Several hydrostratigraphic classification schemes have been devised to describe the hydrogeology at the Savannah River Site SRS. Central to these schemes is the one-to-one fixed relationship between the hydrostratigraphic units and the lithostratigraphic units currently favored for the Site. This fixed relationship has proven difficult to apply in studies of widely separated locations at the Site due to the various facies observed in the updip Coastal Plain sequence. A detailed analysis and synthesis of the geophysical, core, and hydrologic data available from more than 164 deep wells from 23 cluster locations both on the Site and in the surrounding region was conducted to provide the basis for a hydrostratigraphic classification scheme which could be applied to the entire SRS region. As a result, an interim hydrostratigraphic classification was developed that defines the regional hydrogeologic characteristics of the aquifers underlying the Site (Aadland et al., 1990). The hydrostratigraphic code accounts for and accommodates the rapid lateral variation in lithofacies observed in the region, and eliminates all formal'' connection between the hydrostratigraphic nomenclature and the lithostratigraphic nomenclature. The code is robust and can be made as detailed as is needed to characterize the aquifer units and aquifer zones described in Site-specific studies. …

The General Separations Area (GSA) is an approximately 15-square-mile area near the geographic center of the Savannah River Site (SRS). The SRS is located in the Upper Atlantic Coastal Plain physiographic province of South Carolina on the Aiken Plateau at an elevation of approximately 300 feet above mean sea level. The sedimentary sequence of the GSA comprises unconsolidated sediments ranging in age from Cretaceous to Holocene with isolated zones of consolidated sediments. The Tertiary sediments are composed of sand, silt, clay, and calcareous materials of varying composition. The alpha-numeric hydrostratigraphic nomenclature proposed by Aadland (1990) is used herein. The Tertiary-age lithostratigraphic sequence at the GSA is composed predominantly of terrigenous clastics interspersed with carbonate-rich clastics and limestones. The calcareous lithologies are discontinuous and divided into a lower and upper zone. 15 refs., 2 figs.

A gallium solar neutrino detector is sensitive to the full range of the solar neutrino spectrum, including the low-energy neutrinos from the fundamental proton-proton fusion reaction. If neutrino oscillations in the solar interior are responsible for the suppressed {sup 8}B flux measured by the Homestake {sup 37}Cl experiment and the Kamiokande water Cherenkov detector, then a comparison of the gallium, chlorine, and water results may make possible a determination of the neutrino mass difference and mixing angle. A 30-ton gallium detector is currently operating in the Baksan laboratory in the Soviet Union, with a ratio of expected solar signal to measured background (during the first one to two {sup 71}Ge half lives) of approximately one. 28 refs.

The Soviet-American Gallium Experiment is the first experiment able to measure the dominant flux of low energy p-p solar neutrinos. Four extractions made during January to May 1990 from 30 tons of gallium have been counted and indicate that the flux is consistent with 0 SNU and is less than 72 SNU (68% CL) and less than 138 SNU (95% CL). This is to be compared with the flux of 132 SNU predicted by the Standard Solar Model. 10 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab.

The original cask designs for a cask demonstration project featured fuel baskets constructed of borated stainless steel (bss) as a structural material. The project is intended to demonstrate casks that can be used for both shipping and storing spent nuclear fuel assemblies. The baskets were intended to maintain the fuel assemblies in a subcritical array for both normal and accident conditions. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission, however, judged bss to be unacceptable as a structural material. The cask designs were subsequently modified. The knowledge gained during this cask demonstration project may be applicable to development of bss as a basket material in future cask design. 6 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.

The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) properties of very high density {sup 3}He in metals are discussed in the context of the corresponding properties in relatively high density bulk {sup 3}He. In particular, the effects of the {sup 3}He diffusion on the contribution of the {sup 3}He-{sup 3}He dipolar interaction to the lineshape and to the spin-lattice relaxation parameter (T{sub 1}) are described. It is shown that the temperature dependence of the lineshape and of T{sub 1} are independent sources of information about helium density and also about helium diffusivity. Moreover, T{sub 1} is shown to be a sensitive indicator of melting transitions in bulk {sup 3}He. Palladium tritide is presented as a model system for NMR studies of {sup 3}He in metals. Experimental NMR studies of this system reveal behavior analogous to what has been observed for bulk helium. Evidence for a {sup 3}He phase transition near 250 K is provided by the temperature dependence of T{sub 1}. Assuming this to be a melting transition, a density is obtained from the bulk helium EOS that is in good agreement with theory and with swelling measurements on related metal tritides. {sup 3}He NMR measurements have also provided information about the density …

