and prey availability from echosounders, our study demonstrates a multi-stage foraging process in a central place forager that we suggest acts to optimize overall efficiency by maximizing net energy gain over time. These data reveal a previously unrecognized level of complexity in predator-prey interactions and underscores the need to simultaneously measure prey distribution in marine central place forager studies.

Structural health monitoring and damage evaluation for steel confined reinforced concrete column using the acoustic emission technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Fangzhu; Li, Dongsheng

2018-03-01

As a new kind of composite structures, the using of steel confined reinforced concrete column attract increasing attention in civil engineer. During the damage process, this new structure offers highly complex and invisible failure mechanism due to the combination effects of steel tubes, concrete, and steel rebar. Acoustic emission (AE) technique has been extensively studied in nondestructive testing (NDT) and is currently applied in civil engineering for structural health monitoring (SHM) and damage evaluation. In the present study, damage property and failure evolution of steel confined and unconfined reinforced concrete (RC) columns are investigated under quasi-static loading through (AE) signal. Significantly improved loading capacity and excellent energy dissipation characteristic demonstrated the practicality of that proposed structure. AE monitoring results indicated that the progressive deformation of the test specimens occur in three stages representing different damage conditions. Sentry function compares the logarithm ratio between the stored strain energy (Es) and the released acoustic energy (Ea); explicitly disclose the damage growth and failure mechanism of the test specimens. Other extended AE features including index of damage (ID), and relax ratio are calculated to quantitatively evaluate the damage severity and critical point. Complicated temporal evolution of different AE features confirms the potential importance of integrated analysis of two or more parameters. The proposed multi-indicators analysis is capable of revealing the damage growth and failure mechanism for steel confined RC columns, and providing critical warning information for structure failure.

Bubble pump: scalable strategy for in-plane liquid routing.

PubMed

Oskooei, Ali; Günther, Axel

2015-07-07

We present an on-chip liquid routing technique intended for application in well-based microfluidic systems that require long-term active pumping at low to medium flowrates. Our technique requires only one fluidic feature layer, one pneumatic control line and does not rely on flexible membranes and mechanical or moving parts. The presented bubble pump is therefore compatible with both elastomeric and rigid substrate materials and the associated scalable manufacturing processes. Directed liquid flow was achieved in a microchannel by an in-series configuration of two previously described "bubble gates", i.e., by gas-bubble enabled miniature gate valves. Only one time-dependent pressure signal is required and initiates at the upstream (active) bubble gate a reciprocating bubble motion. Applied at the downstream (passive) gate a time-constant gas pressure level is applied. In its rest state, the passive gate remains closed and only temporarily opens while the liquid pressure rises due to the active gate's reciprocating bubble motion. We have designed, fabricated and consistently operated our bubble pump with a variety of working liquids for >72 hours. Flow rates of 0-5.5 μl min(-1), were obtained and depended on the selected geometric dimensions, working fluids and actuation frequencies. The maximum operational pressure was 2.9 kPa-9.1 kPa and depended on the interfacial tension of the working fluids. Attainable flow rates compared favorably with those of available micropumps. We achieved flow rate enhancements of 30-100% by operating two bubble pumps in tandem and demonstrated scalability of the concept in a multi-well format with 12 individually and uniformly perfused microchannels (variation in flow rate <7%). We envision the demonstrated concept to allow for the consistent on-chip delivery of a wide range of different liquids that may even include highly reactive or moisture sensitive solutions. The presented bubble pump may provide active flow control for analytical and point-of-care diagnostic devices, as well as for microfluidic cells culture and organ-on-chip platforms.

EVALUATION OF VADOSE ZONE AND SORUCE MODULES FOR MULTI-MEDIA, MULTI-PATHWAY, AND MULTI-RECEPTOR RISK ASSESSMENT USING LARGE-SOIL-COLUMN EXPERIMENTAL DATA

EPA Science Inventory

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a comprehensive environmental exposure and risk analysis software system for agency-wide application using the methodology of a Multi-media, Multi-pathway, Multi-receptor Risk Assessment (3MRA) model. This sof...

EVALUATION OF VADOSE ZONE AND SOURCE MODELS FOR MULTI-MEDIA, MULTI-PATHWAY, MULTI-RECEPTOR RISK ASSESSMENT USING LARGE SOIL COLUMN EXPERIMENT DATA

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a comprehensive environmental exposure and risk analysis software system for agency-wide application using the methodology of a Multi-media, Multi-pathway, Multi-receptor Risk Assessment (3MRA) model. This software sys...

-> Air entrainment and bubble statistics in three-dimensional breaking waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deike, L.; Popinet, S.; Melville, W. K.

2016-02-01

Wave breaking in the ocean is of fundamental importance for quantifying wave dissipation and air-sea interaction, including gas and momentum exchange, and for improving air-sea flux parametrizations for weather and climate models. Here we investigate air entrainment and bubble statistics in three-dimensional breaking waves through direct numerical simulations of the two-phase air-water flow using the Open Source solver Gerris. As in previous 2D simulations, the dissipation due to breaking is found to be in good agreement with previous experimental observations and inertial-scaling arguments. For radii larger than the Hinze scale, the bubble size distribution is found to follow a power law of the radius, r-10/3 and to scale linearly with the time dependent turbulent dissipation rate during the active breaking stage. The time-averaged bubble size distribution is found to follow the same power law of the radius and to scale linearly with the wave dissipation rate per unit length of breaking crest. We propose a phenomenological turbulent bubble break-up model that describes the numerical results and existing experimental results.

Optimization of Feasibility Stage for Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamuro, Yoshitomo; Coales, Stephen J.

2018-03-01

The practice of HDX-MS remains somewhat difficult, not only for newcomers but also for veterans, despite its increasing popularity. While a typical HDX-MS project starts with a feasibility stage where the experimental conditions are optimized and the peptide map is generated prior to the HDX study stage, the literature usually reports only the HDX study stage. In this protocol, we describe a few considerations for the initial feasibility stage, more specifically, how to optimize quench conditions, how to tackle the carryover issue, and how to apply the pepsin specificity rule. Two sets of quench conditions are described depending on the presence of disulfide bonds to facilitate the quench condition optimization process. Four protocols are outlined to minimize carryover during the feasibility stage: (1) addition of a detergent to the quench buffer, (2) injection of a detergent or chaotrope to the protease column after each sample injection, (3) back-flushing of the trap column and the analytical column with a new plumbing configuration, and (4) use of PEEK (or PEEK coated) frits instead of stainless steel frits for the columns. The application of the pepsin specificity rule after peptide map generation and not before peptide map generation is suggested. The rule can be used not only to remove falsely identified peptides, but also to check the sample purity. A well-optimized HDX-MS feasibility stage makes subsequent HDX study stage smoother and the resulting HDX data more reliable. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Molten salt rolling bubble column, reactors utilizing same and related methods

DOEpatents

Turner, Terry D.; Benefiel, Bradley C.; Bingham, Dennis N.; Klinger, Kerry M.; Wilding, Bruce M.

2015-11-17

Reactors for carrying out a chemical reaction, as well as related components, systems and methods are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, a reactor is provided that includes a furnace and a crucible positioned for heating by the furnace. The crucible may contain a molten salt bath. A downtube is disposed at least partially within the interior crucible along an axis. The downtube includes a conduit having a first end in communication with a carbon source and an outlet at a second end of the conduit for introducing the carbon material into the crucible. At least one opening is formed in the conduit between the first end and the second end to enable circulation of reaction components contained within the crucible through the conduit. An oxidizing material may be introduced through a bottom portion of the crucible in the form of gas bubbles to react with the other materials.

Rod-shaped cavitation bubble structure in ultrasonic field.

PubMed

Bai, Lixin; Wu, Pengfei; Liu, Huiyu; Yan, Jiuchun; Su, Chang; Li, Chao

2018-06-01

Rod-shaped cavitation bubble structure in thin liquid layers in ultrasonic field is investigated experimentally. It is found that cavitation structure successively experiences several stages with the change of the thickness of the thin liquid layer. Rod-shaped structure is a stable structure of the boundary between the cavitation cloud region and the non-cavitation liquid region, which can be formed in two different ways. Cavitation bubbles in a thin liquid layer have a distribution in the thickness direction. The rod-shaped structures tend to crosslink with each other to form stable Y-branch structures. The angle of the Y-branch structure is Gauss distribution with mathematical expectation μ = 119.93. A special rod-shaped cavitation structure with source is also investigated in detail. Due to the pressure gradient in the normal direction, the primary Bjerknes force causes the bubbles in the rod-shaped structure on both sides to converge to the axis. The secondary Bjerknes forces between the bubbles also make the cluster converge, so the large bubbles which are attached to the radiating surface tend to align themselves along the central line. According to the formula deduced in this paper, the variation of curvature of curved rod-shaped structure is qualitatively analyzed. The Y-branch structure of cavitation cloud and Plateau boundary of soap bubbles are compared. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Turbulent water flow in a channel at Reτ = 400 laden with 0.25 mm diameter air-bubbles clustered near the wall

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lakehal, D.; Métrailler, D.; Reboux, S.

2017-06-01

This paper presents Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) results of a turbulent water flow in a channel at Reτ = 400 laden with 0.25 mm diameter air bubbles clustered near the wall (maximum void fraction of α = 8% at y+ ˜ 20). The bubbles were fully resolved using the level set approach built within the CFD/CMFD code TransAT. The fluid properties (air and water) were kept real, including density, viscosity, and surface tension coefficient. The aim of this work is to understand the effects of the bubbles on near-wall turbulence, paving the way towards convective wall-boiling flow studies. The interactions between the gas bubbles and the water stream were studied through an in-depth analysis of the turbulence statistics. The near-wall flow is overall affected by the bubbles, which act like roughness elements during the early phase, prior to their departure from the wall. The average profiles are clearly altered by the bubbles dynamics near the wall, which somewhat contrasts with the findings from similar studies [J. Lu and G. Tryggvason, "Dynamics of nearly spherical bubbles in a turbulent channel upflow," J. Fluid Mech. 732, 166 (2013)], most probably because the bubbles were introduced uniformly in the flow and not concentrated at the wall. The shape of the bubbles measured as the apparent to initial diameter ratio is found to change by a factor of at least two, in particular at the later stages when the bubbles burst out from the boundary layer. The clustering of the bubbles seems to be primarily localized in the zone populated by high-speed streaks and independent of their size. More importantly, the bubbly flow seems to differ from the single-phase flow in terms of turbulent stress distribution and energy exchange, in which all the stress components seem to be increased in the region very close to the wall, by up to 40%. The decay in the energy spectra near the wall was found to be significantly slower for the bubbly flow than for a single-phase flow, which confirms that the bubbles increase the energy at smaller scales. The coherent structures in the boundary layer are broken by the bubbles, which disrupts the formation of long structures, reducing the streamwise integral length scale.

Modelling of Lyman-alpha emitting galaxies and ionized bubbles at the epoch of reionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yajima, Hidenobu; Sugimura, Kazuyuki; Hasegawa, Kenji

2018-07-01

Understanding {Ly{α}} emitting galaxies (LAEs) can be a key to reveal cosmic reionization and galaxy formation in the early Universe. Based on halo merger trees and {Ly{α}} radiation transfer calculations, we model redshift evolution of LAEs and their observational properties at z ≥ 6. We consider ionized bubbles associated with individual LAEs and IGM (integer-galactic medium) transmission of {Ly{α}} photons. We find that {Ly{α}} luminosity tightly correlates with halo mass and stellar mass, while the relation with star formation rate has a large dispersion. Comparing our models with the observed luminosity function by Konno et al., we suggest that LAEs at z ˜ 7 have galactic wind of V_out ≳ 100 km s^{-1} and H I column density of N_HI ≳ 10^{20} cm^{-2}. Number density of bright LAEs rapidly decreases as redshift increases, due to both lower star formation rate and smaller H II bubbles. Our model predicts future wide deep surveys with next-generation telescopes, such as James Webb Space Telescope, European Extremely Large Telescope, and Thirty Metre Telescope, can detect LAEs at z ˜ 10 with a number density of n_LAE ˜ {a few } × 10^{-6} Mpc^{-3} for the flux sensitivity of 10^{-18} erg cm^{-2} s^{-1}. When giant H II bubbles are formed by clustering LAEs, the number density of observable LAEs can increase by a factor of few. By combining these surveys with future 21-cm observations, it could be possible to detect both LAEs with L_{Lyα }≳ 10^{42} erg s^{-1} and their associated giant H II bubbles with the size {≳ } 250 kpc at z ˜ 10.

Modelling of Lyman-alpha emitting galaxies and ionized bubbles at the epoch of reionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yajima, Hidenobu; Sugimura, Kazuyuki; Hasegawa, Kenji

2018-04-01

Understanding {Ly{α }} emitting galaxies (LAEs) can be a key to reveal cosmic reionization and galaxy formation in the early Universe. Based on halo merger trees and {Ly{α }} radiation transfer calculations, we model redshift evolution of LAEs and their observational properties at z ≥ 6. We consider ionized bubbles associated with individual LAEs and IGM transmission of {Ly{α }} photons. We find that {Ly{α }} luminosity tightly correlates with halo mass and stellar mass, while the relation with star formation rate has a large dispersion. Comparing our models with the observed luminosity function by Konno et al., we suggest that LAEs at z ˜ 7 have galactic wind of V_out ≳ 100 km s^{-1} and HI column density of N_HI ≳ 10^{20} cm^{-2}. Number density of bright LAEs rapidly decreases as redshift increases, due to both lower star formation rate and smaller HII bubbles. Our model predicts future wide deep surveys with next generation telescopes, such as JWST, E-ELT and TMT, can detect LAEs at z ˜ 10 with a number density of n_LAE ˜ a few × 10^{-6} Mpc^{-3} for the flux sensitivity of 10^{-18} erg cm^{-2} s^{-1}. When giant HII bubbles are formed by clustering LAEs, the number density of observable LAEs can increase by a factor of few. By combining these surveys with future 21-cm observations, it could be possible to detect both LAEs with L_{Lyα }≳ 10^{42} erg s^{-1} and their associated giant HII bubbles with the size ≳ 250 kpc at z ˜ 10.

Heard Island and McDonald Islands Acoustic Plumes: Split-beam Echo sounder and Deep Tow Camera Observations of Gas Seeps on the Central Kerguelen Plateau

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watson, S. J.; Spain, E. A.; Coffin, M. F.; Whittaker, J. M.; Fox, J. M.; Bowie, A. R.

2016-12-01

Heard and McDonald islands (HIMI) are two active volcanic edifices on the Central Kerguelen Plateau. Scientists aboard the Heard Earth-Ocean-Biosphere Interactions voyage in early 2016 explored how this volcanic activity manifests itself near HIMI. Using Simrad EK60 split-beam echo sounder and deep tow camera data from RV Investigator, we recorded the distribution of seafloor emissions, providing the first direct evidence of seabed discharge around HIMI, mapping >244 acoustic plume signals. Northeast of Heard, three distinct plume clusters are associated with bubbles (towed camera) and the largest directly overlies a sub-seafloor opaque zone (sub-bottom profiler) with >140 zones observed within 6.5 km. Large temperature anomalies did not characterize any of the acoustic plumes where temperature data were recorded. We therefore suggest that these plumes are cold methane seeps. Acoustic properties - mean volume backscattering and target strength - and morphology - height, width, depth to surface - of plumes around McDonald resembled those northeast of Heard, also suggesting gas bubbles. We observed no bubbles on extremely limited towed camera data around McDonald; however, visibility was poor. The acoustic response of the plumes at different frequencies (120 kHz vs. 18 kHz), a technique used to classify water column scatterers, differed between HIMI, suggestiing dissimilar target size (bubble radii) distributions. Environmental context and temporal characteristics of the plumes differed between HIMI. Heard plumes were concentrated on flat, sediment rich plains, whereas around McDonald plumes emanated from sea knolls and mounds with hard volcanic seafloor. The Heard plumes were consistent temporally, while the McDonald plumes varied temporally possibly related to tides or subsurface processes. Our data and analyses suggest that HIMI acoustic plumes were likely caused by gas bubbles; however, the bubbles may originate from two or more distinct processes.

High-throughput NGL electron-beam direct-write lithography system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parker, N. William; Brodie, Alan D.; McCoy, John H.

2000-07-01

Electron beam lithography systems have historically had low throughput. The only practical solution to this limitation is an approach using many beams writing simultaneously. For single-column multi-beam systems, including projection optics (SCALPELR and PREVAIL) and blanked aperture arrays, throughput and resolution are limited by space-charge effects. Multibeam micro-column (one beam per column) systems are limited by the need for low voltage operation, electrical connection density and fabrication complexities. In this paper, we discuss a new multi-beam concept employing multiple columns each with multiple beams to generate a very large total number of parallel writing beams. This overcomes the limitations of space-charge interactions and low voltage operation. We also discuss a rationale leading to the optimum number of columns and beams per column. Using this approach we show how production throughputs >= 60 wafers per hour can be achieved at CDs

Simultaneous determination of nandrolone, testosterone, and methyltestosterone by multi-immunoaffinity column and capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Qi, Xiao-Hua; Zhang, Li-Wei; Zhang, Xin-Xiang

2008-08-01

A multitarget antibody immunoaffinity column was proposed for the purification and enrichment of nandrolone, testosterone, and methyltestosterone from urine. Nandrolone-3-site substituted antigen was designed and synthesized and the polyclonal antibody was prepared with immunizing rabbits. The stationary phase of the immunoaffinity column was synthesized by covalently bonding the antibodies specific to nandrolone, testosterone, and methyltestosterone onto CNBr-actived Sepharose 4B. The analytes of interest were extracted with a methanol/water mixture in one step. The immunoaffinity column showed high affinity and high selectivity to a class of structurally related compounds. The elution was then transferred to a micellar electrokinetic CE system with a running buffer of sodium borate and sodium cholate for separation and determination. Recoveries of the three steroids from complex matrix were 88-94% with RSD values less than 5.2%. Optimization of the immunoaffinity column purification was achieved and the feasibility of the technique for the analysis of steroid hormone was discussed. The results indicated that the combination of multi-immunoaffinity column and CE was an effective technique, which was rapid, simple, and sensitive for the assay of steroids.

Dynamics of degassing at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vergniolle, Sylvie; Jaupart, Claude

1990-03-01

At Kilauea volcano, Hawaii, the recent long-lived eruptions of Mauna Ulu and Pu'u O'o have occurred in two major stages, defining a characteristic eruptive pattern. The first stage consists of cyclic changes of activity between episodes of "fire fountaining" and periods of quiescence or effusion of vesicular lava. The second stage consists only of continuous effusion of lava. We suggest that these features reflect the dynamics of magma degassing in a chamber which empties into a narrow conduit. In the volcano chamber, gas bubbles rise through magma and accumulate at the roof in a foam layer. The foam flows toward the conduit, and its shape is determined by a dynamic balance between the input of bubbles from below and the output into the conduit. The foam thickness is proportional to (μlQ/ɛ2 ρl g)1/4, where μ l and ρl are the viscosity and density of magma, ɛ is the gas volume fraction in the foam, g is the acceleration of gravity, and Q is the gas flux. The bubbles in the foam deform under the action of buoyancy, and the maximum permissible foam thickness is hc = 2σ/ɛρlgR, where σ is the coefficient of surface tension and R is the original bubble radius. If this critical thickness is reached, the foam collapses into a large gas pocket which erupts into the conduit. Foam accumulation then resumes, and a new cycle begins. The attainment of the foam collapse threshold requires a gas flux in excess of a critical value which depends on viscosity, surface tension, and bubble size. Hence two different eruption regimes are predicted: (1) alternating regimes of foam buildup and collapse leading to the periodic eruption of large gas volumes and (2) steady foam flow at the roof leading to continuous bubbly flow in the conduit. The essential result is that the continuous process of degassing can lead to discontinuous eruptive behavior. Data on eruption rates and repose times between fountaining phases from the 1969 Mauna UIu and the 1983-1986 Pu'u O'o eruptions yield constraints on three key variables. The area of the chamber roof must be a few tens of square kilometers, with a minimum value of about 8 km2. Magma reservoirs of similar dimensions are imaged by seismic attenuation tomography below the east rift zone. Close to the roof, the gas volume fraction is a few percent, and the gas bubbles have diameters lying between 0.1 and 0.6 mm. These estimates are close to the predictions of models for bubble nucleation and growth in basaltic melts, as well as to the observations on deep submarine basalts. The transition between cyclic and continuous activity occurs when the mass flux of gas becomes lower than a critical value of the order of 103 kg/s. In this model, changes of eruptive regime reflect changes in the amount and size of bubbles which reach the chamber roof.

Transient gas jets into liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jane Ming-Chin

An experimental investigation of the development of high velocity, impulsively initiated gas jets into liquid was conducted in an effort to understand some of the physical processes that occur for a jet of very light fluid into a dense ambient atmosphere. Four gases, refrigerants 12 and 22, nitrogen, and helium were injected into water at nozzle exit Mach numbers from 1.0 to 2.2.The study showed that a gas jet into water develops in at least three stages: startup, transition, and global steady state. The startup is characterized by bubble growth; the growth rate is well predicted by classical bubble-growth theory. Jet transition is marked by axially directed flow, which penetrates through the startup bubble and which forms a cylindrical protrusion along the axis of symmetry. A combination of strong recirculating flow and liquid entrainment causes the startup bubble to deflate and to lift off and move downstream. In the steady state, instantaneous photographs show small-scale fluctuations of the jet boundary, but time-averaged photographs show the expected conical spreading of the steady jet; the measured spreading angles range from 18-25 degrees.However, the most significant finding of this study is that under some conditions, the gas jet into liquid never reaches the global steady state. Instead, the jet boundary exhibits chugging: large nonlinear oscillations which lead to irregular collapses of the gas column followed by explosive outward bursts of gas. The unsteadiness observed is much more violent than the familiar fluctuations typical of constant-density jets. The length scale of the motion is generally on the order of several jet diameters; the time scale is on the order of the period for bubble collapse.It was found that the amplitude and frequency of chugging are strongly dependent on the ratio of the liquid density to the gas density, the jet Mach number, and the operating pressure ratio. The conditions under which unsteadiness occurs were determined experimentally. In particular, a quantitative measure of jet susceptibility to unsteadiness has been established. Steady jets can be achieved in two ways: by being discharged from deLaval nozzles (increasing the exit Mach number) or by being overpressured.The unsteady behavior is modeled as the collapse of a bubble in liquid; comparisons of collapse times show good agreement. A mechanism for the unsteadiness is discussed. It is proposed that the chugging is the response of the jet boundary to a pressure difference between the jet and surrounding liquid, which arises as the result of the rapid expansion of a light fluid into a dense ambient atmosphere. The flow is shown to be similar to the discharge of a gas from a nozzle into a channel of larger cross section. An upper limit to the pressure difference is determined based on estimates of the minimum base pressure for such channel flows; a lower limit is established for the collapse time. All experimental values are within the bounds. The derived values indicate that the pressure differences between the jet and liquid may be more than 90 percent of the ambient pressure.

ON A CORONAL BLOWOUT JET: THE FIRST OBSERVATION OF A SIMULTANEOUSLY PRODUCED BUBBLE-LIKE CME AND A JET-LIKE CME IN A SOLAR EVENT

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

Shen Yuandeng; Liu Yu; Su Jiangtao

2012-02-01

The coronal blowout jet is a peculiar category among various jet phenomena, in which the sheared base arch, often carrying a small filament, experiences a miniature version of blowout eruption that produces large-scale coronal mass ejection (CME). In this paper, we report such a coronal blowout jet with high-resolution multi-wavelength and multi-angle observations taken from Solar Dynamics Observatory, Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory, and Big Bear Solar Observatory. For the first time, we find that simultaneous bubble-like and jet-like CMEs were dynamically related to the blowout jet that showed cool and hot components next to each other. Our observational results indicatemore » that (1) the cool component resulted from the eruption of the filament contained within the jet's base arch, and it further caused the bubble-like CME; (2) the jet-like CME was associated with the hot component, which was the outward moving heated plasma generated by the reconnection of the base arch and its ambient open field lines. On the other hand, bifurcation of the jet's cool component was also observed, which resulted from the uncoupling of the erupting filament's two legs that were highly twisted at the very beginning. Based on these results, we propose a model to interpret the coronal blowout jet, in which the external reconnection not only produces the jet-like CME, but also leads to the rising of the filament. Subsequently, internal reconnection starts underneath the rising filament and thereby causes the bubble-like CME.« less

Hubble peers inside a celestial geode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2004-08-01

celestial geode hi-res Size hi-res: 148 Kb Credits: ESA/NASA, Yäel Nazé (University of Liège, Belgium) and You-Hua Chu (University of Illinois, Urbana, USA) Hubble peers inside a celestial geode In this unusual image, the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope captures a rare view of the celestial equivalent of a geode - a gas cavity carved by the stellar wind and intense ultraviolet radiation from a young hot star. Real geodes are handball-sized, hollow rocks that start out as bubbles in volcanic or sedimentary rock. Only when these inconspicuous round rocks are split in half by a geologist, do we get a chance to appreciate the inside of the rock cavity that is lined with crystals. In the case of Hubble's 35 light-year diameter ‘celestial geode’ the transparency of its bubble-like cavity of interstellar gas and dust reveals the treasures of its interior. Low resolution version (JPG format) 148 Kb High resolution version (TIFF format) 1929 Kb Acknowledgment: This image was created with the help of the ESA/ESO/NASA Photoshop FITS Liberator. Real geodes are handball-sized, hollow rocks that start out as bubbles in volcanic or sedimentary rock. Only when these inconspicuous round rocks are split in half by a geologist, do we get a chance to appreciate the inside of the rock cavity that is lined with crystals. In the case of Hubble's 35 light-year diameter ‘celestial geode’ the transparency of its bubble-like cavity of interstellar gas and dust reveals the treasures of its interior. The object, called N44F, is being inflated by a torrent of fast-moving particles (what astronomers call a 'stellar wind') from an exceptionally hot star (the bright star just below the centre of the bubble) once buried inside a cold dense cloud. Compared with our Sun (which is losing mass through the so-called 'solar wind'), the central star in N44F is ejecting more than a 100 million times more mass per second and the hurricane of particles moves much faster at 7 million km per hour (as opposed to less than 1.5 million km per hour for our Sun). Because the bright central star does not exist in empty space but is surrounded by an envelope of gas, the stellar wind collides with this gas, pushing it out, like a snow plough. This forms a bubble, whose striking structure is clearly visible in the crisp Hubble image. The nebula N44F is one of a handful of known interstellar bubbles. Bubbles like these have been seen around evolved massive stars (called 'Wolf-Rayet stars'), and also around clusters of stars (where they are called 'super-bubbles'). But they have rarely been viewed around isolated stars, as is the case here. On closer inspection N44F harbours additional surprises. The interior wall of its gaseous cavity is lined with several four to eight light-year high finger-like columns of cool dust and gas. (The structure of these 'columns' is similar to the Eagle Nebula’s iconic 'Pillars of Creation' photographed by Hubble a decade ago, and is seen in a few other nebulae as well). The fingers are created by a blistering ultraviolet radiation from the central star. Like wind socks caught in a gale, they point in the direction of the energy flow. These pillars look small in this image only because they are much farther away from us then the Eagle Nebula’s pillars. N44F is located about 160 000 light-years in the neighbouring dwarf galaxy the Large Magellanic Cloud, in the direction of the southern constellation Dorado. N44F is part of the larger N44 complex, which contains a large super-bubble, blown out by the combined action of stellar winds and multiple supernova explosions. N44 itself is roughly 1000 light-years across. Several compact star-forming regions, including N44F, are found along the rim of the central super-bubble. This image was taken with Hubble's Wide Field Planetary Camera 2, using filters that isolate light emitted by sulphur (shown in blue, a 1200-second exposure) and hydrogen gas (shown in red, a 1000-second exposure).

