ORNL News Releases: Recent Episodes
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DOE’s Quantum Computing User Program releases request for information to gather input on quantum computing access cramerbn@ornl.govFri, 11/15/2024 - 14:40 The Department of Energy’s Quantum Computing User Program, or QCUP, is releasing a Request for Information to gather input from all relevant parties on the current and upcoming availability of quantum computing resources, conventions for measuring, tracking, and forecasting quantum computing performance, and methods for engaging with the diversity of stakeholders in the quantum computing community. Responses received to the RFI will inform QCUP on both immediate and near-term availability of hardware, software tools and user engagement opportunities in the field of quantum computing.
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Lumsdaine, Metwally recognized with American Nuclear Society Presidential Citations coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 11/15/2024 - 09:00 The American Nuclear Society has recognized Arnold Lumsdaine and Walid Metwally, group leaders within the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate at ORNL, with ANS Presidential Citations.
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Brian Iezzi: Coding transparency into textile recycling coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 11/14/2024 - 16:08 Fibarcode, founded by Brian Iezzi, develops technology that embeds a digital barcode into fibers to improve textile recycling, and as a participant in the Innovation Crossroads program at ORNL, aims to reduce the fashion industry's environmental impact by providing transparency about garment composition and origin throughout its lifecycle.
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Tajuelo Rodriguez receives Mary Jane Oestmann award by American Nuclear Society coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 11/14/2024 - 15:04 Elena Tajuelo Rodriguez has been recognized with the Mary Jane Oestmann Professional Women’s Achievement Award for her pioneering research on irradiation effects in nuclear concrete materials to advance scientific knowledge and her dedication to mentoring and inspiring women in nuclear engineering.
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ORNL, Sierra Space create new thermal protection system for reusable space vehicles coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 11/14/2024 - 10:30 Researchers with the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Sierra Space Corporation have developed a new silicon-carbide-based thermal protection system, or TPS, for reusable commercial spacecraft.
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Teletrix expands augmented reality training platform with new commercial license coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 11/13/2024 - 17:30 Teletrix, a company specializing in radiation training tools, has transitioned from a research and development license to a commercial license for its augmented reality, or AR, platform that simulates ionizing radiation. This advanced platform was developed using technologies licensed from ORNL.
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Protein design on demand: ORNL’s Frontier trains AI to devise new foundations for life coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 11/13/2024 - 15:17 Researchers used the world’s fastest supercomputer, Frontier, to train an AI model that designs proteins, with applications in fields like vaccines, cancer treatments, and environmental bioremediation. The study earned a finalist nomination for the Gordon Bell Prize, recognizing innovation in high-performance computing for science.
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Fine-tuning forecasts: ORBIT brings long-range weather prediction within reach coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 11/13/2024 - 14:14 Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory used the Frontier supercomputer to train the world’s largest AI model for weather prediction, paving the way for hyperlocal, ultra-accurate forecasts. This achievement earned them a finalist nomination for the prestigious Gordon Bell Prize for Climate Modeling.
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Department of Energy awards $88.8M contract to build Stable Isotope Production and Research Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 11/12/2024 - 10:06 The Department of Energy has awarded an $88.8 million contract to Hensel Phelps for the construction of a facility to enrich stable isotopes at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
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Power line test bed energizes technologies for increasing grid capacity coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 11/12/2024 - 09:27 The Powerline Conductor Accelerated Testing Facility at ORNL is testing new transmission line technologies to enhance the U.S. power grid's capacity amidst rising demand and climate challenges.
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Gordon Bell Prize nomination recognizes efforts to train extreme-scale large language models using Frontier coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 11/11/2024 - 10:40 A research team led by the University of Maryland has been nominated for the Association for Computing Machinery’s Gordon Bell Prize. The team is being recognized for developing a scalable, distributed training framework called AxoNN, which leverages GPUs to rapidly train large language models.
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Innovation Crossroads company Hempitecture receives $8.4 million in DOE funding coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 11/11/2024 - 10:29 Hempitecture, a graduate of the Innovation Crossroads program, has been awarded $8.4 million by the DOE's Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains. As part of the grant, Hempitecture will establish a facility in East Tennessee.
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ORNL Director’s Awards recognize excellence in innovation, leadership coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 11/11/2024 - 09:51 UT-Battelle, which manages Oak Ridge National Laboratory for the Department of Energy, recognized outstanding individuals and teams at the annual Awards Night event held Saturday at The Venue at Lenoir City. The prestigious awards celebrate exceptional contributions in research, operations and community engagement.
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ORNL leaders take to the sky in Bosslift flight to recognize National Guard, Reserve staff coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 11/07/2024 - 12:28 Several senior staff members from ORNL experienced firsthand the rigorous training of military personnel by participating in a demonstration flight, which was designed to show employers the skills of their military staff — known as a Bosslift flight.
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Spallation Neutron Source achieves another major milestone coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 11/07/2024 - 08:15 The Proton Power Upgrade project at ORNL's Spallation Neutron Source has achieved its final key performance parameter of 1,250 hours of neutron production at 1.7 megawatts of proton beam power on a newly developed target.
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Sundararajan achieves IEEE senior member status coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 11/06/2024 - 09:26 Aditya Sundararajan of ORNL’s Grid Systems Architecture group was elevated to senior status within the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
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Seiber elevated to IEEE senior member coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 11/06/2024 - 09:20 Larry Seiber, an R&D staff member in the Vehicle Power Electronics group at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been elevated to senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
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American Physical Society recognizes ORNL’s historic Graphite Reactor shoemakerms@ornl.govMon, 11/04/2024 - 10:35 The American Physical Society has recognized the Graphite Reactor, located at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, as an APS historic site. APS President Young-Kee Kim presented a plaque commemorating the recognition on Monday, Nov. 4, the 81st anniversary of the reactor’s first achieving criticality in 1943.
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Two ORNL staff receive 2024 Great Minds in STEM Luminary award coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 11/04/2024 - 09:13 Verónica Melesse Vergara and Felipe Polo-Garzon, two staff members at ORNL have been honored with Luminary Awards from Great Minds in STEM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting STEM careers in underserved communities.
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Huan Zhao: Visualizing the quantum frontier coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 11/04/2024 - 08:56 Huan Zhao, a Eugene P. Wiger Fellow at ORNL, focuses on advancing quantum materials and information technologies, inspired by his grandfather's passion for education. His research in energy-efficient memory devices and sensitive quantum light sources reflects his commitment to scientific progress and education equity.
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McCarthy awarded ANS E. Gail de Planque Medal coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 11/01/2024 - 09:13 Kathryn McCarthy, director of the US ITER Project at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been awarded the 2024 E. Gail de Planque Medal by the American Nuclear Society.
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Designing battery success from failure coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 10/31/2024 - 10:21 Scientists at ORNL are studying the failure mechanisms of a new solid electrolyte battery to enhance long-term storage for renewable energy, aiming to make wind and solar power more reliable for the electric grid.
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Researchers use Frontier and a mixed-precision approach for GWAS to earn Gordon Bell Prize nomination coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 10/31/2024 - 09:33 A team of researchers used the Frontier supercomputer and a new methodology for conducting a genome-wide association study to earn a finalist nomination for the Association for Computing Machinery’s 2024 Gordon Bell Prize for outstanding achievement in high-performance computing.
- Read more about Researchers use Frontier and a mixed-precision approach for GWAS to earn Gordon Bell Prize nomination
Frontier users’ exascale climate emulator nominated for Gordon Bell Climate Prize coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/30/2024 - 13:46 A multi-institutional team of researchers led by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, or KAUST, Saudi Arabia, has been nominated for the Association for Computing Machinery’s 2024 Gordon Bell Prize for Climate Modelling.
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ORNL invites students to join the JUMP into STEM building science challenge coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 10/29/2024 - 10:58 Science, technology, engineering and math students from colleges across the nation who participate in the next DOE Building Technologies Office’s JUMP into STEM competition will tackle three new challenges: building affordability, peak power demand and indoor comfort in extreme climates.
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New DOE portal provides open, accountable energy information for our future data economy coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/28/2024 - 09:53 The Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity, in partnership with ORNL, has launched an experimental platform for energy sector-related data with enhanced emphasis on governance and usability.
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Up to bat: Protecting endangered bats with biomaterials coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/25/2024 - 15:53 Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers are using a new bioderived material to 3D print custom roosting structures for endangered bats.
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Interns open doors without a key coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/25/2024 - 11:46 Interns at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory investigated door access control systems to see if the controller could be manipulated to open or close without proper permissions.
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Innovation Crossroads company among two ORNL Lab MATCH Phase 2 wins coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/25/2024 - 10:45 ThermoVerse and Expanding Frontiers have made strides in energy innovation by securing wins in Phase 2 of the Department of Energy’s American-Made Lab MATCH Prize, a competition designed to accelerate commercialization of national laboratory technologies.
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Two ORNL quantum research papers selected for editor’s choice list coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/23/2024 - 13:31 Two papers led by researchers from ORNL received “Editor’s Choice” awards from the journal Future Generation Computer Systems. Both papers explored the possibilities of integrating quantum computing with high performance computing.
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Researchers use Summit to track down nuclear fission’s elusive scission neutron coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/23/2024 - 12:28 Researchers used the Summit supercomputer at ORNL to answer one of fission’s big questions: What exactly happens during the nucleus’s “neck rupture” as it splits in two? Scission neutrons have been theorized to be among those particles emitted during neck rupture, although their exact characteristics have been debated due to a lack of conclusive experimental evidence of their existence.
- Read more about Researchers use Summit to track down nuclear fission’s elusive scission neutron
Sending clear signals: Cooke bridges academia, industry in ORNL-Tennessee Tech collaboration coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/21/2024 - 10:28 ORNL researcher Corey Cooke investigates challenges in radar, digital signal processing and communications systems while serving as a joint faculty member at Tennessee Tech, teaching online courses and advising graduate students to create a pipeline for new researchers to the lab and support the growth of current staff.
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Plant CO2 uptake rises by nearly one third in new global estimates coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/18/2024 - 12:16 Plants the world over are absorbing about 31% more carbon dioxide than previously thought. The research, detailed in the journal Nature, is expected to improve Earth system simulations that scientists use to predict the future climate, and spotlights the importance of natural carbon sequestration for greenhouse gas mitigation.
- Read more about Plant CO2 uptake rises by nearly one third in new global estimates
Trillion Pixel Challenge workshop explores digital twins, foundational AI models coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 10/17/2024 - 13:06 ORNL and NASA co-hosted the fourth iteration of this invitation-only event, which brings together geospatial, computational, data and engineering experts around a theme. This year’s gathering focused on how artificial intelligence foundation models can enable geospatial digital twins.
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Frontier quantum chemistry calculations nominated to win HPC’s highest prize coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 10/17/2024 - 09:58 Researchers led by the University of Melbourne, Australia, have been nominated for the Association for Computing Machinery’s 2024 Gordon Bell Prize in supercomputing for conducting a quantum molecular dynamics simulation 1,000 times greater in size and speed than any previous simulation of its kind.
- Read more about Frontier quantum chemistry calculations nominated to win HPC’s highest prize
High Flux Isotope Reactor a fit for Nobel laureate’s designer proteins coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/16/2024 - 14:19 Biochemist David Baker — just announced as a recipient of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry — turned to the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory for information he couldn’t get anywhere else. HFIR is the strongest reactor-based neutron source in the United States.
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ORNL adds five researchers to Corporate Fellow status coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/16/2024 - 13:32 The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has named five researchers as ORNL Corporate Fellows in recognition of their significant career accomplishments and continued leadership.
