Abstract: A system and method for predicting acoustic loads expected on a boiling water reactor (BWR) may include a BWR scale model, a test fixture for generating air flow in the scale model, and one or measurement devices for monitoring system behavior to predict how acoustic loads may affect plant operation for the BWR being evaluated.

Abstract: A life and electrical properties enhanced microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switch apparatus in which a combined nanoparticle and ionic fluid lubricant is used to prolong switch elements operating lifetime and desirable electrical characteristics during this lifetime. Nanoparticle materials such as noble metal particles are combined with ionic corona producing liquid organic materials to achieve a desirable contact lubricant material serving to delay the onset of several disclosed classic contact failure mechanisms. Improvement over other contact lubricant materials and favorable contact testing results are included.

Abstract: A method for preparing high-use temperature, light-weight polymer/inorganic nanocomposite materials with enhanced thermal stability and performance characteristics, which comprises treating a polymer/inorganic nanocomposite material with oxygen plasma under conditions which result in a thin, protective, ceramic-like layer at the surface of the thus-treated nanocomposite material.