Effects of bubbling operations on a thermally stratified reservoir: implications for water quality amelioration.

PubMed

Fernandez, R L; Bonansea, M; Cosavella, A; Monarde, F; Ferreyra, M; Bresciano, J

2012-01-01

Artificial thermal mixing of the water column is a common method of addressing water quality problems with the most popular method of destratification being the bubble curtain. The air or oxygen distribution along submerged multiport diffusers is based on similar basic principles as those of outfall disposal systems. Moreover, the disposal of sequestered greenhouse gases into the ocean, as recently proposed by several researchers to mitigate the global warming problem, requires analogous design criteria. In this paper, the influence of a bubble-plume is evaluated using full-scale temperature and water quality data collected in San Roque Reservoir, Argentina. A composite system consisting of seven separated diffusers connected to four 500 kPa compressors was installed at this reservoir by the end of 2008. The original purpose of this air bubble system was to reduce the stratification, so that the water body may completely mix under natural phenomena and remain well oxygenated throughout the year. By using a combination of the field measurements and modelling, this work demonstrates that thermal mixing by means of compressed air may improve water quality; however, if improperly sized or operated, such mixing can also cause deterioration. Any disruption in aeration during the destratification process, for example, may result in a reduction of oxygen levels due to the higher hypolimnetic temperatures. Further, the use of artificial destratification appears to have insignificant influence on reducing evaporation rates in relatively shallow impoundments such as San Roque reservoir.

Equatorial Plasma Bubbles: Effect of Thermospheric Winds Modulated by DE3 Tidal Waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sidorova, L. N.; Filippov, S. V.

2018-03-01

A hypothesis about the effect of the tropospheric source on the longitudinal distributions of the equatorial plasma bubbles observed in the topside ionosphere was proposed earlier. It was supposed that this influence is transferred mainly by the thermospheric winds modulated by the DE3 tropospheric tidal waves. This conclusion was based on the discovered high degree correlation ( R ≅ 0.79) between the variations of the longitudinal distribution of the plasma bubbles and the neutral atmospheric density. In this work, the hypothesis of the effect of the thermospheric tidal waves on the plasma bubbles at the stage of their generation is subjected to further verification. With this purpose, the longitudinal distributions of the frequency of the plasma bubble observations at the different ionospheric altitudes ( 600 km, ROCSAT-1; 1100 km, ISS-b) are analyzed; their principal similarity is revealed. Comparative analysis of these distributions with the longitudinal profile of the deviations of the zonal thermospheric wind ( 400 km, CHAMP) modulated by the DE3 tidal wave is carried out; their considerable correlation ( R ≅ 0.69) is revealed. We conclude that the longitudinal variations of the zonal wind associated with DE3 tidal waves can effect the longitudinal variations in the appearance frequency of the initial "seeding" perturbations, which further evolve into the plasma bubbles.

On Entropy Generation and the Effect of Heat and Mass Transfer Coupling in a Distillation Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burgos-Madrigal, Paulina; Mendoza, Diego F.; López de Haro, Mariano

2018-01-01

The entropy production rates as obtained from the exergy analysis, entropy balance and the nonequilibrium thermodynamics approach are compared for two distillation columns. The first case is a depropanizer column involving a mixture of ethane, propane, n-butane and n-pentane. The other is a weighed sample of Mexican crude oil distilled with a pilot scale fractionating column. The composition, temperature and flow profiles, for a given duty and operating conditions in each column, are obtained with the Aspen Plus V8.4 software by using the RateFrac model with a rate-based nonequilibrium column. For the depropanizer column the highest entropy production rate is found in the central trays where most of the mass transfer occurs, while in the second column the highest values correspond to the first three stages (where the vapor mixture is in contact with the cold liquid reflux), and to the last three stages (where the highest temperatures take place). The importance of the explicit inclusion of thermal diffusion in these processes is evaluated. In the depropanizer column, the effect of the coupling between heat and mass transfer is found to be negligible, while for the fractionating column it becomes appreciable.

Galaxy NGC 3079

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

A lumpy bubble of hot gas rises from a cauldron of glowing matter in a distant galaxy, as seen by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.

The new images, taken by Hubble's Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2, are online at http://oposite.stsci.edu/pubinfo/pr/2001/28 and http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/wfpc. The camera was designed and built by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.

Galaxy NGC 3079, located 50 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Ursa Major, has a huge bubble in the center of its disc, as seen in the image on the left. The smaller photo at right shows a close-up of the bubble. The two white dots are stars.

Astronomers suspect the bubble is being blown by 'winds,' or high-speed streams of particles, released during a burst of star formation. The bubble's lumpy surface has four columns of gaseous filaments towering above the galaxy's disc. The filaments whirl around in a vortex and are expelled into space. Eventually, this gas will rain down on the disc and may collide with gas clouds, compress them and form a new generation of stars.

Theoretical models indicate the bubble formed when winds from hot stars mixed with small bubbles of hot gas from supernova explosions. Radio telescope observations indicate those processes are still active. Eventually, the hot stars will die, and the bubble's energy source will fade away.

The images, taken in 1998, show glowing gas as red and starlight as blue/green. Results appear in the July 1, 2001 issue of the Astrophysical Journal. More information about the Hubble Space Telescope is at http://www.stsci.edu. More information about the Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 is at http://wfpc2.jpl.nasa.gov.

The Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, Md., manages space operations for Hubble for NASA's Office of Space Science, Washington, D.C. The institute is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc., for NASA, under contract with the Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md. The Hubble Space Telescope is a project of international cooperation between NASA and the European Space Agency. JPL is a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

Carbonate Mineral Assemblages as Inclusions in Yakutian Diamonds: TEM Verifications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Logvinova, A. M.; Wirth, R.; Sobolev, N. V.; Taylor, L. A.

2014-12-01

Carbonate mineral inclusions are quite rare in diamonds from the upper mantle, but are evidence for a carbonate abundance in the mantle. It is believed that such carbonatitic inclusions originated from high-density fluids (HDFs) that were enclosed in diamond during its growth. Using TEM and EPMA, several kinds of carbonate inclusions have been identified in Yakutian diamonds : aragonite, dolomite, magnesite, Ba-, Sr-, and Fe-rich carbonates. Most of them are represented by multi-phase inclusions of various chemically distinct carbonates, rich in Ca, Mg, and K and associated with minor amounts of silicate, oxide, saline, and volatile phases. Volatiles, leaving some porosity, played a significant role in the diamond growth. A single crystal of aragonite (60μm) is herein reported for the first time. This inclusion is located in the center of a diamond from the Komsomolskaya pipe. Careful CL imaging reveals the total absence of cracks around the aragonite inclusion - i.e., closed system. This inclusion has been identified by X-ray diffraction and microprobe analysis. At temperatures above 1000 0C, aragonite is only stable at high pressures of 5-6 GPa. Inside this aragonite, we observed nanocrystalline inclusions of titanite, Ni-rich sulfide, magnetite, water-bearing Mg-silicate, and fluid bubbles. Dolomite is common in carbonate multi-phase inclusions in diamonds from the Internatsionalnaya, Yubileinaya, and Udachnaya kimberlite pipes. Alluvial diamonds of the northeastern Siberian Platform are divided into two groups based on the composition of HDFs: 1) Mg-rich multi-phase inclusions (60% magnesite + dolomite + Fe-spinel + Ti-silicate + fluid bubbles); and 2) Ca-rich multi-phase inclusions (Ca,Ba-, Ca,Sr-, Ca,Fe-carbonates + Ti-silicate + Ba-apatite + fluid bubbles). High-density fluids also contain K. Volatiles in the fluid bubbles are represented by water, Cl, F, S, CO2, CH4, and heavy hydrocarbons. Origin of the second group of HDFs may be related to the non-silicate carbonatitic melt. We consider the primary hydrous, Сa-rich and Mg-poor carbonate melts as having formed in subducted oceanic crust. Variations of carbonate-inclusion compositions among diamonds indicate the variability in the source media during the formation of diamond and may be the result of metasomatic interaction with host rocks.

A model of the methane cycle, permafrost, and hydrology of the Siberian continental margin

DOE PAGES

Archer, D.

2014-06-03

A two-dimensional model of a passive continental margin was adapted to the simulation of the methane cycle on Siberian continental shelf and slope, attempting to account for the impacts of glacial/interglacial cycles in sea level, alternately exposing the continental shelf to freezing conditions with deep permafrost formation during glacial times, and immersion in the ocean in interglacial times. The model is used to gauge the impact of the glacial cycles, and potential anthropogenic warming in the deep future, on the atmospheric methane emission flux, and the sensitivities of that flux to processes such as permafrost formation and terrestrial organic carbonmore » (Yedoma) deposition. Hydrological forcing drives a freshening and ventilation of pore waters in areas exposed to the atmosphere, which is not quickly reversed by invasion of seawater upon submergence, since there is no analogous saltwater pump. This hydrological pump changes the salinity enough to affect the stability of permafrost and methane hydrates on the shelf. Permafrost formation inhibits bubble transport through the sediment column, by construction in the model. The impact of permafrost on the methane budget is to replace the bubble flux by offshore groundwater flow containing dissolved methane, rather than accumulating methane for catastrophic release when the permafrost seal fails during warming. By far the largest impact of the glacial/interglacial cycles on the atmospheric methane flux is attenuation by dissolution of bubbles in the ocean when sea level is high. Methane emissions are highest during the regression (soil freezing) part of the cycle, rather than during transgression (thawing). The model-predicted methane flux to the atmosphere in response to a warming climate is small, relative to the global methane production rate, because of the ongoing flooding of the continental shelf. A slight increase due to warming could be completely counteracted by sea level rise on geologic time scales, decreasing the efficiency of bubble transit through the water column. The methane cycle on the shelf responds to climate change on a long time constant of thousands of years, because hydrate is excluded thermodynamically from the permafrost zone by water limitation, leaving the hydrate stability zone at least 300 m below the sediment surface.« less

Bubble Generation in a Flowing Liquid Medium and Resulting Two-Phase Flow in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pais, S. C.; Kamotani, Y.; Bhunia, A.; Ostrach, S.

1999-01-01

The present investigation reports a study of bubble generation under reduced gravity conditions, using both a co-flow and a cross-flow configuration. This study may be used in the conceptual design of a space-based thermal management system. Ensuing two-phase flow void fraction can be accurately monitored using a single nozzle gas injection system within a continuous liquid flow conduit, as utilized in the present investigation. Accurate monitoring of void fraction leads to precise control of heat and mass transfer coefficients related to a thermal management system; hence providing an efficient and highly effective means of removing heat aboard spacecraft or space stations. Our experiments are performed in parabolic flight aboard the modified DC-9 Reduced Gravity Research Aircraft at NASA Lewis Research Center, using an air-water system. For the purpose of bubble dispersion in a flowing liquid, we use both a co-flow and a cross-flow configuration. In the co-flow geometry, air is introduced through a nozzle in the same direction with the liquid flow. On the other hand, in the cross-flow configuration, air is injected perpendicular to the direction of water flow, via a nozzle protruding inside the two-phase flow conduit. Three different flow conduit (pipe) diameters are used, namely, 1.27 cm, 1.9 cm and 2.54 cm. Two different ratios of nozzle to pipe diameter (D(sub N))sup * are considered, namely (D(sub N))sup * = 0.1 and 0.2, while superficial liquid velocities are varied from 8 to 70 cm/s depending on flow conduit diameter. It is experimentally observed that by holding all other flow conditions and geometry constant, generated bubbles decrease in size with increase in superficial liquid velocity. Detached bubble diameter is shown to increase with air injection nozzle diameter. Likewise, generated bubbles grow in size with increasing pipe diameter. Along the same lines, it is shown that bubble frequency of formation increases and hence the time to detachment of a forming bubble decreases, as the superficial liquid velocity is in-creased. Furthermore, it is shown that the void fraction of the resulting two-phase flow increases with volumetric gas flow rate Q(sub d), pipe diameter and gas injection nozzle diameter, while they decrease with surrounding liquid flow. The important role played by flowing liquid in detaching bubbles in a reduced gravity environment is thus emphasized. We observe that the void fraction can be accurately controlled by using single nozzle gas injection, rather than by employing multiple port injection, since the later system gives rise to unpredictable coalescence of adjacent bubbles. It is of interest to note that empirical bubble size and corresponding void fraction are somewhat smaller for the co-flow geometry than the cross-flow configuration at similar flow conditions with similar pipe and nozzle diameters. In order to supplement the empirical data, a theoretical model is employed to study single bubble generation in the dynamic (Q(sub d) = 1 - 1000 cu cm/s) and bubbly flow regime within the framework of the co-flow configuration. This theoretical model is based on an overall force balance acting on the bubble during the two stages of generation, namely the expansion and the detachment stage. Two sets of forces, one aiding and the other inhibiting bubble detachment are identified. Under conditions of reduced gravity, gas momentum flux enhances, while the surface tension force at the air injection nozzle tip inhibits bubble detachment. In parallel, liquid drag and inertia can act as both attaching and detaching forces, depending on the relative velocity of the bubble with respect to the surrounding liquid. Predictions of the theoretical model compare well with our experimental results. However, at higher superficial liquid velocities, as the bubble loses its spherical form, empirical bubble size no longer matches the theoretical predictions. In summary, we have developed a combined experimental and theoretical work, which describes the complex process of bubble generation and resulting two-phase flow in a microgravity environment. Results of the present study can be used in a wide range of space-based applications, such as thermal energy and power generation, propulsion, cryogenic storage and long duration life support systems, necessary for programs such as NASA's Human Exploration for the Development of Space (HEDS).

Sub-micron particles in northwest Atlantic shelf water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Longhurst, A. R.; Koike, I.; Li, W. K. W.; Rodriguez, J.; Dickie, P.; Kepay, P.; Partensky, F.; Bautista, B.; Ruiz, J.; Wells, M.; Bird, D. F.

1992-01-01

The existence of numerous (1.0 × 10 7 ml -1) sub-micron particles has been confirmed in northwest Atlantic shelf water. These particles were counted independently by two different resistive-pulse instruments, and their existence confirmed by our ability to reduce their numbers by ultracentrifugation, serial dilution and surface coagulation in a bubbling column. There are important implications for the dynamics of DOM in seawater if, as seems probable, these particles represent a fraction of "dissolved" organic material in seawater.

Carbon and oxygen dynamics on the Louisiana continental shelf: role of water column primary production and respiration

EPA Science Inventory

We conducted a multi-year study of the Louisiana continental shelf (LCS) to better understand the linkages between water column net metabolism and the formation of hypoxia (dissolved oxygen <2 ml O2 L-1) in the region. Rates of water column community respiration (R) and primary p...

Impact of NO2 horizontal heterogeneity on tropospheric NO2 vertical columns retrieved from satellite, multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy, and in situ measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendolia, D.; D'Souza, R. J. C.; Evans, G. J.; Brook, J.

2013-01-01

Tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities were retrieved for the first time in Toronto, Canada using three methods of differing spatial scales. Remotely-sensed NO2 vertical column densities, retrieved from multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy and satellite remote sensing, were evaluated by comparison with in situ vertical column densities derived using a pair of chemiluminescence monitors situated 0.01 and 0.5 km above ground level. The chemiluminescence measurements were corrected for the influence of NOz, which reduced the NO2 concentrations at 0.01 and 0.5 km by 8 ± 1% and 12 ± 1%, respectively. The average absolute decrease in the chemiluminescence NO2 measurement as a result of this correction was less than 1 ppb. Good correlation was observed between the remotely sensed and in situ NO2 vertical column densities (Pearson R ranging from 0.68 to 0.79), but the in situ vertical column densities were 27% to 55% greater than the remotely-sensed columns. These results indicate that NO2 horizontal heterogeneity strongly impacted the magnitude of the remotely-sensed columns. The in situ columns reflected an urban environment with major traffic sources, while the remotely-sensed NO2 vertical column densities were representative of the region, which included spatial heterogeneity introduced by residential neighbourhoods and Lake Ontario. Despite the difference in absolute values, the reasonable correlation between the vertical column densities determined by three distinct methods increased confidence in the validity of the values provided by each of the methods.

Exploiting Radiation Damage to Map Proteins in Nucleoprotein Complexes: The Internal Structure of Bacteriophage T7

PubMed Central

Cheng, Naiqian; Wu, Weimin; Watts, Norman R.; Steven, Alasdair C.

2014-01-01

In the final stage of radiation damage in cryo-electron microscopy of proteins, bubbles of hydrogen gas are generated. Proteins embedded in DNA bubble sooner than free-standing proteins and DNA does not bubble under the same conditions. These properties make it possible to distinguish protein from DNA. Here we explored the scope of this technique (“bubblegram imaging”) by applying it to bacteriophage T7, viewed as a partially defined model system. T7 has a thin-walled icosahedral capsid, 60 nm in diameter, with a barrel-shaped protein core under one of its twelve vertices (the portal vertex). The core is densely wrapped with DNA but details of their interaction and how their injection into a host bacterium is coordinated are lacking. With short (10 sec) intervals between exposures of 17 electrons/Å2 each, bubbling starts in the third exposure, with 1 – 4 bubbles nucleating in the core: in subsequent exposures, these bubbles grow and merge. A 3D reconstruction from fifth-exposure images depicts a bipartite cylindrical gas cloud in the core. In its portal-proximal half, the axial region is gaseous whereas in the portal-distal half, it is occupied by a 3 nm-wide dense rod. We propose that they respectively represent core protein and an end of the packaged genome, poised for injection into a host cell. Single bubbles at other sites may represent residual scaffolding protein. Thus, bubbling depends on dose rate, protein amount, and tightness of the DNA seal. PMID:24345345

Seismicity at Old Faithful Geyser: an isolated source of geothermal noise and possible analogue of volcanic seismicity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kieffer, S.W.

1984-01-01

Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park, U.S.A., is a relatively isolated source of seismic noise and exhibits seismic behavior similar to that observed at many volcanoes, including "bubblequakes" that resemble B-type "earthquakes", harmonic tremor before and during eruptions, and periods of seismic quiet prior to eruptions. Although Old Faithful differs from volcanoes in that the conduit is continuously open, that rock-fracturing is not a process responsible for seismicity, and that the erupting fluid is inviscid H2O rather than viscous magma, there are also remarkable similarities in the problems of heat and mass recharge to the system, in the eruption dynamics, and in the seismicity. Water rises irregularly into the immediate reservoir of Old Faithful as recharge occurs, a fact that suggests that there are two enlarged storage regions: one between 18 and 22 m (the base of the immediate reservoir) and one between about 10 and 12 m depth. Transport of heat from hot water or steam entering at the base of the recharging water column into cooler overlying water occurs by migration of steam bubbles upward and their collapse in the cooler water, and by episodes of convective overturn. An eruption occurs when the temperature of the near-surface water exceeds the boiling point if the entire water column is sufficiently close to the boiling curve that the propagation of pressure-release waves (rarefactions) down the column can bring the liquid water onto the boiling curve. The process of conversion of the liquid water in the conduit at the onset of an eruption into a two-phase liquid-vapor mixture takes on the order of 30 s. The seismicity is directly related to the sequence of filling and heating during the recharge cycle, and to the fluid mechanics of the eruption. Short (0.2-0.3 s), monochromatic, high-frequency events (20-60 Hz) resembling unsustained harmonic tremor and, in some instances, B-type volcanic earthquakes, occur when exploding or imploding bubbles of steam cause transient vibrations of the fluid column. The frequency of the events is determined by the length of the water column and the speed of sound of the fluid in the conduit when these events occur; damping is controlled by the characteristic and hydraulic impedances, which depend on the above parameters, as well as on the recharge rate of the fluid. Two periods of reduced seismicity (of a few tens of seconds to nearly a minute in duration) occur during the recharge cycle, apparently when the water rises rapidly through the narrow regions of the conduit, causing a sudden pressure increase that temporarily suppresses steam bubble formation. A period of decreased seismicity also precedes preplay or an eruption; this appears to be the time when rising steam bubbles move into a zone of boiling that is acoustically decoupled from the wall of the conduit because of the acoustic impedance mismatch between boiling water (??c ??? 103 g cm-2 s-1) and rock (??c ??? 3 ?? 105 g cm2 s-1). Sustained harmonic tremor occurs during the first one to one-and-a-half minutes of an eruption of Old Faithful, but is not detectable in the succeeding minutes of the eruption. The eruption tremor is caused by hydraulic transients propagating within a sublayer of unvesiculated water that underlies the erupting two-phase liquid-vapor mixture. The resonant frequencies of the fluid column decrease to about 1 Hz when all of the water in the conduit has been converted to a water-steam mixture. Surges are observed in the flow at this frequency, but the resonance has not been detected seismically, possibly because the two-phase erupting fluid is seismically decoupled from the rock on which seismometers are placed. If Old Faithful is an analogue for volcanic seismicity, this study shows that because the frequency of tremor depends on the acoustic properties of the fluid and on conduit dimensions, both properties must be considered in analysis of tremor in volcanic regions. Because magma sound

Experimental evidence of a bubble-merger regime for the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability at the ablation front

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casner, A.; Liberatore, S.; Masse, L.; Martinez, D.; Haan, S. W.; Kane, J.; Moore, A. S.; Seugling, R.; Farrell, M.; Giraldez, E.; Nikroo, A.; Smalyuk, V. A.; Remington, B. A.

2016-05-01

Under the Discovery Science program, the longer pulses and higher laser energies provided by the National Ignition Facility (NIF) have been harnessed to study, first time in indirect-drive, the highly nonlinear stage of the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability (RTI) at the ablation front. A planar plastic package with pre-imposed two-dimensional broadband modulations is accelerated for up to 12 ns by the x-ray drive of a gas-filled gold radiation cavity with a radiative temperature plateau at 175 eV. This extended tailored drive allows a distance traveled in excess of 1 mm for a 130 μm thick foil, a factor 3x larger than previously achieved on other laser facilities. As a consequence, we have measured the ablative RTI in transition from the weakly nonlinear stage up to the deep nonlinear stage for various initial conditions. A bubble merger regime has been observed and the ablative stabilization strength varied by changing the plastic dopant from iodine to germanium.

Numerical simulation of vertical transport and oxidation of methane in Arctic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepanenko, Victor; Iakovlev, Nikolai

2013-04-01

The high abundance of methane in shelf of East Siberian Arctic Seas (ESAS) has been a subject of a number of field studies (e.g. Shakhova et al., 2010). This experimental evidence provoked discussions on probable origins of that methane and possible feedbacks to modern climate change. For instance, the hypothesis of methane hydrates degradation under current ocean warming was tested recently in several modeling studies none of which supported this degradation to be significant feedback for climate change. Regardless the origin of methane the knowledge of its budget in the water column is important to link its bottom flux with emission to the atmosphere (and vice versa). It is frequently assumed that all methane released from a seabed of ESAS shelf reaches the atmosphere. When using ocean circulation models (Biastoch et al., 2011) this simplification is cancelled out but the vertical resolution of 3D models at the shelf (that is several tens meters deep) is not enough to accurately resolve turbulent transport of methane and other gases. Moreover, up the knowledge of authors none of the ocean models includes explicitly bubble transport of gases. These constrains motivate this study. In this study a high-resolution 1D single column ocean model is constructed to explicitly simulate the methane transport, oxidation and emission to the atmosphere. The model accounts for both vertical turbulent transport (using k-ɛ closure) and bubble transport of gases. The ground under the seabed is represented by multilayer heat and moisture transfer model, including methane hydrate evolution. It is forced by time series of atmospheric variables from NCEP reanalysis and horizontal advection terms taken from FEMAO-1 3D ocean model. The baseline simulation is performed for the period 1948-2011. The model is validated using temperature profiles measured at research vessels in ESAS. The annual cycle and multiyear variability of methane profiles in water are studied and compared to available in situ measurements. The components of methane budget in water column are calculated, and the ratio of bubble flux to turbulent one inter alia. A number of additional experiments are performed to assess the sensitivity of methane budget components to variation of uncertain parameters of the model (such as initial bubble radius). References 1) Shakhova, N., I.Semiletov, A.Salyuk, V.Yusupov, D.Kosmach, and Ö.Gustafsson. Extensive Methane Venting to the Atmosphere from Sediments of the East Siberian Arctic Shelf. Science 5 March 2010: Vol. 327 no. 5970 pp. 1246-1250 DOI: 10.1126/science.1182221. 2) Biastoch, A., T. Treude, L. H. Rüpke, U. Riebesell, C. Roth, E. B. Burwicz, W. Park, M. Latif, C. W. Büning, G. Madec, and K. Wallmann. Rising Arctic Ocean temperatures cause gas hydrate destabilization and ocean acidification. Geophysical Research Letters, Vol. 38, L08602, doi:10.1029/2011GL047222,2011.

Helium-filled soap bubbles tracing fidelity in wall-bounded turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faleiros, David Engler; Tuinstra, Marthijn; Sciacchitano, Andrea; Scarano, Fulvio

2018-03-01

The use of helium-filled soap bubbles (HFSB) as flow tracers for particle image velocimetry (PIV) and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) to measure the properties of turbulent boundary layers is investigated in the velocity range from 30 to 50 m/s. The experiments correspond to momentum thickness-based Reynolds numbers of 3300 and 5100. A single bubble generator delivers nearly neutrally buoyant HFSB to seed the air flow developing over the flat plate. The HFSB motion analysis is performed by PTV using single-frame multi-exposure recordings. The measurements yield the local velocity and turbulence statistics. Planar two-component-PIV measurements with micron-sized droplets (DEHS) conducted under the same conditions provide reference data for the quantities of interest. In addition, the behavior of air-filled soap bubbles is studied where the effect of non-neutral buoyancy is more pronounced. The mean velocity profiles as well as the turbulent stresses obtained with HFSB are in good agreement with the flow statistics obtained with DEHS particles. The study illustrates that HFSB tracers can be used to determine the mean velocity and the turbulent fluctuations of turbulent boundary layers above a distance of approximately two bubble diameters from the wall. This work broadens the current range of application of HFSB from external aerodynamics of large-scale-PIV experiments towards wall-bounded turbulence.