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Researchers reveal quantum advantage that could advance future sensing devices coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/16/2024 - 12:17 Researchers from ORNL have taken a major step forward in using quantum mechanics to enhance sensing devices, a new advancement that could be used in a wide range of areas, including materials characterization, improved imaging and biological and medical applications.
- Read more about Researchers reveal quantum advantage that could advance future sensing devices
Running hot, flying light coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/16/2024 - 08:40 Researchers have developed and 3D printed the lightest crack-free alloy capable of operating without melting at temperatures above 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit, which could enable additively manufactured turbine blades to better handle extreme temperatures, reducing the carbon footprint of gas turbine engines such as those used in airplanes.
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Q&A with Larry York: APPL lab uses robotics, AI to advance plant science coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 10/15/2024 - 08:39 The Advanced Plant Phenotyping Laboratory at ORNL utilizes robotics, multi-modal imaging, and AI to enhance understanding of plant genetics and interactions with microbes. It aims to connect genes to traits for advancements in bioenergy, agriculture, and climate resilience. Senior scientist Larry York highlights the lab's capabilities and the insights from a new digital underground imaging system to improve biomass feedstocks for bioenergy and carbon storage.
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Traveling science fair sparks interest in STEM and aviation for local schools coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/14/2024 - 16:27 ORNL’s Traveling Science Fair celebrated its revitalized return after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, welcoming over 500 local fifth-grade students from underserved areas. The lab partnered with the general aviation airport, located just across the river from downtown Knoxville, to highlight its connection to aviation science.
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ORNL projects included in $67 million from DOE for AI in science research coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/14/2024 - 15:29 The Department of Energy announced a $67 million investment in several AI projects from institutions in both government and academia as part of its AI for Science initiative. Six ORNL-led (or co-led) projects received funding.
- Read more about ORNL projects included in $67 million from DOE for AI in science research
Standing up the nation’s supercomputing pipeline for streaming big data in real time coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/14/2024 - 10:20 To bridge the gap between experimental facilities and supercomputers, experts from SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory are teaming up with other DOE national laboratories to build a new data streaming pipeline. The pipeline will allow researchers to send their data to the nation’s leading computing centers for analysis in real time even as their experiments are taking place.
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Jordan Cannon: Engineering enzymes to enable sustainable bioplastics coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/11/2024 - 09:12 Jordan Cannon is CEO of Circular Biosciences, a Cohort 2024 Innovation Crossroads company, a startup dedicated to accelerating bioplastic degradation for more widespread use, easier disposal and reduced environmental impact.
- Read more about Jordan Cannon: Engineering enzymes to enable sustainable bioplastics
Three ORNL researchers named 2024 American Physical Society Fellows coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 10/10/2024 - 12:37 ORNL researchers Valentino Cooper, Howard Wilson and Jiaqiang Yan have been named Fellows of the American Physical Society, a distinction recognizing their outstanding contributions to their fields.
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Wind blade composite project from ORNL wins green design innovation award coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/09/2024 - 12:37 ORNL researchers were honored with a prestigious ACE Award for Composites Excellence by the American Composites Manufacturers Association. The team won the “innovation in green composites design” prize for creating a fully recyclable, lightweight wind turbine blade tip that incorporates low-cost carbon fiber and conductive coating for enhanced protection against lightning strikes.
- Read more about Wind blade composite project from ORNL wins green design innovation award
Startup Day 2024 celebrates entrepreneur ecosystem coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/09/2024 - 10:34 Entrepreneurs, city leaders and community members gathered Oct. 1 at the Mill and Mine in downtown Knoxville for Startup Day 2024, the flagship event of Innov865 Week. Innov865 highlights the efforts of the Innov865 Alliance to develop, support and promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the Knoxville region.
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New technique could unlock potential of quantum materials
A research team led by the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has devised a unique method to observe changes in materials at the atomic level.
Balaprakash discusses AI’s role in advancing climate and weather research at senate panel coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 10/08/2024 - 11:04 Prasanna Balprakash, director of AI programs for ORNL, discussed advancing climate and weather research through high performance computing and artificial intelligence as part of a September 18 panel for the United States Senate.
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ORNL research supports domestic manufacturing for industry, clean energy coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 10/08/2024 - 08:35 Researchers at ORNL are using advanced manufacturing techniques to revitalize the domestic production of very large metal parts that weigh at least 10,000 pounds each and are necessary for a variety of industries, including clean energy.
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West named SME 30 Under 30 honoree for 2024 coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/07/2024 - 12:59 Justin West, an advanced machining and machine tool researcher at ORNL, has been selected as a recipient of the 2024 30 Under 30 award by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers.
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Computing experts converge on East Tennessee to talk computing, AI at SMC24 coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 10/07/2024 - 08:30 The Smoky Mountain Computational Sciences and Engineering Conference, or SMC24, entered its third decade with the 21st annual gathering in East Tennessee.
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Nanoscale method boosts materials for advanced memory storage
A research team led by scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a novel technique for creating precise atomic arrangements in ferroelectrics, establishing a robust framework for advancing powerful new
‘Neutron Nexus’ brings universities, ORNL together to advance science coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 10/04/2024 - 09:08 Oak Ridge National Laboratory has launched its Neutron Nexus pilot program with Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and Florida State University through the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. The first program of its kind nationwide, it’s aimed at broadening and diversifying the scientific user community with outreach to universities and colleges.
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International clean energy initiative launches global biomass resource assessment coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 10/02/2024 - 15:23 A new Global Biomass Resource Assessment developed by ORNL scientists gathered data from 55 countries resulting in a first-of-its kind compilation of current and future sustainable biomass supply estimates around the world.
- Read more about International clean energy initiative launches global biomass resource assessment
Early Career Achievements: Q&A With Karly Harrod coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 09/30/2024 - 09:07 Karly Harrod, recipient of the Early Career Competition Laboratory Directed Research and Development award at ORNL, is focused on extracting disease data from reports. Passionate about global health, she looks forward to applying her expertise to climate data within the geospatial science and human security division.
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Simultaneous detection of uranium isotopes, fluorine advances nuclear nonproliferation monitoring coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/26/2024 - 08:26 Combining two techniques, analytical chemists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory became the first to detect fluorine and different isotopes of uranium in a single particle at the same time.
- Read more about Simultaneous detection of uranium isotopes, fluorine advances nuclear nonproliferation monitoring
‘Writing’ with atoms could transform materials fabrication for quantum devices cramerbn@ornl.govTue, 09/24/2024 - 11:57 A new technology to continuously place individual atoms exactly where they are needed could lead to new materials for devices that address critical needs for the field of quantum computing and communication that cannot be produced by conventional means.
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Case closed: Neutrons settle 40-year debate on enzyme for drug design cramerbn@ornl.govTue, 09/24/2024 - 09:25 Scientists at ORNL used neutrons to end a decades-long debate about an enzyme cancer uses.
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Researchers build AI model database to find new alloys for nuclear fusion facilities shoemakerms@ornl.govWed, 09/18/2024 - 22:38 A study led by the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory details how artificial intelligence researchers created an AI model to help identify new alloys used as shielding for housing fusion applications components in a nuclear reactor. The findings mark a major step towards improving nuclear fusion facilities.
- Read more about Researchers build AI model database to find new alloys for nuclear fusion facilities
U2opia signs license to commercialize anomaly-detection technology for cybersecurity shoemakerms@ornl.govWed, 09/18/2024 - 13:04 U2opia Technology has licensed Situ and Heartbeat, a package of technologies from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory that offer a new method for advanced cybersecurity monitoring in real time.
- Read more about U2opia signs license to commercialize anomaly-detection technology for cybersecurity
ORNL kicks off technical collaboration program for electric grid research shoemakerms@ornl.govWed, 09/18/2024 - 09:00 A new technical collaboration program at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory will help businesses develop and launch electric grid innovations. Sponsored by the Transformer Resilience and Advanced Components program in DOE’s Office of Electricity, the initiative will provide companies with access to national laboratory resources, enabling them to capture market opportunities.
- Read more about ORNL kicks off technical collaboration program for electric grid research
Users of Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility gather for 20th annual meeting shoemakerms@ornl.govWed, 09/18/2024 - 08:20 The Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility welcomed users to an interactive meeting at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory from Sept. 10–11 for an opportunity to share achievements from the OLCF’s user programs and highlight requirements for the future.
- Read more about Users of Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility gather for 20th annual meeting
Neutron scientists wake a sleeping giant after nine-month nap and makeover shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 09/17/2024 - 15:40 ORNL's Spallation Neutron Source, the nation’s leading source of pulsed neutron beams for research, was recently restarted after nine months of upgrade work.
- Read more about Neutron scientists wake a sleeping giant after nine-month nap and makeover
Retiring — and shredding — the Alpine storage system cramerbn@ornl.govTue, 09/17/2024 - 15:12 The Summit supercomputer, once the world’s most powerful, is set to be decommissioned by the end of 2024 to make way for the next-generation supercomputer. Over the summer, crews began dismantling Summit’s Alpine storage system, shredding over 40,000 hard drives with the help of ShredPro Secure, a local East Tennessee business. This partnership not only reduced costs and sped up the process but also established a more efficient and secure method for decommissioning large-scale computing systems in the future.
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Students break into, learn about cybersecurity in smart devices shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 09/17/2024 - 10:29 Summer interns at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory recently dove into various smart devices to better understand cybersecurity vulnerabilities posed by technology meant to simplify a user’s life.
- Read more about Students break into, learn about cybersecurity in smart devices
Materials scientist Egami describes new world order for glasses, liquids shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 09/17/2024 - 10:13 Distinguished materials scientist Takeshi Egami has spent his career revealing the complex atomic structure of metallic glass and other liquids — sometimes sharing theories with initially resistant minds in the scientific community.
- Read more about Materials scientist Egami describes new world order for glasses, liquids
Daryl Yang: Remoting in to take the measure of at-risk ecosystems cramerbn@ornl.govMon, 09/16/2024 - 15:47 Daryl Yang is coupling his science and engineering expertise to devise new ways to measure significant changes going on in the Arctic, a region that’s warming nearly four times faster than other parts of the planet. The remote sensing technologies and modeling tools he develops and leverages for the Next-Generation Ecosystem Experiments in the Arctic project, or NGEE Arctic, help improve models of the ecosystem to better inform decision-making as the landscape changes.
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Next-gen of leaders gather at ORNL for IAEA Nuclear Energy Management School pearcejw@ornl.govMon, 09/16/2024 - 12:08 Three flights, five thousand miles and half a dozen clearances and permissions stood between Tetiana Maltseva and the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. When she finally arrived at the lab to represent Ukraine at the 2024 Nuclear Energy Management School, her vision was clear.
- Read more about Next-gen of leaders gather at ORNL for IAEA Nuclear Energy Management School
Nawaz named ASME Fellow cramerbn@ornl.govMon, 09/16/2024 - 11:25 Kashif Nawaz, distinguished researcher and section head for Building Technologies Research at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or ASME.
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Wang, Cook and Uddin elevated to IEEE senior members cramerbn@ornl.govMon, 09/16/2024 - 10:38 Three transportation researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have been elevated to senior member grade of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, or IEEE.
- Read more about Wang, Cook and Uddin elevated to IEEE senior members
Kowalski, Salonvaara receive ASHRAE Distinguished Service Awards cramerbn@ornl.govMon, 09/16/2024 - 10:26 Stephen Kowalski and Mikael Salonvaara received the Distinguished Service Award, which salutes members who have served the society with distinction in chapter, regional and society activities.
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AI enhances plasma plume analysis coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/12/2024 - 15:12 In a game-changing study, ORNL scientists developed a deep learning model — a type of artificial intelligence that mimics human brain function — to analyze high-speed videos of plasma plumes during a process called pulsed laser deposition.
