Abstract: In certain examples, methods and semiconductor structures are directed to a switching (power) amplification circuit, including resonance circuitry to resonate at a frequency associated with at least one of a plurality of different selectable resonance frequencies. The switching amplification circuit is configured to deliver power to one or multiple loads while the switching amplifier circuit is operating based on one or more of the selectable resonance frequencies.

Abstract: A system and method for assembling a spacecraft in orbit using orbiting modules. Each module has a function such as fuel, transport, communication and payload. A command and control system and logic assembles the modules for missions. After use the modules may be disassembled and parked in orbit. The assembly of modules for a mission is controlled by a logic that assesses the mission requirement, module status and capability and matches resources. The referenced command and control system and logic is used to maneuver vehicles and modules and controls missions. Communications between and among modules and signal sources are facilitated by a language protocol that has a library of commands and responses accessible by signals using divergent communications languages. The protocol also converts common programming language to a language compatible for use by a recipient module, logic or communication satellite or ground station.

Abstract: Accelerated charged particles are provided by inductive amplification of particle energy in connection with a deflagration-mode plasma discharge. The deflagration mode discharge tends to increase particle energy relative to other operating modes. Inductive amplification of particle energy further increases output particle velocity. Inductive amplification can occur by formation of a current loop in the plasma discharge, and/or by a sudden increase in inductance due to collapse of the current distribution of the plasma discharge. Applications include particle therapy and production of radio-isotopes.

Abstract: Accelerated charged particles are provided by inductive amplification of particle energy in connection with a deflagration-mode plasma discharge. The deflagration mode discharge tends to increase particle energy relative to other operating modes. Inductive amplification of particle energy further increases output particle velocity. Inductive amplification can occur by formation of a current loop in the plasma discharge, and/or by a sudden increase in inductance due to collapse of the current distribution of the plasma discharge. Applications include particle therapy and production of radio-isotopes.

Abstract: The operating characteristics of a linear geometry Hall plasma source scaled to operate in the 50 to 100 Watt power range are described. Two thruster acceleration channels are implemented-one of alumina and one of boron nitride. Differences in operation with the two channel materials are attributable to differences in the secondary electron emission properties. In either case, however, operation is achieved despite the lack of a closed electron current drift in the Hall direction, suggesting that there is an anomalous axial electron mobility, due to either plasma fluctuations or collisions with the channel wall. Strong low frequency oscillations in the discharge current, associated with the depletion of propellant within the discharge, are seen to appear and vary with changes in the applied magnetic field strength. The frequency of this oscillatory mode is higher than that seen in larger (and higher power) discharges, due to the decreased residence time of the propellant within the channel.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for the synthesis of diamond from carbon precursors in supercritical water is described. The method involves the oxidation and/or pyrolysis of gaseous, liquid or solid phase carbon precursors in supercritical water (described by a critical pressure and critical temperature of at least 218 atm and at least 374.degree. C. respectively. The oxidation and/or pyrolysis products approach equilibrium concentrations in a reactor maintained at supercritical conditions for the mixture of supercritical water (solvent) and added reactants (solute). Besides carbon containing reactant precursors, additional reactants such as oxygen or hydrogen serve to enhance the oxidation/pyrolysis process. The reaction products undergo retrograde condensation resulting from imposed temperature gradients. The condensate is solid carbon, in the chemical form of carbon that is sp.sup.3 bond coordinated and of cubic or wurzite symmetry. The condensation process is enhanced by the presence of a seed diamond crystal.

Abstract: A supersonic, direct-current arcjet is designed for expansion into low pressure, the arcjet operates as mixtures of hydrogen and argon to convert molecular hydrogen to atomic hydrogen and direct the atomic hydrogen to a substrate surface. A hydrocarbon (methane or acetylene) is introduced in the arcjet plume where it is converted to hydrocarbon precursors and is directed to the substrate surface where it combines with the atomic hydrogen to produce a diamond film.