In vivo bubble nucleation probability in sheep brain tissue.

PubMed

Gateau, J; Aubry, J-F; Chauvet, D; Boch, A-L; Fink, M; Tanter, M

2011-11-21

Gas nuclei exist naturally in living bodies. Their activation initiates cavitation activity, and is possible using short ultrasonic excitations of high amplitude. However, little is known about the nuclei population in vivo, and therefore about the rarefaction pressure required to form bubbles in tissue. A novel method dedicated to in vivo investigations was used here that combines passive and active cavitation detection with a multi-element linear ultrasound probe (4-7 MHz). Experiments were performed in vivo on the brain of trepanated sheep. Bubble nucleation was induced using a focused single-element transducer (central frequency 660 kHz, f-number = 1) driven by a high power (up to 5 kW) electric burst of two cycles. Successive passive recording and ultrafast active imaging were shown to allow detection of a single nucleation event in brain tissue in vivo. Experiments carried out on eight sheep allowed statistical studies of the bubble nucleation process. The nucleation probability was evaluated as a function of the peak negative pressure. No nucleation event could be detected with a peak negative pressure weaker than -12.7 MPa, i.e. one order of magnitude higher than the recommendations based on the mechanical index. Below this threshold, bubble nucleation in vivo in brain tissues is a random phenomenon.

SNO+ Scintillator Purification and Assay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ford, R.; Chen, M.; Chkvorets, O.; Hallman, D.; Vázquez-Jáuregui, E.

2011-04-01

We describe the R&D on the scintillator purification and assay methods and technology for the SNO+ neutrino and double-beta decay experiment. The SNO+ experiment is a replacement of the SNO heavy water with liquid scintillator comprised of 2 g/L PPO in linear alkylbenzene (LAB). During filling the LAB will be transported underground by rail car and purified by multi-stage distillation and steam stripping at a flow rate of 19 LPM. While the detector is operational the scintillator can be recirculated at 150 LPM (full detector volume in 4 days) to provide repurification as necessary by either water extraction (for Ra, K, Bi) or by functional metal scavenger columns (for Pb, Ra, Bi, Ac, Th) followed by steam stripping to remove noble gases and oxygen (Rn, O2, Kr, Ar). The metal scavenger columns also provide a method for scintillator assay for ex-situ measurement of the U and Th chain radioactivity. We have developed "natural" radioactive spikes of Pb and Ra in LAB and use these for purification testing. Lastly, we present the planned operating modes and purification strategies and the plant specifications and design.

Development of a Multiple-Stage Differential Mobility Analyzer (MDMA)

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

Chen, Da-Ren; Cheng, Mengdawn

2007-01-01

A new DMA column has been designed with the capability of simultaneously extracting monodisperse particles of different sizes in multiple stages. We call this design a multistage DMA, or MDMA. A prototype MDMA has been constructed and experimentally evaluated in this study. The new column enables the fast measurement of particles in a wide size range, while preserving the powerful particle classification function of a DMA. The prototype MDMA has three sampling stages, capable of classifying monodisperse particles of three different sizes simultaneously. The scanning voltage operation of a DMA can be applied to this new column. Each stage ofmore » MDMA column covers a fraction of the entire particle size range to be measured. The covered size fractions of two adjacent stages of the MDMA are designed somewhat overlapped. The arrangement leads to the reduction of scanning voltage range and thus the cycling time of the measurement. The modular sampling stage design of the MDMA allows the flexible configuration of desired particle classification lengths and variable number of stages in the MDMA. The design of our MDMA also permits operation at high sheath flow, enabling high-resolution particle size measurement and/or reduction of the lower sizing limit. Using the tandem DMA technique, the performance of the MDMA, i.e., sizing accuracy, resolution, and transmission efficiency, was evaluated at different ratios of aerosol and sheath flowrates. Two aerosol sampling schemes were investigated. One was to extract aerosol flows at an evenly partitioned flowrate at each stage, and the other was to extract aerosol at a rate the same as the polydisperse aerosol flowrate at each stage. We detail the prototype design of the MDMA and the evaluation result on the transfer functions of the MDMA at different particle sizes and operational conditions.« less

Non-planar microfabricated gas chromatography column

DOEpatents

Lewis, Patrick R.; Wheeler, David R.

2007-09-25

A non-planar microfabricated gas chromatography column comprises a planar substrate having a plurality of through holes, a top lid and a bottom lid bonded to opposite surfaces of the planar substrate, and inlet and outlet ports for injection of a sample gas and elution of separated analytes. A plurality of such planar substrates can be aligned and stacked to provide a longer column length having a small footprint. Furthermore, two or more separate channels can enable multi-channel or multi-dimensional gas chromatography. The through holes preferably have a circular cross section and can be coated with a stationary phase material or packed with a porous packing material. Importantly, uniform stationary phase coatings can be obtained and band broadening can be minimized with the circular channels. A heating or cooling element can be disposed on at least one of the lids to enable temperature programming of the column.

The Feedback of Star Formation Based on Large-scale Spectroscopic Mapping Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, H. X.

2017-05-01

Star Formation is a fundamental topic in astrophysics. Although there is a popular model of low-mass star formation, every step of the process is full of physical and chemical complexity. One of the key questions is the dynamical feedback during the process of star formation. The answer of this question will help us to understand the star formation and the evolution of molecular clouds. We have identified outflows and bubbles in the Taurus molecular cloud based on the ˜ 100 deg2 Five College Radio Astronomy Observatory 12CO(1-0) and 13CO(1-0) maps and the Spitzer young stellar object (YSO) catalog. In the main 44 deg2 area of Taurus, we found 55 outflows, of which 31 were previously unknown. We also found 37 bubbles in the entire 100 deg2 area of Taurus, all of which had not been identified before. After visual inspection, we developed an interactive IDL pipeline to confirm the outflows and bubbles. This sample covers a contiguous region with a linear spatial dynamic range of ˜ 1000. Among the 55 outflows, we found that bipolar, monopolar redshifted, and monopolar blueshifted outflows account for 45%, 44%, and 11%, respectively. There are more red lobes than blue ones. The occurrence of more red lobes may result from the fact that Taurus is thin. Red lobes tend to be smaller and younger. The total mass and energy of red lobes are similar to blue lobes on average. There are 3 expanding bubbles and 34 broken bubbles among all the bubbles in Taurus. There are more outflow-driving YSOs in Class I, Flat, and Class II while few outflow-driving YSOs in Class III, which indicates that outflows more likely appear in the earlier stage (Class I) than in the later phase (Class III) of star formation. There are more bubble-driving YSOs of Class II and Class III while there are few bubble-driving YSOs of Class I and Flat, implying that the bubble structures are more likely to occur in the later stage of star formation. The total kinetic energy of the identified outflows is estimated to be ˜ 3.9 × 1045 erg, which is 1% of the cloud turbulent energy. The total kinetic energy of the detected bubbles is estimated to be ˜ 9.2 × 1046 erg, which is 29% of the turbulent energy of Taurus. The energy injection rate from the outflows is ˜ 1.3 × 1033 erg s-1, 0.4-2 times the turbulent dissipation rate of the cloud. The energy injection rate from bubbles is ˜ 6.4 × 1033 erg s-1, 2-10 times the turbulent dissipation rate of the cloud. The gravitational binding energy of the cloud is ˜ 1.5 × 1048 erg, 385 and 16 times the energy of outflows and bubbles, respectively. We conclude that neither outflows nor bubbles can provide sufficient energy to balance the overall gravitational binding energy and the turbulent energy of Taurus. However, in the current epoch, stellar feedback is sufficient to maintain the observed turbulence in Taurus. We studied the methods of spectral data processing for large-scale surveys, which is helpful in developing the data-processing software of FAST (Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope).

Numerical investigation of homogeneous cavitation nucleation in a microchannel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyu, Xiuxiu; Pan, Shucheng; Hu, Xiangyu; Adams, Nikolaus A.

2018-06-01

The physics of nucleation in water is an important issue for many areas, ranging from biomedical to engineering applications. Within the present study, we investigate numerically homogeneous nucleation in a microchannel induced by shock reflection to gain a better understanding of the mechanism of homogeneous nucleation. The liquid expands due to the reflected shock and homogeneous cavitation nuclei are generated. An Eulerian-Lagrangian approach is employed for modeling this process in a microchanel. Two-dimensional axisymmetric Euler equations are solved for obtaining the time evolution of shock, gas bubble, and the ambient fluid. The dynamics of dispersed vapor bubbles is coupled with the surrounding fluid in a Lagrangian framework, describing bubble location and bubble size variation. Our results reproduce nuclei distributions at different stages of homogeneous nucleation and are in good agreement with experimental results. We obtain numerical data for the negative pressure that water can sustain under the process of homogeneous nucleation. An energy transformation description for the homogeneous nucleation inside a microchannel flow is derived and analyzed in detail.

Visualizing the Histotripsy Process: Bubble Cloud-Cancer Cell Interactions in a Tissue-Mimicking Environment.

PubMed

Vlaisavljevich, Eli; Maxwell, Adam; Mancia, Lauren; Johnsen, Eric; Cain, Charles; Xu, Zhen

2016-10-01

Histotripsy is a non-invasive ultrasonic ablation method that uses cavitation to mechanically fractionate tissue into acellular debris. With a sufficient number of pulses, histotripsy can completely fractionate tissue into a liquid-appearing homogenate with no cellular structures. The location, shape and size of lesion formation closely match those of the cavitation cloud. Previous work has led to the hypothesis that the rapid expansion and collapse of histotripsy bubbles fractionate tissue by inducing large stress and strain on the tissue structures immediately adjacent to the bubbles. In the work described here, the histotripsy bulk tissue fractionation process is visualized at the cellular level for the first time using a custom-built 2-MHz transducer incorporated into a microscope stage. A layer of breast cancer cells were cultured within an optically transparent fibrin-based gel phantom to mimic cells inside a 3-D extracellular matrix. To test the hypothesis, the cellular response to single and multiple histotripsy pulses was investigated using high-speed optical imaging. Bubbles were always generated in the extracellular space, and significant cell displacement/deformation was observed for cells directly adjacent to the bubble during both bubble expansion and collapse. The largest displacements were observed during collapse for cells immediately adjacent to the bubble, with cells moving more than 150-300 μm in less than 100 μs. Cells often underwent multiple large deformations (>150% strain) over multiple pulses, resulting in the bisection of cells multiple times before complete removal. To provide theoretical support to the experimental observations, a numerical simulation was conducted using a single-bubble model, which indicated that histotripsy exerts the largest strains and cell displacements in the regions immediately adjacent to the bubble. The experimental and simulation results support our hypothesis, which helps to explain the formation of the sharp lesions formed in histotripsy therapy localized to the regions directly exposed to the bubbles. Copyright © 2016 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

900-m high gas plumes rising from marine sediments containing structure II hydrates at Vestnesa Ridge, offshore W-Svalbard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Andrew J.; Mienert, Jürgen; Bünz, Stefan; Greinert, Jens; Rasmussen, Tine L.

2013-04-01

We study an arctic sediment drift in ~1200 m water depth at Vestnesa Ridge, offshore western Svalbard. The ridge is spotted with pockmarks that range in size from a few meters to hundreds of meters in diameter and centimeters to tens of meters in height (e.g. Vogt et al., 1994). There is a strong negative-polarity seismic reflection below the ridge that is interpreted to record a negative impedance contrast marking the boundary between gas hydrate and water above and free gas and water below: it is the bottom-simulating reflector (BSR). Seismically transparent zones, interpreted as gas chimneys, extend from pockmarks at the seafloor to depths below the BSR (180-220 meters below the seafloor) (Bünz et al., 2012). Gas flares, gas hydrate, and methane-seep-specific biological communities (pogonphora and begiatoa bacterial mats) have been observed adjacent to pockmarks at the ridge (Bünz et al., 2012). We present new single-beam echosounding data that were acquired during 2010 and 2012 cruises on the R/V Helmer Hanssen at Vestnesa Ridge using a Simrad EK60 system that operates at frequencies of 18 and 38 kHz. During both cruises which lasted 3-5 days, we detected continuous bubble release from 4 separate pockmarks in 2010 and 6 separate pockmarks in 2012. There were no noticeable, short-term (hourly or daily) variations in the bubble release from the pockmarks, indicating that the venting from the pockmarks does not undergo rapid changes. Plumes from the pockmarks rise between 875 to 925m above the seafloor to a final water depth of 325 to 275m, respectively. This depth is in excellent agreement with the top of the hydrate stability zone (275 meters below sea level) for the gas composition of hydrate sampled at the ridge (96.31% C1; 3.36% C2; 0.21% C3; 0.11% IC4; 0.01% NC4). This suggests that hydrate skins are forming around the gas bubbles, inhibiting the dissolution of gas, and allowing the bubbles to rise to such great heights in the water column. Our results provide hard constraints for bubble-dissolution models (e.g. McGinnis et al., 2006) that can validate whether a gas-hydrate-rimmed bubble can survive the ~900m rise through the water column. Long-term monitoring of such gas-hydrate and fluid-flow systems is important for quantifying methane fluxes to the ocean, for identifying the source(s) of the venting gas, and for better understanding the environmental conditions under which deep-sea biological communities exist. References Bünz, S., Polyanov, S., Vadakkepuliyambatta, S., Consolaro, C., and Mienert, J., 2012, Active gas venting through hydrate-bearing sediments on the Vestnesa Ridge, offshore W-Svalbard. : Marine Geology v. 332-334, p. 189-197. McGinnis, D.F., Greinert, J., Artemov, Y., Beaubien, S.E., and Wüest, A., 2006, The fate of rising methane bubbles in stratified waters: What fraction reaches the atmosphere?: Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 111, C09007, doi:10.1029/2005JC003183. Vogt, P. R., Crane, K., Sundvor, E., Max, M. D., and Pfirman, S. L., 1994, Methane-generated(?) pockmarks on young, thickly sedimented oceanic crust in the Arctic: Vestnesa ridge, Fram strait: Geology, v. 22, no. 3, p. 255-258.

Simultaneous determination of quinolones in fish by liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescence detection: comparison of sub-2 microm particles and conventional C18 columns.

PubMed

Zhang, Hong; Chen, Si; Lu, Yanbin; Dai, Zhiyuan

2010-07-01

A simple and effective multi-residue analysis method is presented for the extraction and determination of eleven quinolones (pipemidic acid, enoxacin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, enrofloxacin, gatifloxacin, difloxacin, oxolinic acid, nalidixic acid and flumequine) in fish tissues. In this study, multi-residue separations on four columns packed with 5 microm or sub-2 microm particles were simultaneously developed for the purpose of comparison. Various gradients were optimized and best resolutions were achieved on each column. A short and sub-2 microm particle-sized HPLC column was chosen for its advantages in analysis time and column performance. Additionally, considering the matrix effect of the complex crude fish tissue, an effective extraction protocol was also established for sample pre-treatment procedure. Good recoveries (71-98%) were obtained from samples fortified with a mix of eleven quinolones at three levels, with satisfactory relative standard deviations and limits of detection. As a result, the sub-2 microm HPLC column and proposed analytical procedures have been evaluated and applied to the analysis of different fish tissues. Detectable residues were observed in 8 of 30 samples, at concentrations ranging from 4.74 to 23.27 microg/kg.

Molecular mechanism for cavitation in water under tension

PubMed Central

Menzl, Georg; Gonzalez, Miguel A.; Geiger, Philipp; Caupin, Frédéric; Abascal, José L. F.; Dellago, Christoph

2016-01-01

Despite its relevance in biology and engineering, the molecular mechanism driving cavitation in water remains unknown. Using computer simulations, we investigate the structure and dynamics of vapor bubbles emerging from metastable water at negative pressures. We find that in the early stages of cavitation, bubbles are irregularly shaped and become more spherical as they grow. Nevertheless, the free energy of bubble formation can be perfectly reproduced in the framework of classical nucleation theory (CNT) if the curvature dependence of the surface tension is taken into account. Comparison of the observed bubble dynamics to the predictions of the macroscopic Rayleigh–Plesset (RP) equation, augmented with thermal fluctuations, demonstrates that the growth of nanoscale bubbles is governed by viscous forces. Combining the dynamical prefactor determined from the RP equation with CNT based on the Kramers formalism yields an analytical expression for the cavitation rate that reproduces the simulation results very well over a wide range of pressures. Furthermore, our theoretical predictions are in excellent agreement with cavitation rates obtained from inclusion experiments. This suggests that homogeneous nucleation is observed in inclusions, whereas only heterogeneous nucleation on impurities or defects occurs in other experiments. PMID:27803329

Study on bubbly flow behavior in natural circulation reactor by thermal-hydraulic simulation tests with SF6-Gas and ethanol liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kondo, Yoshiyuki; Suga, Keishi; Hibi, Koki; Okazaki, Toshihiko; Komeno, Toshihiro; Kunugi, Tomoaki; Serizawa, Akimi; Yoneda, Kimitoshi; Arai, Takahiro

2009-02-01

An advanced experimental technique has been developed to simulate two-phase flow behavior in a light water reactor (LWR). The technique applies three kinds of methods; (1) use of sulfur-hexafluoride (SF6) gas and ethanol (C2H5OH) liquid at atmospheric temperature and a pressure less than 1.0MPa, where the fluid properties are similar to steam-water ones in the LWR, (2) generation of bubble with a sintering tube, which simulates bubble generation on heated surface in the LWR, (3) measurement of detailed bubble distribution data with a bi-optical probe (BOP), (4) and measurement of liquid velocities with the tracer liquid. This experimental technique provides easy visualization of flows by using a large scale experimental apparatus, which gives three-dimensional flows, and measurement of detailed spatial distributions of two-phase flow. With this technique, we have carried out experiments simulating two-phase flow behavior in a single-channel geometry, a multi-rod-bundle one, and a horizontal-tube-bundle one on a typical natural circulation reactor system. Those experiments have clarified a) a flow regime map in a rod bundle on the transient region between bubbly and churn flow, b) three-dimensional flow behaviour in rod-bundles where inter-subassembly cross-flow occurs, c) bubble-separation behavior with consideration of reactor internal structures. The data have given analysis models for the natural circulation reactor design with good extrapolation.

Experimental investigation of sound generation by a protuberance in a laminar boundary layer

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

Kobayashi, M.; Asai, M.; Inasawa, A.

2014-08-15

Sound radiation from a two-dimensional protuberance glued on the wall in a laminar boundary layer was investigated experimentally at low Mach numbers. When the protuberance was as high as the boundary-layer thickness, a feedback-loop mechanism set in between protuberance-generated sound and Tollmien-Schlichting (T-S) waves generated by the leading-edge receptivity to the upstream-propagating sound. Although occurrence of a separation bubble immediately upstream of the protuberance played important roles in the evolution of instability waves into vortices interacting with the protuberance, the frequency of tonal vortex sound was determined by the selective amplification of T-S waves in the linear instability stage upstreammore » of the separation bubble and was not affected by the instability of the separation bubble.« less

Excretion of common neutral steroids in healthy subjects as estimated by multi-column chromatography.

PubMed

Vestergaard, P

1978-01-01

Excretion data for common neutral urinary steroids from a total of 330 healthy subjects from different parts of the world and of different sex and age are given. The estimations, which have been performed by multi-column liquid chromatography, include 24 h excretion values for both common 17-oxosteroids and the common metabolites of cortisol, including the cortolones and the cortols. Comparisons are made with values from the world literature and with isotope experiments.

Magnetic field and radiative transfer modelling of a quiescent prominence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunár, S.; Schwartz, P.; Dudík, J.; Schmieder, B.; Heinzel, P.; Jurčák, J.

2014-07-01

Aims: The aim of this work is to analyse the multi-instrument observations of the June 22, 2010 prominence to study its structure in detail, including the prominence-corona transition region and the dark bubble located below the prominence body. Methods: We combined results of the 3D magnetic field modelling with 2D prominence fine structure radiative transfer models to fully exploit the available observations. Results: The 3D linear force-free field model with the unsheared bipole reproduces the morphology of the analysed prominence reasonably well, thus providing useful information about its magnetic field configuration and the location of the magnetic dips. The 2D models of the prominence fine structures provide a good representation of the local plasma configuration in the region dominated by the quasi-vertical threads. However, the low observed Lyman-α central intensities and the morphology of the analysed prominence suggest that its upper central part is not directly illuminated from the solar surface. Conclusions: This multi-disciplinary prominence study allows us to argue that a large part of the prominence-corona transition region plasma can be located inside the magnetic dips in small-scale features that surround the cool prominence material located in the dip centre. We also argue that the dark prominence bubbles can be formed because of perturbations of the prominence magnetic field by parasitic bipoles, causing them to be devoid of the magnetic dips. Magnetic dips, however, form thin layers that surround these bubbles, which might explain the occurrence of the cool prominence material in the lines of sight intersecting the prominence bubbles. Movie and Appendix A are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

Removal of elemental mercury from flue gas by thermally activated ammonium persulfate in a bubble column reactor.

PubMed

Liu, Yangxian; Wang, Qian

2014-10-21

In this article, a novel technique on removal of elemental mercury (Hg(0)) from flue gas by thermally activated ammonium persulfate ((NH4)(2)S(2)O(8)) has been developed for the first time. Some experiments were carried out in a bubble column reactor to evaluate the effects of process parameters on Hg(0) removal. The mechanism and kinetics of Hg(0) removal are also studied. The results show that the parameters, (NH4)(2)S(2)O(8) concentration, activation temperature and solution pH, have significant impacts on Hg(0) removal. The parameters, Hg(0), SO2 and NO concentration, only have small effects on Hg(0) removal. Hg(0) is removed by oxidations of (NH4)(2)S(2)O(8), sulfate and hydroxyl free radicals. When (NH4)(2)S(2)O(8) concentration is more than 0.1 mol/L and solution pH is lower than 9.71, Hg(0) removal by thermally activated (NH4)(2)S(2)O(8) meets a pseudo-first-order fast reaction with respect to Hg(0). However, when (NH4)(2)S(2)O(8) concentration is less than 0.1 mol/L or solution pH is higher than 9.71, the removal process meets a moderate speed reaction with respect to Hg(0). The above results indicate that this technique is a feasible method for emission control of Hg(0) from flue gas.

Argon Bubble Transport and Capture in Continuous Casting with an External Magnetic Field Using GPU-Based Large Eddy Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Kai

Continuous casting produces over 95% of steel in the world today, hence even small improvements to this important industrial process can have large economic impact. In the continuous casting of steel process, argon gas is usually injected at the slide gate or stopper rod to prevent clogging, but entrapped bubbles may cause defects in the final product. Many defects in this process are related to the transient fluid flow in the mold region of the caster. Electromagnetic braking (EMBr) device is often used at high casting speed to modify the mold flow, reduce the surface velocity and fluctuation. This work studies the physics in continuous casting process including effects of EMBr on the motion of fluid flow in the mold region, and transport and capture of bubbles in the solidification processes. A computational effective Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) model and a high fidelity Large Eddy Simulation (LES) model are used to understand the motion of the molten steel flow. A general purpose multi-GPU Navier-Stokes solver, CUFLOW, is developed. A Coherent-Structure Smagorinsky LES model is implemented to model the turbulent flow. A two-way coupled Lagrangian particle tracking model is added to track the motion of argon bubbles. A particle/bubble capture model based on force balance at dendrite tips is validated and used to study the capture of argon bubbles by the solidifying steel shell. To investigate the effects of EMBr on the turbulent molten steel flow and bubble transport, an electrical potential method is implemented to solve the magnetohydrodynamics equations. Volume of Fluid (VOF) simulations are carried out to understand the additional resistance force on moving argon bubbles caused by adding transverse magnetic field. A modified drag coefficient is extrapolated from the results and used in the two-way coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian model to predict the argon bubble transport in a caster with EMBr. A hook capture model is developed to understand the effects of hooks on argon bubble capture.

Reverse flexing as a physical/mechanical treatment to mitigate fouling of fine bubble diffusers.

PubMed

Odize, Victory O; Novak, John; De Clippeleir, Haydee; Al-Omari, Ahmed; Smeraldi, Joshua D; Murthy, Sudhir; Rosso, Diego

2017-10-01

Achieving energy neutrality has shifted focus towards aeration system optimization, due to the high energy consumption of aeration processes in modern advanced wastewater treatment plants. A study on fine bubble diffuser fouling and mitigation, quantified by dynamic wet pressure (DWP), oxygen transfer efficiency and alpha was carried out in Blue Plains, Washington, DC. Four polyurethane fine bubble diffusers were installed in a pilot reactor column fed with high rate activated sludge from a full scale system. A mechanical cleaning method, reverse flexing (RF), was used to treat two diffusers (RF1, RF2), while two diffusers were kept as a control (i.e., no reverse flexing). There was a 45% increase in DWP of the control diffuser after 17 months of operation, an indication of fouling. RF treated diffusers (RF1 and RF2) did not show significant increase in DWP, and in comparison to the control diffuser prevented about 35% increase in DWP. Hence, reverse flexing potentially saves blower energy, by reducing the pressure burden on the air blower which increases blower energy requirement. However, no significant impact of the RF treatment in preventing a decrease in alpha-fouling (αF) of the fine pore diffusers, over time in operation was observed.

Application of ozone micro-nano-bubbles to groundwater remediation.

PubMed

Hu, Liming; Xia, Zhiran

2018-01-15

Ozone is widely used for water treatment because of its strong oxidation ability. However, the efficiency of ozone in groundwater remediation is limited because of its relatively low solubility and rapid decomposition in the aqueous phase. Methods for increasing the stability of ozone within the subsurface are drawing increasing attention. Micro-nano-bubbles (MNBs), with diameters ranging from tens of nanometres to tens of micrometres, present rapid mass transfer rates, persist for a relatively long time in water, and transport with groundwater flow, which significantly improve gas concentration and provide a continuous gas supply. Therefore, MNBs show a considerable potential for application in groundwater remediation. In this study, the characteristics of ozone MNBs were examined, including their size distribution, bubble quantity, and zeta potential. The mass transfer rate of ozone MNBs was experimentally investigated. Ozone MNBs were then used to treat organics-contaminated water, and they showed remarkable cleanup efficiency. Column tests were also conducted to study the efficiency of ozone MNBs for organics-contaminated groundwater remediation. Based on the laboratory tests, field monitoring was conducted on a trichloroethylene (TCE)-contaminated site. The results showed that ozone MNBs can greatly improve remediation efficiency and represent an innovative technology for in situ remediation of organics-contaminated groundwater. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Spatially Uniform Spectrum of the Fermi Bubbles: The Leptonic Active Galactic Nucleus Jet Scenario

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, H.-Y. K.; Ruszkowski, M.

