Considering the high temperature, low O/sub 2/, high C environment of operation in the Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) Systems, the utilization of coatings is envisaged to hold potential for extending component lifetimes through the formation of stable and continuous oxide films with enhanced resistance to C diffusion. A survey of the current state of technology for high temperature coatings has been performed. The usefulness of these coatings on the Mo, Ni, and Fe base alloys is discussed. Specifically, no coating substitute was identified for TZM other than the well known W-3 (pack silicide) and Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ forming coatings were recommended for the Fe and Ni base structural materials. Recommendations as to coating types and processng have been made based on the predicted VHTR component size, shape, base metal and operational environment. Four tests designed to evaluate the effects of selected combinations of coatings and substrate matrices are recommended for consideration.

The validation of the physical submodels of three solar-electric utility interface models is described. The validation problem is divided into two components, the accuracy of the submodels themselves and the accuracy of the data typically used to run these models. The data set required to study these problems with respect to utility requirements is discussed and its collection in the Philadelphia Metropolitan area described. The instrumentation employed in the gathering of the data is covered. Error statistics of data and submodel accuracy are presented and the current status of the study is presented.

Recent measurements of nonsolar isotopic patterns for the elements neon and (perhaps) magnesium in cosmic rays are interpreted within current models of stellar nucleosynthesis. One possible explanation is that the stars currently responsible for cosmic-ray synthesis in the Galaxy are typically super-metal-rich by a factor of two to three. Other possibilities include the selective acceleration of certain zones or masses of supernovas or the enhancement of /sup 22/Ne in the interstellar medium by mass loss from red giant stars and planetary nebulas. Measurements of critical isotopic ratios are suggested to aid in distinguishing among the various possibilities. Some of these explanations place significant constraints on the fraction of cosmic ray nuclei that must be fresh supernova debris and the masses of the supernovas involved. 1 figure, 3 tables.

This report documents an application of the FRAMIS relational data base management system. A geochemical data base of ion exchange distribution coefficients (K/sub D/) is created and maintained by using very simple commands. Reports are automatically generated. Familiarity with the LLL Octopus Time-Sharing System and FRAMIS is assumed.

A system of postionally stationary magnets is analyzed for the continuously variable deflection of a 50 MeV electron beam. The system is composed of a collection of horizontal and vertical bending magnets, quadrupoles, and a final deflection magnet that is conical in shape and capable of deflections of plus or minus 50 degrees simultaneously in both horizonal and vertical planes. Throughout the system the beam is assumed to be focused by its own magnetic self-field, the electric self-field being neutralized by background ions. The motion of the beam in the externally applied magnetic fields may then be considered as single particle motion. The system of bending magnets and quadrupoles pre-conditions the beam by introducing the proper displacements and angles at the entrance to the final deflection magnet for momentum deviations up to plus or minus one percent. The displacements and angles are determined by the chromaticity of the final deflection and are a function of the bending angles in the two planes. The total system is then doubly achromatic in both planes. The preconditioning magnets are of standard accelerator beam transport design while the conical deflection magnet is of a design fashioned from a television deflection coil scaled up by …

We have studied actinide burn-up in ICF reactor pellets; i.e., 14 MeV neutron fission of the very long-lived actinides that pose storage problems. A major advantage of pellet fuel region burn-up is safety: only milligrams of highly toxic and active material need to be present in the fusion chamber, whereas blanket burn-up requires the continued presence of tons of actinides in a small volume. The actinide data tables required for Monte Carlo calculations of the burn-up of /sup 241/Am and /sup 243/Am are discussed in connection with a study of the sensitivity to cross section uncertainties. More accurate and complete cross sections are required for realistic quantitative calculations.

During the year, design, construction and installation of all project equipment was completed, and continuous steam injection began on September 18, 1979 and continued until February 29, 1980. In the five-month period of steam injection, 235,060 barrels of water as steam at an average wellhead pressure of 1199 psig and an average wellhead temperature of 456/sup 0/F were injected into the eight project injection wells. Operation of the project at design temperature and pressure (1000/sup 0/F and 1500 psig) was not possible due to continuing problems with surface equipment. Environmental monitoring at the project site continued during startup and operation.

A listing of environmental surveillance sampling endeavors for the years 1978 and 1979 is given in which sampling media, i.e., ambient air, stack effluent air, water, and soil are considered. Sampling locations, frequency of sampling, parameters analyzed, and control limits also are given. The objectives of the sampling are considered in defining the program.