Intergranular brines recovered from the repository horizon of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) have major- and trace-element compositions that reflect seawater evaporation and diagenetic processes. Brines obtained from repository drill holes are heterogenous with respect to composition, but their compositional fields are distinct from those obtained from fluid inclusions in WIPP halite. The heterogeneity of brine compositions within the drill-hole population indicates a lack of mixing and fluid homogenization within the salt at the repository level. Compositional differences between intergranular (drill hole) and intragranular (fluid inclusions) brines is attributed to isolation of the latter from diagenetic fluids that were produced from dehydration reactions involving gypsum and clay minerals. Modeling of brine-rock equilibria indicates that equilibration with evaporite minerals controls the concentrations of major elements in the brine. Drill-hole brines are in equilibrium with the observed repository minerals halite, anhydrite, magnesite, polyhalite and quartz. The equilibrium model supports the derivation of drill-hole brines from near-field fluid, rather than large-scale vertical migration of fluids from the overlying Rustler or underlying Castile Formations. 13 refs., 6 figs., 6 tabs.

This project seeks to develop a technique, based on coal surface properties, for highly dispersing catalysts in coal for gasification and to investigate the potential of using potassium carbonate and calcium acetate mixtures as catalysts for coal gasification. The work is focused on the elucidation of coal-catalyst precursor interactions in solution and the variables which control the adsorption and dispersion of coal gasification metal catalysts. In order to optimize coal-metal ion interactions and hence maximize catalyst activity, the study examines the surface electrochemistry of a lignite, subbituminous, and bituminous coals and their demineralized and oxidized derivatives prior to loading with the catalytic materials. The surface electrical properties of the coals are investigated with the aid of electrophoresis, while the effects of the surface charge on the co-adsorption of K{sup +} and Ca{sup 2+} are studied by agitating the coals with aqueous solutions of potassium and calcium. 8 refs., 6 figs.

This project seeks to develop a technique, based on coal surface properties, for highly dispersing catalysts in coal for gasification and to investigate the potential of using potassium carbonate and calcium acetate mixtures as catalysts for coal gasification. The work is focused on the elucidation of coal-catalyst precursor interactions in solution and the variables which control the adsorption and dispersion of coal gasification metal catalysts. In order to optimize coal-metal ion interactions and hence maximize catalyst activity, the study examines the surface electrochemistry of a lignite, a subbituminous, and a bituminous coals and their demineralized and oxidized derivatives prior to loading with the catalytic materials. The surface electrical properties of the coals are investigated with the aid of electrophoresis, while the effects of the surface charge on the adsorption of K{sup +} and Ca{sup 2+} are studied by agitating the coals with aqueous solutions of potassium and calcium. Zeta potential studies show that the surfaces of the lignite are negatively charged between about pH2 to 11, the negative charge density increasing with increase in pH. Highly alkaline media promoted calcium adsorption due to high negative charge on the coal, while calcium uptake was inhibited in strongly acidic solutions.

A suite of 41 thermal and nonthermal waters in the Zunil-Quetzaltenango region, Guatemala, were collected as part of a well logging operation conducted by the Instituto Nacional de Electrificacion (INDE) and Los Alamos National Laboratory. Both in situ and weirbox samples were collected in the Zunil geothermal field. The various data suggest that the reservoir at Zunil is geochemically inhomogeneous. Stable isotope data suggest recharge to the field comes primarily from the north and east whereas tritium data indicate that the reservoir waters may be 500 to 7500 years old. 14 refs., 4 figs., 3 tabs.

