Search Results (749)

Variable-thrust liquid rocket engines are essential for precision landing in deep-space exploration, reusable launch vehicle recovery, high-accuracy orbital maneuvers, and emergency obstacle evasions of space drones. However, with the increasingly complex space missions, challenges remain with the development of different technical schemes. In view of these issues, this paper systematically reviews the technology’s evolution through mechanical throttling, electromechanical precision regulation, and commercial space-driven deep throttling. Then, the development of key variable thrust technologies for liquid rocket engines is summarized from the perspective of thrust regulation and control strategy. For instance, thrust regulation requires synergistic flow control devices and adjustable pintle injectors to dynamically match flow rates with injection pressure drops, ensuring combustion stability across wide thrust ranges—particularly under extreme conditions during space drones’ high-maneuver orbital adjustments—though pintle injector optimization for such scenarios remains challenging. System control must address strong multivariable coupling, response delays, and high-disturbance environments, as well as bottlenecks in sensor reliability and nonlinear modeling. Furthermore, prospects are made in response to the research progress, and breakthroughs are required in cryogenic wide-range flow regulation for liquid oxygen-methane propellants, combustion stability during deep throttling, and AI-based intelligent control to support space drones’ autonomous orbital transfer, rapid reusability, and on-demand trajectory correction in complex deep-space missions. Full article

The paper outlines the hybrid framework of spin hydrodynamics, combining classical kinetic theory with the Israel–Stewart method of introducing dissipation. The local equilibrium expressions for the baryon current, the energy–momentum tensor, and the spin tensor of particles with spin 1/2 following the Fermi–Dirac statistics are obtained and compared with the earlier derived versions where the Boltzmann approximation was used. The expressions in the two cases are found to have the same form, but the coefficients are shown to be governed by different functions. The relative differences between the tensor coefficients in the Fermi–Dirac and Boltzmann cases are found to grow exponentially with the baryon chemical potential. In the proposed formalism, nonequilibrium processes are studied including mathematically possible dissipative corrections. Standard conservation laws are applied, and the condition of positive entropy production is shown to allow for the transfer between the spin and orbital parts of angular momentum. Full article

Hydrogen energy holds immense potential to address the global energy crisis and environmental challenges. However, its large-scale application is severely hindered by the lack of efficient hydrogen storage materials. This study systematically investigates the H₂ adsorption properties of intrinsic C₂₆ fullerene and Li-decorated C₂₆ fullerene using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results reveal that Li atoms preferentially bind to the H_5-5 site of C₂₆, driven by significant electron transfer (0.90 |e|) from Li to C₂₆. This electron redistribution modulates the electronic structure of C₂₆, as evidenced by projected density of states (PDOS) analysis, where the p orbitals of C atoms near the Fermi level undergo hybridization with Li orbitals, enhancing the electrostatic environment for H₂ adsorption. For Li-decorated C₂₆, the average adsorption energy and consecutive adsorption energy decrease as more H₂ molecules are adsorbed, indicating a gradual weakening of adsorption strength and signifying a saturation limit of three H₂ molecules. Charge density difference and PDOS analyses further demonstrate that H₂ adsorption induces synergistic electron transfer from both Li (0.89 |e| loss) and H₂ (0.01 |e| loss) to C₂₆ (0.90 |e| gain), with orbital hybridization between H s orbitals, C p orbitals, and Li orbitals stabilizing the adsorbed system. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the microscopic mechanism underlying Li-enhanced H₂ adsorption on C₂₆ fullerene and offer insights into the rational design of metal-decorated fullerene-based systems for efficient hydrogen storage. Full article

The overall efficiency of combining denitrification and volatile organic compound (VOC) removal through selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology is currently mainly limited by the VOC removal aspect. However, existing studies have not studied the microscopic mechanism of the interaction between VOCs and catalysts, failing to provide a theoretical basis for catalysts. Therefore, this work explored the interaction mechanisms between SCR catalysts doped with different additives and typical VOCs (acetone and toluene) in flue gas based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results showed that the VNi-TiO₂ surface exhibited a high adsorption energy of −0.80 eV for acetone and a high adsorption energy of −1.02 eV for toluene on the VMn-TiO₂ surface. Electronic structure analysis revealed the VMn-TiO₂ and VNi-TiO₂ surfaces exhibited more intense orbital hybridization with acetone and toluene, promoting charge transfer between the two and resulting in stronger interactions. The analysis of temperature on adsorption free energy showed that VMn-TiO₂ and VNi-TiO₂ still maintained high activity at high temperatures. This work contributes to clarifying the interaction mechanism between SCR and VOCs and enhancing the VOC removal efficiency. Full article