Data on the HDN-30 and the Ketjenfine-124 catalysts not previously reported are given. These data show pore properties and reveal that the Ketjenfine catalyst has a most frequent pore diameter at about 50 angstroms and that of the HDN-30 catalyst at about 80 angstroms. A comparative figure revealed that no difference existed in nitrogen removal for over 120 hours of catalyst-oil contact for these two catalysts and for a reactor bed consisting of a 50 volume percent mixture of each. The Catalyst Life Test Unit was modified to improve the feed control. Two high pressure feed tanks were installed which allow improved feed-pump performance while operating with preheated, heavy feedstocks. Analytical methods were developed for the scanning electron microscope and atomic absorption to assess more detailed analysis of catalysts properties and metals content of the oils. One experimental run was conducted using the HDN-30(Ni-Mo-Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/) catalyst and a feedstock consisting of 10% (vol) Synthoil II and 90% Raw Anthracene Oil. This experiment was conducted at nominal conditions of 1500 psig, 427 C and with a liquid volume hourly space time of 2.74 hours. The run duration was 103 hours of liquid-catalyst contact. Only partial results were available; all will …

The objectives of this program were: (1) to investigate the pertinent properties of a variety of possible sealants for solar collectors and identify the most promising candidates, and (2) to study the effect of breathing in flat-plate, thermal solar collector units. The study involved two types of sealants, Class PS which includes preformed seals or gaskets and Class SC which includes sealing compounds or caulks. It was the intent of the study to obtain data regarding initial properties of candidate elastomers from manufacturers and from the technical literature and to use those sources to provide data pertaining to endurance of these materials under environmental service conditions. Where necessary, these data were augmented by experimental measurements. Environmental stresses evaluated by these measurements included elevated temperatures, moisture, ultraviolet light, ozone and oxygen, and fungus. The second major area of the work involved a study of the effects of materials used and design on the durability of solar collectors. Factors such as design, fabrication, materials of construction, seals and sealing techniques and absorber plate coatings were observed on actual field units removed from service. Such phenomena as leakage, corrosion and formation of deposits on glazing and absorber plate were noted. An evaluation of …

The corrosion rate and corrosion attack characteristics were determined for thirteen commercially available materials exposed in a geothermal production well for three months. The materials included carbon steels, Cr-Mo alloy steels, martensitic and ferritic stainless steels, high-nickel alloys, and titanium. The environment at the 1800 ft (600 m) depth of exposure was a single phase high salinity brine. The prevailing temperature was 260{sup 0}C and the prevailing pressure was 630 psi (4.0 MPa) during the exposure period. Results indicated that the carbon steels suffered intense generalized and localized corrosion. Addition of Cr and Mo to steels imparted significant improvement in the corrosion performance in this aggressive environment. Of the stainless steels tested, the most resistant were those containing a few percent molybdenum.

Four key geothermal-impacting bills presently before the California legislature are described. Two deal with state financial backing for geothermal projects. The third relates to the use of the state's share of the BLM geothermal revenues and the fourth to the protection of sensitive hot springs. The current regulatory activities of the California Energy Commission, the California Division of Oil and Gas, and the counties are discussed. (MHR)

The progress of four bills relating to geothermal energy is reported. The current regulatory activities of the California Energy Commission, the Lake County Planning Commission/Lake County Air Pollution Control District, the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, the State Lands' Commission, and the California Public Utilities Commission are reviewed. (MHR)

The current legislative activity covers the following: federal funds, state financial incentives, air quality bills, transmission line access, state energy agency reorganization, and state energy taxes. Current regulatory activities of the California Energy Commission, and the Lake County Air Pollution Control District are reviewed. (MHR)

An effective stimulation treatment requires the interaction of four separate items: frac fluids, proppants, equipment, and planned and properly engineered schedules. While there are good fluid systems and proppants, only judicious combinations and a well thought out schedule which uses all of these materials and available equipment to best advantage is an optimum stimulation treatment. Generally, high flow rates and convective cooling can be used either with conventional (planar) fracturing or with a dendritic fracturing technique. Many of todays fluid systems have been tested to above 400/sup 0/F. Some fluids have survived quite well. Current tests on proppants have shown temperature sensitivities in sand; however, there are resin coated materials and sintered bauxite which are not temperature sensitive. (MHR)

The overall goal of this program is to provide the basis for designing a practical electrochemical solar cell based on the II-VI compound semiconductors. Emphasis is on developing new electrolyte redox systems and electrode surface modifications which will stabilize the II-VI compounds against photodissolution without seriously degrading the long-term solar response. The bulk electrode material properties are also being optimized to provide the maximum solar conversion efficiency and greatest inherent electrode stability. Factors limiting the short circuit current of the n-CdSe/methanol/ferro-ferricyanide system to 17.5 mA/cm/sup 2/ have been identified. The principal limiting factor is apparently specific adsorption of hexacyanoferrate species on the electrode surface which occurs at higher redox couple concentrations and slows the overall charge transfer process. Ion pairing also occurs, resulting in a low mass transport rate (smaller diffusion coefficients and increased solution viscosity), and probably enhances the degree of specific adsorption. Improvements in the performance of this system will require mitigation of the interactions between the redox species and the electrode surface, e.g., via electrolytes with reduced ion-pairing tendencies or the use of electrode surface films. Photoelectrochemically generated polypyrrole films have been shown to protect CdX photoanodes from dissolution while permitting electron exchange with the electrolyte. Current …

The proposed action involves the development of geothermal wells to provide hot water and heat for five users in Reno, Nevada. Data from nearby wells indicate the sufficient hot water is available from the Moana Known Geothermal Resource Area for this action. Construction activities have been planned to minimize or eliminate problems with noise, runoff, and disturbance of biota as well as other potential environmental effects. Disposal of the geothermal fluids via surface water or injection will be determined based on water quality of the geothermal fluids and geologic effects of injection. The affected environment is described by this document and needed mitigation procedures discussed.