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ORNL debuts convergent manufacturing platform at IMTS 2024 coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/11/2024 - 12:08 A new convergent manufacturing platform, developed in only five months at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is debuting at the International Manufacturing Technology Show, or IMTS, in Chicago, Sept. 9–12, 2024.
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Katy Bradford: Cassette approach offers compelling construction solution coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/11/2024 - 11:58 Katy Bradford is on a mission to revolutionize the construction industry and is the founder of Cassette Construction, a company in the newest cohort of Innovation Crossroads, a DOE Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program node at ORNL. As an Innovation Crossroads fellow, Bradford and her company will receive technical, financial and networking support to successfully advance the company’s products to the marketplace.
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Scott Abston: Supporting isotope production by building operations knowledge coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/11/2024 - 01:00 After retiring from Y-12, Scott Abston joined the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate to support isotope production and work with his former manager. He now leads a team maintaining critical equipment for medical and space applications. Abston finds fulfillment in mentoring his team and is pleased with his decision to continue working.
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Laser-focused on rainforest carbon loss coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/11/2024 - 00:39 Scientists using high-resolution aerial scans and computational modeling concluded that wildfires, storms and selective logging have become key drivers behind rainforest carbon emissions, outpacing clear-cutting practices.
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Loyd earns DOE Early Career Research award for neutron detector proposal shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 15:37 ORNL’s Matthew Loyd will receive a Department of Energy Office of Science Early Career Research award.
- Read more about Loyd earns DOE Early Career Research award for neutron detector proposal
EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk hosts ORNL’s first run on commercial quantum network shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 15:20 For the first time, ORNL will run equipment developed at its research facilities on a commercially available quantum network at EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk to help validate the technology's commercial viability.
- Read more about EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk hosts ORNL’s first run on commercial quantum network
Computer engineers at ORNL pioneer approaches to energy efficient supercomputing coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 12:57 As high-tech companies ramp up construction of massive data centers to meet the business boom in artificial intelligence, one component is becoming an increasingly rare commodity: electricity. Since its formation in 2004, the OLCF has fielded five generations of world-class supercomputing systems that have produced a nearly 2,000 times reduction in energy usage per floating point operation per second, or flops. With decades of experience in making HPC more energy efficient, the OLCF may serve as a resource for best “bang for the buck” practices in a suddenly burgeoning industry.
- Read more about Computer engineers at ORNL pioneer approaches to energy efficient supercomputing
One billion opportunities to protect nuclear material coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 12:40 On Feb. 15, 2024, the one billionth item, also known as an “occupancy,” was scanned at the Port of Aqaba, Jordan, one of the early sites where radiation detection equipment was installed. This milestone shows the extent of countries committed to preventing the spread of radioactive material through the amount of data volunteered to ORNL for continuous improvement. As adversaries push the limits of smuggling dangerous material, this collaboration pushes back through science-backed analysis.
- Read more about One billion opportunities to protect nuclear material
Brick by brick, SNS LEGO program aims to introduce STEM, build foundation for future ORNL workforce coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 12:11 The "SNS LEGO Model Middle School Outreach Program" invites middle school students to build a LEGO model of the SNS, a major scientific accelerator. This engaging initiative aims to teach students about STEM careers and the inner workings of the SNS through hands-on construction and interactive lessons. Launching next spring, the program seeks to inspire interest in science and engineering among young learners.
- Read more about Brick by brick, SNS LEGO program aims to introduce STEM, build foundation for future ORNL workforce
Driving smart infrastructure coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/10/2024 - 11:44 ORNL has partnered with Western Michigan University to advance intelligent road infrastructure through the development of new chip-enabled raised pavement markers. These innovative markers transmit lane-keeping information to passing vehicles, enhancing safety and enabling smarter driving in all weather conditions.
- Read more about Driving smart infrastructure
Chemical chameleon reveals novel pathway for separating rare-earth metals coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 09/09/2024 - 08:52 Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have found a chemical “chameleon” that could improve the process used to purify rare-earth metals used in clean energy, medical and national security applications.
- Read more about Chemical chameleon reveals novel pathway for separating rare-earth metals
Studying fungi’s ‘weak link’ to fight global rise in deadly fungal infections coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 09/06/2024 - 14:27 A group of scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have conducted neutron scattering research to reveal key information about fungus cell membranes that could aid in developing new antifungal treatments.
- Read more about Studying fungi’s ‘weak link’ to fight global rise in deadly fungal infections
DOE, ORNL announce opportunity to define future of High-Performance Computing coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 09/06/2024 - 10:35 Office of Science to announce a new research and development opportunity led by ORNL to advance technologies and drive new capabilities for future supercomputers. This industry research program worth $23 million, called New Frontiers, will initiate partnerships with multiple companies to accelerate the R&D of critical technologies with renewed emphasis on energy efficiency for the next generation of post-exascale computing in the 2029 and beyond time frame.
- Read more about DOE, ORNL announce opportunity to define future of High-Performance Computing
Molecular simulations, supercomputing lead to energy-saving biomaterials breakthrough coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/05/2024 - 16:27 A team led by scientists at ORNL identified and demonstrated a method to process a plant-based material called nanocellulose that reduced energy needs by a whopping 21%, using simulations on the lab’s supercomputers and follow-on analysis.
- Read more about Molecular simulations, supercomputing lead to energy-saving biomaterials breakthrough
ORNL leads five public-private INFUSE projects to advance fusion technologies coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/05/2024 - 15:16 ORNL is the lead partner on five research collaborations with private fusion companies in the 2024 cohort of the Innovation Network for FUSion Energy, or INFUSE, program. These collaborative projects are intended to resolve technical hurdles and develop enabling technologies to accelerate fusion energy research in the private sector.
- Read more about ORNL leads five public-private INFUSE projects to advance fusion technologies
Bryan Maldonado: Fast-tracking energy efficiency improvements for building envelopes coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/05/2024 - 10:51 As a mechanical engineer in building envelope materials research at ORNL, Bryan Maldonado sees opportunities to apply his scientific expertise virtually everywhere he goes, from coast to coast. As an expert in understanding how complex systems operate, he’s using machine learning methods to control the process and ultimately optimize performance.
- Read more about Bryan Maldonado: Fast-tracking energy efficiency improvements for building envelopes
Novel ORNL-led manufacturing effort focuses on large parts for clean energy in hydropower coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 09/05/2024 - 09:25 ORNL is working with industry partners to develop a technique that combines 3D printing and conventional machining to produce large metal parts for clean energy applications. The project, known as Rapid Research on Universal Near Net Shape Fabrication Strategies for Expedited Runner Systems, or Rapid RUNNERS, recently received $15 million in funding from DOE.
- Read more about Novel ORNL-led manufacturing effort focuses on large parts for clean energy in hydropower
ORNL researcher Ghosh awarded by American Ceramics Society coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/04/2024 - 12:01 A research scientist with the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Ayana Ghosh was named the 2024 Early Discovery Award winner by the American Ceramic Society. The award recognizes an early career member of the organization who has contributed to basic science in the field of glass and ceramics.
- Read more about ORNL researcher Ghosh awarded by American Ceramics Society
Coatings manufacturer and ORNL partner Flexcon licenses self-healing film technology coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 09/04/2024 - 09:01 Flexcon Global has exclusively licensed two patented inventions to manufacture a self-healing barrier film from ORNL for research and development purposes. The film can be incorporated into vacuum insulation panels to increase the efficiency of buildings during retrofits. Under a cooperative research and development agreement that began in 2021, Flexcon and ORNL have been exploring the capabilities of the technology and fine-tuning its properties.
- Read more about Coatings manufacturer and ORNL partner Flexcon licenses self-healing film technology
Frontier simulations provide new insights into calcium-48’s controversial nuclear magnetic excitation coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/03/2024 - 10:47 Nuclear physicists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory recently used Frontier, the world’s most powerful supercomputer, to calculate the magnetic properties of calcium-48’s atomic nucleus.
- Read more about Frontier simulations provide new insights into calcium-48’s controversial nuclear magnetic excitation
Assorted, distinctive behavior of molten uranium salt revealed by neutrons coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 09/03/2024 - 08:47 Researchers for the first time documented the specific chemistry dynamics and structure of high-temperature liquid uranium trichloride salt, a potential nuclear fuel source for next-generation reactors.
- Read more about Assorted, distinctive behavior of molten uranium salt revealed by neutrons
High school student looks to biology to explore new cybersecurity pathways at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/30/2024 - 15:03 Elton Aba an intern at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, collaborated with researchers to explore an intriguing intersection: how biology can inform cybersecurity. Aba shared some of his findings on how biomimicry could help secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.
- Read more about High school student looks to biology to explore new cybersecurity pathways at ORNL
Automating construction coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/30/2024 - 09:35 A digital construction platform in development at Oak Ridge National Laboratory is boosting the retrofitting of building envelopes and giving builders the tools to automate the process from design to installation with the assistance of a cable-driven robotic crane.
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ORNL's New named Researcher of the Year by R&D World coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/29/2024 - 16:21 ORNL’s Joshua New was named the 2024 Researcher of the Year by R&D World magazine as part of its R&D 100 Professional Award winners.
- Read more about ORNL's New named Researcher of the Year by R&D World
Zineddin receives distinguished award for career in nuclear security coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/29/2024 - 10:28 Mohamad Zineddin, a distinguished researcher in nuclear and radiological engineering, recently received the Roger Howsley Award for Excellence in Nuclear Security.
- Read more about Zineddin receives distinguished award for career in nuclear security
VENUS rising: A new dawn for AI-powered atomic-scale 3D imaging coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/29/2024 - 10:17 DOE commissioned a neutron imaging instrument, VENUS, at the Spallation Neutron Source in July. VENUS instrument scientists will use AI to deliver 3D models to researchers in half the time it typically takes.
- Read more about VENUS rising: A new dawn for AI-powered atomic-scale 3D imaging
Study seeks to unite high-performance computing, quantum computing for science coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 08/28/2024 - 10:37 A study by more than a dozen scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory examines potential strategies to integrate quantum computing with the world’s most powerful supercomputing systems in the pursuit of science.
- Read more about Study seeks to unite high-performance computing, quantum computing for science
Marine engineering group to award ORNL researchers for innovative welding software coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 08/28/2024 - 08:35 ORNL researchers Zhili Feng and Jian Chen in the Materials Science and Technology Division at the ORNL, will receive the Elmer L. Hann Award at the Society of Naval Architects and Maritime Engineers Convention. This award honors their innovative work on a user-friendly software tool that can quickly analyze and determine the best order for performing welds on ship structures.
- Read more about Marine engineering group to award ORNL researchers for innovative welding software
Researchers demystify polymer binders to pave way for better sulfide solid-state electrolyte membranes coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/27/2024 - 12:43 To speed the arrival of the next-generation solid-state batteries that will power electric vehicles and other technologies, scientists led by ORNL advanced the development of flexible, durable sheets of electrolytes. They used a polymer to create a strong yet springy thin film that binds electrolytic particles and at least doubles energy storage.
- Read more about Researchers demystify polymer binders to pave way for better sulfide solid-state electrolyte membranes
'Waffle homes' fill in residential data gaps coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/27/2024 - 08:46 Researchers at ORNL are using satellite images of homes under construction to address gaps in census data, especially in areas like Sub-Saharan Africa. By analyzing these images, they estimate dwelling sizes and population densities where traditional data is sparse. This method improves population estimates and supports national security by enhancing emergency response capabilities.
- Read more about 'Waffle homes' fill in residential data gaps
Protecting electric grid health with drone-based power line inspection coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 08/26/2024 - 16:06 Researchers at ORNL recently demonstrated an automated drone-inspection technology at EPB of Chattanooga that will allow utilities to more quickly and easily check remote power lines for malfunctions, catching problems before outages occur.