2017-11-01

The Fermi bubbles are among the most important findings of the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope; however, their origin is still elusive. One of the unique features of the bubbles is that their gamma-ray spectrum, including a high-energy cutoff at ˜110 GeV and the overall shape of the spectrum, is nearly spatially uniform. The high-energy spectral cutoff is suggestive of a leptonic origin due to synchrotron and inverse-Compton cooling of cosmic-ray (CR) electrons; however, even for a leptonic model, it is not obvious why the spectrum should be spatially uniform. In this work, we investigate the bubble formation in the leptonic active galactic nucleus (AGN) jet scenario using a new CRSPEC module in FLASH that allows us to track the evolution of a CR spectrum during the simulations. We show that the high-energy cutoff is caused by fast electron cooling near the Galactic center (GC) when the jets were launched. Afterwards, the dynamical timescale becomes the shortest among all relevant timescales, and therefore the spectrum is essentially advected with only mild cooling losses. This could explain why the bubble spectrum is nearly spatially uniform: the CRs from different parts of the bubbles as seen today all share the same origin near the GC at an early stage of the bubble expansion. We find that the predicted CR spatial and spectral distribution can simultaneously match the normalization, spectral shape, and high-energy cutoff of the observed gamma-ray spectrum and their spatial uniformity, suggesting that past AGN jet activity is a likely mechanism for the formation of the Fermi bubbles.

Optimising electron microscopy experiment through electron optics simulation.

PubMed

Kubo, Y; Gatel, C; Snoeck, E; Houdellier, F

2017-04-01

We developed a new type of electron trajectories simulation inside a complete model of a modern transmission electron microscope (TEM). Our model incorporates the precise and real design of each element constituting a TEM, i.e. the field emission (FE) cathode, the extraction optic and acceleration stages of a 300kV cold field emission gun, the illumination lenses, the objective lens, the intermediate and projection lenses. Full trajectories can be computed using magnetically saturated or non-saturated round lenses, magnetic deflectors and even non-cylindrical symmetry elements like electrostatic biprism. This multi-scale model gathers nanometer size components (FE tip) with parts of meter length (illumination and projection systems). We demonstrate that non-trivial TEM experiments requiring specific and complex optical configurations can be simulated and optimized prior to any experiment using such model. We show that all the currents set in all optical elements of the simulated column can be implemented in the real column (I2TEM in CEMES) and used as starting alignment for the requested experiment. We argue that the combination of such complete electron trajectory simulations in the whole TEM column with automatic optimization of the microscope parameters for optimal experimental data (images, diffraction, spectra) allows drastically simplifying the implementation of complex experiments in TEM and will facilitate the development of advanced use of the electron microscope in the near future. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A model of the methane cycle, permafrost, and hydrology of the Siberian continental margin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Archer, D.

2015-05-01

A two-dimensional model of a sediment column, with Darcy fluid flow, biological and thermal methane production, and permafrost and methane hydrate formation, is subjected to glacial-interglacial cycles in sea level, alternately exposing the continental shelf to the cold atmosphere during glacial times and immersing it in the ocean in interglacial times. The glacial cycles are followed by a "long-tail" 100 kyr warming due to fossil fuel combustion. The salinity of the sediment column in the interior of the shelf can be decreased by hydrological forcing to depths well below sea level when the sediment is exposed to the atmosphere. There is no analogous advective seawater-injecting mechanism upon resubmergence, only slower diffusive mechanisms. This hydrological ratchet is consistent with the existence of freshwater beneath the sea floor on continental shelves around the world, left over from the last glacial period. The salt content of the sediment column affects the relative proportions of the solid and fluid H2O-containing phases, but in the permafrost zone the salinity in the pore fluid brine is a function of temperature only, controlled by equilibrium with ice. Ice can tolerate a higher salinity in the pore fluid than methane hydrate can at low pressure and temperature, excluding methane hydrate from thermodynamic stability in the permafrost zone. The implication is that any methane hydrate existing today will be insulated from anthropogenic climate change by hundreds of meters of sediment, resulting in a response time of thousands of years. The strongest impact of the glacial-interglacial cycles on the atmospheric methane flux is due to bubbles dissolving in the ocean when sea level is high. When sea level is low and the sediment surface is exposed to the atmosphere, the atmospheric flux is sensitive to whether permafrost inhibits bubble migration in the model. If it does, the atmospheric flux is highest during the glaciating, sea level regression (soil-freezing) part of the cycle rather than during deglacial transgression (warming and thawing). The atmospheric flux response to a warming climate is small, relative to the rest of the methane sources to the atmosphere in the global budget, because of the ongoing flooding of the continental shelf. The increased methane flux due to ocean warming could be completely counteracted by a sea level rise of tens of meters on millennial timescales due to the loss of ice sheets, decreasing the efficiency of bubble transit through the water column. The model results give no indication of a mechanism by which methane emissions from the Siberian continental shelf could have a significant impact on the near-term evolution of Earth's climate, but on millennial timescales the release of carbon from hydrate and permafrost could contribute significantly to the fossil fuel carbon burden in the atmosphere-ocean-terrestrial carbon cycle.

A model of the methane cycle, permafrost, and hydrology of the Siberian continental margin

DOE PAGES

Archer, D.

2015-05-21

A two-dimensional model of a sediment column, with Darcy fluid flow, biological and thermal methane production, and permafrost and methane hydrate formation, is subjected to glacial–interglacial cycles in sea level, alternately exposing the continental shelf to the cold atmosphere during glacial times and immersing it in the ocean in interglacial times. The glacial cycles are followed by a "long-tail" 100 kyr warming due to fossil fuel combustion. The salinity of the sediment column in the interior of the shelf can be decreased by hydrological forcing to depths well below sea level when the sediment is exposed to the atmosphere. Theremore » is no analogous advective seawater-injecting mechanism upon resubmergence, only slower diffusive mechanisms. This hydrological ratchet is consistent with the existence of freshwater beneath the sea floor on continental shelves around the world, left over from the last glacial period. The salt content of the sediment column affects the relative proportions of the solid and fluid H 2O-containing phases, but in the permafrost zone the salinity in the pore fluid brine is a function of temperature only, controlled by equilibrium with ice. Ice can tolerate a higher salinity in the pore fluid than methane hydrate can at low pressure and temperature, excluding methane hydrate from thermodynamic stability in the permafrost zone. The implication is that any methane hydrate existing today will be insulated from anthropogenic climate change by hundreds of meters of sediment, resulting in a response time of thousands of years. The strongest impact of the glacial–interglacial cycles on the atmospheric methane flux is due to bubbles dissolving in the ocean when sea level is high. When sea level is low and the sediment surface is exposed to the atmosphere, the atmospheric flux is sensitive to whether permafrost inhibits bubble migration in the model. If it does, the atmospheric flux is highest during the glaciating, sea level regression (soil-freezing) part of the cycle rather than during deglacial transgression (warming and thawing). The atmospheric flux response to a warming climate is small, relative to the rest of the methane sources to the atmosphere in the global budget, because of the ongoing flooding of the continental shelf. The increased methane flux due to ocean warming could be completely counteracted by a sea level rise of tens of meters on millennial timescales due to the loss of ice sheets, decreasing the efficiency of bubble transit through the water column. The model results give no indication of a mechanism by which methane emissions from the Siberian continental shelf could have a significant impact on the near-term evolution of Earth's climate, but on millennial timescales the release of carbon from hydrate and permafrost could contribute significantly to the fossil fuel carbon burden in the atmosphere–ocean–terrestrial carbon cycle.« less

Rational design of the column of a heavy multipurpose machining center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atapin, V. V.; Kurlaev, N. V.

2016-04-01

The main purpose in the design of supporting constructions of heavy multipurpose machining center is the reduction of mass at the given precision and productivity of machining. Accomplish these ends the technology of rational design of supporting constructions is offered. This technology is based on the decomposition method and the finite elements method in the combination with optimization methods. The technology has four stages: 1) calculation of external forces and loads, 2) as a result the boundary conditions (force, kinematics) for individual supporting constructions are formed, 3) a problem about final optimal distribution of a material by the individual supporting constructions with the real cross-section is solved; 4) dynamic analysis. By the example of design of the column of a heavy multipurpose machining center the main stages of rational design of the individual supporting constructions are shown. At a design stage of the carrying system consisting of load-bearing structures with simplified geometry, optimum overall dimensions of the column are identified. For the admitted system of preferences, it is necessary to accept the fact that the carrying system with the column with the sizes of cross section of 1.8 m (along x axis) and 2.6 m (along y axis) is the best. The analysis of the work of the column under the torsion condition with the use of method of mechanics shows that the column with square cross sections = 2.46·2.46 m which rigidity on torsion is 26 % higher in comparison with a production version is the best. The results of calculation show that a production-release design of the column with longitudinal and transverse edges of rigidity is 24 % heavier than the column with the edges located on a diagonally at equal rigidity.

Evaporation From Soil Containers With Irregular Shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Assouline, Shmuel; Narkis, Kfir

2017-11-01

Evaporation from bare soils under laboratory conditions is generally studied using containers of regular shapes where the vertical edges are parallel to the flow lines in the drying domain. The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of irregular container shapes, for which the flow lines either converge or diverge toward the surface. Evaporation from initially saturated sand and sandy loam soils packed in cones and inverted cones was compared to evaporation from corresponding cylindrical columns. The initial evaporation rate was higher in the cones, and close to potential evaporation. At the end of the experiment, the cumulative evaporation depth in the sand cone was equal to that in the column but higher than in the inverted cone, while in the sandy loam, the order was cone > column > inverted cone. By comparison to the column, stage 1 evaporation was longer in the cones, and practically similar in the inverted cones. Stage 2 evaporation rate decreased with the increase of the evaporating surface area. These results were more pronounced in the sandy loam. For the sand column, the transition between stage 1 and stage 2 evaporation occurred when the depth of the saturation front was approximately equal to the characteristic length of the soil. However, for the cone and the inverted cone, it occurred for a shallower depth of the saturation front. It seems therefore that the concept of the characteristic length derived from the soil hydraulic properties is related to drying systems of regular shapes.

Multi-metals column adsorption of lead(II), cadmium(II) and manganese(II) onto natural bentonite clay.

PubMed

Alexander, Jock Asanja; Surajudeen, Abdulsalam; Aliyu, El-Nafaty Usman; Omeiza, Aroke Umar; Zaini, Muhammad Abbas Ahmad

2017-10-01

The present work was aimed at evaluating the multi-metals column adsorption of lead(II), cadmium(II) and manganese(II) ions onto natural bentonite. The bentonite clay adsorbent was characterized for physical and chemical properties using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area and cation exchange capacity. The column performance was evaluated using adsorbent bed height of 5.0 cm, with varying influent concentrations (10 mg/L and 50 mg/L) and flow rates (1.4 mL/min and 2.4 mL/min). The result shows that the breakthrough time for all metal ions ranged from 50 to 480 minutes. The maximum adsorption capacity was obtained at initial concentration of 10 mg/L and flow rate of 1.4 mL/min, with 2.22 mg/g of lead(II), 1.71 mg/g of cadmium(II) and 0.37 mg/g of manganese(II). The order of metal ions removal by natural bentonite is lead(II) > cadmium(II) > manganese(II). The sorption performance and the dynamic behaviour of the column were predicted using Adams-Bohart, Thomas, and Yoon-Nelson models. The linear regression analysis demonstrated that the Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models fitted well with the column adsorption data for all metal ions. The natural bentonite was effective for the treatment of wastewater laden with multi-metals, and the process parameters obtained from this work can be used at the industrial scale.

Multi-location peak parking method: an important new tool for the study of mass transfer kinetics in liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Gritti, Fabrice; Guiochon, Georges

2011-02-18

The peak parking (PP) method probes the longitudinal diffusion coefficient of a compound at a single location along the chromatographic column. We extended to a so-called multi-location peak parking (MLPP) method, in which a large number of axial locations along the column are selected in order to check the validity of the conventional PP method and to reveal possible defaults in the structure of the packed bed or pitfalls of the PP and the MLPP methods. MLPP was applied to a series of HILIC columns, including a 5.0 μm Venusil, a 3.0 μm Luna-diol, three 2.7 μm Halo, and a 1.7 μm Kinetex columns. The results demonstrate that the MLPP method may reveal local heterogeneities in the axial diffusion of small retained low molecular weight compounds along the column. Most importantly, experiments show that the sample zone should not be parked in the entrance of the column (i.e., at <1/10 th of the column length). The abrupt drop in the flow rate considerably affects the peak shape and prevents scientists from using the conventional PP method. Practical solutions to cope with that problem are proposed and their success/failure are discussed. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stage-frit: A straightforward sub-2 μm nano-liquid chromatography column fabrication for proteomic analysis.

PubMed

Hsieh, Ming-Yueh; Hsiao, He-Hsuan

2015-07-30

In this work we demonstrated a facile method for the fabrication of C18 coordination polymer gel in a capillary, called stage-frit, which was efficiently applied to pack sub-2 μm C18 beads into the capillary by a high pressure bomb for the online separation of proteolytic peptides. The back pressure of the column with 10 cm × 75 μm i.d. is regularly lower than 170 bar at a flow rate of 300 nl/min, which could be operated on a common nanoLC system instead of nanoUPLC system due to the good permeability, low back pressure and high mechanical stress of the frit that will totally reduce the cost for the purchase of instrument. The stage-frit allows long-term continuous flow of the solvent and no significant beads loss or pressure instability was observed during the period. The repeatability of retention time for fifteen BSA tryptic peaks was found to be less than 1.08% (RSD) in six time nanoLC-ESI-MS/MS experiments. The average full width at half maximum (FWHM) of peptide peaks is 5.87 s. The sub-2 μm stage-frit nanoLC column showed better sensitivity than the commercial available for large scale proteomic analysis of total tissue proteins from human spleen. The number of identified peptides is approximately 0.4-fold and 0.2-fold higher than that obtained by utilizing commercial columns packed with 3 μm and 1.8 μm C18 materials, respectively. In the field of analytical chemistry, particularly the use of nanoLC systems, stage-frit nanoLC column offers a great potential for the separation of complex mixtures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multi-Column Xe/Kr Separation with AgZ-PAN and HZ-PAN

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

Greenhalgh, Mitchell Randy; Garn, Troy Gerry; Welty, Amy Keil

Previous multi-column xenon/krypton separation tests have demonstrated the capability of separating xenon from krypton in a mixed gas feed stream. The results of this initial testing with AgZ-PAN and HZ-PAN indicated that an excellent separation of xenon from krypton could be achieved. Building upon these initial results, a series of additional multi-column testing were performed in FY-16. The purpose of this testing was to scale up the sorbent beds, test a different composition of feed gas and attempt to improve the accuracy of the analysis of the individual capture columns’ compositions. Two Stirling coolers were installed in series to performmore » this testing. The use of the coolers instead of the cryostat provided two desired improvements, 1) removal of the large dilution due to the internal volume of the cryostat adsorption chamber, and 2) ability to increase the sorbent bed size for scale-up. The AgZ-PAN sorbent, due to its xenon selectivity, was loaded in the first column to capture the xenon while allowing the krypton to flow through and be routed to a second column containing the HZ-PAN for capture and analysis. The gases captured on both columns were sampled with evacuated sample bombs and subsequently analyzed via GC-MS for both krypton and xenon. The results of these tests can be used to develop the scope of future testing and analysis using this test bed for demonstrating the capture and separation of xenon and krypton using sorbents, for demonstrating desorption and regeneration of the sorbents, and for determining compositions of the desorbed gases. They indicate a need for future desorption studies in order to better quantify co-adsorbed species and final krypton purity.« less

Apparatus and method for two-stage oxidation of wastes

DOEpatents

Fleischman, Scott D.

1995-01-01

An apparatus and method for oxidizing wastes in a two-stage process. The apparatus includes an oxidation device, a gas-liquid contacting column and an electrocell. In the first stage of the process, wastes are heated in the presence of air to partially oxidize the wastes. The heated wastes produce an off-gas stream containing oxidizable materials. In the second stage, the off-gas stream is cooled and flowed through the contacting column, where the off-gas stream is contacted with an aqueous acid stream containing an oxidizing agent having at least two positive valence states. At least a portion of the oxidizable materials are transferred to the acid stream and destroyed by the oxidizing agent. During oxidation, the valence of the oxidizing agent is decreased from its higher state to its lower state. The acid stream is flowed to the electrocell, where an electric current is applied to the stream to restore the oxidizing agent to its higher valence state. The regenerated acid stream is recycled to the contacting column.

A variational approach to the strongly nonlinear regime of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshikawa, Toshio

The Rayleigh-Taylor instability is the instability of the interface between two fluids of different densities. When a heavy fluid is superposed over a light fluid. small disturbances on the interface develop into a complex form with heavy fluid ``fingers'' and light fluid ``bubbles.'' We propose a variational method for the description of the evolution of the fingers and bubbles in the late stage of the instability. In this method, the fluid region is represented as the image of a time-dependent conformal mapping; the dynamics of the mapping is determined by the least action principle for the Lagrangian. i.e., the kinetic energy minus the potential energy. The evolution of a single finger and bubble is investigated by this method. We first consider a symmetric finger and bubble in a zero gravitational field. We derive an integrable Hamiltonian system with two degrees of freedom that governs the dynamics of the symmetric finger and bubble. We present a general solution of the system. The solution predicts the linear growth of the finger and the saturation of the bubble growth. It is shown that this solution is asymptotically exact. We consider a symmetric finger and bubble with perturbations. We show that the dynamics of the finger and bubble and that of the perturbations are decoupled. We next consider an inclined finger and bubble in a zero gravitational field. We derive a Hamiltonian system with four degrees of freedom that governs the dynamics of the inclined finger and bubble. The system has four integrals of motion, one of them depends on time explicitly. When there is no lateral motion, the system reduces to an integrable Hamiltonian system with three degrees of freedom. A general solution of the system is presented. The solution predicts the linear growth of the finger toward a direction and the saturation of the bubble growth. Finally, we consider a symmetric finger and bubble in a uniform gravitational field. We derive a Hamiltonian system with two degrees of freedom that governs the dynamics of the symmetric finger and bubble. Since the system includes a potential energy term, it is not integrable in general. However, we present a general solution in the case of the total energy being zero. This case corresponds to an interesting case where the evolution starts from a flat surface. The solution predicts that the finger grows as the square of time, and the bubble as the square root of time.

High frequency acoustic propagation under variable sea surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senne, Joseph

This dissertation examines the effects of rough sea surfaces and sub-surface bubbles on high frequency acoustic transmissions. Owing to the strong attenuation of electromagnetic waves in seawater, acoustic waves are used in the underwater realm much in the same way that electromagnetic waves are used in the atmosphere. The transmission and reception of acoustic waves in the underwater environment is important for a variety of fields including navigation, ocean observation, and real-time communications. Rough sea surfaces and sub-surface bubbles alter the acoustic signals that are received not only in the near-surface water column, but also at depth. This dissertation demonstrates that surface roughness and sub-surface bubbles notably affect acoustic transmissions with frequency ranges typical of underwater communications systems (10-50 kHz). The influence of rough surfaces on acoustic transmissions is determined by modeling forward propagation subject to sea surface dynamics that vary with time scales of less than a second to tens of seconds. A time-evolving rough sea surface model is combined with a rough surface formulation of a parabolic equation model for predicting time-varying acoustic fields. Linear surface waves are generated from surface wave spectra, and evolved in time using a Runge-Kutta integration technique. This evolving, range-dependent surface information is combined with other environmental parameters and fed into the acoustic model, giving an approximation of the time-varying acoustic field. The wide-angle parabolic equation model manages the rough sea surfaces by molding them into the boundary conditions for calculations of the near-surface acoustic field. The influence of sub-surface bubbles on acoustic transmissions is determined by modeling the population of bubbles near the surface and using those populations to approximate the effective changes in sound speed and attenuation. Both range-dependent and range-independent bubble models are considered, with the range-dependent model varying over the same time scales as the sea surface model and the range-independent model invariant over time. The bubble-induced sound speed and attenuation fluctuations are read in by the parabolic equation model, which allows for the effects of surface roughness and sub-surface bubbles to be computed separately or together. These merged acoustic models are validated using concurrently-collected acoustic and environmental information, including surface wave spectra. Data to model comparisons demonstrate that the models are able to approximate the ensemble-averaged acoustic intensity at ranges of at least a kilometer for acoustic signals of 10-20 kHz. The rough surface model is shown to capture variations due to surface fluctuations occurring over time scales of less than a second to tens of seconds. The separate bubble models demonstrate the abilities to account for the intermittency of bubble plumes and to determine overall effect of bubbly layers, respectively. The models are shown to capture variations in the acoustic field occurring over time scales of less than a second to tens of seconds. Comparisons against data demonstrate the ability of the model to track acoustic transmissions under evolving sea surfaces. The effects of the evolving bubble field are demonstrated through the use of idealized test cases. For frequency ranges important to communications, surface roughness is shown to have the more dominant effect, with bubbles having an ancillary effect.

Advanced readout methods for superheated emulsion detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

d'Errico, F.; Di Fulvio, A.

2018-05-01

Superheated emulsions develop visible vapor bubbles when exposed to ionizing radiation. They consist in droplets of a metastable liquid, emulsified in an inert matrix. The formation of a bubble cavity is accompanied by sound waves. Evaporated bubbles also exhibit a lower refractive index, compared to the inert gel matrix. These two physical phenomena have been exploited to count the number of evaporated bubbles and thus measure the interacting radiation flux. Systems based on piezoelectric transducers have been traditionally used to acquire the acoustic (pressure) signals generated by bubble evaporation. Such systems can operate at ambient noise levels exceeding 100 dB; however, they are affected by a significant dead time (>10 ms). An optical readout technique relying on the scattering of light by neutron-induced bubbles has been recently improved in order to minimize measurement dead time and ambient noise sensitivity. Beams of infra-red light from light-emitting diode (LED) sources cross the active area of the detector and are deflected by evaporated bubbles. The scattered light correlates with bubble density. Planar photodiodes are affixed along the detector length in optimized positions, allowing the detection of scattered light from the bubbles and minimizing the detection of direct light from the LEDs. A low-noise signal-conditioning stage has been designed and realized to amplify the current induced in the photodiodes by scattered light and to subtract the background signal due to intrinsic scattering within the detector matrix. The proposed amplification architecture maximizes the measurement signal-to-noise ratio, yielding a readout uncertainty of 6% (±1 SD), with 1000 evaporated bubbles in a detector active volume of 150 ml (6 cm detector diameter). In this work, we prove that the intensity of scattered light also relates to the bubble size, which can be controlled by applying an external pressure to the detector emulsion. This effect can be exploited during the readout procedure to minimize shadowing effects between bubbles, which become severe when the latter are several thousands. The detector we used in this work is based on superheated C-318 (octafluorocyclobutane), emulsified in 100 μm ± 10% (1 SD) diameter drops in an inert matrix of approximately 150 ml. The detector was operated at room temperature and ambient pressure.

PULSE COLUMN

DOEpatents

Grimmett, E.S.

1964-01-01

This patent covers a continuous countercurrent liquidsolids contactor column having a number of contactor states each comprising a perforated plate, a layer of balls, and a downcomer tube; a liquid-pulsing piston; and a solids discharger formed of a conical section at the bottom of the column, and a tubular extension on the lowest downcomer terminating in the conical section. Between the conical section and the downcomer extension is formed a small annular opening, through which solids fall coming through the perforated plate of the lowest contactor stage. This annular opening is small enough that the pressure drop thereacross is greater than the pressure drop upward through the lowest contactor stage. (AEC)

Tension of Liquids by Shockwaves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Utkin, A. V.; Sosikov, V. A.

2009-12-01

Experimental investigations of dynamic tension of liquids (water, ethanol, glycerol, hexane, hexadecane, pentadecane, and transformer oil) under shock waves have been made. The method of spall strength measurements was applied and wave profiles were registered by laser interferometer VISAR. It was found that negative pressures in liquids were almost independent from the value of stain rate when the temperature was far from melting point. But near the melting point the spall strength of water, hexadecane, pentadecane, and glycerol is a strong function of strain rate and shock-wave amplitude. The process of cavitation in hexadecane and methanol is double-staged. At the first stage formation of cavities starts, and a kinked of free velocity profile is observed. At the second stage the cavity growth rate increases and the spall-pulse occurs. The theory of homogeneous bubble nucleation was used to explain the experimental results. It was observed for water that spall-pulse amplitude may be higher than the shock wave amplitude. To explain this phenomenon the model of failure kinetics, taking into account the inertial bubbles growth, has been proposed.

Heat integrated ethanol dehydration flowsheets

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

Hutahaean, L.S.; Shen, W.H.; Brunt, V. Van

1995-04-01

zA theoretical evaluation of heat-integrated heterogeneous-azeotropic ethanol-water distillation flowsheets is presented. Simulations of two column flowsheets using several different hydrocarbon entrainers reveal a region of potential heat integration and substantial reduction in operating energy. In this paper, methods for comparing hydrocarbon entrainers are shown. Two aspects of entrainers are related to operating and capital costs. The binary azeotropic composition of the entrainer-ethanol mixture is related to the energy requirements of the flowsheet. A temperature difference in the azeotrophic column is related to the size of the column and overall process staging requirements. Although the hydrophobicity of an entrainer is essentialmore » for specification of staging in the dehydration column, no substantial increase in operating energy results from an entrainer that has a higher water content. Likewise, liquid-liquid equilibria between several entrainer-ethanol-water mixtures have no substantial effect on either staging or operation. Rather, increasing the alcohol content of the entrainer-ethanol azeotrope limits its recovery in the dehydration column, and increases the recycle and reflux streams. These effects both contribute to increasing the separation energy requirements and reducing the region of potential heat integration. A cost comparison with a multieffect extractive distillation flowsheet reveals that the costs are comparable; however, the extractive distillation flowsheet is more cost effective as operating costs increase.« less

Extreme Morphologic and Venting Changes in Methane Seeps at Southern Hydrate Ridge, Cascadia Margin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bigham, K.; Kelley, D. S.; Solomon, E. A.; Delaney, J. R.

