Two runs of a diffusion of liquid metals study were conducted in the Large Isothermal Furnace Tuesday. Thomas initiated the first run Tuesday morning. Processing was ended when the science team reported unexpected readings from the sample. The cartridge was changed out for another and processing resumed. Payload Specialist Dr. Roger Crouch initiated the experiment's final run Tuesday afternoon.
Diffusion is the process by which liquid metals mix without stirring.
Headed by Dr. Tsutomu Yamamura of Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, the experiment is designed to also reveal the ideal conditions for electrolysis of molten salts. Electrolysis is the use of an electrical current to break down a dissolved substance into its constituent components. Findings may benefit basic science and engineering processes on Earth. After the final sample completed processing, Thomas deactivated the Large Isothermal Furnace early this morning. Dr. Bill Frist spoke to crew members Voss , Crouch and Mission Specialist Dr. Michael Gernhardt by telephone Tuesday.