The balloon-borne sounding system (SONDE) provides in situ measurements (vertical profiles) of both the thermodynamic state of the atmosphere and the wind speed and direction.

The interaction of intense laser light with dielectric materials is a fundamental applied science problem that is becoming increasingly important with the rapid development of ever more powerful lasers. To better understand the behavior of optical components in large fusion-class laser systems, we are systematically studying the interaction of high-fluence, high-power laser light with high-quality optical components, with particular interest on polishing/finishing and stress-induced defects and surface contamination. We focus on obtaining comparable measurements at three different wavelengths, 1{omega} (1053 nm), 2{omega} (527 nm), and 3{omega} (351 nm).

Undetected microcracks in solar cells are a principal cause of failure in service due to subsequent weather exposure, mechanical flexing or diurnal temperature cycles. Existing methods have not been able to detect cracks early enough in the production cycle to prevent inadvertent shipment to customers. This program, sponsored under the DOE Photovoltaic Supply Chain and Cross-Cutting Technologies program, studied the feasibility of quantifying surface micro-discontinuities by use of a novel technique, thermoreflectance imaging, to detect surface temperature gradients with very high spatial resolution, in combination with a suite of conventional imaging methods such as electroluminescence. The project carried out laboratory tests together with computational image analyses using sample solar cells with known defects supplied by industry sources or DOE National Labs. Quantitative comparisons between the effectiveness of the new technique and conventional methods were determined in terms of the smallest detectable crack. Also the robustness of the new technique for reliable microcrack detection was determined at various stages of processing such as before and after antireflectance treatments. An overall assessment is that the new technique compares favorably with existing methods such as lock-in thermography or ultrasonics. The project was 100% completed in Sept, 2010. A detailed report of key findings …

Computational science is becoming an increasingly important component of Pacific Northwest's support to DOE's major missions. The advanced parallel computing systems in the William R. Wiley Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL), coupled with new modeling and simulation software, data management tools, and user interfaces, are providing solutions to previously intractable problems. Research focuses on developing software and other tools to address computational challenges in molecular science, environmental management, global climate change, advanced materials and manufacturing processes, molecular biology, and information management. The Graphics and Visualization Laboratory is part of EMSL'S Molecular Science Computing Facility (MSCF). The MSCF contains a 512-processor IBM RISC System/6000 scalable power parallel computer system that provides the advanced computing capability needed to address ''Grand Challenge'' environmental research problems. The MSCF provides an integrated computing environment with links to facilities in the DOE complex, universities, and industry. The image inserts are graphical representations of simulations performed with software developed at the Laboratory.

The purpose of this report is to describe the results of prototypic tests of piping alterations designed to alleviate the above described conditions and to outline a program for full-scale implementation of these alterations.

In this LDRD, we examined in detail the pressure-induced bonding and local coordination changes leading to the molecular {yields} associated {yields} extended-solid transitions in carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}). We studied the progressive delocalization of electrons from the C=O molecular double bond at high pressures and temperatures, and determined the phase stability and physical properties of a new extended-solid CO{sub 2} phase (VI). We find that the new CO{sub 2} phase VI is based on a network of six-fold coordinated (octahedral) CO{sub 6} structures similar to the ultra-hard SiO{sub 2} phase stishovite.

Nickel plating on the coolant contacting surfaces of aluminum-jacketed fuel elements is highly attractive for increasing resistance. Potential benefits include a highly corrosion-resistant coating for severe localized conditions, reduction of mechanical damage to fuel element jackets, improved fuel element alignment (by reducing friction between fuel element and process tube ribs) and probably lower overfall surface temperatures to reduction in corrosion product film with improved corrosion resistance, neutron economy might also be realized. For example, substitution of a 0.5 mil thick nickel plate for 15-mils thickness of aluminum jacket would result in no reactivity loss and permit a concomitant increase in uranium volume, or in coolant flow annulus. Attendant problems include providing an adherent continuous plate of uniform thickness and possibly contamination of reactor effluent by radio-nickel-cobalt, and phosphorous and it was found that gross sloughing of the nickel plate had occurred. Development and testing work was carried out to determine the cause and a solution to the Greece problem. Studies were limited to the behavior of chemically-deposited nickel because of the unique capability of the process to deposit a coating of uniform thickness in the 0.1 - 0.2 mils thick range, regardless of the geometry of the plated piece. Based …