2017-12-01

Two highly active methane hydrate seeps have been visited over a 7-year period as part of the construction and operation of NSF's Ocean Observatory Initiative's Regional Cable Array at Southern Hydrate Ridge. The site is located 90 km west of Newport, Oregon, at a water depth of 800 m. The seeps, Einstein's Grotto (OOI instrument deployment site) and Smokey Tavern (alternate site to the north), have been visited yearly from 2010 to 2017 with ROVs. Additionally, a digital still camera deployed from 2014 to 2017 at Einstein's Grotto, has been documenting the profound morphologic and biological changes at this site. A cabled pressure sensor, Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, hydrophone, seismometer array, and uncabled fluid samplers have also been operational at the site for the duration of the camera's deployment. During this time, Einstein's Grotto has evolved from a gentle mound with little venting, to a vigorously bubbling pit bounded by a near vertical wall. Early on bubble emissions blew significant amounts of sediment into the water column and thick Beggiatoa mats coverd the mound. Most recently the face of the pit has collapsed, although bubble plumes are still emitted from the site. The Smokey Tavern site has undergone more extreme changes. Similar to Einstein's Grotto it was first characterized by gentle hummocks with dispersed bacterial mats. In subsequent years, it developed an extremely rugged, elongated collapsed area with vertical walls and jets of methane bubbles rising from small pits near the base of the collapse zone. Meter-across nearly sediment-free blocks of methane hydrate were exposed on the surface and in the walls of the collapse zone. In 2016, this area was unrecognizable with a much more subdued topography, and weak venting of bubbles. Exposed methane hydrate was not visible. From these observations new evolutionary models for methane seeps are being developed for Southern Hydrate Ridge.

Computational investigations of streamers in a single bubble suspended in distilled water under atmospheric pressure conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Ashish; Levko, Dmitry; Raja, Laxminarayan

2016-09-01

We present a computational model of nanosecond streamers generated in helium bubbles immersed in distilled water at the atmospheric pressure conditions. The model is based on the self-consistent, multispecies and the continuum description of plasma and takes into account the presence of water vapor in the gas bubble for a more accurate description of the kinetics of the discharge. We find that the dynamic characteristics of the streamer discharge are completely different at low and high over voltages. We observe that the polarity of the trigger voltage has a substantial effect on initiation, transition and evolution stages of streamers with the volumetric distribution of species in the streamer channel much more uniform for negative trigger voltages due to the presence of multiple streamers. We also find that the presence of water vapor significantly influences the distribution of the dominant species in the streamer trail and has a profound effect on the flux of the dominant species to the bubble wall. The research reported in this publication was supported by Competitive Research Funding from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).

Pre-breakdown phenomena and discharges in a gas-liquid system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tereshonok, D. V.; Babaeva, N. Yu; Naidis, G. V.; Panov, V. A.; Smirnov, B. M.; Son, E. E.

2018-04-01

In this paper, we investigate pre-breakdown and breakdown phenomena in gas-liquid systems. Cavitation void formation and breakdown in bubbles immersed in liquids are studied numerically, while complete breakdown of bubbled water is studied in experiments. It is shown that taking into account the dependence of water dielectric constant on electric field strength plays the same important role for cavitation void appearance under the action of electrostriction forces as the voltage rise time. It is also shown that the initial stage of breakdown in deformed bubbles immersed in liquid strongly depends on spatial orientation of the bubbles relative to the external electric field. The effect of immersed microbubbles, distributed in bulk water, on breakdown time and voltage is studied experimentally. At the breakdown voltage, the slow ‘thermal’ mechanism is changed by the fast ‘streamer-leader’ showing a decrease in breakdown time by two orders of magnitude by introducing microbubbles (0.1% of volumetric gas content) into the water. In addition, the plasma channel is found to pass between nearby microbubbles, exhibiting some ‘guidance’ effect.

Potential Flow Model for Compressible Stratified Rayleigh-Taylor Instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rydquist, Grant; Reckinger, Scott; Owkes, Mark; Wieland, Scott

2017-11-01

The Rayleigh-Taylor Instability (RTI) is an instability that occurs when a heavy fluid lies on top of a lighter fluid in a gravitational field, or a gravity-like acceleration. It occurs in many fluid flows of a highly compressive nature. In this study potential flow analysis (PFA) is used to model the early stages of RTI growth for compressible fluids. In the localized region near the bubble tip, the effects of vorticity are negligible, so PFA is applicable, as opposed to later stages where the induced velocity due to vortices generated from the growth of the instability dominate the flow. The incompressible PFA is extended for compressibility effects by applying the growth rate and the associated perturbation spatial decay from compressible linear stability theory. The PFA model predicts theoretical values for a bubble terminal velocity for single-mode compressible RTI, dependent upon the Atwood (A) and Mach (M) numbers, which is a parameter that measures both the strength of the stratification and intrinsic compressibility. The theoretical bubble terminal velocities are compared against numerical simulations. The PFA model correctly predicts the M dependence at high A, but the model must be further extended to include additional physics to capture the behavior at low A. Undergraduate Scholars Program - Montana State University.

Numerical investigations on unstable direct contact condensation of cryogenic fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayachandran, K. N.; Arnab, Roy; Parthasarathi, Ghosh

2017-02-01

A typical problem of Direct Contact Condensation (DCC) occurs at the liquid oxygen (LOX) booster turbopump exit of oxidiser rich staged combustion cycle based semi-cryogenic rocket engines, where the hot gas mixture (predominantly oxygen and small amounts of combustion products) that runs the turbine mixes with LOX from the pump exit. This complex multiphase phenomena leads to the formation of solid CO2 & H2O, which is undesirable for the functioning of the main LOX turbopump. As a starting point for solving this complex problem, in this study, the hot gas mixture is taken as pure oxygen and hence, DCC of pure oxygen vapour jets in subcooled liquid oxygen is simulated using the commercial CFD package ANSYS CFX®. A two fluid model along with the thermal phase change model is employed for capturing the heat and mass transfer effects. The study mainly focuses on the subsonic DCC bubbling regime, which is reported as unstable with bubble formation, elongation, necking and collapsing effects. The heat transfer coefficients over a period of time have been computed and the various stages of bubbling have been analysed with the help of vapour volume fraction and pressure profiles. The results obtained for DCC of oxygen vapour-liquid mixtures is in qualitative agreement with the experimental results on DCC of steam-water mixtures.

MODELING MICROBUBBLE DYNAMICS IN BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS*

PubMed Central

CHAHINE, Georges L.; HSIAO, Chao-Tsung

2012-01-01

Controlling microbubble dynamics to produce desirable biomedical outcomes when and where necessary and avoid deleterious effects requires advanced knowledge, which can be achieved only through a combination of experimental and numerical/analytical techniques. The present communication presents a multi-physics approach to study the dynamics combining viscous- in-viscid effects, liquid and structure dynamics, and multi bubble interaction. While complex numerical tools are developed and used, the study aims at identifying the key parameters influencing the dynamics, which need to be included in simpler models. PMID:22833696

Pulsed depressed collector

DOEpatents

Kemp, Mark A

2015-11-03

A high power RF device has an electron beam cavity, a modulator, and a circuit for feed-forward energy recovery from a multi-stage depressed collector to the modulator. The electron beam cavity include a cathode, an anode, and the multi-stage depressed collector, and the modulator is configured to provide pulses to the cathode. Voltages of the electrode stages of the multi-stage depressed collector are allowed to float as determined by fixed impedances seen by the electrode stages. The energy recovery circuit includes a storage capacitor that dynamically biases potentials of the electrode stages of the multi-stage depressed collector and provides recovered energy from the electrode stages of the multi-stage depressed collector to the modulator. The circuit may also include a step-down transformer, where the electrode stages of the multi-stage depressed collector are electrically connected to separate taps on the step-down transformer.

Multiple-stage decisions in a marine central-place forager

PubMed Central

Friedlaender, Ari S.; Johnston, David W.; Tyson, Reny B.; Kaltenberg, Amanda; Goldbogen, Jeremy A.; Stimpert, Alison K.; Curtice, Corrie; Hazen, Elliott L.; Halpin, Patrick N.; Read, Andrew J.; Nowacek, Douglas P.

2016-01-01

Air-breathing marine animals face a complex set of physical challenges associated with diving that affect the decisions of how to optimize feeding. Baleen whales (Mysticeti) have evolved bulk-filter feeding mechanisms to efficiently feed on dense prey patches. Baleen whales are central place foragers where oxygen at the surface represents the central place and depth acts as the distance to prey. Although hypothesized that baleen whales will target the densest prey patches anywhere in the water column, how depth and density interact to influence foraging behaviour is poorly understood. We used multi-sensor archival tags and active acoustics to quantify Antarctic humpback whale foraging behaviour relative to prey. Our analyses reveal multi-stage foraging decisions driven by both krill depth and density. During daylight hours when whales did not feed, krill were found in deep high-density patches. As krill migrated vertically into larger and less dense patches near the surface, whales began to forage. During foraging bouts, we found that feeding rates (number of feeding lunges per hour) were greatest when prey was shallowest, and feeding rates decreased with increasing dive depth. This strategy is consistent with previous models of how air-breathing diving animals optimize foraging efficiency. Thus, humpback whales forage mainly when prey is more broadly distributed and shallower, presumably to minimize diving and searching costs and to increase feeding rates overall and thus foraging efficiency. Using direct measurements of feeding behaviour from animal-borne tags and prey availability from echosounders, our study demonstrates a multi-stage foraging process in a central place forager that we suggest acts to optimize overall efficiency by maximizing net energy gain over time. These data reveal a previously unrecognized level of complexity in predator–prey interactions and underscores the need to simultaneously measure prey distribution in marine central place forager studies. PMID:27293784

ConTour: Data-Driven Exploration of Multi-Relational Datasets for Drug Discovery.

PubMed

Partl, Christian; Lex, Alexander; Streit, Marc; Strobelt, Hendrik; Wassermann, Anne-Mai; Pfister, Hanspeter; Schmalstieg, Dieter

2014-12-01

Large scale data analysis is nowadays a crucial part of drug discovery. Biologists and chemists need to quickly explore and evaluate potentially effective yet safe compounds based on many datasets that are in relationship with each other. However, there is a lack of tools that support them in these processes. To remedy this, we developed ConTour, an interactive visual analytics technique that enables the exploration of these complex, multi-relational datasets. At its core ConTour lists all items of each dataset in a column. Relationships between the columns are revealed through interaction: selecting one or multiple items in one column highlights and re-sorts the items in other columns. Filters based on relationships enable drilling down into the large data space. To identify interesting items in the first place, ConTour employs advanced sorting strategies, including strategies based on connectivity strength and uniqueness, as well as sorting based on item attributes. ConTour also introduces interactive nesting of columns, a powerful method to show the related items of a child column for each item in the parent column. Within the columns, ConTour shows rich attribute data about the items as well as information about the connection strengths to other datasets. Finally, ConTour provides a number of detail views, which can show items from multiple datasets and their associated data at the same time. We demonstrate the utility of our system in case studies conducted with a team of chemical biologists, who investigate the effects of chemical compounds on cells and need to understand the underlying mechanisms.

A Targeting Microbubble for Ultrasound Molecular Imaging

PubMed Central

Yeh, James Shue-Min; Sennoga, Charles A.; McConnell, Ellen; Eckersley, Robert; Tang, Meng-Xing; Nourshargh, Sussan; Seddon, John M.; Haskard, Dorian O.; Nihoyannopoulos, Petros

2015-01-01

Rationale Microbubbles conjugated with targeting ligands are used as contrast agents for ultrasound molecular imaging. However, they often contain immunogenic (strept)avidin, which impedes application in humans. Although targeting bubbles not employing the biotin-(strept)avidin conjugation chemistry have been explored, only a few reached the stage of ultrasound imaging in vivo, none were reported/evaluated to show all three of the following properties desired for clinical applications: (i) low degree of non-specific bubble retention in more than one non-reticuloendothelial tissue; (ii) effective for real-time imaging; and (iii) effective for acoustic quantification of molecular targets to a high degree of quantification. Furthermore, disclosures of the compositions and methodologies enabling reproduction of the bubbles are often withheld. Objective To develop and evaluate a targeting microbubble based on maleimide-thiol conjugation chemistry for ultrasound molecular imaging. Methods and Results Microbubbles with a previously unreported generic (non-targeting components) composition were grafted with anti-E-selectin F(ab’)2 using maleimide-thiol conjugation, to produce E-selectin targeting microbubbles. The resulting targeting bubbles showed high specificity to E-selectin in vitro and in vivo. Non-specific bubble retention was minimal in at least three non-reticuloendothelial tissues with inflammation (mouse heart, kidneys, cremaster). The bubbles were effective for real-time ultrasound imaging of E-selectin expression in the inflamed mouse heart and kidneys, using a clinical ultrasound scanner. The acoustic signal intensity of the targeted bubbles retained in the heart correlated strongly with the level of E-selectin expression (|r|≥0.8), demonstrating a high degree of non-invasive molecular quantification. Conclusions Targeting microbubbles for ultrasound molecular imaging, based on maleimide-thiol conjugation chemistry and the generic composition described, may possess properties (i)–(iii) desired for clinical applications. PMID:26161541

Giga-electronvolt electrons due to a transition from laser wakefield acceleration to plasma wakefield acceleration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masson-Laborde, P. E.; Mo, M. Z.; Ali, A.; Fourmaux, S.; Lassonde, P.; Kieffer, J. C.; Rozmus, W.; Teychenné, D.; Fedosejevs, R.

2014-12-01

We show through experiments that a transition from laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) regime to a plasma wakefield acceleration (PWFA) regime can drive electrons up to energies close to the GeV level. Initially, the acceleration mechanism is dominated by the bubble created by the laser in the nonlinear regime of LWFA, leading to an injection of a large number of electrons. After propagation beyond the depletion length, leading to a depletion of the laser pulse, whose transverse ponderomotive force is not able to sustain the bubble anymore, the high energy dense bunch of electrons propagating inside bubble will drive its own wakefield by a PWFA regime. This wakefield will be able to trap and accelerate a population of electrons up to the GeV level during this second stage. Three dimensional particle-in-cell simulations support this analysis and confirm the scenario.

Giga-electronvolt electrons due to a transition from laser wakefield acceleration to plasma wakefield acceleration

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

Masson-Laborde, P. E., E-mail: paul-edouard.masson-laborde@cea.fr; Teychenné, D.; Mo, M. Z.

2014-12-15

We show through experiments that a transition from laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) regime to a plasma wakefield acceleration (PWFA) regime can drive electrons up to energies close to the GeV level. Initially, the acceleration mechanism is dominated by the bubble created by the laser in the nonlinear regime of LWFA, leading to an injection of a large number of electrons. After propagation beyond the depletion length, leading to a depletion of the laser pulse, whose transverse ponderomotive force is not able to sustain the bubble anymore, the high energy dense bunch of electrons propagating inside bubble will drive its ownmore » wakefield by a PWFA regime. This wakefield will be able to trap and accelerate a population of electrons up to the GeV level during this second stage. Three dimensional particle-in-cell simulations support this analysis and confirm the scenario.« less

Pairwise Force SPH Model for Real-Time Multi-Interaction Applications.

PubMed

Yang, Tao; Martin, Ralph R; Lin, Ming C; Chang, Jian; Hu, Shi-Min

2017-10-01

In this paper, we present a novel pairwise-force smoothed particle hydrodynamics (PF-SPH) model to enable simulation of various interactions at interfaces in real time. Realistic capture of interactions at interfaces is a challenging problem for SPH-based simulations, especially for scenarios involving multiple interactions at different interfaces. Our PF-SPH model can readily handle multiple types of interactions simultaneously in a single simulation; its basis is to use a larger support radius than that used in standard SPH. We adopt a novel anisotropic filtering term to further improve the performance of interaction forces. The proposed model is stable; furthermore, it avoids the particle clustering problem which commonly occurs at the free surface. We show how our model can be used to capture various interactions. We also consider the close connection between droplets and bubbles, and show how to animate bubbles rising in liquid as well as bubbles in air. Our method is versatile, physically plausible and easy-to-implement. Examples are provided to demonstrate the capabilities and effectiveness of our approach.

In situ Dynamics of O2, pH, Light, and Photosynthesis in Ikaite Tufa Columns (Ikka Fjord, Greenland)-A Unique Microbial Habitat.

PubMed

Trampe, Erik C L; Larsen, Jens E N; Glaring, Mikkel A; Stougaard, Peter; Kühl, Michael

2016-01-01

The Ikka Fjord (SW Greenland) harbors a unique microbial habitat in the form of several hundred submarine tufa columns composed of ikaite, a special hexahydrate form of calcium carbonate that precipitates when alkaline phosphate- and carbonate-enriched spring water seeping out of the sea floor meets cold seawater. While several unique heterotrophic microbes have been isolated from the tufa columns, the microbial activity, and the boundary conditions for microbial growth in ikaite have remained unexplored. We present the first detailed in situ characterization of the physico-chemical microenvironment and activity of oxygenic phototrophs thriving within the ikaite columns. In situ underwater microsensor measurements of pH, temperature, and irradiance in the porous ikaite crystal matrix, revealed an extreme microenvironment characterized by low temperatures, strong light attenuation, and gradients of pH changing from pH 9 at the outer column surface to above pH 10 over the first 1-2 cm of the ikaite. This outer layer of the freshly deposited ikaite matrix contained densely pigmented yellow and green zones harboring a diverse phototrophic community dominated by diatoms and cyanobacteria, respectively, as shown by amplicon sequencing. In situ O2 measurements, as well as underwater variable chlorophyll fluorescence measurements of photosynthetic activity, demonstrated high levels of oxygenic photosynthesis in this extreme gradient environment with strong irradiance-driven O2 dynamics ranging from anoxia to hyperoxic conditions in the ikaite matrix, albeit the local formation of gas bubbles buffered the day-night dynamics of O2 in the tufa columns. The microbial phototrophs in the ikaite matrix are embedded in exopolymers forming endolithic biofilms that may interact with mineral formation and cementing of ikaite crystals.

In situ Dynamics of O2, pH, Light, and Photosynthesis in Ikaite Tufa Columns (Ikka Fjord, Greenland)—A Unique Microbial Habitat

PubMed Central

Trampe, Erik C. L.; Larsen, Jens E. N.; Glaring, Mikkel A.; Stougaard, Peter; Kühl, Michael

2016-01-01

The Ikka Fjord (SW Greenland) harbors a unique microbial habitat in the form of several hundred submarine tufa columns composed of ikaite, a special hexahydrate form of calcium carbonate that precipitates when alkaline phosphate- and carbonate-enriched spring water seeping out of the sea floor meets cold seawater. While several unique heterotrophic microbes have been isolated from the tufa columns, the microbial activity, and the boundary conditions for microbial growth in ikaite have remained unexplored. We present the first detailed in situ characterization of the physico-chemical microenvironment and activity of oxygenic phototrophs thriving within the ikaite columns. In situ underwater microsensor measurements of pH, temperature, and irradiance in the porous ikaite crystal matrix, revealed an extreme microenvironment characterized by low temperatures, strong light attenuation, and gradients of pH changing from pH 9 at the outer column surface to above pH 10 over the first 1–2 cm of the ikaite. This outer layer of the freshly deposited ikaite matrix contained densely pigmented yellow and green zones harboring a diverse phototrophic community dominated by diatoms and cyanobacteria, respectively, as shown by amplicon sequencing. In situ O2 measurements, as well as underwater variable chlorophyll fluorescence measurements of photosynthetic activity, demonstrated high levels of oxygenic photosynthesis in this extreme gradient environment with strong irradiance-driven O2 dynamics ranging from anoxia to hyperoxic conditions in the ikaite matrix, albeit the local formation of gas bubbles buffered the day-night dynamics of O2 in the tufa columns. The microbial phototrophs in the ikaite matrix are embedded in exopolymers forming endolithic biofilms that may interact with mineral formation and cementing of ikaite crystals. PMID:27242741

The Seismic Velocity In Gas-charged Magma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sturton, S.; Neuberg, J. W.

2001-12-01

Long-period and hybrid events, seen at the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat, show dominant low frequency content suggesting the seismic wavefield is formed as a result of interface waves at the boundary between a fluid and a solid medium. This wavefield will depend on the impedance contrast between the two media and therefore the difference in seismic velocity. For a gas-charged magma, increasing pressure with depth reduces the volume of gas exsolved, increasing the seismic velocity with depth in the conduit. The seismic radiation pattern along the conduit can then be modelled. Where single events merge into tremor, gliding lines can sometimes be seen in the spectra and indicate either changes in the seismic parameters with time or varying triggering rates of single events.The differential equation describing the time dependence of bubble growth by diffusion is solved numerically for a stationary magma column undergoing a decompression event. The volume of gas is depth dependent and increases with time as the bubbles grow and expand. It is used to calculate the depth and time dependence of the density, pressure and seismic velocity. The effect of different viscosities associated with different magma types and concentration of water in the melt on the rate of bubble growth is explored. Crystal growth, which increases the concentration of water in the melt, affects the amount of gas that can be exsolved.

Investigating the explosivity of shallow sub-aqueous basaltic eruptions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murtagh, R.; White, J. D. L.

2009-04-01

Volcanic eruptions produce pyroclasts containing vesicles, clearly implying exsolution of volatiles from the magma has occurred. Our aim is to understand the textural characteristics of vesiculated clasts as a quantitative indicator of the eruptive behaviour of a volcano. Assessing water's role in volatile degassing and outgassing has been and is being well documented for terrestrial eruptions; the same cannot be said, however, for their shallow subaqueous counterparts. The eruptive behaviour of Surtseyan volcanoes, which include both subaqueous and subaerial phases (for example, the type-location Surtsey, Iceland in 1963) is under investigation here and for good reason. Volcanic eruptions during which water and basaltic magma come into contact appear to ignite violent eruptions of many of the small "monogenetic" volcanoes so abundant on Earth. A key problem remains that detailed conditions of water-magma interactions are not yet fully understood. Field samples obtained from exposed sequences deposited originally in a subaqueous environment allow for the necessary analysis of lapilli. With the aid of experimental data, mathematical modelling and terrestrial analogues the ambition is to unravel volatile degassing, ascent histories and fragmentation processes, allowing us ultimately to identify both the role water plays in the explosivity of shallow subaqueous eruptions, and the rise history of magma to the point of interaction. The first site, Pahvant Butte is located in southwest Utah, U.S. It is a well preserved tuff cone overlying a subaqueously deposited mound of glassy ash composed of sideromelane and tachylite. It was erupted under ~85m of water into Lake Bonneville approximately 15,300 years ago. Our focus is on samples collected from a well-bedded, broadly scoured coarse ash and lapilli lithofacies on the eastern flank of the edifice. Vesicularity indices span from 52.6% - 60.8%, with very broad vesicularity ranges, 20.6% - 81.0% for one extreme sample. The diverse nature of the vesicularity is reflected also in SEM images. Dense clasts display textures with isolated, tiny, serrate-edged bubbles, while mean- and high-vesicularity clasts display more numerous, medium-sized, rounded bubbles. Based on these observations, fragmentation at various stages of a complex vesiculation history is suggested. The second site, Black Point, is situated in eastern California, U.S. Another emergent volcano, it was erupted into Lake Russell ~13,000 years ago. Similar to Pahvant Butte, its unconsolidated mound consists of glassy ash and lapilli and is topped by indurated, palagonitized tuff ring/cone deposits. A well exposed quarry section on the southeast slopes of the edifice is considered here. Sub-horizontal beds display pinch and swell structures and some cross-stratification. Vesicularity indices extend from 58.7% - 66.6% while vesicularity ranges are broad, 27.8% - 79.7% for example. The higher overall vesicularity implies higher rates of ascent and eruption discharge, a conclusion supported by textural features of bubbles in this section such as a population of uniformly sized small vesicles. Bubble nucleation and growth in an ascending parcel of magma is controlled both by decompression and diffusion of oversaturated volatiles as the magma rises. Bubble growth plays a major role in controlling eruption behaviour and we can obtain useful quantitative records of vesicle size data through thin section imaging and analysis. Vesicle size data can be expressed as number per area (NA), number per volume (NV), cumulative number density (N(>L)), volume fraction, cumulative volume fraction and vesicle size distribution (VSD). Not only can the trends and patterns of bubble size reveal insights into eruptive styles, intensity; bubble nucleation, growth, coalescence and deformation, they can also be analysed with other information to infer volatile content and degassing record. High vesicle number densities have been interpreted as being the result of rapid bubble nucleation at high supersaturations. Homogenous bubble nucleation is symptomatic of large supersaturations and high decompression values, whereas heterogeneous bubble nucleation on pre-existing microlites may occur at much lower saturation and decompression values. The spatial density of bubble nuclei controls the rate of diffusion-limited bubble growth and growth of volatile depletion shells around bubbles. Results thus far are restricted to the Pahvant Butte sample suite and indicate low bubble number densities, which could be reflecting a high connectivity of bubbles; polymodal volume fraction distributions, indicating bubble coalescence and multiple stages of bubble nucleation; VSD plots display curved trends further supporting the theory that bubble coalescence and other ripening processes have occurred. These vesicle-population characteristics are most similar to those reported from Stromboli. Despite this similarity, eruption style, energetics and dispersal are unique to subaqueous eruptions, and are inferred to be equivalent to those that formed the subaqueous base of Surtsey volcano.

A laboratory study of sediment and contaminant release during gas ebullition.

PubMed

Yuan, Qingzhong; Valsaraj, Kalliat T; Reible, Danny D; Willson, Clinton S

2007-09-01

Significant quantities of gas are generated from labile organic matter in contaminated sediments. The implications for the gas generation and subsequent release of contaminants from sediments are unknown but may include enhanced direct transport such as pore water advection and diffusion. The behavior of gas in sediments and the resulting migration of a polyaromatic hydrocarbon, viz phenanthrene, were investigated in an experimental system with methane injection at the base of a sediment column. Hexane above the overlying water layer was used to trap any phenanthrene migrating out of the sediment layer. The rate of suspension of solid particulate matter from the sediment bed into the overlying water layer was also monitored. The experiments indicated that significant amounts of both solid particulate matter and contaminant can be released from a sediment bed by gas movement with the amount of release related to the volume of gas released. The effective mass transfer coefficient of gas bubble-facilitated contaminant release was estimated under field conditions, being around three orders of magnitude smaller than that of bioturbation. A thin sand-capping layer (2 cm) was found to dramatically reduce the amount of contaminant or particles released with the gas because it could prevent or at least reduce sediment suspension. Based on the experimental observations, gas bubble-facilitated contaminant transport pathways for both uncapped and capped systems were proposed. Sediment cores were sliced to obtain phenanthrene concentration. X-ray computed tomography (CT) was used to investigate the void space distribution in the sediment penetrated by gas bubbles. The results showed that gas bubble migration could redistribute the sediment void spaces and may facilitate pore water circulation in the sediment.

A new approach for bioethanol production from sugarcane bagasse using hydrodynamic cavitation assisted-pretreatment and column reactors.