- Read more about Protecting electric grid health with drone-based power line inspection
Neutron scientist Manjón Sanz selected for Young Leaders Program in Kyoto, Japan coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/23/2024 - 12:35 Alicia Manjón Sanz, a neutron scattering scientist, has been selected to represent ORNL at the 21st Annual Meeting of Science and Technology in Society forum later this year in Kyoto.
- Read more about Neutron scientist Manjón Sanz selected for Young Leaders Program in Kyoto, Japan
Quantum computing experts gather for fifth annual user forum at Oak Ridge National Laboratory coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/22/2024 - 12:48 The Quantum Computing User Forum welcomed attendees for a dynamic event at ORNL. The annual user meeting brought the cohort together to highlight results and discuss common practices in the development of applications and software for quantum computing systems.
- Read more about Quantum computing experts gather for fifth annual user forum at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Jeremiah Sewell: ‘Doors’ led to fulfilling career in centrifuge, operations coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 08/21/2024 - 13:08 Jeremiah Sewell leads a team at ORNL, working on xenon-129 production for lung imaging. Reflecting on his career, Sewell views each opportunity as a "door" he steps through, leveraging over 25 years of experience in nuclear power and centrifuge operations to advance the facility’s mission.
- Read more about Jeremiah Sewell: ‘Doors’ led to fulfilling career in centrifuge, operations
Debjani Singh: Channeling a river of data for clean energy, sustainability coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/20/2024 - 14:17 Debjani Singh, a senior scientist at ORNL, leads the HydroSource project, which enhances hydropower research by making water data more accessible and useful. With a background in water resources, data science, and earth science, Singh applies innovative tools like AI to advance research. Her career, shaped by her early exposure to science in India, focuses on bridging research with practical applications.
- Read more about Debjani Singh: Channeling a river of data for clean energy, sustainability
UTC, ORNL to collaborate in quantum information science and engineering coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/13/2024 - 13:47 The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) are entering into a memorandum of understanding with the intent to collaborate in efforts to research, develop, deploy and evaluate technology and analytically based solutions to challenges in the area of quantum information science and engineering, including networking, sensing, and computing.
- Read more about UTC, ORNL to collaborate in quantum information science and engineering
Hurricane season: Has anyone checked on the beach? coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/13/2024 - 12:22 A study found that beaches with manmade fortifications recover more slowly from hurricanes than natural beaches, losing more sand and vegetation. The researchers used satellite images and light detection and ranging data, or LIDAR, to measure elevation changes and vegetation coverage. Changes in elevation showed how much sand was depleted during the storm and how much sand returned throughout the following year.
- Read more about Hurricane season: Has anyone checked on the beach?
Tuskan named DOE Office of Science Distinguished Scientist Fellow coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 08/12/2024 - 13:03 Gerald A. Tuskan, a Corporate Fellow and director of the Center for Bioenergy Innovation at ORNL, has been selected as a DOE Distinguished Scientist Fellow, one of the highest honors bestowed by the agency’s Office of Science for outstanding scientific leadership and research community engagement.
- Read more about Tuskan named DOE Office of Science Distinguished Scientist Fellow
Neutrons reveal the existence of local symmetry breaking in a Weyl semimetal coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 08/12/2024 - 11:15 At ORNL, a group of scientists used neutron scattering techniques to investigate a relatively new functional material called a Weyl semimetal. These Weyl fermions move very quickly in a material and can carry electrical charge at room temperature. Scientists think that Weyl semimetals, if used in future electronics, could allow electricity to flow more efficiently and enable more energy-efficient computers and other electronic devices.
- Read more about Neutrons reveal the existence of local symmetry breaking in a Weyl semimetal
Students get hands-on learning at national labs through DOE’s 26th National School on Neutron and X-ray Scattering coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/09/2024 - 14:41 The 26th annual National School on Neutron and X-ray Scattering School concluded on August 9, 2024. Each year, more than 200 graduate students in North America studying physics, chemistry, engineering, biological matter and more compete to participate in NXS. However, given limited space, only 60 can be accepted. The school exposes graduate students to neutron and X-ray scattering techniques through lectures, experiments, and tutorials.
- Read more about Students get hands-on learning at national labs through DOE’s 26th National School on Neutron and X-ray Scattering
Manard chosen for Society of Applied Spectroscopy’s Lester W. Strock Award coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/09/2024 - 14:06 Benjamin Manard, an analytical chemist in the Chemical Sciences Division of the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will receive the 2024 Lester W. Strock Award from the Society of Applied Spectroscopy.
- Read more about Manard chosen for Society of Applied Spectroscopy’s Lester W. Strock Award
Small chemical change may reap big climate reward coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/09/2024 - 13:31 Researchers at ORNL have demonstrated that small molecular tweaks to surfaces can improve absorption technology for direct air capture of carbon dioxide. The team added a charged polymer layer to an amino acid solution, and then, through spectroscopy and simulation, found that the charged layer can hold amino acids at its surface.
- Read more about Small chemical change may reap big climate reward
ORNL wins 14 R&D 100 research awards coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 08/09/2024 - 08:33 In an impressive showcase of cutting-edge innovation and scientific prowess, ORNL has been recognized as a beacon of technological excellence, receiving 14 R&D 100 Awards, announced this week by R&D World magazine.
- Read more about ORNL wins 14 R&D 100 research awards
Army cadets learn about legacy of nuclear science at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 08/06/2024 - 12:38 Ten future U.S. Army officers recently visited ORNL to learn about the legacy of nuclear science. As students of the Nuclear Science and Engineering Research Center, or NSERC, with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, or DTRA, they stopped in East Tennessee as part of a larger tour across nuclear facilities supporting the military. In Oak Ridge, they visited ORNL to gain an appreciation of the history of the Manhattan Project and how research at a national lab contributes new materials and electronics for the nuclear industry.
- Read more about Army cadets learn about legacy of nuclear science at ORNL
Balaprakash chosen for Tennessee’s new AI advisory council coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/01/2024 - 11:14 Prasanna Balaprakash, director of AI programs at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been appointed to Tennessee’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council.
- Read more about Balaprakash chosen for Tennessee’s new AI advisory council
Innovation Crossroads welcomes seven entrepreneurs for Cohort 2024 coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 08/01/2024 - 10:43 Seven entrepreneurs comprise the next cohort of Innovation Crossroads, a DOE Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program node based at ORNL. The program provides energy-related startup founders from across the nation with access to ORNL’s unique scientific resources and capabilities, as well as connect them with experts, mentors and networks to accelerate their efforts to take their world-changing ideas to the marketplace.
- Read more about Innovation Crossroads welcomes seven entrepreneurs for Cohort 2024
Nuclear physicists question origin of radioactive beryllium in the solar system coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/30/2024 - 15:28 Scientists have determined that a rare element found in some of the oldest solids in the solar system, such as meteorites, and previously thought to have been forged in supernova explosions, actually predate such cosmic events, challenging long-held theories about its origin.
- Read more about Nuclear physicists question origin of radioactive beryllium in the solar system
Five ORNL researchers complete pilot commercialization coaching program coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/30/2024 - 14:11 Five researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory recently completed an eight-week pilot commercialization coaching program as part of Safari, a program funded by DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions, or OTT, Practices to Accelerate the Commercialization of Technologies, or PACT.
- Read more about Five ORNL researchers complete pilot commercialization coaching program
New method detects environmentally unfriendly chemicals coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/30/2024 - 08:20 A research team led by the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory demonstrated an effective and reliable new way to identify and quantify polyethylene glycols in various samples.
- Read more about New method detects environmentally unfriendly chemicals
Standing in front of limitless possibilities: A leadership Q&A with Paula Cable-Dunlap coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 07/29/2024 - 12:30 In a Q&A, Paula Cable-Dunlap, a leading nuclear nonproliferation expert, discussed being named as an ORNL Corporate Fellow and the impact it will have over her position. With over 30 years of experience, including 18 at Savannah River National Laboratory, she is recognized for her significant contributions and dedication to mentoring.
- Read more about Standing in front of limitless possibilities: A leadership Q&A with Paula Cable-Dunlap
Early career awards recognize ORNL researchers in 3D printing coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 07/26/2024 - 11:46 Two additive manufacturing researchers from ORNL received prestigious awards from national organizations. Amy Elliott and Nadim Hmeidat, who both work in the Manufacturing Science Division, were recognized recently for their early career accomplishments.
- Read more about Early career awards recognize ORNL researchers in 3D printing
Frontier simulations could help build a better diamond coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/25/2024 - 16:15 The world’s fastest supercomputer helped researchers simulate synthesizing a material harder and tougher than a diamond — or any other substance on Earth. The study used Frontier to predict the likeliest strategy to synthesize such a material, thought to exist so far only within the interiors of giant exoplanets, or planets beyond our solar system.
- Read more about Frontier simulations could help build a better diamond
‘Heroes’ honored for groundbreaking science in SRS tank waste cleanup coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/24/2024 - 12:24 A team of federal contractor and national laboratory engineers and scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management has been nationally distinguished as “Heroes of Chemistry” for making the world better through their effort, ingenuity, creativity and perseverance.
- Read more about ‘Heroes’ honored for groundbreaking science in SRS tank waste cleanup
Energy I-Corps steeps scientists in the world of business, commercialization coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/24/2024 - 10:47 Two ORNL teams recently completed Cohort 18 of Energy I-Corps, an immersive two-month training program where the scientists define their technology’s value propositions, conduct stakeholder discovery interviews and develop viable market pathways.
- Read more about Energy I-Corps steeps scientists in the world of business, commercialization
How travel among synthetic populations reveals gaps in essential services coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/23/2024 - 12:53 Joe Tuccillo, a human geography research scientist, leads the UrbanPop project that uses census data to create synthetic populations. Using a Python software suite called Likeness on ORNL’s high-performance computers, Tuccillo’s team generates a population with individual ‘agents’ designed to represent people that interact with other agents, facilities and services in a simulated neighborhood.
- Read more about How travel among synthetic populations reveals gaps in essential services
ORNL partners with Jackson State, Tennessee Tech to enhance nuclear research, education pearcejw@ornl.govMon, 07/22/2024 - 16:03 The National Security Sciences Directorate within the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has signed a memoranda of understanding with Jackson State University and with Tennessee Tech University. The MOUs detail ORNL’s intention to work with each university to enhance research and educational opportunities in nuclear science and engineering.
- Read more about ORNL partners with Jackson State, Tennessee Tech to enhance nuclear research, education
New software provides advanced grid simulation capabilities pearcejw@ornl.govMon, 07/22/2024 - 09:42 Power companies and electric grid developers turn to simulation tools as they attempt to understand how modern equipment will be affected by rapidly unfolding events in a complex grid.
- Read more about New software provides advanced grid simulation capabilities
DOE opens bids to construct ORNL’s next-generation supercomputer shoemakerms@ornl.govFri, 07/19/2024 - 15:52 The contract will be awarded to develop the newest high-performance computing system at the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility.
- Read more about DOE opens bids to construct ORNL’s next-generation supercomputer
First-generation graduate Brittany Rodriguez advances manufacturing science at ORNL shoemakerms@ornl.govFri, 07/19/2024 - 09:27 Brittany Rodriguez never imagined she would pursue a science career at a Department of Energy national laboratory. However, after some encouraging words from her mother, input from key mentors at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, or UTRGV, and a lot of hard work, Rodriguez landed at DOE’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility, or MDF, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
- Read more about First-generation graduate Brittany Rodriguez advances manufacturing science at ORNL
Artificial intelligence tools secure tomorrow’s electric grid coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/18/2024 - 15:57 Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and partner institutions have launched a project to develop an innovative suite of tools that will employ machine learning algorithms for more effective cybersecurity analysis of the U.S. power grid.
