Abstract: Adaptive structures, systems incorporating such adaptive structures and related methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an adaptive structure is provided that includes a first structure and at least one microstructure associated with the first structure. The at least one microstructure may include a microscale beam configured to be displaced relative to the first structure upon the adaptive structure being exposed to a specified temperature. The beam may be formed, for example, of a metallic material, of multiple different metallic materials, or of a shape memory alloy. In one embodiment, a plurality of the adaptive structures may be associated with micropores of a skin panel. The adaptive structures may be utilized to control the flow rate of a coolant or other fluid through the micropores responsive to a sensed environmental parameter such as, for example, temperature.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and systems of producing hydrogen using ammonia borane, which has a high hydrogen density while being stable and easily stored. Ammonia borane may be exothermically reacted with a strong oxidizer, such as a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. The reaction between ammonia borane and the strong oxidizer may occur spontaneously and may produce heat. Unreacted ammonia borane may be exposed to and thermally decomposed using the heat produced during the exothermic reaction between ammonia borane and the strong oxidizer. The heat may be retained by performing the reactions in a vessel or reactor including a material capable of retaining the heat. A high gravimetric hydrogen yield is obtained from the reaction of ammonia borane with hydrogen peroxide and the thermal decomposition of unreacted ammonia borane. Hydrogen production using the methods and systems may yield a high gravimetric hydrogen content of at least about 10%.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and systems of producing hydrogen using ammonia borane, which has a high hydrogen density while being stable and easily stored. Ammonia borane may be exothermically reacted with a strong oxidizer, such as a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. The reaction between ammonia borane and the strong oxidizer may occur spontaneously and may produce heat. Unreacted ammonia borane may be exposed to and thermally decomposed using the heat produced during the exothermic reaction between ammonia borane and the strong oxidizer. The heat may be retained by performing the reactions in a vessel or reactor including a material capable of retaining the heat. A high gravimetric hydrogen yield is obtained from the reaction of ammonia borane with hydrogen peroxide and the thermal decomposition of unreacted ammonia borane. Hydrogen production using the methods and systems may yield a high gravimetric hydrogen content of at least about 10%.