The present purpose of this program is to produce high-purity uranium-234 (99%) and polonium-209 for the scientific community, both Governmental and non-Governmental. In addition, facilities for separation and purification of protactinium-231, thorium-230, and thorium-229 are maintained in stand-by condition for the resumption of these processes when conditions warrant. The uranium-234 isotope is separated from aged plutonium-238 material, purified, and converted to solid U{sub 3}O{sub 8}. This oxide is subsequently shipped to Oak Ridge National Laboratory for distribution through their Isotope Sales Group. The principal use of uranium-234, which is recovered from aged plutonium-238, is in fission detectors used to monitor reactors. Approximately one-third of the total uranium in a fission detector is uranium-234. The other two-thirds is uranium-235. A typical detector might contain 15 mg total uranium. As the neutron flux in the reactor causes fission of the uranium-235 in the detector, it also converts the uranium-234 to uranium-235.

Nonimaging optics is a new discipline with techniques, formalism and objectives quite distinct from the traditional methods of focusing optics. These new systems achieve or closely approach the maximum concentration permitted by the Second Law of Thermodynamics for a given angular acceptance and are often called ideal. Application of these new principles to solar energy over the past seven years has led to the invention of a new class of solar concentrators, the most well known version of which is the Compound Parabolic Concentrator or CPC. A new formalism for analyzing nonimaging systems in terms of a quantity called the geometrical vector flux has been developed. This has led not only to a better understanding of the properties of ideal concentrators but to the discovery of several new concentrator designs. One of these new designs referred to as the trumpet concentrator has several advantageous features when used as a secondary concentrator for a point focusing dish concentrator. A new concentrator solution for absorbers which must be separated from the reflector by a gap has been invented. The properties of a variety of new and previously known nonimaging optical configurations have been investigated: for example, Compound Elliptical Concentrators (CEC's) as secondary …

Extensive Monte-Carlo calculations were performed of alpha-particle deposition in the Hill's Vortex configuration, as reported in D.E. Driemeyer's Ph.D. Thesis (University of Illinois, 1980). This has generally been done including a cold plasma density, n/sub c/, on the open field lines, with n/sub C//T/sub C//sup 3/2/ approx. = n/sub H//T/sub H//sup 3/2/ - i.e. with the slowing down ratio tau/sub H//tau/sub C/ lying between .1 and 10. Since many of the alpha particles spend a significant amount of their time on the open field lines, values of tau/sub H//tau/sub C/ greater than unity lead to significant removal of alpha-particle ash from the closed-field region. Surprisingly, one is able to perform this ash removal and still retain enough energy to raise the reactor Q significantly (or even ignite it).

A cylindrical Fresnel-type lens has been designed and ray traced that focuses approximately to lines over a 60/sup 0/ elevation angle interval. Forty stepped prism facets are configured on the inside surface of the lens, and the lens outer surface can be well approximated by a smooth circular arc. Especially contoured cylindrical subreflectors are described for concentrating the broad image fields of the lens onto a narrow fixed shelf. These image collapsing subreflectors also compensate for focal shortening with azimuth angle incidence variations over nearly a +-60/sup 0/ sector. Ray tracing on the lens and subreflector provide approximate energy distributions on the absorber shelf over the large acceptance angle intervals. The expected performance characteristics of a solar concentrator using the curved lens with facets on the inside surface are compared with a concentrator employing a straight stepped prism lens with facets cut on the outer lens surface.

Mark 16 U-A1 alloy production fuel tubes and six special U{sub 3}O{sub 8}-A1 powder metallurgy (PM) test assemblies were successfully irradiated in P-7 reactor charge beginning December 1976. A year after irradiation, the outer surfaces were inspected under water in P-Area basin. Inspection showed that a black'' oxide had formed on the bottom {sup {approximately}}2/3 and flaked off in some areas for both the production and PM tubes. A small cladding defect was also observed on one PM outer tube near the bottom. Sections were cut from the tubes and metallographically examined in the SRL High Level Caves (HLC). This report gives results of the examinations. 8 refs., 9 figs., 1 tab.

The Raft River Hydrothermal Area, the resource located at the site, and selected experiments conducted at the site are described. The results are summarized. Feasibility studies on the following are reviewed: aquaculture, food drying, essential oil production, and small-scale alcohol demonstration.

The simulator SHAFT79 of Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory has been applied to field-wide distributed parameter simulation of the vapor-dominated geothermal reservoir at Serrazzano, Italy. Using a three-dimensional geologically accurate mesh and detailed flow rate data from 19 producing wells, a period of 15.5 years (from 1959 to 1975) has been simulated. The reservoir model used is based on field measurements of temperatures and pressures, laboratory data for core samples, and available geological and hydrological information. The main parameters determined (adjusted) during development of the simulation are permeabilities and much of the initial conditions.