- Read more about Artificial intelligence tools secure tomorrow’s electric grid
Brian Sanders: Chemical solutions for environmental, human health coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/18/2024 - 15:34 Brian Sanders is focused on impactful, multidisciplinary science at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, developing solutions for everything from improved imaging of plant-microbe interactions that influence ecosystem health to advancing new treatments for cancer and viral infections.
- Read more about Brian Sanders: Chemical solutions for environmental, human health
ORNL economist honored at international hydropower conference coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/18/2024 - 10:24 Researcher Rocio Uria-Martinez was named one of four “Women with Hydro Vision” at this year’s HYDROVISION International 2024 conference taking place in Denver this week. Awarded by a committee of industry peers, the honor recognizes women who use their unique talents and vision to improve and advance the worldwide hydropower industry.
- Read more about ORNL economist honored at international hydropower conference
ORNL hosts conference on photogrammetry and remote sensing coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/18/2024 - 10:07 ORNL hosted the Mid-South Regional Chapter of the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, or ASPRS. Participants spanning government, academia and industry engaged in talks, poster sessions, events and workshops to further scientific discovery in a field devoted to using pictures to understand changes to the earth’s inhabitants and landscape.
- Read more about ORNL hosts conference on photogrammetry and remote sensing
Free 3D-printing datasets enable analysis, confidence in printed parts coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/18/2024 - 09:18 The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has publicly released a new set of additive manufacturing data that industry and researchers can use to evaluate and improve the quality of 3D-printed components. The breadth of the datasets can significantly boost efforts to verify the quality of additively manufactured parts using only information gathered during printing, without requiring expensive and time-consuming post-production analysis.
- Read more about Free 3D-printing datasets enable analysis, confidence in printed parts
Game-changing quantum chemistry calculations push new boundaries of exascale Frontier coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/17/2024 - 10:30 Researchers conduct largest, most accurate molecular dynamics simulations to date of two million correlated electrons using Frontier, the world’s fastest supercomputer. The simulation, which exceed an exaflop using full double precision, is 1,000 times greater in size and speed than any quantum chemistry simulation of it's kind.
- Read more about Game-changing quantum chemistry calculations push new boundaries of exascale Frontier
Scientists add the human element to long-term flood predictions coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/17/2024 - 09:29 To better predict long-term flooding risk, scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a 3D modeling framework that captures the complex dynamics of water as it flows across the landscape. The framework seeks to provide valuable insights into which communities are most vulnerable as the climate changes, and was developed for a project that’s assessing climate risk and mitigation pathways for an urban area along the Southeast Texas coast.
- Read more about Scientists add the human element to long-term flood predictions
Steering math students toward cybersecurity careers coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/16/2024 - 11:24 A newly established internship between ORNL and Maryville College is bringing cybersecurity careers to a local liberal arts college. The internship was established by a Maryville College alumni who recently joined ORNL.
- Read more about Steering math students toward cybersecurity careers
Along shifting coastlines, scientists bring the future into focus coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/11/2024 - 15:27 In the wet, muddy places where America’s rivers and lands meet the sea, scientists from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are unearthing clues to better understand how these vital landscapes are evolving under climate change.
- Read more about Along shifting coastlines, scientists bring the future into focus
Carter to lead Fusion Energy Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory shoemakerms@ornl.govThu, 07/11/2024 - 10:30 Oak Ridge National Laboratory has named Troy A. Carter director of the Fusion Energy Division in ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate, or FFESD.
- Read more about Carter to lead Fusion Energy Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
‘Check out’ that power coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/11/2024 - 08:56 Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have opened a new virtual library where visitors can check out waveforms instead of books. So far, more than 350 users worldwide have utilized the library, which provides vital understanding of an increasingly complex grid.
- Read more about ‘Check out’ that power
Wang named recipient of the 2024 American Welding Society Professor Koichi Masubuchi Award coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 07/11/2024 - 08:39 Yiyu (Jason) Wang, an R&D associate staff member in the Materials Science Division at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will receive the Professor Koichi Masubuchi Award from the American Welding Society, or AWS.
- Read more about Wang named recipient of the 2024 American Welding Society Professor Koichi Masubuchi Award
ORNL’s SCALE team hosts 8th Annual Users Group Workshop, launches learning library coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/10/2024 - 11:21 SCALE users from 85 organizations across 21 countries gathered online and in person at Oak Ridge National Laboratory from June 5 to June 7 for the Eighth Annual SCALE Users Group Workshop. The meeting included 32 presentations and 14 hands-on tutorials on impactful and innovative applications of SCALE.
- Read more about ORNL’s SCALE team hosts 8th Annual Users Group Workshop, launches learning library
Daniel Adams: Piecing the story together through data science coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/09/2024 - 13:25 As a data scientist, Daniel Adams uses storytelling to parse through a large amount of information to determine which elements are most important, paring down the data to result in the most efficient and accurate data set possible.
- Read more about Daniel Adams: Piecing the story together through data science
Engineering eco-friendly solvents coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/09/2024 - 12:07 Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists have developed a method leveraging artificial intelligence to accelerate the identification of environmentally friendly solvents for industrial carbon capture, biomass processing, rechargeable batteries and other applications.
- Read more about Engineering eco-friendly solvents
Banana fiber provides ’a-peeling’ fodder for undergraduate research coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/09/2024 - 11:48 Participants in the SM2ART Research Experience for Undergraduates program got the chance to see what life is like in a research setting. REU participant Brianna Greer studied banana fibers as a reinforcing material in making lightweight parts for cars and bicycles.
- Read more about Banana fiber provides ’a-peeling’ fodder for undergraduate research
ARPA-E IGNIITE award launches new initiatives of ORNL researchers Yang and Westover coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 07/09/2024 - 09:31 ORNL's Guang Yang and Andrew Westover have been selected to join the first cohort of DOE’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy Inspiring Generations of New Innovators to Impact Technologies in Energy 2024 program. The program supports early career scientists and engineers in their work to convert disruptive ideas into impactful energy technologies.
- Read more about ARPA-E IGNIITE award launches new initiatives of ORNL researchers Yang and Westover
ORNL, Japan plan for collaboration to boost advanced materials research and manufacturing coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 07/03/2024 - 08:47 Advanced materials research to enable energy-efficient, cost-competitive and environmentally friendly technologies for the United States and Japan is the goal of a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, between the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Japan’s National Institute of Materials Science.
- Read more about ORNL, Japan plan for collaboration to boost advanced materials research and manufacturing
Early career nonproliferation researcher is retracing reactor steps coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 07/01/2024 - 11:55 Andrew Conant from ORNL's nuclear nonproliferation division is collaborating with national laboratories to analyze isotopes generated in nuclear reactors. This research aims to glean insights into the operations and objectives of these reactors. ORNL, renowned for its leadership in nuclear research, maintains its legacy by promoting the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy worldwide.
- Read more about Early career nonproliferation researcher is retracing reactor steps
Scientists probe chilling behavior of promising solid-state cooling material coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 07/01/2024 - 08:15 A research team led by ORNL has bridged a knowledge gap in atomic-scale heat motion. This new understanding holds promise for enhancing materials to advance an emerging technology called solid-state cooling.
- Read more about Scientists probe chilling behavior of promising solid-state cooling material
Updated software improves slicing for large-format 3D printing coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/28/2024 - 08:33 Researchers at ORNL have developed the first additive manufacturing slicing computer application to simultaneously speed and simplify digital conversion of accurate, large-format three-dimensional parts in a factory production setting.
- Read more about Updated software improves slicing for large-format 3D printing
Craig Blue announced as ORNL’s chief manufacturing officer coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/27/2024 - 09:19 Defense Manufacturing Programs Director Craig Blue has been named Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Chief Manufacturing Officer.
- Read more about Craig Blue announced as ORNL’s chief manufacturing officer
Uranium science researchers investigate feasibility of intentional nuclear forensicscoffmanke@ornl.govWed, 06/26/2024 - 11:42 Despite strong regulations and robust international safeguards, authorities routinely interdict nuclear materials outside of regulatory control. Researchers at ORNL are exploring a new method that would give authorities the ability to analyze intercepted nuclear material and determine where it originated.
- Read more about Uranium science researchers investigate feasibility of intentional nuclear forensics
Using ORNL’s Frontier supercomputer, researchers discover new clues to improving fusion confinement coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/24/2024 - 15:22 A new study conducted on the Frontier supercomputer gave researchers new clues to improving fusion confinement. This research, in collaboration with General Atomics and UC San Diego, uncovered that the interaction between ions and electrons near the tokamak's edge can unexpectedly increase turbulence, challenging previous assumptions about how to optimize plasma confinement for efficient nuclear fusion.
- Read more about Using ORNL’s Frontier supercomputer, researchers discover new clues to improving fusion confinement
Zhao recognized by American Nuclear Society for early career award coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/24/2024 - 09:18 Xingang Zhao, an R&D associate staff member in the Modern Nuclear I&C group at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was recognized at the 2024 American Nuclear Society Annual Conference with the Ted Quinn Early Career Award.
- Read more about Zhao recognized by American Nuclear Society for early career award
Arndt receives Presidential Citation, Don Miller Award from American Nuclear Society coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/24/2024 - 09:09 The American Nuclear Society, or ANS, recognized Steven Arndt, a distinguished R&D staff member at Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, during the organization’s annual conference in Las Vegas.
- Read more about Arndt receives Presidential Citation, Don Miller Award from American Nuclear Society
Hardy transistor material could be game-changer for nuclear reactor safety monitoring coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/21/2024 - 12:59 ORNL researchers completed successful testing of a gallium nitride transistor for use in more accurate sensors operating near the core of a nuclear reactor. This is an important technical advance particularly for monitoring new, compact.
- Read more about Hardy transistor material could be game-changer for nuclear reactor safety monitoring
Untangling the entangled: Quantum study shines fresh light on how neutrinos fuel supernovae coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/21/2024 - 12:09 Researchers used quantum simulations to obtain new insights into the nature of neutrinos — the mysterious subatomic particles that abound throughout the universe — and their role in the deaths of massive stars.
- Read more about Untangling the entangled: Quantum study shines fresh light on how neutrinos fuel supernovae
Partridge receives Department of Energy Vehicle Technologies Office Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/21/2024 - 09:30 Bill Partridge, a recently retired distinguished researcher at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was recognized by DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office, or VTO, for leading world-class research in transportation throughout his 25-year career.
- Read more about Partridge receives Department of Energy Vehicle Technologies Office Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award
ORNL, BNL host international particle accelerator conference in Nashville coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 06/19/2024 - 14:17 In May, the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge and Brookhaven national laboratories co-hosted the 15th annual International Particle Accelerator Conference, or IPAC, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Read more about ORNL, BNL host international particle accelerator conference in Nashville
Phelps named to Leadership Tennessee cohort shoemakerms@ornl.govWed, 06/19/2024 - 09:30 Leadership Tennessee has named Clarice Phelps to its 2024–2025 Signature Program Class XI to collaborate with professionals statewide to address Tennessee’s most serious issues.
- Read more about Phelps named to Leadership Tennessee cohort
Roane State Community College, ORNL partner for educational, workforce development opportunities coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 06/19/2024 - 08:31 Roane State Community College and ORNL announced a new partnership aimed at building a strong workforce and providing educational opportunities for students interested in careers in project management and project controls.
- Read more about Roane State Community College, ORNL partner for educational, workforce development opportunities
Farragut High School graduate Channing Tan receives UT-Battelle Scholarship coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 06/18/2024 - 07:51 Farragut High School graduate Channing Tan has been named recipient of the 2024 UT-Battelle Scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee.