M-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), which probes 3p→3d transitions in first-row transition metals, provides detailed insights into oxidation states, spin-states, and local electronic structure with high element and orbital specificity. Operating in the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) region, this technique provides sharp multiplet-resolved features with high sensitivity to ligand field and covalency effects. Compared to K- and L-edge XAS, M-edge spectra exhibit significantly narrower full widths at half maximum (typically 0.3–0.5 eV versus >1 eV at the L-edge and >1.5–2 eV at the K-edge), owing to longer 3p core-hole lifetimes. M-edge measurements are also more surface-sensitive due to the lower photon energy range, making them particularly well-suited for probing thin films, interfaces, and surface-bound species. The advent of tabletop high-harmonic generation (HHG) sources has enabled femtosecond time-resolved M-edge measurements, allowing direct observation of ultrafast photoinduced processes such as charge transfer and spin crossover dynamics. This review presents an overview of the fundamental principles, experimental advances, and current theoretical approaches for interpreting M-edge spectra. We further discuss a range of applications in catalysis, materials science, and coordination chemistry, highlighting the technique’s growing impact and potential for future studies. Full article

In response to the increasing demand for high-precision navigation of satellites operating in the cislunar space, this study introduces an onboard orbit determination algorithm considering both convergence and computational efficiency, referred to as the Sliding-Window Batch Processing (SWBP) algorithm. This algorithm combines the strengths of data batch processing and the sequential processing algorithm, utilizing measurement data from multiple historical and current epochs to update the orbit state of the current epoch. This algorithm facilitates rapid convergence in orbit determination, even in instances where the initial orbit error is large. The SWBP algorithm has been used to evaluate the navigation performance in the Distant Retrograde Orbit (DRO) and the Earth–Moon transfer orbit. The scenario involves a low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite establishing satellite-to-satellite tracking (SST) links with both a DRO satellite and an Earth–Moon transfer satellite. The LEO satellite can determine its orbit accurately by receiving GNSS signals. The experiments show that the DRO satellite achieves an orbit determination accuracy of 100 m within 100 h under an initial position error of 500 km, and the transfer orbit satellite reaches an orbit determination accuracy of 600 m within 3.5 h under an initial position error of 100 km. When the Earth–Moon transfer satellite exhibits a large initial orbital error (on the order of hundreds of kilometers) or the LEO satellite’s positional accuracy is degraded, the SWBP algorithm demonstrates superior convergence speed and precision in orbit determination compared to the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF). This confirms the proposed algorithm’s capability to handle complex orbital determination scenarios effectively. Full article

In this study, we synthesized novel donor–π–acceptor (D–π–A) functional dyes bearing a carbonyl-bridged bithiophene as a π-conjugated spacer and evaluated the absorption and fluorescence properties as well as the photostability. The developed dyes 1-CO–3-CO possess an N,N-diphenylaminophenyl electron donor unit and an electron acceptor unit such as a formyl group (1-CO), an (N,N-diethylthiobarbituryl)methylene moiety (2-CO), or a (3-dicyanomethylidene-1-indanon-2-yl)methylene moiety (3-CO). The absorption spectra of 1-CO–3-CO in dichloromethane at room temperature showed absorption maxima at 569 nm, 631 nm, and 667 nm, respectively, and the stronger acceptors in 2-CO and 3-CO led to enhancement of the ICT character. In addition, 2-CO and 3-CO had a second absorption band in the visible region, showing panchromatic absorption properties. Electrochemical analyses of the developed dyes revealed that the carbonyl bridging group in the π-spacer contributes to stabilization of the frontier orbitals such as the highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (HOMO and LUMO, respectively), in comparison with the referential dyes bearing a dibutylmethylene-bridged bithiophene spacer, 1-CBu₂–3-CBu₂. The HOMO/LUMO stabilization brought about high photostability in the doped poly(methyl methacrylate) film. Full article

Continuous low thrust is widely used in orbit transfer maneuvers. If the unknown maneuvers are not correctly compensated, the orbiting accuracy will be seriously affected. We propose a rapid method for pre-identifying thrust acceleration based on single-arc orbit determination in order to determine the orbit of non-cooperative continuous low-thrust maneuvering spacecraft. The single-arc orbit determination results of two ground-based radar observations with a certain time interval are used to inversely determine the direction and magnitude of acceleration of the spacecraft under continuous thrust based on their relationship with satellite orbit parameters. The solution error is relatively small when using this method, even over a short period of time when data are sparse. The results can then be applied to the orbital adjustment of a satellite. The results show that when the satellite climbs with maximum tangential acceleration, the interval between the two radar observations is greater than 7 h, and the proposed method can rapidly pre-identify tangential thrust acceleration with a solution error of less than 5%. When the satellite adjusts the orbital plane with the maximum normal acceleration, the average relative measurement error of the normal acceleration is about 20% when the time interval between two observations is 24 h. The longer the observation interval and the greater the thrust acceleration, the smaller the relative error. The calculation results can be used as the initial value for precision orbit determination of continuous low-thrust maneuvering spacecraft. Full article