PubMed

Terán Hilares, Ruly; Kamoei, Douglas Viana; Ahmed, Muhammad Ajaz; da Silva, Silvio Silvério; Han, Jong-In; Santos, Júlio César Dos

2018-05-01

Hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) was adopted to assist alkaline-hydrogen peroxide pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse (SCB). In the following condition: 0.29 M of NaOH, 0.78% (v/v) of H 2 O 2 , 9.95 min of process time and 3 bar of inlet pressure, 95.4% of digestibility of cellulosic fraction was achieved. To take the best use of the pretreated biomass, the overall process was intensified by way of employing a packed bed flow-through column reactor and thus enabling to handle a high solid loading of 20%, thereby leading to cellulose and hemicellulose conversions to 74.7% and 75%, respectively. In the fermentation step, a bubble column reactor was introduced to maximize ethanol production from the pretreated SCB by Scheffersomyces stipitis NRRL-Y7124, resulting in 31.50 g/L of ethanol, 0.49 g/g of ethanol yield and 0.68 g/L.h of productivity. All this showed that our HC-assisted NaOH-H 2 O 2 pretreatment strategy along with the process intensification approach might offer an option for SCB-based biorefineries. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A multi-stage drop-the-losers design for multi-arm clinical trials.

PubMed

Wason, James; Stallard, Nigel; Bowden, Jack; Jennison, Christopher

2017-02-01

Multi-arm multi-stage trials can improve the efficiency of the drug development process when multiple new treatments are available for testing. A group-sequential approach can be used in order to design multi-arm multi-stage trials, using an extension to Dunnett's multiple-testing procedure. The actual sample size used in such a trial is a random variable that has high variability. This can cause problems when applying for funding as the cost will also be generally highly variable. This motivates a type of design that provides the efficiency advantages of a group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage design, but has a fixed sample size. One such design is the two-stage drop-the-losers design, in which a number of experimental treatments, and a control treatment, are assessed at a prescheduled interim analysis. The best-performing experimental treatment and the control treatment then continue to a second stage. In this paper, we discuss extending this design to have more than two stages, which is shown to considerably reduce the sample size required. We also compare the resulting sample size requirements to the sample size distribution of analogous group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage designs. The sample size required for a multi-stage drop-the-losers design is usually higher than, but close to, the median sample size of a group-sequential multi-arm multi-stage trial. In many practical scenarios, the disadvantage of a slight loss in average efficiency would be overcome by the huge advantage of a fixed sample size. We assess the impact of delay between recruitment and assessment as well as unknown variance on the drop-the-losers designs.

Blended-Wing-Body (BWB) Fuselage Structural Design for Weight Reduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukhopadhyay, V.

2005-01-01

Structural analysis and design of efficient pressurized fuselage configurations for the advanced Blended-Wing-Body (BWB) flight vehicle is a challenging problem. Unlike a conventional cylindrical pressurized fuselage, stress level in a box type BWB fuselage is an order of magnitude higher, because internal pressure primarily results in bending stress instead of skin-membrane stress. In addition, resulting deformation of aerodynamic surface could significantly affect performance advantages provided by lifting body. The pressurized composite conformal multi-lobe tanks of X-33 type space vehicle also suffered from similar problem. In the earlier BWB design studies, Vaulted Ribbed Shell (VLRS), Flat Ribbed Shell (FRS); Vaulted shell Honeycomb Core (VLHC) and Flat sandwich shell Honeycomb Core (FLHC) concepts were studied. The flat and vaulted ribbed shell concepts were found most efficient. In a recent study, a set of composite sandwich panel and cross-ribbed panel were analyzed. Optimal values of rib and skin thickness, rib spacing, and panel depth were obtained for minimal weight under stress and buckling constraints. In addition, a set of efficient multi-bubble fuselage (MBF) configuration concept was developed. The special geometric configuration of this concept allows for balancing internal cabin pressure load efficiently, through membrane stress in inner-stiffened shell and inter-cabin walls, while the outer-ribbed shell prevents buckling due to external resultant compressive loads. The initial results from these approximate finite element analyses indicate progressively lower maximum stresses and deflections compared to the earlier study. However, a relative comparison of the FEM weight per unit floor area of the segment unit indicates that the unit weights are still relatively higher that the conventional B777 type cylindrical or A380 type elliptic fuselage design. Due to the manufacturing concern associated with multi-bubble fuselage, a Y braced box-type fuselage alternative with special resin-film injected (RFI) stitched carbon composite with foam-core was designed by Boeing under a NASA research contract for the 480 passenger version. It is shown that this configuration can be improved to a modified multi-bubble fuselage which has better stress distribution, for same material and dimension.

Seismicity at Old Faithful Geyser: an isolated source of geothermal noise and possible analogue of volcanic seismicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kieffer, Susan Werner

1984-09-01

Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park, U.S.A., is a relatively isolated source of seismic noise and exhibits seismic behavior similar to that observed at many volcanoes, including "bubblequakes" that resemble B-type "earthquakes", harmonic tremor before and during eruptions, and periods of seismic quiet prior to eruptions. Although Old Faithful differs from volcanoes in that the conduit is continuously open, that rock-fracturing is not a process responsible for seismicity, and that the erupting fluid is inviscid H 2O rather than viscous magma, there are also remarkable similarities in the problems of heat and mass recharge to the system, in the eruption dynamics, and in the seismicity. Water rises irregularly into the immediate reservoir of Old Faithful as recharge occurs, a fact that suggests that there are two enlarged storage regions: one between 18 and 22 m (the base of the immediate reservoir) and one between about 10 and 12 m depth. Transport of heat from hot water or steam entering at the base of the recharging water column into cooler overlying water occurs by migration of steam bubbles upward and their collapse in the cooler water, and by episodes of convective overturn. An eruption occurs when the temperature of the near-surface water exceeds the boiling point if the entire water column is sufficiently close to the boiling curve that the propagation of pressure-release waves (rarefactions) down the column can bring the liquid water onto the boiling curve. The process of conversion of the liquid water in the conduit at the onset of an eruption into a two-phase liquid-vapor mixture takes on the order of 30 s. The seismicity is directly related to the sequence of filling and heating during the recharge cycle, and to the fluid mechanics of the eruption. Short (0.2-0.3 s), monochromatic, high-frequency events (20-60 Hz) resembling unsustained harmonic tremor and, in some instances, B-type volcanic earthquakes, occur when exploding or imploding bubbles of steam cause transient vibrations of the fluid column. The frequency of the events is determined by the length of the water column and the speed of sound of the fluid in the conduit when these events occur; damping is controlled by the characteristic and hydraulic impedances, which depend on the above parameters, as well as on the recharge rate of the fluid. Two periods of reduced seismicity (of a few tens of seconds to nearly a minute in duration) occur during the recharge cycle, apparently when the water rises rapidly through the narrow regions of the conduit, causing a sudden pressure increase that temporarily suppresses steam bubble formation. A period of decreased seismicity also precedes preplay or an eruption; this appears to be the time when rising steam bubbles move into a zone of boiling that is acoustically decoupled from the wall of the conduit because of the acoustic impedance mismatch between boiling water ( ρ c ˜ 10 3g cm -2 s -1) and rock ( ρ c ˜ 3 × 10 5g cm 2 s -1). Sustained harmonic tremor occurs during the first one to one-and-a-half minutes of an eruption of Old Faithful, but is not detectable in the succeeding minutes of the eruption. The eruption tremor is caused by hydraulic transients propagating within a sublayer of unvesiculated water that underlies the erupting two-phase liquid—vapor mixture. The resonant frequencies of the fluid column decrease to about 1 Hz when all of the water in the conduit has been converted to a water—steam mixture. Surges are observed in the flow at this frequency, but the resonance has not been detected seismically, possibly because the two-phase erupting fluid is seismically decoupled from the rock on which seismometers are placed. If Old Faithful is an analogue for volcanic seismicity, this study shows that because the frequency of tremor depends on the acoustic properties of the fluid and on conduit dimensions, both properties must be considered in analysis of tremor in volcanic regions. Because magma sound speed can vary over nearly two orders of magnitude as it changes from an undersaturated liquid into a saturated two-phase mixture, tremor frequency might vary by this magnitude and very broad-band seismographs may be required if tremor is to be monitored as magma goes from an undersaturated liquid to a vesiculated froth. Cessation of fluid-induced seismicity may indicate that the processes that drive the transients cease, but it is also possible that the processes that drive the transients continue but the fluid properties change so that the fluid becomes acoustically decoupled from the rock on which seismometers are placed.

Column bioleaching of uranium embedded in granite porphyry by a mesophilic acidophilic consortium.

PubMed

Qiu, Guanzhou; Li, Qian; Yu, Runlan; Sun, Zhanxue; Liu, Yajie; Chen, Miao; Yin, Huaqun; Zhang, Yage; Liang, Yili; Xu, Lingling; Sun, Limin; Liu, Xueduan

2011-04-01

A mesophilic acidophilic consortium was enriched from acid mine drainage samples collected from several uranium mines in China. The performance of the consortium in column bioleaching of low-grade uranium embedded in granite porphyry was investigated. The influences of several chemical parameters on uranium extraction in column reactor were also investigated. A uranium recovery of 96.82% was achieved in 97 days column leaching process including 33 days acid pre-leaching stage and 64 days bioleaching stage. It was reflected that indirect leaching mechanism took precedence over direct. Furthermore, the bacterial community structure was analyzed by using Amplified Ribosomal DNA Restriction Analysis. The results showed that microorganisms on the residual surface were more diverse than that in the solution. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans was the dominant species in the solution and Leptospirillum ferriphilum on the residual surface. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimal performance of single-column chromatography and simulated moving bed processes for the separation of optical isomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medi, Bijan; Kazi, Monzure-Khoda; Amanullah, Mohammad

2013-06-01

Chromatography has been established as the method of choice for the separation and purification of optically pure drugs which has a market size of about 250 billion USD. Single column chromatography (SCC) is commonly used in the development and testing phase of drug development while multi-column Simulated Moving Bed (SMB) chromatography is more suitable for large scale production due to its continuous nature. In this study, optimal performance of SCC and SMB processes for the separation of optical isomers under linear and overloaded separation conditions has been investigated. The performance indicators, namely productivity and desorbent requirement have been compared under geometric similarity for the separation of a mixture of guaifenesin, and Tröger's base enantiomers. SCC process has been analyzed under equilibrium assumption i.e., assuming infinite column efficiency, and zero dispersion, and its optimal performance parameters are compared with the optimal prediction of an SMB process by triangle theory. Simulation results obtained using actual experimental data indicate that SCC may compete with SMB in terms of productivity depending on the molecules to be separated. Besides, insights into the process performances in terms of degree of freedom and relationship between the optimal operating point and solubility limit of the optical isomers have been ascertained. This investigation enables appropriate selection of single or multi-column chromatographic processes based on column packing properties and isotherm parameters.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Bubbling in a Viscous Fluid for Validation of Waste Glass Melter Modeling

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

Abboud, Alexander William; Guillen, Donna Post

2016-01-01

At the Hanford site, radioactive waste stored in underground tanks is slated for vitrification for final disposal. A comprehensive knowledge of the glass batch melting process will be useful in optimizing the process, which could potentially reduce the cost and duration of this multi-billion dollar cleanup effort. We are developing a high-fidelity heat transfer model of a Joule-heated ceramic lined melter to improve the understanding of the complex, inter-related processes occurring with the melter. The glass conversion rates in the cold cap layer are dependent on promoting efficient heat transfer. In practice, heat transfer is augmented by inserting air bubblersmore » into the molten glass. However, the computational simulations must be validated to provide confidence in the solutions. As part of a larger validation procedure, it is beneficial to split the physics of the melter into smaller systems to validate individually. The substitution of molten glass for a simulant liquid with similar density and viscosity at room temperature provides a way to study mixing through bubbling as an isolated effect without considering the heat transfer dynamics. The simulation results are compared to experimental data obtained by the Vitreous State Laboratory at the Catholic University of America using bubblers placed within a large acrylic tank that is similar in scale to a pilot glass waste melter. Comparisons are made for surface area of the rising air bubbles between experiments and CFD simulations for a variety of air flow rates and bubble injection depths. Also, computed bubble rise velocity is compared to a well-accepted expression for bubble terminal velocity.« less

Sound field measurement in a double layer cavitation cluster by rugged miniature needle hydrophones.

PubMed

Koch, Christian

2016-03-01

During multi-bubble cavitation the bubbles tend to organize themselves into clusters and thus the understanding of properties and dynamics of clustering is essential for controlling technical applications of cavitation. Sound field measurements are a potential technique to provide valuable experimental information about the status of cavitation clouds. Using purpose-made, rugged, wide band, and small-sized needle hydrophones, sound field measurements in bubble clusters were performed and time-dependent sound pressure waveforms were acquired and analyzed in the frequency domain up to 20 MHz. The cavitation clusters were synchronously observed by an electron multiplying charge-coupled device (EMCCD) camera and the relation between the sound field measurements and cluster behaviour was investigated. Depending on the driving power, three ranges could be identified and characteristic properties were assigned. At low power settings no transient and no or very low stable cavitation activity can be observed. The medium range is characterized by strong pressure peaks and various bubble cluster forms. At high power a stable double layer was observed which grew with further increasing power and became quite dynamic. The sound field was irregular and the fundamental at driving frequency decreased. Between the bubble clouds completely different sound field properties were found in comparison to those in the cloud where the cavitation activity is high. In between the sound field pressure amplitude was quite small and no collapses were detected. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

METHOD FOR REMOVAL OF LIGHT ISOTOPE PRODUCT FROM LIQUID THERMAL DIFFUSION UNITS

DOEpatents

Hoffman, J.D.; Ballou, J.K.

1957-11-19

A method and apparatus are described for removing the lighter isotope of a gaseous-liquid product from a number of diffusion columns of a liquid thermal diffusion system in two stages by the use of freeze valves. The subject liquid flows from the diffusion columns into a heated sloping capsule where the liquid is vaporized by the action of steam in a heated jacket surrounding the capsule. When the capsule is filled the gas flows into a collector. Flow between the various stages is controlled by freeze valves which are opened and closed by the passage of gas and cool water respectively through coils surrounding portions of the pipes through which the process liquid is passed. The use of the dual stage remover-collector and the freeze valves is an improvement on the thermal diffusion separation process whereby the fraction containing the lighter isotope many be removed from the tops of the diffusion columns without intercolumn flow, or prior stage flow while the contents of the capsule is removed to the final receiver.

Multi-stage decoding for multi-level block modulation codes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Shu

1991-01-01

In this paper, we investigate various types of multi-stage decoding for multi-level block modulation codes, in which the decoding of a component code at each stage can be either soft-decision or hard-decision, maximum likelihood or bounded-distance. Error performance of codes is analyzed for a memoryless additive channel based on various types of multi-stage decoding, and upper bounds on the probability of an incorrect decoding are derived. Based on our study and computation results, we find that, if component codes of a multi-level modulation code and types of decoding at various stages are chosen properly, high spectral efficiency and large coding gain can be achieved with reduced decoding complexity. In particular, we find that the difference in performance between the suboptimum multi-stage soft-decision maximum likelihood decoding of a modulation code and the single-stage optimum decoding of the overall code is very small: only a fraction of dB loss in SNR at the probability of an incorrect decoding for a block of 10(exp -6). Multi-stage decoding of multi-level modulation codes really offers a way to achieve the best of three worlds, bandwidth efficiency, coding gain, and decoding complexity.

Randomized prospective study comparing tri-cortical iliac crest autograft to allograft in the lateral column lengthening component for operative correction of adult acquired flatfoot deformity.

PubMed

Dolan, Christopher M; Henning, Jeffrey A; Anderson, John G; Bohay, Donald R; Kornmesser, Marc J; Endres, Terrence J

2007-01-01

Operative treatment of stage II posterior tibial tendon insufficiency (PTTI) is controversial. Many soft-tissue and bony procedures and various combinations of the two have been reported for treatment of stage II PTTI. Orthopaedists recognize the lateral column lengthening component of the procedure as a successful reconstructive technique. The use of cortical allograft for lateral column lengthening in the correction of pes planus in the pediatric patient population has been routine. In the adult population, however, tricortical iliac crest autograft has been the bone graft of choice. Harvest of this autograft can precipitate significant morbidity and cost. Therefore, we undertook this randomized controlled trial to compare graft incorporation and healing of allograft and autograft in the lateral column lengthening component of adult flatfoot reconstruction. Lateral column lengthening was done as a component of operative correction for stage II PTTI in adult patients (older than 18 years) by two surgeons using similar procedures. The patients were randomized to either the allograft or autograft procedures. The primary endpoint was graft incorporation and healing as assessed by radiographs. The study included 33 randomized feet in 31 patients. We followed 18 feet in the allograft group and 15 in the autograft group to the point of union. There were 21 women and 10 men. There were no delayed unions, nonunions, or hardware failures. All patients in both groups achieved bony union by the 12-week followup evaluation. Two superficial foot infections were successfully treated with oral antibiotics. Two patients in the autograft group continued to have hip donor site pain at 3 months. This study suggests that union rates of allograft and autograft (iliac crest bone graft) are equal. The use of allograft in the lateral column lengthening component of operative correction of adult stage II PTTI appears to be a viable alternative to the use of iliac crest autograft and eliminates the morbidity and increased cost associated with autograft harvest.

Multi-channel EEG-based sleep stage classification with joint collaborative representation and multiple kernel learning.

PubMed

Shi, Jun; Liu, Xiao; Li, Yan; Zhang, Qi; Li, Yingjie; Ying, Shihui

2015-10-30

Electroencephalography (EEG) based sleep staging is commonly used in clinical routine. Feature extraction and representation plays a crucial role in EEG-based automatic classification of sleep stages. Sparse representation (SR) is a state-of-the-art unsupervised feature learning method suitable for EEG feature representation. Collaborative representation (CR) is an effective data coding method used as a classifier. Here we use CR as a data representation method to learn features from the EEG signal. A joint collaboration model is established to develop a multi-view learning algorithm, and generate joint CR (JCR) codes to fuse and represent multi-channel EEG signals. A two-stage multi-view learning-based sleep staging framework is then constructed, in which JCR and joint sparse representation (JSR) algorithms first fuse and learning the feature representation from multi-channel EEG signals, respectively. Multi-view JCR and JSR features are then integrated and sleep stages recognized by a multiple kernel extreme learning machine (MK-ELM) algorithm with grid search. The proposed two-stage multi-view learning algorithm achieves superior performance for sleep staging. With a K-means clustering based dictionary, the mean classification accuracy, sensitivity and specificity are 81.10 ± 0.15%, 71.42 ± 0.66% and 94.57 ± 0.07%, respectively; while with the dictionary learned using the submodular optimization method, they are 80.29 ± 0.22%, 71.26 ± 0.78% and 94.38 ± 0.10%, respectively. The two-stage multi-view learning based sleep staging framework outperforms all other classification methods compared in this work, while JCR is superior to JSR. The proposed multi-view learning framework has the potential for sleep staging based on multi-channel or multi-modality polysomnography signals. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multi-wavelength investigations on feedback of massive star formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jinghua

2014-05-01

In the course of massive star formation, outflows, ionizing radiation and intense stellar winds could heavily affect their adjacent environs and natal clouds. There are several outstanding open questions related to these processes: i) whether they can drive turbulence in molecular clouds; ii) whether they are able to trigger star formation; iii) whether they can destroy natal clouds to terminate star formation at low efficiencies. This thesis investigates feedback in different stages of massive star formation. Influence of such feedback to the ambient medium has been revealed. A new type of millimeter methanol maser is detected for the first time. An uncommon bipolar outflow prominent in the mid-infrared is discovered. And features of triggered star formation are found on the border of an infrared bubble and in the surroundings of a Herbig Be star. Extended green objects (EGOs) are massive outflow candidates showing prominent shocked features in the mid-infrared. We have carried out a high resolution study of the EGO G22.04+0.22 (hereafter, G22) based on archived SMA data. Continuum and molecular lines at 1.3 mm reveal that G22 is still at a hot molecular core stage. A very young multi-polar outflow system is detected, which is interacting with the adjacent dense gas. Anomalous emission features from CH3OH (8,-1,8 - 7,0,7) and CH3OH (4,2,2 - 3,1,2) are proven to be millimeter masers. It is the first time that maser emission of CH3OH (8,-1,8 - 7,0,7) at 218.440 GHz is detected in a massive star-forming region. Bipolar outflows have been revealed and investigated almost always in the microwave or radio domain. It's sort of rare that hourglass-shaped morphology be discovered in the mid-infrared. Based on GLIMPSE data, we have discovered a bipolar object resembling an hourglass at 8.0 um. It is found to be associated with IRAS 18114-1825. Analysis based on fitted SED, optical spectroscopy, and infrared color indices suggests IRAS 18114-1825 is an uncommon bipolar outflow driven by a massive protostar. Multi-wavelength observations based on classical tracers of outflows are highly necessary. Extensive investigations of IRAS 18114-1825 may contribute to our understanding of massive star formation in early stage.

Plankton community respiration, net ecosystem metabolism, and oxygen dynamics on the Louisiana continental shelf: implications for hypoxia

EPA Science Inventory

We conducted a multi-year study of the Louisiana continental shelf (LCS) to better understand the linkages between water column metabolism and the formation of hypoxia (dissolved oxygen <2 mg L-1) in the region. Water column community respiration rates (WR) were measured on 10 cr...

DEVELOPMENT, TESTING, AND DEMONSTRATION OF AN OPTIMAL FINE COAL CLEANING CIRCUIT

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

Steven R. Hadley; R. Mike Mishra; Michael Placha

1999-01-27

The objective of this project was to improve the efficiency of the fine coal froth flotation circuit in commercial coal preparation plants. The plant selected for this project, Cyprus Emerald Coal Preparation Plant, cleans 1200-1400 tph of Pittsburgh seam raw coal and uses conventional flotation cells to clean the minus 100-mesh size fraction. The amount of coal in this size fraction is approximately 80 tph with an average ash content of 35%. The project was carried out in two phases. In Phase I, four advanced flotation cells, i.e., a Jameson cell, an Outokumpu HG tank cell, an open column, andmore » a packed column cell, were subjected to bench-scale testing and demonstration. In Phase II, two of these flotation cells, the Jameson cell and the packed column, were subjected to in-plant, proof-of-concept (POC) pilot plant testing both individually and in two-stage combination in order to ascertain whether a two-stage circuit results in lower levelized production costs. The bench-scale results indicated that the Jameson cell and packed column cell would be amenable to the single- and two-stage flotation approach. POC tests using these cells determined that single-stage coal matter recovery (CMR) of 85% was possible with a product ash content of 5.5-7%. Two-stage operation resulted in a coal recovery of 90% with a clean coal ash content of 6-7.5%. This compares favorably with the plant flotation circuit recovery of 80% at a clean coal ash of 11%.« less

Steering air bubbles with an add-on vacuum layer for biopolymer membrane biofabrication in PDMS microfluidics.

PubMed

Pham, Phu; Vo, Thanh; Luo, Xiaolong

2017-01-17

Membrane functionality is crucial in microfluidics for realizing operations such as filtration, separation, concentration, signaling among cells and gradient generation. Currently, common methods often sandwich commercially available membranes in multi-layer devices, or use photopolymerization or temperature-induced gelation to fabricate membrane structures in one-layer devices. Biofabrication offers an alternative to forming membrane structures with biomimetic materials and mechanisms in mild conditions. We have recently developed a biofabrication strategy to form parallel biopolymer membranes in gas-permeable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices, which used positive pressure to dissipate air bubbles through PDMS to initiate membrane formation but required careful pressure balancing between two flows. Here, we report a technical innovation by simply placing as needed an add-on PDMS vacuum layer on PDMS microfluidic devices to dissipate air bubbles and guide the biofabrication of biopolymer membranes. Vacuuming through PDMS was simply achieved by either withdrawing a syringe or releasing a squeezed nasal aspirator. Upon vacuuming, air bubbles dissipated within minutes, membranes were effortlessly formed, and the add-on vacuum layer can be removed. Subsequent membrane growth could be robustly controlled with the flows and pH of solutions. This new process is user-friendly and has achieved a 100% success rate in more than 200 trials in membrane biofabrication.

Multi-stage decoding of multi-level modulation codes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Shu; Kasami, Tadao; Costello, Daniel J., Jr.

1991-01-01

Various types of multi-stage decoding for multi-level modulation codes are investigated. It is shown that if the component codes of a multi-level modulation code and types of decoding at various stages are chosen properly, high spectral efficiency and large coding gain can be achieved with reduced decoding complexity. Particularly, it is shown that the difference in performance between the suboptimum multi-stage soft-decision maximum likelihood decoding of a modulation code and the single-stage optimum soft-decision decoding of the code is very small, only a fraction of dB loss in signal to noise ratio at a bit error rate (BER) of 10(exp -6).

Acoustic Droplet Vaporization in Biology and Medicine

PubMed Central

Pitt, William G.

2013-01-01

This paper reviews the literature regarding the use of acoustic droplet vaporization (ADV) in clinical applications of imaging, embolic therapy, and therapeutic delivery. ADV is a physical process in which the pressure waves of ultrasound induce a phase transition that causes superheated liquid nanodroplets to form gas bubbles. The bubbles provide ultrasonic imaging contrast and other functions. ADV of perfluoropentane was used extensively in imaging for preclinical trials in the 1990s, but its use declined rapidly with the advent of other imaging agents. In the last decade, ADV was proposed and explored for embolic occlusion therapy, drug delivery, aberration correction, and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) sensitization. Vessel occlusion via ADV has been explored in rodents and dogs and may be approaching clinical use. ADV for drug delivery is still in preclinical stages with initial applications to treat tumors in mice. Other techniques are still in preclinical studies but have potential for clinical use in specialty applications. Overall, ADV has a bright future in clinical application because the small size of nanodroplets greatly reduces the rate of clearance compared to larger contrast agent bubbles and yet provides the advantages of ultrasonographic contrast, acoustic cavitation, and nontoxicity of conventional perfluorocarbon contrast agent bubbles. PMID:24350267

Optimal graph based segmentation using flow lines with application to airway wall segmentation.

PubMed

Petersen, Jens; Nielsen, Mads; Lo, Pechin; Saghir, Zaigham; Dirksen, Asger; de Bruijne, Marleen

2011-01-01

This paper introduces a novel optimal graph construction method that is applicable to multi-dimensional, multi-surface segmentation problems. Such problems are often solved by refining an initial coarse surface within the space given by graph columns. Conventional columns are not well suited for surfaces with high curvature or complex shapes but the proposed columns, based on properly generated flow lines, which are non-intersecting, guarantee solutions that do not self-intersect and are better able to handle such surfaces. The method is applied to segment human airway walls in computed tomography images. Comparison with manual annotations on 649 cross-sectional images from 15 different subjects shows significantly smaller contour distances and larger area of overlap than are obtained with recently published graph based methods. Airway abnormality measurements obtained with the method on 480 scan pairs from a lung cancer screening trial are reproducible and correlate significantly with lung function.

