Abstract: Select embodiments of the present invention employ biological means to direct assemble CNT-based nanostructures, allowing for scaling to macrostructures for manufacture. In select embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided for assembling DNA-functionalized SWNTs by phosphodiester bonding catalyzed by ssDNA-ligase to form macroscopic CNT aggregates.

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes have excellent mechanical properties such as low density, high stiffness, and exceptional strength making them ideal candidates for reinforcement material in a wide range of high-performance composites. Fibers with increased tensile strengths are produced by employing plasma treatment under various conditions. Tensile strength is improved by at least 35%, relative to an untreated fiber. Methods of making such high strength carbon nanotube fibers via plasma processing are disclosed.

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes have excellent mechanical properties such as low density, high stiffness, and exceptional strength making them ideal candidates for reinforcement material in a wide range of high-performance composites. Fibers with increased tensile strengths are produced by employing plasma treatment under various conditions. Tensile strength is improved by at least 35%, relative to an untreated fiber. Methods of making such high strength carbon nanotube fibers via plasma processing are disclosed.

Abstract: Select embodiments of the present invention employ biological means to direct assemble CNT-based nanostructures, allowing for scaling to macrostructures for manufacture. In select embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided for assembling DNA-functionalized SWNTs by phosphodiester bonding catalyzed by ssDNA-ligase to form macroscopic CNT aggregates.

Abstract: A structural element employing hydrostatic pressure to compress cohesion-less particles to significantly increase the load carrying capacity of the element along a load-bearing axis, a system for deploying said structural element and a method for deploying said structural element using the system.

Abstract: A structural element employing hydrostatic pressure to compress cohesion-less particles to significantly increase the load carrying capacity of the element along a load-bearing axis, a system for deploying said structural element and a method for deploying said structural element using the system.

Abstract: An application of phase profilometry to determine the 3-D configuration of normally obscured structure. In one application, the undercarriage of a vehicle is captured in a 3-D profile while the vehicle is operating normally. The system may use a digital camera; a computer for control, communications, processing, comparing configurations and database storage; a broadband light source; and a device positioned between the light and structure that enables an alternating strip or strips of light and shadows to impinge the obscured surface. A preferred embodiment uses a single straight edge as the device. In addition to profiling the undercarriage of a vehicle and comparing it to an expected configuration of a like vehicle, the system may be used for such diverse applications as determination of correct toll at toll booths, quality inspection in an assembly line, safety and security inspections, and access control.

Abstract: Provided in a preferred embodiment is an application of phase or “shadow” profilometry to determine a 3-D profile of structure instantaneously. In one application, a vehicle-mounted system captures a 3-D profile while operating normally. The system may use a digital camera, a computer for processing and storage, a broadband light source, and a device positioned between the light and structure that enables strips of light to impinge on the structure. A preferred embodiment uses a single straight edge as the device, casting a straight line shadow. In addition to profiling road surfaces, the bottom of hydraulic models have been profiled even while being disturbed with a wave generator. It may be integrated with other devices such as a pro-active suspension system for civilian, military, and construction vehicles. Further, use with tiltmeters and GPS receivers provides data useful for engineering or construction management.

Abstract: A stress and motion gauge formed in a unitary housing has a free field sts gauge and a velocity gauge formed in the housing in proximate side by side arrangement. The stress and velocity gauge of the invention measures, in a single package, both normal stress and material velocity at essentially the same location in a material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a particle velocity gauge for measuring long term (over one lisecond duration) particle velocities in solids which are subjected to high-powered sources, such as high-explosive detonations. The gauge consists of a protective canister, external flexible cable-protection system, and rigid internal strain-isolation system. The protective canister is disc-shaped and consists of a circular bottom section with central cavity, and a removable cover with o-ring seal. The strain-isolation system consists of a rigid mounting plate atop a TEFLON bearing, and is affixed to the bottom of the central cavity. A commercial accelerometer is mounted on the rigid mounting-plate to monitor the acceleration of the canister.

Abstract: The present invention provides a free field stress gauge that can operate in a medium with ambient normal stress fields up to 10 kilobars. The invention uses two machined parts, a top annulus cover disc portion and an active bottom disc portion such that the annulus top cover disc covers the active bottom disc portion but allows a solid central sensing column to be exposed to ambient conditions. The disc portions have a dual sealing means to protect the strain gauges therein from fluid ingress. The gauge is suitable for measuring stresses of soil and rock formations as well as concrete, asphalt or other materials in either a static or dynamic regime. The stress gauge is designed for high uni-axial stress measurements, improved frequency response, have low hysteretic induced effects in measurements and be a thinner gauge.

Abstract: A large diameter gas gun has a triggering mechanism for quickly and effecely releasing a large bore projectile which is accelerated under gas pressure to impact upon a target area to produce a substantial shock field.