The electrochemical reduction of carbon monoxide (COER) offers a promising route for generating value-added multi-carbon (C₂₊) products, such as ethanol, but achieving high catalytic performance remains a significant challenge. Herein, we performed comprehensive density functional theory (DFT) computations to evaluate CO-to-ethanol conversion on single metal atoms anchored on graphitic carbon nitride (TM/g–CN). We showed that these metal atoms stably coordinate with edge N sites of g–CN to form active catalytic centers. Screening 20 TM/g–CN candidates, we identified V/g–CN and Zn/g–CN as optimal catalysts: both exhibit low free-energy barriers (<0.50 eV) for the key ^*CO hydrogenation steps and facilitate C–C coupling via an Eley–Rideal mechanism with a negligible kinetic barrier (~0.10 eV) to yield ethanol at low limiting potentials, which explains their superior COER performance. An analysis of d-band centers, charge transfer, and bonding–antibonding orbital distributions revealed the origin of their activity. This work provides theoretical insights and useful guidelines for designing high-performance single-atom COER catalysts. Full article

We present a Doppler tomography study of the Be star HD 698, recently resolved via interferometry as a post-mass-transfer binary system consisting of a Be star and a stripped, pre-subdwarf companion. Based on 76 high-resolution optical spectra obtained between 2014 and 2023, we analyze the H$\alpha$ and H$\beta$ emission lines and apply Doppler tomography to map the structure of the circumstellar disk. The H$\alpha$ line reveals an asymmetric, multi-component velocity distribution, with an emission feature closely following the orbital motion of the companion. V/R variations in both H$\alpha$ and H$\beta$ lines are phase-locked with the companion’s orbital motion, indicating a tidally induced disk asymmetry. We discuss possible origins of the companion-centered H$\alpha$ emission, including a circumsecondary disk, a transient mass-transfer stream, and stellar wind. Full article

Contact electrification (CE), or triboelectrification, is an electron transfer phenomenon occurring at the interface between dissimilar materials due to differences in polarity, holding significant research value in tribology. The microscopic mechanisms of CE remain unclear due to the complex coupling of multiple physical processes. Recently, with the rise of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology, solid–liquid contact electrification has demonstrated vast application potential, sparking considerable interest in its underlying mechanisms. Emerging experimental evidence indicates that at water–polymer CE interfaces, the process involves not only traditional ion adsorption but also electron transfer. Halogen-containing functional groups in the solid material significantly enhance the CE effect. To elucidate the microscopic mechanism of water–polymer CE, this study employed first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations, simulating the interfacial electrification process using unit cell models of water contacting polymers. We systematically and quantitatively investigated the charge transfer characteristics at interfaces between water and three representative polymers with similar backbones but different halogen-functionalized (F, Cl) side chains: fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), focusing on evaluating halogen’s influence and mechanism on interfacial electron transfer. The results reveal that electron transfer is primarily governed by the energy levels of the polymer’s lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO). Halogen functional groups modulate the material’s electron-donating/accepting capabilities by altering these frontier orbital energy levels. Consequently, we propose that the critical strategy for polymer chemical modification resides in lowering the LUMO energy level of electron-accepting materials. This study provides a novel theoretical insight into the charge transfer mechanism at solid–liquid interfaces, offers guidance for designing high-performance TENG interfacial materials, and holds significant importance for both the fundamental theory and the development of advanced energy devices. Full article

Penta-graphene, a novel two-dimensional carbon allotrope entirely composed of pentagonal carbon rings, has attracted increasing attention due to its unique geometric structure, mechanical robustness, and intrinsic semiconducting nature. In this study, we systematically investigate the adsorption behavior of three typical dissolved gases in transformer oil (CO, C₂H₂, and C₂H₄) on penta-graphene using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. The optimized adsorption configuration, adsorption energy, charge transfer, adsorption distance, band structure, density of states, charge density difference, and desorption time are analyzed to evaluate the sensing capability of penta-graphene. Results reveal that penta-graphene exhibits moderate chemical interactions with CO and C₂H₂, accompanied by noticeable charge transfer and band structure changes, whereas C₂H₄ shows weaker physisorption characteristics. The projected density of states analysis further confirms the orbital hybridization between gas molecules and the substrate. Additionally, the desorption time calculations suggest that penta-graphene possesses good sensing and recovery potential, especially under elevated temperatures. These findings indicate that penta-graphene is a promising candidate for use in gas sensing applications related to the monitoring of dissolved gases in transformer oils. Full article