Los Alamos research activities are currently directed at the application of the shielded hydrogen plasma torch to the direct production of actinide metals from a UF{sub 6} feedstock. Two broad classes of thermal plasma reactors are currently in widespread use: the direct current (dc) arc jet system and the radio frequency (rf) inductively coupled system. Los Alamos has improved upon the basic rf plasma tube design using the concept of a transformer. The unique feature of the Los Alamos tube is a segmented, cooled, internal radiation shield. The Los Alamos shielded plasma torch routinely achieves temperatures exceeding 10,000 K and electron densities of 10{sup 16}/cm{sup 3} when operated continuously at one atmosphere of argon. These highly energetic conditions are sufficient to dissociate most chemical compounds into their constituent atoms. Based upon these characteristics, Los Alamos is currently investigating the application of the shielded plasma torch technology to the destruction of organic and mixed hazardous wastes, as well as the direct production of actinide metals from the halides and oxides, without the cogeneration of contaminated wastes. 5 refs., 4 figs.

This report documents the Environmental Transport Section's (ETS) two-dimensional, sequential gaussian puff transport and dispersion model for emergency response. The sequential puff scheme is described, and the dispersion equations are presented. The advantages of this model over the ETS's PUFF/PLUME model are discussed. Options are calculating a two-dimensional wind field, interpolation procedures, and the wind field grid are described. The various grid systems for puff transport calculations and dose estimates are also described. A flow diagram for the modules comprising the 2DPUF code and a description of each module is presented.

Investigation of ultrasonic waves, especially the slow compressional wave, with fluid-saturated porous solids, especially rocks. This research effort should fine applications in the geophysical evaluation of fluid-bearing porous rocks where parameters such as tortuosity, permeability, saturation level, and internal impurities are difficult to measure by conventional techniques. The proposed investigation may be divided into three major subtasks: Experimental study of surface wave propagation on fluid-saturated porous materials. A new, so-called direct excitation technique will be used on both air- and water-saturated samples; further development of the Lamb wave technique recently introduced to study guided wave propagation in thin fluid-saturated porous plates. The analytical treatment will be extended to account for viscous losses and scattering inhomogeneities; and theoretical and experimental study of slow wave propagation in fluid-saturated natural rocks. A new technique based on the transmission of airborne ultrasound through air-saturated porous plates will be used to determine properties such as tortuosity, permeability, etc. 22 refs., 37 figs., 3 tabs.

The characteristics of PIN diodes have been determined. These diodes have lower leakage currents and noise than other types of Si radiation detectors. The energy resolutions (FWHM) of a 1 cm{sup 2} {times} 0.5 mm PIN diode measured with a pulser, 122.0 keV gamma rays, 193 keV electrons, and 5.5-MeV alpha particles were 2.6, 2.8, 2.9, and 11.0 keV, respectively. For a 6 mm {times} 6 mm {times} 0.2 mm PIN diode, the resolutions (FWHM) for a pulser, 60 keV {gamma}-rays, 193 keV electrons, and 5.5-MeV, {alpha}-particles were 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, and 10.8 keV, respectively. 11 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab.

Neutron single-particle states above the N=152 subshell have been studied by high-resolution (d,p) reaction on a {sup 250}Cf target. All of the orbitals between N=152 and N=164 subshells have been identified. A tentative assignment has been made for the 1/2-(750) Nilsson state. 10 refs.

A mathematical model has been developed to simulate the electrochemistry and thermal hydraulics in a monolithic solid oxide fuel cell (MSOFC). Dividing a single cell layer into a number of nodes, the model sets up the steady-state heat and mass transfer equations for each node in a cell layer. Based on the average thermal and compositional conditions at each node and a specified cell voltage, the model calculates the Nernst potential and the resultant current, heat generation, and heat removal rates at each node. These calculations yield the temperature and the fuel and oxidant compositions and partial pressure matrices for the entire cell. The simulation also provides related performance data for the fuel cell stack, such as energy efficiency, fuel utilization, and power density. The model can be used to simulate operation with different fuel gases, such as hydrogen, coal gas, and methanol reformate. A mathematical model such as this can be used to examine the effects of changing one or more of the various design variables and to evaluate the effectiveness of fabrication improvements in technology development. In the design phase, the model can be used to determine the size of the stack that will be required for a …

The major goals of noninvasive studies of the human visual cortex are: to increase knowledge of the functional organization of cortical visual pathways; and to develop noninvasive clinical tests for the assessment of cortical function. Noninvasive techniques suitable for studies of the structure and function of human visual cortex include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission tomography (SPECT), scalp recorded event-related potentials (ERPs), and event-related magnetic fields (ERFs). The primary challenge faced by noninvasive functional measures is to optimize the spatial and temporal resolution of the measurement and analytic techniques in order to effectively characterize the spatial and temporal variations in patterns of neuronal activity. In this paper we review the use of neuromagnetic techniques for this purpose. 8 refs., 3 figs.