The principal effort has been devoted to the data analysis for the pion-nucleus total cross section experiment. Forward scattering amplitudes have been obtained for ..pi..+- mesons on Al, /sup 40/Ca, Cu, Sn, Ho, and Pb. These results are given. Work is continuing on the data reduction for the remaining targets.

On the basis of the analytical methods used, preliminary radiochemical analysis of the water samples collected after the Salmon event indicate that no detectable level of radioactive contamination exists. Samples were obtained from the calcite caprock at a depth of 934 to 1,006 feet and through intervening aquifers to aquifer 1 at a depth of 365 to 421 feet from the surface. The water sample collected from the calcite caprock was taken within approximately 1,700 feet of the detonation. Periodic sampling of the wells will continue and more refined analytical techniques will be used in analyzing the samples. After the hydrologic test wells have been better developed by bailing, additional isotopes will be investigated.

Four 700-liter cylindrical containers were filled with demineralized water, enriched with nutrients, and inoculated with 3.5-liter lakewater samples. The microcosms were maintained at a temperature of 18/sup 0/C under a 12:12 L:D cycle for 6 months and several manipulations of their trophic structure were carried out, including addition of snails (Physa sp.), mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), and catfish (Placostomas placostomas). Temporal variation of the phytoplankton resembled the bimodal patterns of certain natural systems. Further analysis demonstrated a close analogy with the predator-prey oscillations of temperate marine waters: an initial bloom is terminated by zooplankton grazing; the resulting low phytoplankton levels lead to gradual starvation of the zooplankton; and a second bloom follows the final dieoff of zooplankton. Both decreasing the concentration of initial nutrients and stocking the microcosms with Gambusia decreases the time between the spring and fall blooms. The problem of heavy periphyton growth in microcosms was not solved with the introduction of either Physa or Placostomas. Possible solutions to this and to other problems peculiar to microcosm research are discussed, and modifications are suggested for increasing the ability of microcosms to simulate natural systems.

Two additional atmospheric sodium release tests were jointly conducted by ESG and ARL at INEL. These tests were conducted under very stable (Pasquill E and G) meteorological conditions where the natural humidity content was high (47 and 96% RH). Sufficient experimental data was obtained on Test 7 to quantitatively qualify the formation of Na/sub 2/CO/sub 3/ in the open atmosphere from primary sodium combustion products. These data show that a maximum concentration of approx. 60% Na/sub 2/CO/sub 3/ is reached with the plume 100 meters from the release point. This concentration increases slightly as the plume is dispersed beyond 2400 meters. The available particle fallout data is consistent with predictions.

The B Pile operated 25 MW below rated power level without interruption during the week. The D Pile was shut down on January 29. During the shutdown 103 tubes were discharged. The shut down lasted for 15 hours. During operation after the shut down power was reduced to meet graphite temperature restrictions. The F Pile was run steadily throughout the week at 25 MW below rated level. Iron content in the process water averaged 0.015, 0.011 and 0.010 ppm at B, D, and F Areas, respectively. Examination of the slugs discharged from four corrosion tubes at F has been completed. A summary of conditions found in the vertical and horizontal aluminium thimbles at D and F during a recent inspection are given. Results are given on the graphite expansion problem.