- Read more about Farragut High School graduate Channing Tan receives UT-Battelle Scholarship
All hands on deck for Quantum Science Center’s annual all-hands meeting coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/17/2024 - 14:45 Close on the heels of its fourth summer school, the Quantum Science Center, or QSC, hosted its second in-person all-hands meeting in early May. More than 150 scientists, engineers and support staff traveled from 17 institutions to review the QSC’s progress, examine existing priorities and brainstorm new short- and long-term research endeavors.
- Read more about All hands on deck for Quantum Science Center’s annual all-hands meeting
Kapadia named 2024 AAPM Fellow coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/14/2024 - 14:42 Anuj J. Kapadia, who leads the Advanced Computing in Health Sciences Section at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was named a 2024 Fellow by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine.
- Read more about Kapadia named 2024 AAPM Fellow
Six local firms receive ORNL Small Business Awards coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/14/2024 - 14:11 Six firms received Small Business Awards from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The companies, selected from small business service providers to the lab, were recognized by ORNL's Small Business Programs Office for their specific capabilities and contributions.
- Read more about Six local firms receive ORNL Small Business Awards
Sara Martinez: Keeping aging structures safe coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/13/2024 - 16:30 Sara Martinez ensures the safety and longevity of aging structures at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, employing her engineering expertise to protect against natural disasters and extend the lifespan of critical facilities.
- Read more about Sara Martinez: Keeping aging structures safe
Decoding reactive species in molten salts coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/13/2024 - 13:52 An Oak Ridge National Laboratory team revealed how chemical species form in a highly reactive molten salt mixture of aluminum chloride and potassium chloride by unraveling vibrational signatures and observing ion exchanges.
- Read more about Decoding reactive species in molten salts
Marthi receives IEEE senior member honor coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/13/2024 - 12:59 Phani Ratna Vanamali Marthi, an R&D associate in the Power Systems Resilience group at ORNL, has been elevated to the grade of senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the world’s largest technical professional organization
- Read more about Marthi receives IEEE senior member honor
Building energy around changing climate coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 06/12/2024 - 09:59 Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed free data sets to estimate how much energy any building in the contiguous U.S. will use in 2100. These data sets provide planners a way to anticipate future energy needs as the climate changes.
- Read more about Building energy around changing climate
ORNL staff fellowships launch careers in science coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 06/11/2024 - 16:36 Four ORNL scientists started their professional careers as staff scientists in the Distinguished Staff Fellowship program, a highly competitive, prestigious program for young scientists to begin a lifetime vocation in research at the lab.
- Read more about ORNL staff fellowships launch careers in science
Researchers harness AI for autonomous discovery and optimization of materials coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/10/2024 - 14:52 Today, scientific discovery is accelerated by automated experiments, artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. A novel tool developed at ORNL that leverages those technologies has demonstrated that AI can influence materials synthesis and conduct associated experiments without human supervision.
- Read more about Researchers harness AI for autonomous discovery and optimization of materials
Students acquire skills at fourth Quantum Science Center summer school coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/10/2024 - 14:22 Purdue University hosted more than 100 attendees at the fourth annual Quantum Science Center summer school. Students and early-career members of the QSC —headquartered at ORNL — participated in lectures, hands-on workshops, poster sessions and panel discussions alongside colleagues from other DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Centers.
- Read more about Students acquire skills at fourth Quantum Science Center summer school
Where there’s smoke: Safe science in the western high mountains coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/10/2024 - 11:51 When the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory science mission takes staff off-campus, the lab’s safety principles follow. That’s true even in the high mountain passes of Washington and Oregon, where ORNL scientists are tracking a tree species — and where wildfires have become more frequent and widespread.
- Read more about Where there’s smoke: Safe science in the western high mountains
AI director from ORNL gives plenary talk at 2024 National Science Bowl coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/10/2024 - 08:15 Prasanna Balaprakash, a national leader in artificial intelligence, or AI, spoke to some of the highest achieving students in the country at the National Science Bowl in Washington D.C.
- Read more about AI director from ORNL gives plenary talk at 2024 National Science Bowl
Quantum chemistry and simulation help characterize coordination complex of elusive Element 61 coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/07/2024 - 11:03 A team from ORNL successfully characterized a coordination complex of the element Promethium. The research was supported by computational simulations of the element's electronic structure run on the IBM AC922 Summit supercomputer.
- Read more about Quantum chemistry and simulation help characterize coordination complex of elusive Element 61
Sky’s the limit for biofuels coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/07/2024 - 08:50 The United States has enough biomass potential to produce 35 billion gallons per year of aviation biofuel by 2050, a new report confirms. ORNL’s John Field provided biomass feedstock production expertise to the report focused on the role of the bioeconomy in U.S. decarbonization strategies.
- Read more about Sky’s the limit for biofuels
Inaugural AI Expo for National Competitiveness gives ORNL platform to showcase latest technologies coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 06/07/2024 - 08:35 ORNL researchers and communications specialists took part in the inaugural AI Expo for National Competitiveness in Washington D.C, May 7 and 8, to showcase and provide insight into how the lab is leading the way for utilizing the vast possibilities of AI.
- Read more about Inaugural AI Expo for National Competitiveness gives ORNL platform to showcase latest technologies
Delmau named 2024 recipient of national Seaborg Actinide Separations Award coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/06/2024 - 14:32 Lætitia H. Delmau, a distinguished researcher and radiochemist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has received the 2024 Glenn T. Seaborg Actinide Separations Award.
- Read more about Delmau named 2024 recipient of national Seaborg Actinide Separations Award
ORNL demonstrates affordable, energy efficient, low-carbon building technologies on National Mall during HUD Innovation Housing Showcase coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 06/06/2024 - 10:51 Building innovations from ORNL will be on display in Washington, D.C. on the National Mall June 7 to June 9, 2024, during the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Innovation Housing Showcase. For the first time, ORNL’s real-time building evaluator was demonstrated outside of a laboratory setting and deployed for building construction.
- Read more about ORNL demonstrates affordable, energy efficient, low-carbon building technologies on National Mall during HUD Innovation Housing Showcase
Frankie White: Early career scientist finds joy in f-elements, fatherhood coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 06/05/2024 - 15:02 Early career scientist Frankie White's was part of two major isotope projects at the same time he was preparing to be a father. As co-lead on a team that achieved the first synthesis and characterization of a radium compound using single crystal X-ray diffraction and part of a team that characterized the properties of promethium, White reflects on the life-changing timeline at work, and at home.
- Read more about Frankie White: Early career scientist finds joy in f-elements, fatherhood
John Lagergren: Cultivating AI for a plant science revolution coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 06/03/2024 - 11:17 John Lagergren, a staff scientist in Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Plant Systems Biology group, is using his expertise in applied math and machine learning to develop neural networks to quickly analyze the vast amounts of data on plant traits amassed at ORNL’s Advanced Plant Phenotyping Laboratory.
- Read more about John Lagergren: Cultivating AI for a plant science revolution
Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at ORNL hosts first Innovation Days coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/30/2024 - 15:10 Momentum for manufacturing innovation in the United States got a boost during the inaugural MDF Innovation Days, held recently at the U.S. Department of Energy Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
- Read more about Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at ORNL hosts first Innovation Days
Tennessee institutions partner to develop dependable AI for national security applications shoemakerms@ornl.govThu, 05/30/2024 - 10:00 Vanderbilt University and ORNL announced a partnership to develop training, testing and evaluation methods that will accelerate the Department of Defense’s adoption of AI-based systems in operational environments.
- Read more about Tennessee institutions partner to develop dependable AI for national security applications
Sean Hollander values team, and beam, work
Sample materials can now take a tumble coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 05/28/2024 - 11:16 ORNL scientists develop a sample holder that tumbles powdered photochemical materials within a neutron beamline – exposing more of the material to light for increased photo-activation and better photochemistry data capture.
- Read more about Sample materials can now take a tumble
Shattering the heat limitations coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 05/24/2024 - 14:36 ORNL researchers used electron-beam additive manufacturing to 3D-print the first complex, defect-free tungsten parts with complex geometries.
- Read more about Shattering the heat limitations
Less carbon, more chill coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/23/2024 - 09:00 A technology developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory works to keep food refrigerated with phase change materials, or PCMs, while reducing carbon emissions by 30%.
- Read more about Less carbon, more chill
Wagner named 2024 recipient of the ASME George Westinghouse Gold Medal coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/23/2024 - 08:46 Robert Wagner, associate laboratory director for ORNL's Energy Science and Technology Directorate, has been selected to receive the George Westinghouse Gold Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or ASME. The award recognizes his work to advance state-of-the-art clean power generation systems through research on combustion, fuel technologies and controls.
- Read more about Wagner named 2024 recipient of the ASME George Westinghouse Gold Medal
tnAchieves students visit ORNL to learn about lab careers shoemakerms@ornl.govTue, 05/21/2024 - 18:07 A group of high school graduates and community college students visited ORNL to meet staff and find out just what goes on at a DOE national laboratory. The Job Shadow Day was arranged by tnAchieves, a student support organization that works to increase higher educational opportunities for students across Tennessee through scholarships and mentorship.
- Read more about tnAchieves students visit ORNL to learn about lab careers
Neutrons open window to explore space glass coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 05/21/2024 - 15:31 Researchers set a new benchmark for future experiments making materials in space rather than for space. They discovered that many kinds of glass have similar atomic structure and arrangements and can successfully be made in space. Scientists from nine institutions in government, academia and industry participated in this 5-year study.
- Read more about Neutrons open window to explore space glass
Pellissippi State pathway students get a look at lab life coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 05/17/2024 - 06:58 Students from the first class of ORNL and Pellissippi State Community College's joint Chemical Radiation Technology Pathway toured isotope facilities at ORNL.
- Read more about Pellissippi State pathway students get a look at lab life
Ion swap dramatically improves performance of CO2-defeating catalyst coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/16/2024 - 14:55 A team of scientists led by ORNL found an unconventional way to improve catalysts made of more than one material. The solution demonstrates a path to designing catalysts with greater activity, selectivity and stability.
- Read more about Ion swap dramatically improves performance of CO2-defeating catalyst
Quantum experts review major techniques for isolating Majoranas coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 05/15/2024 - 14:21 A team of researchers including a member of the Quantum Science Center at ORNL has published a review paper on the state of the field of Majorana research. The paper primarily describes four major platforms that are capable of hosting these particles, as well as the progress made over the past decade in this area.
- Read more about Quantum experts review major techniques for isolating Majoranas
Decades of nuclear expertise guides global nonproliferation innovation today coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 05/15/2024 - 09:28 Researchers tackling national security challenges at ORNL are upholding an 80-year legacy of leadership in all things nuclear. Today, they’re developing the next generation of technologies that will help reduce global nuclear risk and enable safe, secure, peaceful use of nuclear materials, worldwide.
- Read more about Decades of nuclear expertise guides global nonproliferation innovation today
Carbon-capture batteries developed to store renewable energy, help climate coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 05/15/2024 - 09:03 Researchers at ORNL are developing battery technologies to fight climate change in two ways, by expanding the use of renewable energy and capturing airborne carbon dioxide.
- Read more about Carbon-capture batteries developed to store renewable energy, help climate
AI researchers are challenging the science behind securing AI systems coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 05/14/2024 - 09:13 Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory met recently at an AI Summit to better understand threats surrounding artificial intelligence. The event was part of ORNL’s mission to shape the future of safe and secure AI systems charged with our nation’s most precious data.
- Read more about AI researchers are challenging the science behind securing AI systems
Breaking benchmarks: Frontier supercomputer sets new standard in molecular simulation coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/13/2024 - 15:29 When scientists pushed the world’s fastest supercomputer to its limits, they found those limits stretched beyond even their biggest expectations. In the latest milestone, a team of engineers and scientists used Frontier to simulate a system of nearly half a trillion atoms — the largest system ever modeled and more than 400 times the size of the closest competition.