Cavitation studies in microgravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kobel, Philippe; Obreschkow, Danail; Farhat, Mohamed; Dorsaz, Nicolas; de Bosset, Aurele

The hydrodynamic cavitation phenomenon is a major source of erosion for many industrial systems such as cryogenic pumps for rocket propulsion, fast ship propellers, hydraulic pipelines and turbines. Erosive processes are associated with liquid jets and shockwaves emission fol-lowing the cavity collapse. Yet, fundamental understanding of these processes requires further cavitation studies inside various geometries of liquid volumes, as the bubble dynamics strongly depends the surrounding pressure field. To this end, microgravity represents a unique platform to produce spherical fluid geometries and remove the hydrostatic pressure gradient induced by gravity. The goal of our first experiment (flown on ESA's parabolic flight campaigns 2005 and 2006) was to study single bubble dynamics inside large spherical water drops (having a radius between 8 and 13 mm) produced in microgravity. The water drops were created by a micro-pump that smoothly expelled the liquid through a custom-designed injector tube. Then, the cavitation bubble was generated through a fast electrical discharge between two electrodes immersed in the liquid from above. High-speed imaging allowed to analyze the implications of isolated finite volumes and spherical free surfaces on bubble evolution, liquid jets formation and shock wave dynamics. Of particular interest are the following results: (A) Bubble lifetimes are shorter than in extended liquid volumes, which could be explain by deriving novel corrective terms to the Rayleigh-Plesset equation. (B) Transient crowds of micro-bubbles (smaller than 1mm) appeared at the instants of shockwaves emission. A comparison between high-speed visualizations and 3D N-particle simulations of a shock front inside a liquid sphere reveals that focus zones within the drop lead to a significantly increased density of induced cavitation. Considering shock wave crossing and focusing may hence prove crucially useful to understand the important process of cavitation erosion. The aim of our future microgravity experiment is to assess the direct effects of gravity on cavitation bubble collapse through a comparison of single cavitation bubbles collapsing in mi-crogravity, normal gravity, and hypergravity. In particular, we shall investigate the shape of the bubble in its final collapse stage and the amount of energy dissipated in the dominant collapse channels, such as liquid jet, shock wave, and rebound bubble. The highly spherical bubbles will be produced via a point-like plasma generated by a high power laser beam. One major hypothesis that we will test is an increase in shock wave energy with decreasing gravity as a consequence of the higher final sphericity and suppression of liquid jets. To support this, we introduce an analytical model for the gravity-perturbed asymmetric collapse of spherical bubbles, and demonstrate that all initially spherical bubbles develop a gravity-related vertical jet along their collapse.

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

Rosendahl, S., E-mail: rosendahl@wwu.de; Brown, E.; Fieguth, A.

The separation of krypton and xenon is of particular importance for the field of direct dark matter search with liquid xenon detectors. The intrinsic contamination of the xenon with radioactive {sup 85}Kr makes a significant background for these kinds of low count-rate experiments and has to be removed beforehand. This can be achieved by cryogenic distillation, a technique widely used in industry, using the different vapor pressures of krypton and xenon. In this paper, we present an investigation on the separation performance of a single stage distillation system using a radioactive {sup 83m}Kr-tracer method. The separation characteristics under different operationmore » conditions are determined for very low concentrations of krypton in xenon at the level of {sup 83m}Kr/Xe = 1.9 ⋅ 10{sup −15}, demonstrating, that cryogenic distillation in this regime is working. The observed separation is in agreement with the expectation from the different volatilities of krypton and xenon. This cryogenic distillation station is the first step on the way to a multi-stage cryogenic distillation column for the next generation of direct dark matter experiment XENON1T.« less

Prediction of axial limit capacity of stone columns using dimensional analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazaruddin A., T.; Mohamed, Zainab; Mohd Azizul, L.; Hafez M., A.

2017-08-01

Stone column is the most favorable method used by engineers in designing work for stabilization of soft ground for road embankment, and foundation for liquid structure. Easy installation and cheaper cost are among the factors that make stone column more preferable than other method. Furthermore, stone column also can acts as vertical drain to increase the rate of consolidation during preloading stage before construction work started. According to previous studied there are several parameters that influence the capacity of stone column. Among of them are angle friction of among the stones, arrangement of column (two pattern arrangement most applied triangular and square), spacing center to center between columns, shear strength of soil, and physical size of column (diameter and length). Dimensional analysis method (Buckingham-Pi Theorem) has used to carry out the new formula for prediction of load capacity stone columns. Experimental data from two previous studies was used for analysis of study.

Development of design technique for vacuum insulation in large size multi-aperture multi-grid accelerator for nuclear fusion.

PubMed

Kojima, A; Hanada, M; Tobari, H; Nishikiori, R; Hiratsuka, J; Kashiwagi, M; Umeda, N; Yoshida, M; Ichikawa, M; Watanabe, K; Yamano, Y; Grisham, L R

2016-02-01

Design techniques for the vacuum insulation have been developed in order to realize a reliable voltage holding capability of multi-aperture multi-grid (MAMuG) accelerators for fusion application. In this method, the nested multi-stage configuration of the MAMuG accelerator can be uniquely designed to satisfy the target voltage within given boundary conditions. The evaluation of the voltage holding capabilities of each acceleration stages was based on the previous experimental results about the area effect and the multi-aperture effect. Since the multi-grid effect was found to be the extension of the area effect by the total facing area this time, the total voltage holding capability of the multi-stage can be estimated from that per single stage by assuming the stage with the highest electric field, the total facing area, and the total apertures. By applying these consideration, the analysis on the 3-stage MAMuG accelerator for JT-60SA agreed well with the past gap-scan experiments with an accuracy of less than 10% variation, which demonstrated the high reliability to design MAMuG accelerators and also multi-stage high voltage bushings.

Development of design technique for vacuum insulation in large size multi-aperture multi-grid accelerator for nuclear fusion

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

Kojima, A., E-mail: kojima.atsushi@jaea.go.jp; Hanada, M.; Tobari, H.

Design techniques for the vacuum insulation have been developed in order to realize a reliable voltage holding capability of multi-aperture multi-grid (MAMuG) accelerators for fusion application. In this method, the nested multi-stage configuration of the MAMuG accelerator can be uniquely designed to satisfy the target voltage within given boundary conditions. The evaluation of the voltage holding capabilities of each acceleration stages was based on the previous experimental results about the area effect and the multi-aperture effect. Since the multi-grid effect was found to be the extension of the area effect by the total facing area this time, the total voltagemore » holding capability of the multi-stage can be estimated from that per single stage by assuming the stage with the highest electric field, the total facing area, and the total apertures. By applying these consideration, the analysis on the 3-stage MAMuG accelerator for JT-60SA agreed well with the past gap-scan experiments with an accuracy of less than 10% variation, which demonstrated the high reliability to design MAMuG accelerators and also multi-stage high voltage bushings.« less

Highly integrated autonomous lab-on-a-chip device for on-line and in situ determination of environmental chemical parameters.

PubMed

Martinez-Cisneros, Cynthia; da Rocha, Zaira; Seabra, Antonio; Valdés, Francisco; Alonso-Chamarro, Julián

2018-06-05

The successful integration of sample pretreatment stages, sensors, actuators and electronics in microfluidic devices enables the attainment of complete micro total analysis systems, also known as lab-on-a-chip devices. In this work, we present a novel monolithic autonomous microanalyzer that integrates microfluidics, electronics, a highly sensitive photometric detection system and a sample pretreatment stage consisting on an embedded microcolumn, all in the same device, for on-line determination of relevant environmental parameters. The microcolumn can be filled/emptied with any resin or powder substrate whenever required, paving the way for its application to several analytical processes: separation, pre-concentration or ionic-exchange. To promote its autonomous operation, avoiding issues caused by bubbles in photometric detection systems, an efficient monolithic bubble removal structure was also integrated. To demonstrate its feasibility, the microanalyzer was successfully used to determine nitrate and nitrite in continuous flow conditions, providing real time and continuous information.

Continuous-Flow MOVPE of Ga-Polar GaN Column Arrays and Core-Shell LED Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xue; Li, Shunfeng; Mohajerani, Matin Sadat; Ledig, Johannes; Wehmann, Hergo-Heinrich; Mandl, Martin; Strassburg, Martin; Steegmüller, Ulrich; Jahn, Uwe; Lähnemann, Jonas; Riechert, Henning; Griffiths, Ian; Cherns, David; Waag, Andreas

2013-06-01

Arrays of dislocation free uniform Ga-polar GaN columns have been realized on patterned SiOx/GaN/sapphire templates by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy using a continuous growth mode. The key parameters and the physical principles of growth of Ga-polar GaN three-dimensional columns are identified, and their potential for manipulating the growth process is discussed. High aspect ratio columns have been achieved using silane during the growth, leading to n-type columns. The vertical growth rate increases with increasing silane flow. In a core-shell columnar LED structure, the shells of InGaN/GaN multi quantum wells and p-GaN have been realized on a core of n-doped GaN column. Cathodoluminescence gives insight into the inner structure of these core-shell LED structures.

Stable isotope tracing of anaerobic methane oxidation in the gassy sediments of Eckernfoerde Bay, German Baltic Sea

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

Martens, C.S.; Albert, D.B.; Alperin, M.J.

Methane concentrations in the pore waters of Eckernfoerde Bay in the German Baltic Sea generally reach gas bubble saturation values within the upper meter of the sediment column. The depth at which saturation occurs is controlled by a balance between rates of methane production, consumption (oxidation), and transport. The relative importance of anaerobic methane oxidation (AMO) in controlling dissolved and gas bubble methane distributions in the bay's sediments is indirectly revealed through methane concentration versus depth profiles, depth variations in the stable C and H isotope composition of methane, and the C isotope composition of total dissolved inorganic carbon ({Sigma}CO{submore » 2}). Direct radiotracer measurements indicate that AMO rates of over 15 mM/yr are focused at the base of the sulfate reduction zone. Diagenetic equations that describe the depth destructions of the {delta}{sup 13}C and {delta}D values of methane reproduce isotopic shifts observed throughout the methane oxidation zone and are best fit with kinetic isotope fractionation factors of 1.012 {+-} 0.001 and 1.120 {plus{underscore}minus} 0.020 respectively.« less

A non-oscillatory energy-splitting method for the computation of compressible multi-fluid flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Xin; Li, Jiequan

2018-04-01

This paper proposes a new non-oscillatory energy-splitting conservative algorithm for computing multi-fluid flows in the Eulerian framework. In comparison with existing multi-fluid algorithms in the literature, it is shown that the mass fraction model with isobaric hypothesis is a plausible choice for designing numerical methods for multi-fluid flows. Then we construct a conservative Godunov-based scheme with the high order accurate extension by using the generalized Riemann problem solver, through the detailed analysis of kinetic energy exchange when fluids are mixed under the hypothesis of isobaric equilibrium. Numerical experiments are carried out for the shock-interface interaction and shock-bubble interaction problems, which display the excellent performance of this type of schemes and demonstrate that nonphysical oscillations are suppressed around material interfaces substantially.

Impact of red giant/AGB winds on active galactic nucleus jet propagation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perucho, M.; Bosch-Ramon, V.; Barkov, M. V.

2017-10-01

Context. Dense stellar winds may mass-load the jets of active galactic nuclei, although it is unclear on what time and spatial scales the mixing takes place. Aims: Our aim is to study the first steps of the interaction between jets and stellar winds, and also the scales on which the stellar wind mixes with the jet and mass-loads it. Methods: We present a detailed 2D simulation - including thermal cooling - of a bubble formed by the wind of a star designed to study the initial stages of jet-star interaction. We also study the first interaction of the wind bubble with the jet using a 3D simulation in which the star enters the jet. Stability analysis is carried out for the shocked wind structure to evaluate the distances over which the jet-dragged wind, which forms a tail, can propagate without mixing with the jet flow. Results.The 2D simulations point to quick wind bubble expansion and fragmentation after about one bubble shock crossing time. Three-dimensional simulations and stability analysis point to local mixing in the case of strong perturbations and relatively low density ratios between the jet and the jet dragged-wind, and to a possibly more stable shocked wind structure at the phase of maximum tail mass flux. Analytical estimates also indicate that very early stages of the star jet-penetration time may be also relevant for mass-loading. The combination of these and previous results from the literature suggests highly unstable interaction structures and efficient wind-jet flow mixing on the scale of the jet interaction height. Conclusions: The winds of stars with strong mass loss can efficiently mix with jets from active galactic nuclei. In addition, the initial wind bubble shocked by the jet leads to a transient, large interaction surface. The interaction between jets and stars can produce strong inhomogeneities within the jet. As mixing is expected to be effective on large scales, even individual asymptotic giant branch stars can significantly contribute to the mass-load of the jet and thus affect its dynamics. Shear layer mass-entrainment could be important. The interaction structure can be a source of significant non-thermal emission.

Temperature-assisted solute focusing with sequential trap/release zones in isocratic and gradient capillary liquid chromatography: Simulation and experiment

PubMed Central

Groskreutz, Stephen R.; Weber, Stephen G.

2016-01-01

In this work we characterize the development of a method to enhance temperature-assisted on-column solute focusing (TASF) called two-stage TASF. A new instrument was built to implement two-stage TASF consisting of a linear array of three independent, electronically controlled Peltier devices (thermoelectric coolers, TECs). Samples are loaded onto the chromatographic column with the first two TECs, TEC A and TEC B, cold. In the two-stage TASF approach TECs A and B are cooled during injection. TEC A is heated following sample loading. At some time following TEC A’s temperature rise, TEC B’s temperature is increased from the focusing temperature to a temperature matching that of TEC A. Injection bands are focused twice on-column, first on the initial TEC, e.g. single-stage TASF, then refocused on the second, cold TEC. Our goal is to understand the two-stage TASF approach in detail. We have developed a simple yet powerful digital simulation procedure to model the effect of changing temperature in the two focusing zones on retention, band shape and band spreading. The simulation can predict experimental chromatograms resulting from spatial and temporal temperature programs in combination with isocratic and solvent gradient elution. To assess the two-stage TASF method and the accuracy of the simulation well characterized solutes are needed. Thus, retention factors were measured at six temperatures (25–75 °C) at each of twelve mobile phases compositions (0.05–0.60 acetonitrile/water) for homologs of n-alkyl hydroxylbenzoate esters and n-alkyl p-hydroxyphenones. Simulations accurately reflect experimental results in showing that the two-stage approach improves separation quality. For example, two-stage TASF increased sensitivity for a low retention solute by a factor of 2.2 relative to single-stage TASF and 8.8 relative to isothermal conditions using isocratic elution. Gradient elution results for two-stage TASF were more encouraging. Application of two-stage TASF increased peak height for the least retained solute in the test mixture by a factor of 3.2 relative to single-stage TASF and 22.3 compared to isothermal conditions for an injection four-times the column volume. TASF improved resolution and increased peak capacity; for a 12-minute separation peak capacity increased from 75 under isothermal conditions to 146 using single-stage TASF, and 185 for two-stage TASF. PMID:27836226

Temperature-assisted solute focusing with sequential trap/release zones in isocratic and gradient capillary liquid chromatography: Simulation and experiment.

PubMed

Groskreutz, Stephen R; Weber, Stephen G

2016-11-25

In this work we characterize the development of a method to enhance temperature-assisted on-column solute focusing (TASF) called two-stage TASF. A new instrument was built to implement two-stage TASF consisting of a linear array of three independent, electronically controlled Peltier devices (thermoelectric coolers, TECs). Samples are loaded onto the chromatographic column with the first two TECs, TEC A and TEC B, cold. In the two-stage TASF approach TECs A and B are cooled during injection. TEC A is heated following sample loading. At some time following TEC A's temperature rise, TEC B's temperature is increased from the focusing temperature to a temperature matching that of TEC A. Injection bands are focused twice on-column, first on the initial TEC, e.g. single-stage TASF, then refocused on the second, cold TEC. Our goal is to understand the two-stage TASF approach in detail. We have developed a simple yet powerful digital simulation procedure to model the effect of changing temperature in the two focusing zones on retention, band shape and band spreading. The simulation can predict experimental chromatograms resulting from spatial and temporal temperature programs in combination with isocratic and solvent gradient elution. To assess the two-stage TASF method and the accuracy of the simulation well characterized solutes are needed. Thus, retention factors were measured at six temperatures (25-75°C) at each of twelve mobile phases compositions (0.05-0.60 acetonitrile/water) for homologs of n-alkyl hydroxylbenzoate esters and n-alkyl p-hydroxyphenones. Simulations accurately reflect experimental results in showing that the two-stage approach improves separation quality. For example, two-stage TASF increased sensitivity for a low retention solute by a factor of 2.2 relative to single-stage TASF and 8.8 relative to isothermal conditions using isocratic elution. Gradient elution results for two-stage TASF were more encouraging. Application of two-stage TASF increased peak height for the least retained solute in the test mixture by a factor of 3.2 relative to single-stage TASF and 22.3 compared to isothermal conditions for an injection four-times the column volume. TASF improved resolution and increased peak capacity; for a 12-min separation peak capacity increased from 75 under isothermal conditions to 146 using single-stage TASF, and 185 for two-stage TASF. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stability of multi-permeable reactive barriers for long term removal of mixed contaminants.

PubMed

Lee, Jai-Young; Lee, Kui-Jae; Youm, Sun Young; Lee, Mi-Ran; Kamala-Kannan, Seralathan; Oh, Byung-Taek

2010-02-01

The Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs) are relatively simple, promising technology for groundwater remediation. A PRBs consisting of two reactive barriers (zero valent iron-barrier and bio-barrier) were designed to evaluate the application and feasibility of the barriers for the removal of wide range of pollutants from synthetic water. After 470 days of Multi-PRBs column operation, the pH level in the water sample is increased from 4 to 7, whereas the oxidation reduction potential (ORP) is decreased to -180 mV. Trichloroethylene (TCE), heavy metals, and nitrate were completely removed in the zero valent iron-barrier. Ammonium produced during nitrate reduction is removed in the biologically reactive zone of the column. The results of the present study suggest that Multi-PRBs system is an effective alternate method to confine wide range of pollutants from contaminated groundwater.

Interior Temperature Measurement Using Curved Mercury Capillary Sensor Based on X-ray Radiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Shuyue; Jiang, Xing; Lu, Guirong

2017-07-01

A method was presented for measuring the interior temperature of objects using a curved mercury capillary sensor based on X-ray radiography. The sensor is composed of a mercury bubble, a capillary and a fixed support. X-ray digital radiography was employed to capture image of the mercury column in the capillary, and a temperature control system was designed for the sensor calibration. We adopted livewire algorithms and mathematical morphology to calculate the mercury length. A measurement model relating mercury length to temperature was established, and the measurement uncertainty associated with the mercury column length and the linear model fitted by least-square method were analyzed. To verify the system, the interior temperature measurement of an autoclave, which is totally closed, was taken from 29.53°C to 67.34°C. The experiment results show that the response of the system is approximately linear with an uncertainty of maximum 0.79°C. This technique provides a new approach to measure interior temperature of objects.

Side draw control design for a high purity multi-component distillation column.

PubMed

A Udugama, Isuru; Munir, M T; Kirkpatrick, Rob; Young, Brent R; Yu, Wei

2018-05-01

Industrial methanol production involves a multi component feed containing methanol, water and trace levels of ethanol being refined to produce AA grade methanol at high product recovery. Due to practical constraints, the bottoms discharge of the column is primarily water with only trace of methanol impurities. As a result of these constraints, ethanol, which is a non-key middle boiling component gets "trapped" near the side draw of the column forming an ethanol bulge, which in turn results in non-linear, inverse, time and state varying behaviour of the side draw ethanol composition. In this work, we established that the existence of the ethanol bulge creates the complex process behaviour of the side draw ethanol composition and that this bulge needs to be explicitly controlled. This type of explicit composition bulge analysis and subsequent control has not been attempted on methanol distillation columns before. For this purpose a novel, robust and practical side draw control scheme to detect and remedy the excess ethanol bulge movement using override control is presented. The side draw controller, together with other regulatory controllers is shown to maintain on-specification operations of the column. Disturbance rejection tests carried out illustrate that the side draw control scheme will keep the column operating within commercial specification. It is also shown that a traditional DV control structure is unable to achieve this objective. Copyright © 2018 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of immunoaffinity columns connected in tandem for selective and cost-effective mycotoxin clean-up prior to multi-mycotoxin liquid chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometric analysis in food matrices.

PubMed

Wilcox, Joyce; Donnelly, Carol; Leeman, David; Marley, Elaine

2015-06-26

This paper describes the use of two immunoaffinity columns (IACs) coupled in tandem, providing selective clean-up, based on targeted mycotoxins known to co-occur in specific matrices. An IAC for aflatoxins+ochratoxin A+fumonisins (AOF) was combined with an IAC for deoxynivalenol+zearalenone+T-2/HT-2 toxins (DZT); an IAC for ochratoxin A (O) was combined with a DZT column; and an aflatoxin+ochratoxin (AO) column was combined with a DZT column. By combining pairs of columns it was demonstrated that specific clean-up can be achieved as required for different matrices. Samples of rye flour, maize, breakfast cereal and wholemeal bread were analysed for mycotoxins regulated in the EU, by spiking at levels close to EU limits for adult and infant foods. After IAC clean-up extracts were analysed by LC-MS/MS with quantification using multiple reaction monitoring. Recoveries were found to be in range from 60 to 108%, RSDs below 10% depending on the matrix and mycotoxin combination and LOQs ranged from 0.1n g/g for aflatoxin B1 to 13.0 ng/g for deoxynivalenol. Surplus cereal proficiency test materials (FAPAS(®)) were also analysed with found levels of mycotoxins falling within the satisfactory range of concentrations (Z score ≤ ± 2), demonstrating the accuracy of the proposed multi-mycotoxin IAC methods. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multi-gradient drilling method and system

DOEpatents

Maurer, William C.; Medley, Jr., George H.; McDonald, William J.

2003-01-01

A multi-gradient system for drilling a well bore from a surface location into a seabed includes an injector for injecting buoyant substantially incompressible articles into a column of drilling fluid associated with the well bore. Preferably, the substantially incompressible articles comprises hollow substantially spherical bodies.

Comparison of tropospheric NO2 vertical columns in an urban environment using satellite, multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy, and in situ measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendolia, D.; D'Souza, R. J. C.; Evans, G. J.; Brook, J.

2013-10-01

Tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities have been retrieved and compared for the first time in Toronto, Canada, using three methods of differing spatial scales. Remotely sensed NO2 vertical column densities, retrieved from multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy and satellite remote sensing, were evaluated by comparison with in situ vertical column densities estimated using a pair of chemiluminescence monitors situated 0.01 and 0.5 km a.g.l. (above ground level). The chemiluminescence measurements were corrected for the influence of NOz, which reduced the NO2 concentrations at 0.01 and 0.5 km by an average of 8 ± 1% and 12 ± 1%, respectively. The average absolute decrease in the chemiluminescence NO2 measurement as a result of this correction was less than 1 ppb. The monthly averaged ratio of the NO2 concentration at 0.5 to 0.01 km varied seasonally, and exhibited a negative linear dependence on the monthly average temperature, with Pearson's R = 0.83. During the coldest month, February, this ratio was 0.52 ± 0.04, while during the warmest month, July, this ratio was 0.34 ± 0.04, illustrating that NO2 is not well mixed within 0.5 km above ground level. Good correlation was observed between the remotely sensed and in situ NO2 vertical column densities (Pearson's R value ranging from 0.72 to 0.81), but the in situ vertical column densities were 52 to 58% greater than the remotely sensed columns. These results indicate that NO2 horizontal heterogeneity strongly impacted the magnitude of the remotely sensed columns. The in situ columns reflected an urban environment with major traffic sources, while the remotely sensed NO2 vertical column densities were representative of the region, which included spatial heterogeneity introduced by residential neighbourhoods and Lake Ontario. Despite the difference in absolute values, the reasonable correlation between the vertical column densities determined by three distinct methods increased confidence in the validity of the values provided by each measurement technique.

Exploring the Use of Three-Dimensional Multi-User Virtual Environments for Online Problem-Based Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Omale, Nicholas M.

2010-01-01

This exploratory case study examines how three media attributes in 3-D MUVEs--avatars, 3-D spaces and bubble dialogue boxes--affect interaction in an online problem-based learning (PBL) activity. The study participants were eleven undergraduate students enrolled in a 200-level, three-credit-hour technology integration course at a Midwestern…

Technology development for cobalt F-T catalysts. Quarterly technical progress report number 10, January 1--March 31, 1995

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

Singleton, A.H.

1995-06-28

The goal of this project is the development of a commercially-viable, cobalt-based Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) catalyst for use in a slurry bubble column reactor. The major objectives of this work are (1) to develop a cobalt-based F-T catalyst with low (< 5%) methane selectivity, (2) to develop a cobalt-based F-T catalyst with water-gas shift activity, and (3) to combine both these improvements into one catalyst. The project consists of five major tasks: catalyst development; catalyst testing; catalyst reproducibility tests; catalyst aging tests; and preliminary design and cost estimate for a demonstrate scale catalyst production facility. Technical accomplishments during this reporting periodmore » include the following. It appears that the higher activity obtained for the catalysts prepared using an organic solution and reduced directly without prior calcination was the result of higher dispersions obtained under such pretreatment. A Ru-promoted Co catalyst on alumina with 30% Co loading exhibited a 4-fold increase in dispersion and a 2-fold increase in activity in the fixed-bed reactor from that obtained with the non-promoted catalyst. Several reactor runs have again focused on pushing conversion to higher levels. The maximum conversion obtained has been 49.7% with 26g catalyst. Further investigations of the effect of reaction temperature on the performance of Co catalysts during F-T synthesis were started using a low activity catalyst and one of the most active catalysts. The three 1 kg catalyst batches prepared by Calsicat for the reproducibility and aging studies were tested in both the fixed-bed and slurry bubble column reactors under the standard reaction conditions. The effects of adding various promoters to some cobalt catalysts have also been addressed. Results are presented and discussed.« less

Mechanical properties of metal dihydrides

DOE PAGES

Schultz, Peter A.; Snow, Clark S.

2016-02-04

First-principles calculations are used to characterize the bulk elastic properties of cubic and tetragonal phase metal dihydrides,more » $$\\text{M}{{\\text{H}}_{2}}$$ {$$\\text{M}$$ = Sc, Y, Ti, Zr, Hf, lanthanides} to gain insight into the mechanical properties that govern the aging behavior of rare-earth di-tritides as the constituent 3H, tritium, decays into 3He. As tritium decays, helium is inserted in the lattice, the helium migrates and collects into bubbles, that then can ultimately create sufficient internal pressure to rupture the material. The elastic properties of the materials are needed to construct effective mesoscale models of the process of bubble growth and fracture. Dihydrides of the scandium column and most of the rare-earths crystalize into a cubic phase, while dihydrides from the next column, Ti, Zr, and Hf, distort instead into the tetragonal phase, indicating incipient instabilities in the phase and potentially significant changes in elastic properties. We report the computed elastic properties of these dihydrides, and also investigate the off-stoichiometric phases as He or vacancies accumulate. As helium builds up in the cubic phase, the shear moduli greatly soften, converting to the tetragonal phase. Conversely, the tetragonal phases convert very quickly to cubic with the removal of H from the lattice, while the cubic phases show little change with removal of H. Finally, the source and magnitude of the numerical and physical uncertainties in the modeling are analyzed and quantified to establish the level of confidence that can be placed in the computational results, and this quantified confidence is used to justify using the results to augment and even supplant experimental measurements.« less

Microfabricated thermal modulator for comprehensive two-dimensional micro gas chromatography: design, thermal modeling, and preliminary testing.