A detailed and comprehensive research and development methodology is being prescribed to produce Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS)-Fe{sub 3}Al thin walled tubes, using powder extrusion methodologies, for eventual use at operating temperatures of up to 1100% in the power generation industry. A particular ''in service application'' anomaly of Fe{sub 3}Al-based alloys is that the environmental resistance is maintained up to 1200 C, well beyond where such alloys retain sufficient mechanical strength. Grain boundary creep processes at such high temperatures are anticipated to be the dominant failure mechanism. Thus, the challenges of this program are manifold: (1) to produce thin walled ODS-Fe{sub 3}Al tubes, employing powder extrusion methodologies, with (2) adequate increased strength for service at operating temperatures, and (3) to mitigate creep failures by enhancing the as-processed grain size in ODS-Fe{sub 3}Al tubes. Our research progress till date has resulted in the successful batch production of typically 8 Ft. lengths of 1-3/8 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, ODS-Fe{sub 3}Al tubes via a proprietary single step extrusion consolidation process. The process parameters for such consolidation methodologies have been prescribed and evaluated as being routinely reproducible. Such processing parameters (i.e., extrusion ratios, temperature, can design etc.) were particularly guided by the need …

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The Department of Energy, Minnesota Energy Agency, Northern States Power Company, and other local government and private organizations are cooperatively performing an in-depth application study to determine the feasibility of district heating for a large northern-U.S. city. Over 90% of the space- and water-heating requirements are currently supplied by oil and gas. Hence, district heating can potentially replace large quantities of scarce fuels with coal or nuclear resources. In addition, district heating, using a co-generation power plant, substantially increases the fuel-utilization efficiency when compared to an electric-only plant. A Swedish firm, AB Atomenergi, is performing a preliminary economic and technical assessment. The analysis uses current Swedish district-heating technology and experience, and adapts it, where necessary, to U.S. conditions. Preliminary Swedish results indicate favorable economics for a large system, which includes residential areas, when technology innovations such as temperature-resistant plastic piping are used. For conventional-piping technology the economics appear favorable for the commercial areas of the city core. The peak heat load for the Twin Cities is approximately 4200 MW(t). The scenario presented by AB Atomenergi assumes 2250 MW(t) would be supplied by co-generation units, and the remaining 2000 MW(t) would be peaking, heat-only units. The dual-purpose units would be used …

Uranium fuel assemblies and other uranium associated with the shutdown N Reactor are stored in the 300 Area N Reactor Fuel Fabrication and Storage Facility (Facility). The 3712 Building, where the majority of the fuel assemblies and other uranium is stored, is where there could be a potential for a criticality bounding case. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the probability of potential fires in the Facility 3712 Building that could lead to criticality. This study has been done to support the criticality update. For criticality to occur, the wooden fuel assembly containers would have to burn such that the fuel inside would slump into a critical geometry configuration, a sufficient number of containers burn to form an infinite wide configuration, and sufficient water (about a 17 inch depth) be placed onto the slump. To obtain the appropriate geometric configuration, enough fuel assembly containers to form an infinite array on the floor would have to be stacked at least three high. Administrative controls require the stacks to be limited to two high for 1.25 wt% enriched finished fuel. This is not sufficient to allow for a critical mass regardless of the fire and accompanying water moderation. It should …

The Hanford Environmental Compliance (HEC) Project is unique in that it consisted of 14 subprojects which varied in project scope and were funded from more that one program. This report describes the HEC Project from inception to completion and the scope, schedule, and cost of the individual subprojects. Also provided are the individual subproject Cost closing statements and Project completion reports accompanied by construction photographs and illustrations.

The possibility of fast ignition of thermo-nuclear fusion is stimulating research interest and activity worldwide. Fast ignition (FI) offers significantly higher gain than conventional spark ignition and the high gain opens the way to an efficient fusion energy producing cycle with laser drivers. The key to FI is the efficient transport of energy from a short pulse laser beam, the igniter, to a small ignition spark in compressed deuterium-tritium fuel. The primary candidate process enabling such energy transfer, is the absorption of laser light and its conversion into a beam of relativistic electrons, which heats the spark. Theory has predicted self-induced magnetic collimation of the electron beam, which could enable efficient transport from the absorption point to the ignition spark. Experiments are required to understand this highly complex process which involves currents in the electron beam, which greatly exceed the Alfven current limit6 (at which the Larmor radius of an electron in the magnetic field associated with by the current is smaller than the radius of the beam). Almost complete current compensation by cold electron return current is therefore required. The oppositely directed hot and cold electron flows initiate strong growth of the Weibel instability, which causes the currents to …