- Read more about Breaking benchmarks: Frontier supercomputer sets new standard in molecular simulation
Researchers compile US’s most comprehensive power outage dataset coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/13/2024 - 13:53 ORNL researchers have produced the most comprehensive power outage dataset ever compiled for the United States. This dataset, showing electricity outages from 2014-22 in the 50 U.S. states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, details outages at 15-minute intervals for up to 92% of customers for the eight-year period.
- Read more about Researchers compile US’s most comprehensive power outage dataset
Chapman recognized for work as peer reviewer coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/13/2024 - 13:15 Joseph Chapman, a research scientist in quantum communications at ORNL, was given the Physical Review Applied Reviewer Excellence 2024 award for his work as a peer reviewer for the journal Physical Review Applied.
- Read more about Chapman recognized for work as peer reviewer
New analysis platform shines light on utilities’ solar energy future coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/13/2024 - 09:28 ORNL researchers have teamed up with other national labs to develop a free platform called Open Energy Data Initiative Solar Systems Integration Data and Modeling to better analyze the behavior of electric grids incorporating many solar projects.
- Read more about New analysis platform shines light on utilities’ solar energy future
Going big: World’s fastest computer takes on large language modeling coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/13/2024 - 08:42 A team led by researchers at ORNL explored training strategies for one of the largest artificial intelligence models to date with help from the world’s fastest supercomputer. The findings could help guide training for a new generation of AI models for scientific research.
- Read more about Going big: World’s fastest computer takes on large language modeling
Cześć to clean energy: ORNL team brings nuclear expertise to open new training center in Poland coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 05/10/2024 - 09:30 Four ORNL researchers traveled to Warsaw, Poland, during the first week of April to support the opening of Poland’s first Clean Energy Training Center, a regional hub dedicated to providing workforce development and training to expand new nuclear capacity in Central Europe.
- Read more about Cześć to clean energy: ORNL team brings nuclear expertise to open new training center in Poland
Howard Wilson: Piloting the future of fusion at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/09/2024 - 09:00 Howard Wilson explores how to accelerate the delivery of fusion energy as Fusion Pilot Plant R&D lead at ORNL. Wilson envisions a fusion hub with ORNL at the center, bringing together the lab's unique expertise and capabilities with domestic and international partnerships to realize the potential of fusion energy.
- Read more about Howard Wilson: Piloting the future of fusion at ORNL
Proton Power Upgrade reaches turning point, heads for finish line coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 05/07/2024 - 12:13 The new section of tunnel will provide the turning and connecting point for the accelerator beamline between the existing particle accelerator at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source and the planned Second Target Station, or STS. When complete, the PPU project will increase accelerator power up to 2.8 megawatts from its current record-breaking 1.7 megawatts of beam power.
- Read more about Proton Power Upgrade reaches turning point, heads for finish line
Seven ORNL inventions licensed to Texas-based lithium recovery firm coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 05/07/2024 - 10:39 A collection of seven technologies for lithium recovery developed by scientists from ORNL has been licensed to Element3, a Texas-based company focused on extracting lithium from wastewater produced by oil and gas production.
- Read more about Seven ORNL inventions licensed to Texas-based lithium recovery firm
Study reveals flaw in long-accepted approximation used in water simulations coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 05/06/2024 - 08:51 Computational scientists at ORNL have published a study that questions a long-accepted factor in simulating the molecular dynamics of water: the 2 femtosecond time step. According to the team’s findings, using anything greater than a 0.5 femtosecond time step can introduce errors in both the dynamics and thermodynamics when simulating water using a rigid-body description.
- Read more about Study reveals flaw in long-accepted approximation used in water simulations
ORNL, SLAC team up for breakthrough biology projects coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 05/03/2024 - 15:05 Plans to unite the capabilities of two cutting-edge technological facilities funded by the Department of Energy’s Office of Science promise to usher in a new era of dynamic structural biology. Through DOE’s Integrated Research Infrastructure, or IRI, initiative, the facilities will complement each other’s technologies in the pursuit of science despite being nearly 2,500 miles apart.
- Read more about ORNL, SLAC team up for breakthrough biology projects
Tweaking isotopes sheds light on promising approach to engineer semiconductors coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 05/03/2024 - 09:35 Research led by scientists at ORNL has demonstrated that small changes in the isotopic content of thin semiconductor materials can influence their optical and electronic properties, possibly opening the way to new and advanced designs with the semiconductors.
- Read more about Tweaking isotopes sheds light on promising approach to engineer semiconductors
How artificial intelligence can transform US energy infrastructure coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/02/2024 - 16:26 Groundbreaking report provides ambitious framework for accelerating clean energy deployment while minimizing risks and costs in the face of climate change.
- Read more about How artificial intelligence can transform US energy infrastructure
New eco-friendly lubricant additives protect turbine equipment, waterways coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/02/2024 - 14:42 Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed lubricant additives that protect both water turbine equipment and the surrounding environment.
- Read more about New eco-friendly lubricant additives protect turbine equipment, waterways
Luke Bertels: Wigner Fellow explores molecules through the quantum world coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 05/02/2024 - 10:44 Luke Bertels, a Eugene P. Wigner Fellow, is helping determine ways to combine artificial intelligence and quantum computing, specifically to develop classical and quantum machine learning methods for using adaptive neural networks to study correlated molecules and chemical systems.
- Read more about Luke Bertels: Wigner Fellow explores molecules through the quantum world
Researchers offer US roadmap to close the carbon cycle coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 05/01/2024 - 12:53 Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and six other Department of Energy national laboratories have developed a United States-based perspective for achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
- Read more about Researchers offer US roadmap to close the carbon cycle
EPA approves renewable gasoline blendstock derived from ORNL invention coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 05/01/2024 - 11:26 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved the registration and use of a renewable gasoline blendstock developed by Vertimass LLC and ORNL that can significantly reduce the emissions profile of vehicles when added to conventional fuels.
- Read more about EPA approves renewable gasoline blendstock derived from ORNL invention
ORNL at the Climate READi workshop: Resilient power systems in the context of climate change coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/30/2024 - 14:59 ORNL and other institutions joined industry stakeholders in exploring solutions for power grid climate resilience at the Climate READi Southeast workshop co-hosted by EPRI and ORNL’s Water Power Program on April 10-11.
- Read more about ORNL at the Climate READi workshop: Resilient power systems in the context of climate change
Quantum Voices Q&A: Chengyun Hua coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/30/2024 - 12:38 The Quantum Voices series is designed to share the stories of the quantum researchers and technical experts behind the Quantum Science Center’s past, present and future accomplishments. Chengyun Hua is highlighted for this edition, talking about her role in the Quantum Science Center.
- Read more about Quantum Voices Q&A: Chengyun Hua
Summit helps forge stronger flights coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/30/2024 - 08:56 Simulations performed on the Summit supercomputer at ORNL are cutting through that time and expense by helping researchers digitally customize the ideal alloy.
- Read more about Summit helps forge stronger flights
Adaptable IO System delivers data for high-performance computing science at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/29/2024 - 12:05 Integral to the functionality of ORNL's Frontier supercomputer is its ability to store the vast amounts of data it produces onto its file system, Orion. But even more important to the computational scientists running simulations on Frontier is their capability to quickly write and read to Orion along with effectively analyzing all that data. And that’s where ADIOS comes in.
- Read more about Adaptable IO System delivers data for high-performance computing science at ORNL
Better Plants program leads to carbon reduction, cost savings for US manufacturing coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/29/2024 - 09:00 Helping hundreds of manufacturing industries and water-power facilities across the U.S. increase energy efficiency requires a balance of teaching and training, blended with scientific guidance and technical expertise. It’s a formula for success that ORNL researchers have been providing to DOE’s Better Plants Program for more than a decade.
- Read more about Better Plants program leads to carbon reduction, cost savings for US manufacturing
Pointer to lead Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/29/2024 - 08:47 ORNL has named W. David Pointer, director of the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division in ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate. As director, Pointer will lead a world-class team of ORNL research professionals focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by current and future nuclear energy systems.
- Read more about Pointer to lead Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division at ORNL
Zarkadoula elected vice-chair of committee within Minerals, Metals & Materials Society coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/26/2024 - 13:17 Eva Zarkadoula, a senior R&D staff member at the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, has been elected vice-chair of the Chemistry and Physics of Materials Committee of the Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.
- Read more about Zarkadoula elected vice-chair of committee within Minerals, Metals & Materials Society
Curran named Fellow of SAE, ASME coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/25/2024 - 14:38 ORNL's Scott Curran, group leader for Fuel Science and Engine Technologies Research, has been named a fellow of SAE International and ASME.
- Read more about Curran named Fellow of SAE, ASME
Praveen Cheekatamarla: Incorporating the right mix of chemistry into clean, efficient building equipment coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/25/2024 - 08:35 Cheekatamarla is a researcher in the Multifunctional Equipment Integration group with previous experience in product deployment. He is researching alternative energy sources such as hydrogen for cookstoves and his research supports the decarbonization of building technologies.
- Read more about Praveen Cheekatamarla: Incorporating the right mix of chemistry into clean, efficient building equipment
Divining peak groundwater coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/25/2024 - 08:20 Groundwater withdrawals are expected to peak in about one-third of the world’s basins by 2050, potentially triggering significant trade and agriculture shifts, a new analysis finds.
- Read more about Divining peak groundwater
Study shows potential of super grids when hurricanes overshadow solar panels coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 04/24/2024 - 08:52 ORNL researchers modeled how hurricane cloud cover would affect solar energy generation as a storm followed 10 possible trajectories over the Caribbean and Southern U.S.
- Read more about Study shows potential of super grids when hurricanes overshadow solar panels
ORNL’s Thomas Proffen, mentee recognized by National Center for Women & Information Technology coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/23/2024 - 14:32 Thomas Proffen, a neutron scattering scientist at ORNL and founder of Oak Ridge Computer Science Girls, was recognized with an award from the National Center for Women & Information Technology, or NCWIT. In addition, one of his students received a national honor from the organization.
- Read more about ORNL’s Thomas Proffen, mentee recognized by National Center for Women & Information Technology
Unconventional technology enhances composites important to automotive, aerospace and renewable energy industries coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/23/2024 - 13:34 Scientists at ORNL have developed a method that demonstrates how fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials used in the automotive, aerospace and renewable energy industries can be made stronger and tougher to better withstand mechanical or structural stresses over time.
- Read more about Unconventional technology enhances composites important to automotive, aerospace and renewable energy industries
Steering toward quantum simulation at scale coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/22/2024 - 10:43 Researchers simulated a key quantum state at one of the largest scales reported, with support from the Quantum Computing User Program, or QCUP, at ORNL.
- Read more about Steering toward quantum simulation at scale
ORNL researchers to present wireless charging technology in OTT’s Discovery Series webinar coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/19/2024 - 14:27 ORNL’s Omer Onar and Mostak Mohammad will present on ORNL's wireless charging technology in DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions National Lab Discovery Series Tuesday, April 30.
- Read more about ORNL researchers to present wireless charging technology in OTT’s Discovery Series webinar
Advincula named Fellow of American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/19/2024 - 13:08 Rigoberto “Gobet” Advincula, a scientist with joint appointments at ORNL and the University of Tennessee, has been named a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering.
- Read more about Advincula named Fellow of American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering
ORNL researchers win Best Paper award for nickel-based alloy tailoring coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/19/2024 - 09:41 Rishi Pillai and his research team from ORNL will receive a Best Paper award from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers International Gas Turbine Institute in June at the Turbo Expo 2024 in London.