The photofragmentation of halothane (CF₃CHBrCl) was studied with synchrotron radiation by photoionization efficiency (PIE) measurements and photoelectron–photoion coincidence (PEPICO) experiments, as well as by a theoretical exploration of potential energy surfaces. Among the other fragments, the formation of the CHClF⁺ and CHBrF⁺ ions, which involves the transfer of a F atom between the two moieties of the parent molecule, was observed. To understand the mechanisms leading to the halogen migration, a detailed theoretical study of the production of CHClF⁺, m/z 67⁺, based on DFT calculations and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis was conducted. The results contribute to the understanding of the photochemistry of halothane, its polluting behavior in the high atmosphere, and the formation of highly reactive species. Full article

The BeiDou-3 Navigation Satellite System (BDS-3) precise point positioning (PPP) service through the B2b signal (PPP-B2b) leverages precise correction data disseminated by satellites to eliminate or mitigate key error sources, including satellite orbit errors, clock biases, and ionospheric delays, thereby enabling high-precision timing and positioning. This paper investigates the disparities in time comparison and positioning capabilities associated with the PPP-B2b signals transmitted by the BDS-3 Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites (C59 and C61). Three stations in the Asia–Pacific region were selected to establish two time comparison links. The study evaluated the time transfer accuracy of PPP-B2b signals by analyzing orbit and clock corrections from BDS-3 GEO satellites C59 and C61. Using multi-GNSS final products (GBM post-ephemeris) as a reference, the performance of PPP-B2b-based time comparison was assessed. The results indicate that while both satellites achieve comparable time transfer accuracy, C59 demonstrates superior stability and availability compared to C61. Additionally, five stations from the International GNSS Service (IGS) and the International GNSS Monitoring and Assessment System (iGMAS) were selected to assess the positioning accuracy of PPP-B2b corrections transmitted by BDS-3 GEO satellites C59 and C61. Using IGS/iGMAS weekly solution positioning results as a reference, the analysis demonstrates that PPP-B2b enables centimeter-level static positioning and decimeter-level simulated kinematic positioning. Furthermore, C59 achieves higher positioning accuracy than C61. Full article

We combine corrected Gaia DR3 astrometry with non-conservative MESA modelling to retrace the evolution of the FS-CMa binary MWC 728. The revised parallax sets the distance at $d=1.2\pm 0.1$ kpc, leading—after Monte-Carlo error propagation—to luminosities of $log{(L/L_{\odot })}_{\mathrm{acc}}=2.6\pm 0.1$ and $log{(L/L_{\odot })}_{\mathrm{don}}=1.5\pm 0.1$, corresponding to the accretor and donor, respectively. A fiducial binary track that starts with $M_{\mathrm{don}}=3.6\pm 0.1M_{\odot }$, $M_{\mathrm{acc}}=1.8\pm 0.1M_{\odot }$, and $P_0=21.0\pm 0.2$ d reproduces the observations provided the Roche-lobe overflow, which is moderately non-conservative: only $39\%$ of the transferred mass is retained by the accretor, while the remainder leaves the system via (i) a fast isotropic wind from the donor ($\alpha =0.01$), (ii) isotropic re-emission near the accretor ($\beta =0.45$), and (iii) outflow into a circumbinary torus ($\delta =0.15$, lever arm $\gamma =1.3$). These channels remove sufficient angular momentum to expand the orbit to the observed $P_{\mathrm{obs}}=27.5\pm 0.1$ d while sustaining the dusty circumbinary outflow. At $t\simeq 223$ Myr, the model matches every current observable: $M_{\mathrm{don}}=1.30\pm 0.05M_{\odot }$, $M_{\mathrm{acc}}=2.67\pm 0.05M_{\odot }$, mass ratio $q=2.0\pm 0.1$, and an ongoing transfer rate of $\dot{M}\simeq (1\pm 0.3)\times {10}^{-6}{M}_{\odot }{\mathrm{yr}}^{-1}$. MWC 728 thus serves as a benchmark intermediate-mass binary for testing how non-conservative outflows regulate angular-momentum loss and orbital growth. Full article