We study the attractor mechanism for extremal non-BPS black holes with an infinite throat near horizon geometry, developing, as we do so, a physical argument as to why such a mechanism does not exist in non-extremal cases. We present a detailed derivation of the non-supersymmetric attractor equation. This equation defines the stabilization of moduli near the black hole horizon: the fixed moduli take values specified by electric and magnetic charges corresponding to the fluxes in a Calabi Yau compactification of string theory. They also define the so-called double-extremal solutions. In some examples, studied previously by Tripathy and Trivedi, we solve the equation and show that the moduli are fixed at values which may also be derived from the critical points of the black hole potential.

This document reports on monitoring well installation and sampling in 2004 at the location of a grain storage facility formerly operated in Centralia, Kansas, by the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Argonne National Laboratory is conducting environmental investigations of carbon tetrachloride contamination in groundwater at this site for the CCC/USDA. With the approval of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Argonne installed six monitoring wells at the former facility in July 2004 to supplement existing monitoring points (piezometers) installed during Argonne's Phase I investigation in 2002. Together, the monitoring wells and piezometers constitute a monitoring network designed to (1) confirm the lateral distribution of carbon tetrachloride in the groundwater, (2) track any migration of contaminants that might take place, and (3) monitor aquifer geochemical characteristics. To verify that the six new monitoring wells had been developed adequately, they were sampled after their installation in July 2004 for analysis for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The monitoring wells were sampled again in August 2004, after a stabilization period of four weeks. Five of the Phase I piezometers were also sampled in August 2004. Results of analysis of the August 2004 groundwater samples for VOCs …

Lawrence Livermore Laboratory (LLL) is studying ways in which the environmental quality of The Geysers-Calistoga known geothermal resources area may be protected from any significant harmful consequences of future geothermal development. The LLL study includes the effects of development on air and water quality, geology, the ecosystem, socioeconomics, and noise. The Geothermal Resource Impact Projection Study (GRIPS) has grants to undertake similar work. On 28 and 29 November 1977, LLL and GRIPS jointly sponsored a workshop at Sonoma State College at which knowledgeable earth scientists presented their views on the potential geological hazards of geothermal development. The workshop produced recommendations for studies in geological mapping, slope stability, subsidence, seismicity, and groundwater hydrology. These recommendations will be evaluated along with other considerations and in conjunction with the other subjects of the LLL study. The results of the study will be contained in a preplanning report of final recommendations to the Department of Energy.

This study evaluated the ability of the Raw Water, Potable Water, and Compressed Air systems to support safe storage as well as the first phase of the Waste Feed Delivery. Several recommendations are made to improve the system.

This document provides a detailed description of the Sampling and Analysis Plan for the Preoperational Survey to be conducted for the W-314 Pipeline in the 200 East Area.

The Fast Ignition (FI) concept for Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) has the potential to provide a significant advance in the technical attractiveness of Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) reactors. FI differs from conventional 'central hot spot' (CHS) target ignition by using one driver (laser, heavy ion beam or Z-pinch) to create a dense fuel and a separate ultra-short, ultra-intense laser beam to ignite the dense core. FI targets can burn with {approx} 3X lower density fuel than CHS targets, resulting in (all other things being equal) lower required compression energy, relaxed drive symmetry, relaxed target smoothness tolerances, and, importantly, higher gain. The short, intense ignition pulse that drives this process interacts with extremely high energy density plasmas; the physics that controls this interaction is only now becoming accessible in the lab, and is still not well understood. The attraction of obtaining higher gains in smaller facilities has led to a worldwide explosion of effort in the studies of FI. In particular, two new US facilities to be completed in 2009/2010, OMEGA/OMEGA EP and NIF-ARC (as well as others overseas) will include FI investigations as part of their program. These new facilities will be able to approach FI conditions much more closely …