An interim high-temperature flaw assessment procedure is described. This is a result of a collaborative effort between Electric Power Research Institute in the USA, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry in Japan, and Nuclear Electric plc in the UK. The procedure addresses preexisting defects subject to creep-fatigue loading conditions. Laws employed to calculate the crack growth per cycle are defined in terms of fracture mechanics parameters and constants related to the component material. The crack growth laws may be integrated to calculate the remaining life of a component or to predict the amount of crack extension in a given period. Fatigue and creep crack growth per cycle are calculated separately, and the total crack extension is taken as the simple sum of the two contributions. An interaction between the two propagation modes is accounted for in the material properties in the separate calculations. In producing the procedure, limitations of the approach have been identified. Some of these limitations are to be addressed in an extension of the current collaborative program. 20 refs.

The friction coefficient and wear rate in structural ceramic materials are often too high to make them attractive for applications requiring dry sliding. The role of a thin soft silver film in improving the tribological characteristics of silicon nitride materials is investigated in this study. In a pin-on-disc contact configuration in reciprocating motion, the friction coefficient was reduced by about 50% and the wear rate by one to two orders of magnitude. The friction reduction is thought to be due to the reduction of the contact interface shear strength by the presence of the soft film. The wear rate reduction is likely due to modification of the contact stresses by the film. Combined, these two factors lead to a decrease in the magnitude of the damaging tensile stresses. The durability and thus the effectiveness of the film is very dependent on the bond strength (i.e., adhesion strength) between the film and the substrate. 21 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab.

Research is ongoing to develop a reactor to convert synthesis gas to alcohol. Our objective during this quarter was to complete Task 2, calibration and automation of GC analysis protocols, and Task 3B, development of a dynamic response technique to determine the relevant parameters and of the algorithms for data acquisition and analysis for parameter estimation including the computer codes. In addition, we have started to work on Task 4, determination of the reaction kinetics in the CSTR we have designed. 3 figs., 1 tab.

Research continued on the design of a chemical reactor for synthesis gas conversion. During the second quarter our objective was to continue with Task 2 and start on Task 3. Task 2 involved standardization and automation of GC analysis protocols. Task 3, as stated in the work breakdown schedule, was the modification and automation of the trickle bed reactor and performing the initial factorial design experiments. We have decided to modify this task by expanding it to incorporate determination of the hydrodynamic and transport parameters of the trickle bed reactor in order to isolate and study just the reaction parameters. 1 fig.

Research continued on the conversion of synthesis gas to alcohols and reactor configuration. Our objective during this quarter was to complete Task IIIB, development of the algorithms for the dynamic response technique for parameter estimation; start Task IIIC, establishment of methodology for determination of the parameters of the trickle bed reactor in the microreactor assembly; and continue with Task IV, determination of the kinetics of the reaction in the slurry reactor. 3 figs.

Since sulfur dioxide emission from burning high sulfur coals is a major contributor to acid rain, it is important to develop bacteria which are capable of efficiently removing the sulfur from coal before combustion. Inorganic sulfur can be removed from coal by certain strains of Thiobacillus or Sulfolobus; however the organic sulfur remains intransigent. Since high sulfur Illinois coals typically contain 60% to 70% of their sulfur in the form of the heterocyclic thiophene ring we have started to investigate the biodegradation of derivatives of thiophene and the corresponding oxygen heterocycle, furan. Our previous work resulted in the isolation of a triple mutant, NAR30, capable of oxidizing a range of furan and thiophene derivatives. However, NAR30 does not completely degrade thiophenes or furans and its oxidation of these compounds is slow and inefficient. We decided to clone the thd genes both in order to increase the efficiency of degradation and to investigate the nature of the reactions involved. 37 refs., 4 figs., 3 tabs.

Monthly newsletter of the Alamo Area Council of Governments describing news and events of relevance to the agencies.