PubMed

Kim, Sung-Jin; Reidy, Shaelah M; Block, Bruce P; Wise, Kensall D; Zellers, Edward T; Kurabayashi, Katsuo

2010-07-07

In comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC), a modulator is placed at the juncture between two separation columns to focus and re-inject eluting mixture components, thereby enhancing the resolution and the selectivity of analytes. As part of an effort to develop a microGC x microGC prototype, in this report we present the design, fabrication, thermal operation, and initial testing of a two-stage microscale thermal modulator (microTM). The microTM contains two sequential serpentine Pyrex-on-Si microchannels (stages) that cryogenically trap analytes eluting from the first-dimension column and thermally inject them into the second-dimension column in a rapid, programmable manner. For each modulation cycle (typically 5 s for cooling with refrigeration work of 200 J and 100 ms for heating at 10 W), the microTM is kept approximately at -50 degrees C by a solid-state thermoelectric cooling unit placed within a few tens of micrometres of the device, and heated to 250 degrees C at 2800 degrees C s(-1) by integrated resistive microheaters and then cooled back to -50 degrees C at 250 degrees C s(-1). Thermal crosstalk between the two stages is less than 9%. A lumped heat transfer model is used to analyze the device design with respect to the rates of heating and cooling, power dissipation, and inter-stage thermal crosstalk as a function of Pyrex-membrane thickness, air-gap depth, and stage separation distance. Experimental results are in agreement with trends predicted by the model. Preliminary tests using a conventional capillary column interfaced to the microTM demonstrate the capability for enhanced sensitivity and resolution as well as the modulation of a mixture of alkanes.

High-mass Star Formation Toward Southern Infrared Bubble S10

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjan Das, Swagat; Tej, Anandmayee; Vig, Sarita; Ghosh, Swarna K.; Ishwara Chandra, C. H.

2016-11-01

An investigation in radio and infrared wavelengths of two high-mass star-forming regions toward the southern Galactic bubble S10 is presented here. The two regions under study are associated with the broken bubble S10 and Extended Green Object, G345.99-0.02, respectively. Radio continuum emission mapped at 610 and 1280 MHz using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope, India, is detected toward both of the regions. These regions are estimated to be ionized by early-B- to late-O-type stars. Spitzer GLIMPSE mid-infrared data is used to identify young stellar objects (YSOs) associated with these regions. A Class-I/II-type source, with an estimated mass of 6.2 M ⊙, lies ˜7″ from the radio peak. Pixel-wise, modified blackbody fits to the thermal dust emission using Herschel far-infrared data is performed to construct dust temperature and column density maps. Eight clumps are detected in the two regions using the 250 μm image. The masses and linear diameter of these range between ˜300-1600 M ⊙ and 0.2-1.1 pc, respectively, which qualifies them as high-mass star-forming clumps. Modeling of the spectral energy distribution of these clumps indicates the presence of high luminosity, high accretion rate, massive YSOs possibly in the accelerating accretion phase. Furthermore, based on the radio and MIR morphology, the occurrence of a possible bow wave toward the likely ionizing star is explored.

Stability and reactivity of liposome-encapsulated formate dehydrogenase and cofactor system in carbon dioxide gas-liquid flow.

PubMed

Yoshimoto, Makoto; Yamashita, Takayuki; Yamashiro, Takuya

2010-01-01

Formate dehydrogenase from Candida boidinii (CbFDH) is potentially applicable in reduction of CO(2) through oxidation of cofactor NADH into NAD(+). For this, the CbFDH activity needs to be maintained under practical reaction conditions, such as CO(2) gas-liquid flow. In this work, CbFDH and cofactor were encapsulated in liposomes and the liposomal enzymes were characterized in an external loop airlift bubble column. The airlift was operated at 45 degrees C with N(2) or CO(2) as gas phase at the superficial gas velocity U(G) of 2.0 or 3.0 cm/s. The activities of liposomal CbFDH/cofactor systems were highly stable in the airlift regardless of the type of gas phase because liposome membranes prevented interactions of the encapsulated enzyme and cofactor molecules with the gas-liquid interface of bubbles. On the other hand, free CbFDH was deactivated in the airlift especially at high U(G) with CO(2) bubbles. The liposomal CbFDH/NADH could catalyze reduction of CO(2) in the airlift giving the fractional oxidation of the liposomal NADH of 23% at the reaction time of 360 min. The cofactor was kept inside liposomes during the reaction operation with less than 10% of leakage. All of the results obtained demonstrate that the liposomal CbFDH/NADH functions as a stable catalyst for reduction of CO(2) in the airlift. (c) 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers

Active submarine eruption of boninite in the northeastern Lau Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Resing, Joseph A.; Rubin, Kenneth H.; Embley, Robert W.; Lupton, John E.; Baker, Edward T.; Dziak, Robert P.; Baumberger, Tamara; Lilley, Marvin D.; Huber, Julie A.; Shank, Timothy M.; Butterfield, David A.; Clague, David A.; Keller, Nicole S.; Merle, Susan G.; Buck, Nathaniel J.; Michael, Peter J.; Soule, Adam; Caress, David W.; Walker, Sharon L.; Davis, Richard; Cowen, James P.; Reysenbach, Anna-Louise; Thomas, Hans

2011-11-01

Subduction of oceanic crust and the formation of volcanic arcs above the subduction zone are important components in Earth's geological and geochemical cycles. Subduction consumes and recycles material from the oceanic plates, releasing fluids and gases that enhance magmatic activity, feed hydrothermal systems, generate ore deposits and nurture chemosynthetic biological communities. Among the first lavas to erupt at the surface from a nascent subduction zone are a type classified as boninites. These lavas contain information about the early stages of subduction, yet because most subduction systems on Earth are old and well-established, boninite lavas have previously only been observed in the ancient geological record. Here we observe and sample an active boninite eruption occurring at 1,200m depth at the West Mata submarine volcano in the northeast Lau Basin, southwest Pacific Ocean. We find that large volumes of H2O, CO2 and sulphur are emitted, which we suggest are derived from the subducting slab. These volatiles drive explosive eruptions that fragment rocks and generate abundant incandescent magma-skinned bubbles and pillow lavas. The eruption has been ongoing for at least 2.5 years and we conclude that this boninite eruption is a multi-year, low-mass-transfer-rate eruption. Thus the Lau Basin may provide an important site for the long-term study of submarine volcanic eruptions related to the early stages of subduction.

Lumped Multi-Bubble Analysis of Injection Cooling System for Storage of Cryogenic Liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saha, Pritam; Sandilya, Pavitra

2017-12-01

Storage of cryogenic liquids is a critical issue in many cryogenic applications. Subcooling of the liquid by bubbling a gas has been suggested to extend the storage period by reducing the boil-off loss. Liquid evaporation into the gas may cause liquid subcooling by extracting the latent heat of vaporization from the liquid. The present study aims at studying the factors affecting the liquid subcooling during gas injection. A lumped parameter model is presented to capture the effects of bubble dynamics (coalescence, breakup, deformation etc.) on the heat and mass transport between the gas and the liquid. The liquid subcooling has been estimated as a function of the key operating variables such as gas flow rate and gas injection temperature. Numerical results have been found to predict the change in the liquid temperature drop reasonably well when compared with the previously reported experimental results. This modelling approach can therefore be used in gauging the significance of various process variables on the liquid subcooling by injection cooling, as well as in designing and rating an injection cooling system.

First Observations of a Foreshock Bubble at Earth: Implications for Magnetospheric Activity and Energetic Particle Acceleration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Turner, D. L.; Omidi, N.; Sibeck, D. G.; Angelopoulos, V.

2011-01-01

Earth?s foreshock, which is the quasi-parallel region upstream of the bow shock, is a unique plasma region capable of generating several kinds of large-scale phenomena, each of which can impact the magnetosphere resulting in global effects. Interestingly, such phenomena have also been observed at planetary foreshocks throughout our solar system. Recently, a new type of foreshock phenomena has been predicted: foreshock bubbles, which are large-scale disruptions of both the foreshock and incident solar wind plasmas that can result in global magnetospheric disturbances. Here we present unprecedented, multi-point observations of foreshock bubbles at Earth using a combination of spacecraft and ground observations primarily from the Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) mission, and we include detailed analysis of the events? global effects on the magnetosphere and the energetic ions and electrons accelerated by them, potentially by a combination of first and second order Fermi and shock drift acceleration processes. This new phenomena should play a role in energetic particle acceleration at collisionless, quasi-parallel shocks throughout the Universe.

Control of treatment size in cavitation-enhanced high-intensity focused ultrasound using radio-frequency echo signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomiyasu, Kentaro; Takagi, Ryo; Iwasaki, Ryosuke; Yoshizawa, Shin; Umemura, Shin-ichiro

2017-07-01

In high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment, controlling the ultrasound dose at each focal target spot is important because it is a problem that the length of the coagulated region in front of the focal point deviates owing to the differences in absorption in each focal target spot and attenuation in the intervening tissues. In this study, the detected changes in the power spectra of HIFU echoes were used by controlling the HIFU duration in the “trigger HIFU” sequence with the aim to increase coagulation size through the enhancement of the ultrasonic heating by the cavitation induced by the preceding extremely high intensity short “trigger” pulse. The result shows that this method can be used to detect boiling bubbles and the following generated cavitation bubbles at their early stage. By automatically stopping HIFU exposure immediately after detecting the bubbles, overheating was prevented and the deviation of the length of the coagulated region was reduced.

Crystal Structures of the E. coli Transcription Initiation Complexes with a Complete Bubble

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

Zuo, Yuhong; Steitz, Thomas A.

2015-05-01

During transcription initiation, RNA polymerase binds to promoter DNA to form an initiation complex containing a DNA bubble and enters into abortive cycles of RNA synthesis before escaping the promoter to transit into the elongation phase for processive RNA synthesis. Here we present the crystal structures of E. coli transcription initiation complexes containing a complete transcription bubble and de novo synthesized RNA oligonucleotides at about 6-Å resolution. The structures show how RNA polymerase recognizes DNA promoters that contain spacers of different lengths and reveal a bridging interaction between the 5'-triphosphate of the nascent RNA and the σ factor that maymore » function to stabilize the short RNA-DNA hybrids during the early stage of transcription initiation. The conformation of the RNA oligonucleotides and the paths of the DNA strands in the complete initiation complexes provide insights into the mechanism that controls both the abortive and productive RNA synthesis.« less

Real-time observation of the initiation of RNA polymerase II transcription.

PubMed

Fazal, Furqan M; Meng, Cong A; Murakami, Kenji; Kornberg, Roger D; Block, Steven M

2015-09-10

Biochemical and structural studies have shown that the initiation of RNA polymerase II transcription proceeds in the following stages: assembly of the polymerase with general transcription factors and promoter DNA in a 'closed' preinitiation complex (PIC); unwinding of about 15 base pairs of the promoter DNA to form an 'open' complex; scanning downstream to a transcription start site; synthesis of a short transcript, thought to be about 10 nucleotides long; and promoter escape. Here we have assembled a 32-protein, 1.5-megadalton PIC derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and observe subsequent initiation processes in real time with optical tweezers. Contrary to expectation, scanning driven by the transcription factor IIH involved the rapid opening of an extended transcription bubble, averaging 85 base pairs, accompanied by the synthesis of a transcript up to the entire length of the extended bubble, followed by promoter escape. PICs that failed to achieve promoter escape nevertheless formed open complexes and extended bubbles, which collapsed back to closed or open complexes, resulting in repeated futile scanning.

Two-stage soil infiltration treatment system for treating ammonium wastewaters of low COD/TN ratios.

PubMed

Lei, Zhongfang; Wu, Ting; Zhang, Yi; Liu, Xiang; Wan, Chunli; Lee, Duu-Jong; Tay, Joo-Hwa

2013-01-01

Soil infiltration treatment (SIT) is ineffective to treat ammonium wastewaters of total nitrogen (TN) > 100 mg l(-1). This study applied a novel two-stage SIT process for effective TN removal from wastewaters of TN>100 mg l(-1) and of chemical oxygen demand (COD)/TN ratio of 3.2-8.6. The wastewater was first fed into the soil column (stage 1) at hydraulic loading rate (HLR) of 0.06 m(3) m(-2) d(-1) for COD removal and total phosphorus (TP) immobilization. Then the effluent from stage 1 was fed individually into four soil columns (stage 2) at 0.02 m(3) m(-2) d(-1) of HLR with different proportions of raw wastewater as additional carbon source. Over the one-year field test, balanced nitrification and denitrification in the two-stage SIT revealed excellent TN removal (>90%) from the tested wastewaters. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Seismic Tremors and Three-Dimensional Magma Wagging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Y.; Bercovici, D.

2015-12-01

Seismic tremor is a feature shared by many silicic volcanoes and is a precursor of volcanic eruption. Many of the characteristics of tremors, including their frequency band from 0.5 Hz to 7 Hz, are common for volcanoes with very different geophysical and geochemical properties. The ubiquitous characteristics of tremor imply that it results from some generation mechanism that is common to all volcanoes, instead of being unique to each volcano. Here we present new analysis on the magma-wagging mechanism that has been proposed to generate tremor. The model is based on the suggestion given by previous work (Jellinek & Bercovici 2011; Bercovici et.al. 2013) that the magma column is surrounded by a compressible, bubble-rich foam annulus while rising inside the volcanic conduit, and that the lateral oscillation of the magma inside the annulus causes observable tremor. Unlike the previous two-dimensional wagging model where the displacement of the magma column is restricted to one vertical plane, the three-dimensional model we employ allows the magma column to bend in different directions and has angular motion as well. Our preliminary results show that, without damping from viscous deformation of the magma column, the system retains angular momentum and develops elliptical motion (i.e., the horizontal displacement traces an ellipse). In this ''inviscid'' limit, the magma column can also develop instabilities with higher frequencies than what is found in the original two-dimensional model. Lateral motion can also be out of phase for various depths in the magma column leading to a coiled wagging motion. For the viscous-magma model, we predict a similar damping rate for the uncoiled magma column as in the two-dimensional model, and faster damping for the coiled magma column. The higher damping thus requires the existence of a forcing mechanism to sustain the oscillation, for example the gas-driven Bernoulli effect proposed by Bercovici et al (2013). Finally, using our new 3-D model, the spectrum of displacement and unsynchronized cross-correlation between displacements measured from different locations can be calculated, and this can be compared to more detailed seismic measurements on well monitored volcanoes.

Multi-stage decoding for multi-level block modulation codes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Shu; Kasami, Tadao

1991-01-01

Various types of multistage decoding for multilevel block modulation codes, in which the decoding of a component code at each stage can be either soft decision or hard decision, maximum likelihood or bounded distance are discussed. Error performance for codes is analyzed for a memoryless additive channel based on various types of multi-stage decoding, and upper bounds on the probability of an incorrect decoding are derived. It was found that, if component codes of a multi-level modulation code and types of decoding at various stages are chosen properly, high spectral efficiency and large coding gain can be achieved with reduced decoding complexity. It was found that the difference in performance between the suboptimum multi-stage soft decision maximum likelihood decoding of a modulation code and the single stage optimum decoding of the overall code is very small, only a fraction of dB loss in SNR at the probability of an incorrect decoding for a block of 10(exp -6). Multi-stage decoding of multi-level modulation codes really offers a way to achieve the best of three worlds, bandwidth efficiency, coding gain, and decoding complexity.

US Atlantic Margin Methane Plumes Identified From Water Column Backscatter Data Acquired by NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kodis, M.; Skarke, A. D.; Ruppel, C. D.; Weber, T.; Lobecker, E.; Malik, M.

2013-12-01

The NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research routinely uses NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer to collect EM302 (30 kHz) multibeam bathymetric data and water column backscatter imagery. These backscatter data have been used to identify gas plumes associated with seafloor methane seeps as part of previous investigations in the Gulf of Mexico and at Blake Ridge. Here, we use QPS Fledermaus Midwater software to analyze over 200,000 km2 of multibeam data acquired on the continental slope and outer shelf of the US Atlantic margin in 2011, 2012, and 2013. Preliminary application of this analytical methodology in late 2012 revealed the first deepwater (> 1000 m water depth) cold seeps found on the US Atlantic margin north of Cape Hatteras as well as 47 new upper slope seeps (http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2012/20121219_gas_seeps.html). In this new analysis, we identify over 500 water column backscatter anomalies (WCA) originating at the seafloor and extending to various heights in the water column between Cape Hatteras and the Nantucket margin. Data set quality control was achieved through secondary independent analysis of all WCA backscatter records by a highly experienced researcher who assigned a quality factor to each anomaly. Additionally, a subset of the data was analyzed using a Matlab code designed to automatically detect WCA in backscatter data. These quality-control and WCA comparison procedures provide confidence that several hundred of the WCA are robust picks. The observed WCA are structurally consistent with previously confirmed gas bubble plumes, being vertically elongate, rooted at the seafloor, and deflected by currents. They are not structurally consistent with other common WCA such as schooling or swarming organisms. Additionally, the bases of selected WCA that were identified in this analysis have recently been visually and acoustically confirmed to be associated with emission of gas bubbles from the seafloor by the NOAA remotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer. The physical characteristics and location of the WCA suggest that they are likely methane plumes, although this has yet to be confirmed by direct gas sampling. The WCA occur both in isolation and in clusters, and repeated observation of select seep fields indicated intermittent WCA identifications that could not be explained by uncertainties in the spatial resolution of the data. Thus, some of the WCA appear to exhibit ephemerality on time scales of hours to days. This research was undertaken while the lead author was a NOAA Hollings Scholar intern with the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research.

News from the "blowout", a man-made methane pockmark in the North Sea: chemosynthetic communities and microbial methane oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinle, Lea I.; Wilfert, Philipp; Schmidt, Mark; Bryant, Lee; Haeckel, Matthias; Lehmann, Moritz F.; Linke, Peter; Sommer, Stefan; Treude, Tina; Niemann, Helge

2013-04-01

The accidental penetration of a base-Quaternary shallow gas pocket by a drilling rig in 1990 caused a "blowout" in the British sector of the North Sea (57°55.29' N, 01°37.86' E). Large quantities of methane have been seeping out of this man-made pockmark ever since. As the onset of gas seepage is well constrained, this site can be used as a natural laboratory to gain information on the development of methane oxidizing microbial communities at cold seeps. During an expedition with the R/V Celtic Explorer in July and August 2012, we collected sediments by video-guided push-coring with an ROV (Kiel 6000) along a gradient from inside the crater (close to where a jet of methane bubbles enters the water column) outwards. We also sampled the water column in a grid above the blowout at three different depths. In this presentation, we provide evidence for the establishment of methanotrophic communities in the sediment (AOM communities) on a time scale of decades. Furthermore, we will report data on methane concentrations and anaerobic methane oxidation rates in the sediment. Finally, we will also discuss the spatial distribution of methane and aerobic methane oxidation rates in the water column.

Hubble Sees a Star ‘Inflating’ a Giant Bubble

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-12-08

For the 26th birthday of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers are highlighting a Hubble image of an enormous bubble being blown into space by a super-hot, massive star. The Hubble image of the Bubble Nebula, or NGC 7635, was chosen to mark the 26th anniversary of the launch of Hubble into Earth orbit by the STS-31 space shuttle crew on April 24, 1990 “As Hubble makes its 26th revolution around our home star, the sun, we celebrate the event with a spectacular image of a dynamic and exciting interaction of a young star with its environment. The view of the Bubble Nebula, crafted from WFC-3 images, reminds us that Hubble gives us a front row seat to the awe inspiring universe we live in,” said John Grunsfeld, Hubble astronaut and associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, in Washington, D.C. The Bubble Nebula is seven light-years across—about one-and-a-half times the distance from our sun to its nearest stellar neighbor, Alpha Centauri, and resides 7,100 light-years from Earth in the constellation Cassiopeia. The seething star forming this nebula is 45 times more massive than our sun. Gas on the star gets so hot that it escapes away into space as a “stellar wind” moving at over four million miles per hour. This outflow sweeps up the cold, interstellar gas in front of it, forming the outer edge of the bubble much like a snowplow piles up snow in front of it as it moves forward. As the surface of the bubble's shell expands outward, it slams into dense regions of cold gas on one side of the bubble. This asymmetry makes the star appear dramatically off-center from the bubble, with its location in the 10 o’clock position in the Hubble view. Dense pillars of cool hydrogen gas laced with dust appear at the upper left of the picture, and more “fingers” can be seen nearly face-on, behind the translucent bubble. The gases heated to varying temperatures emit different colors: oxygen is hot enough to emit blue light in the bubble near the star, while the cooler pillars are yellow from the combined light of hydrogen and nitrogen. The pillars are similar to the iconic columns in the “Pillars of Creation” Eagle Nebula. As seen with the structures in the Eagle Nebula, the Bubble Nebula pillars are being illuminated by the strong ultraviolet radiation from the brilliant star inside the bubble. The Bubble Nebula was discovered in 1787 by William Herschel, a prominent British astronomer. It is being formed by a proto-typical Wolf-Rayet star, BD +60º2522, an extremely bright, massive, and short-lived star that has lost most of its outer hydrogen and is now fusing helium into heavier elements. The star is about four million years old, and in 10 million to 20 million years, it will likely detonate as a supernova. Hubble’s Wide Field Camera-3 imaged the nebula in visible light with unprecedented clarity in February 2016. The colors correspond to blue for oxygen, green for hydrogen, and red for nitrogen. This information will help astronomers understand the geometry and dynamics of this complex system. The Bubble Nebula is one of only a handful of astronomical objects that have been observed with several different instruments onboard Hubble. Hubble also imaged it with the Wide Field Planetary Camera (WFPC) in September 1992, and with Wide Field Planetary Camera-2 (WFPC2) in April 1999. The Hubble Space Telescope is a project of international cooperation between NASA and the European Space Agency. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope. The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Maryland, conducts Hubble science operations. STScI is operated for NASA by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy in Washington, D.C. Credit: NASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)

Performance of lap splices in large-scale column specimens affected by ASR and/or DEF-extension phase.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-03-01

A large experimental program, consisting of the design, construction, curing, exposure, and structural load : testing of 16 large-scale column specimens with a critical lap splice region that were influenced by varying : stages of alkali-silica react...

Experimental and numerical investigation of reactive shock-accelerated flows

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

Bonazza, Riccardo

2016-12-20

The main goal of this program was to establish a qualitative and quantitative connection, based on the appropriate dimensionless parameters and scaling laws, between shock-induced distortion of astrophysical plasma density clumps and their earthbound analog in a shock tube. These objectives were pursued by carrying out laboratory experiments and numerical simulations to study the evolution of two gas bubbles accelerated by planar shock waves and compare the results to available astrophysical observations. The experiments were carried out in an vertical, downward-firing shock tube, 9.2 m long, with square internal cross section (25×25 cm 2). Specific goals were to quantify themore » effect of the shock strength (Mach number, M) and the density contrast between the bubble gas and its surroundings (usually quantified by the Atwood number, i.e. the dimensionless density difference between the two gases) upon some of the most important flow features (e.g. macroscopic properties; turbulence and mixing rates). The computational component of the work performed through this program was aimed at (a) studying the physics of multi-phase compressible flows in the context of astrophysics plasmas and (b) providing a computational connection between laboratory experiments and the astrophysical application of shock-bubble interactions. Throughout the study, we used the FLASH4.2 code to run hydrodynamical and magnetohydrodynamical simulations of shock bubble interactions on an adaptive mesh.« less

Origin of accelerated and hindered sedimentation of two particles in wet foam.

PubMed

Jing, Zefeng; Feng, Chenchen; Wang, Shuzhong; Xu, Donghai

2018-03-20

To explore the origin of interactional settling behaviors of multi-particles in wet foam, the sedimentation of two particles placed one above the other as well as placed side by side is studied. According to the average settling velocity in experiment and the average settling drag force of the two particles in numerical simulation, we show that the particles display accelerated sedimentation as placed one above the other while they display hindered sedimentation in the case of the ones positioned side by side. Furthermore, the evolution of structure and force parameters of the bubbles, such as T1 topological events, displacement vector and principal stress fields, shows that the reciprocal action between the foam and the settling particles placed side by side is more significant. The different levels of interplay for these two settling cases also give rise to the diverse changes of bubble pressure response. The bubble pressure component of the average drag force is higher for the particles placed side by side. Especially, for the first time, it reveals that these interactional sedimentation behaviors in the foam are mainly attributed to the changed pressure of bubbles caused by these settling particles at the mesoscopic level. The present results may suggest potential explanations to the cause of the complex accelerated or hindered sedimentation of more particles in wet foam.

A New Unsteady Model for Dense Cloud Cavitation in Cryogenic Fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hosangadi, Ashvin; Ahuja, Vineet

2005-01-01

Contents include the following: Background on thermal effects in cavitation. Physical properties of hydrogen. Multi-phase cavitation with thermal effect. Solution procedure. Cavitation model overview. Cavitation source terms. New cavitation model. Source term for bubble growth. One equation les model. Unsteady ogive simulations: liquid nitrogen. Unsteady incompressible flow in a pipe. Time averaged cavity length for NACA15 flowfield.

Multi-body dynamics modelling of seated human body under exposure to whole-body vibration.

PubMed

Yoshimura, Takuya; Nakai, Kazuma; Tamaoki, Gen

2005-07-01

In vehicle systems occupational drivers might expose themselves to vibration for a long time. This may cause illness of the spine such as chronic lumbago or low back pain. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the influence of vibration to the spinal column and to make up appropriate guidelines or counter plans. In ISO2631-1 or ISO2631-5 assessment of vibration effects to human in the view of adverse-health effect was already presented. However, it is necessary to carry out further research to understand the effect of vibration to human body to examine their validity and to prepare for the future revision. This paper shows the detail measurement of human response to vibration, and the modelling of the seated human body for the assessment of the vibration risk. The vibration transmissibilities from the seat surface to the spinal column and to the head are measured during the exposure to vertical excitation. The modal paramters of seated subject are extracted in order to understand the dominant natural modes. For the evaluation of adverse-health effect the multi-body modelling of the spinal column is introduced. A simplified model having 10 DOFs is counstructed so that the transmissibilities of the model fit to those of experiment. The transient response analysis is illustrated when a half-sine input is applied. The relative displacements of vertebrae are evaluated, which can be a basis for the assessment of vibration risk. It is suggested that the multi-body dynamic model is used to evaluate the vibration effect to the spinal column for seated subjects.