- Read more about ORNL researchers win Best Paper award for nickel-based alloy tailoring
Auburn’s McCrary Institute, ORNL to partner on first regional cybersecurity center to protect the nation’s electricity grid coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/19/2024 - 09:12 Auburn University’s McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security was awarded a $10 million DOE grant in partnership with ORNL to create a pilot regional cybersecurity research and operations center to protect the electric power grid against cyber attacks.
- Read more about Auburn’s McCrary Institute, ORNL to partner on first regional cybersecurity center to protect the nation’s electricity grid
Three ORNL scientists elected AAAS Fellows coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/18/2024 - 13:34 Keith Kline, Rigoberto Advincula and Takeshi Egami have been elected fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the world’s largest general scientific society and publisher of the Science family of journals.
- Read more about Three ORNL scientists elected AAAS Fellows
26th Annual SOS conference held in Cocoa Beach, FL coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/18/2024 - 11:54 Held in Cocoa Beach, Florida from March 11 to 14, researchers across the computing and data spectra participated in sessions developed by staff members from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, or ORNL, Sandia National Laboratories and the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre.
- Read more about 26th Annual SOS conference held in Cocoa Beach, FL
Inspection for perfection coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 04/17/2024 - 11:40 Inspection technology developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory will help deliver plasma heating to the ITER international fusion facility.
- Read more about Inspection for perfection
Three ORNL researchers receive Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/16/2024 - 16:14 The Society of Manufacturing Engineers has honored three Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers with the 2024 SME Susan Smyth Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award.
- Read more about Three ORNL researchers receive Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award
Neutrons rule the roost for cage-free lithium ions coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/16/2024 - 09:22 An international team using neutrons set the first benchmark (one nanosecond) for a polymer-electrolyte and lithium-salt mixture. Findings could produce safer, more powerful lithium batteries.
- Read more about Neutrons rule the roost for cage-free lithium ions
Q&A with Erin Webb: Toward a Tennessee circular bioeconomy coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/16/2024 - 09:12 ORNL’s Erin Webb is co-leading a new Circular Bioeconomy Systems Convergent Research Initiative focused on advancing production and use of renewable carbon from Tennessee to meet societal needs.
- Read more about Q&A with Erin Webb: Toward a Tennessee circular bioeconomy
Chemists invent a more efficient way to extract lithium from mining sites, oil fields, used batteries coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/16/2024 - 08:57 Chemists at ORNL have invented a more efficient way to extract lithium from waste liquids leached from mining sites, oil fields and used batteries. They demonstrated that a common mineral can adsorb at least five times more lithium than can be collected using previously developed adsorbent materials.
- Read more about Chemists invent a more efficient way to extract lithium from mining sites, oil fields, used batteries
Innovation Crossroads helps Shift Thermal keep things cool coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/15/2024 - 12:40 Shift Thermal, a member of Innovation Crossroads’ first cohort of fellows, is commercializing advanced ice thermal energy storage for HVAC, shifting the cooling process to be more sustainable, cost-effective and resilient. Shift Thermal wants to enable a lower-cost, more-efficient thermal energy storage method to provide long-duration resilient cooling when the electric grid is down.
- Read more about Innovation Crossroads helps Shift Thermal keep things cool
Hoffman recognized by IEEE as senior member coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/15/2024 - 08:50 Forrest Hoffman, a distinguished scientist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the world’s largest organization for technical professionals.
- Read more about Hoffman recognized by IEEE as senior member
Three ORNL IP projects advance toward Lab MATCH Prize coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/12/2024 - 16:03 Three ORNL intellectual property projects with industry partners have advanced in DOE's Office of Technology Transitions Making Advanced Technology Commercialization Harmonized, or Lab MATCH, prize, which encourages entrepreneurs to find actionable pathways that bring lab-developed intellectual property to market.
- Read more about Three ORNL IP projects advance toward Lab MATCH Prize
ORNL’s An, Herwig named Neutron Scattering Society of America Fellows coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/12/2024 - 13:38 The Neutron Scattering Society of America, or NSSA, recognized Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Ke An and Ken Herwig as fellows for their outstanding contributions to neutron scattering.
- Read more about ORNL’s An, Herwig named Neutron Scattering Society of America Fellows
New data processing automation grows plant science at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/12/2024 - 13:23 OLCF and APPL have collaborated on an automated data pipeline to manage data from APPL's hyperspectral imaging tools. The collaboration is an early effort of DOE's Integrated Research Infrastructure.
- Read more about New data processing automation grows plant science at ORNL
ORNL collaboration helps secure 2023 Gordon Bell Prizes coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 04/12/2024 - 10:32 Science liaisons from the National Center for Computational Sciences worked with the teams that won the 2023 Gordon Bell Prizes. Liaisons provide a unique combination of scientific domain and HPC expertise to ensure projects using the OLCF perform as well as possible.
- Read more about ORNL collaboration helps secure 2023 Gordon Bell Prizes
Holding the quantum keys, innovation helps keep the power grid safe
ORNL scientists have spent the past 20 years studying quantum photonic entanglement. Their partnership with colleagues at Los Alamos National Laboratory and private industry partner Qubitekk led to development of the nation’s first industry-led commercial quantum network. This type of network could ultimately help secure the nation’s power grid and other infrastructure from cyberattacks.
Sholl selected as UT-ORII executive director coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/11/2024 - 09:35 David Sholl has been named the executive director of the University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII) and vice provost of University of Tennessee, Knoxville, after serving as the institute’s interim leader since June 2023.
- Read more about Sholl selected as UT-ORII executive director
Powered by math, generative AI requires new knowledge for safe use coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/09/2024 - 09:17 In the age of easy access to generative AI software, user can take steps to stay safe. Suhas Sreehari, an applied mathematician, identifies misconceptions of generative AI that could lead to unintentionally bad outcomes for a user.
- Read more about Powered by math, generative AI requires new knowledge for safe use
First-of-its-kind integrated dataset enables genes-to-ecosystems research coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 04/08/2024 - 09:06 A first-ever dataset bridging molecular information about the poplar tree microbiome to ecosystem-level processes has been released by a team of DOE scientists led by ORNL. The project aims to inform research regarding how natural systems function, their vulnerability to a changing climate and ultimately how plants might be engineered for better performance as sources of bioenergy and natural carbon storage.
- Read more about First-of-its-kind integrated dataset enables genes-to-ecosystems research
ORNL Water Power Projects Showcased in New Report kennedycl1@ornl.govFri, 04/05/2024 - 12:54 The Water Power Program at ORNL contributed to nine of the 40 projects lauded in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO)'s 2022-2023 Accomplishments Report, which was released in mid-March.
- Read more about ORNL Water Power Projects Showcased in New Report
OFC24 shines light on ORNL’s quantum networking expertise coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 04/04/2024 - 09:11 ORNL was front and center recently at one of the world’s largest optical networking conferences, the 2024 Optic Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition, or OFC. ORNL researchers had major roles at the OFC 2024, a three-day event held in San Diego, California from March 26-28 which featured thousands of the world’s leading optical communications and networking professionals.
- Read more about OFC24 shines light on ORNL’s quantum networking expertise
Riding through: Researchers enhance reliability of electric vehicle charging coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 04/03/2024 - 13:03 ORNL researchers are working to make EV charging more resilient by developing algorithms to deal with both internal and external triggers of charger failure. This will help charging stations remain available to traveling EV drivers, reducing range anxiety.
- Read more about Riding through: Researchers enhance reliability of electric vehicle charging
Researchers publish first-of-its-kind database for uranium minerals coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 04/02/2024 - 09:40 Nuclear nonproliferation scientists at ORNL have published the Compendium of Uranium Raman and Infrared Experimental Spectra, a public database and analysis of structure-spectral relationships for uranium minerals. This first-of-its-kind dataset and corresponding analysis fill a key gap in the existing body of knowledge for mineralogists and actinide scientists.
- Read more about Researchers publish first-of-its-kind database for uranium minerals
‘Frankenstein design’ enables 3D printed neutron collimator cramerbn@ornl.govMon, 04/01/2024 - 13:03 Scientists at ORNL have developed 3D-printed collimator techniques that can be used to custom design collimators that better filter out noise during different types of neutron scattering experiments
- Read more about ‘Frankenstein design’ enables 3D printed neutron collimator
Dilling named associate laboratory director for neutron sciences at ORNL shoemakerms@ornl.govMon, 04/01/2024 - 07:53 Jens Dilling has been named associate laboratory director for the Neutron Sciences Directorate at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, effective April 1.
- Read more about Dilling named associate laboratory director for neutron sciences at ORNL
Alyssa Carrell: Exploring the microscopic world for maximum impact coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 03/27/2024 - 09:31 Alyssa Carrell started her science career studying the tallest inhabitants in the forest, but today is focused on some of its smallest — the microbial organisms that play an outsized role in plant health.
- Read more about Alyssa Carrell: Exploring the microscopic world for maximum impact
ORNL, University of Kentucky focus on clean energy in Appalachia coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 03/25/2024 - 15:20 ORNL hosted the second annual Appalachian Carbon Forum in Lexington March 7-8, 2024, where ORNL and University of Kentucky’s Center for Applied Energy Research scientists led discussions with representatives from
- Read more about ORNL, University of Kentucky focus on clean energy in Appalachia
Dealing with stress in large-scale additive manufacturing coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 03/25/2024 - 11:25 ORNL scientists have determined how to avoid costly and potentially irreparable damage to large metallic parts fabricated through additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, that is caused by residual stress in the material.
- Read more about Dealing with stress in large-scale additive manufacturing
Assaf Anyamba: Sensing diseases from space coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/22/2024 - 15:50 ORNL’s Assaf Anyamba has spent his career using satellite images to determine where extreme weather may lead to vector-borne disease outbreaks. His work has helped the U.S. government better prepare for outbreaks that happen during periods of extended weather events such as El Niño and La Niña, climate patterns in the Pacific Ocean that can affect weather worldwide.
- Read more about Assaf Anyamba: Sensing diseases from space
Unique regional partnerships a key theme in SkyNano’s story coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/22/2024 - 11:31 SkyNano, an Innovation Crossroads alumnus, held a ribbon-cutting for their new facility. SkyNano exemplifies using DOE resources to build a successful clean energy company, making valuable carbon nanotubes from waste CO2.
- Read more about Unique regional partnerships a key theme in SkyNano’s story
Molecules in action: Canan Karakaya peers into reactor design using computational modeling coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/22/2024 - 09:38 Canan Karakaya, a R&D Staff member in the Chemical Process Scale-Up group at ORNL, was inspired to become a chemical engineer after she experienced a magical transformation that turned ammonia gas into ammonium nitrate, turning a liquid into white flakes gently floating through the air.
- Read more about Molecules in action: Canan Karakaya peers into reactor design using computational modeling
From rural roots to the global stage: Local robotics team heads to global FIRST Tech Challenge robotics championship coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 03/21/2024 - 16:01 Alyson Coates, a Senior Technical Staff Member in ORNL's Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate, noticed a need for more STEM programs for young girls in her rural community in Blount County. So, she decided to fill the gap herself.
- Read more about From rural roots to the global stage: Local robotics team heads to global FIRST Tech Challenge robotics championship
ORNL helping Roll-to-Roll Consortium scale up hydrogen technology coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 03/20/2024 - 15:19 The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory is providing national leadership in a new collaboration among five national laboratories to accelerate U.S. production of clean hydrogen fuel cells and electrolyzers.
- Read more about ORNL helping Roll-to-Roll Consortium scale up hydrogen technology
ORNL wins top awards at DOE GIS Day Competition coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 03/20/2024 - 11:58 ORNL took home the top honors in three categories at the second annual DOE Geospatial Science Poster competition, held on National GIS Day. For the second year in a row, DOE awarded ORNL top prize as Best Geospatial Program. Additionally, ORNL geospatial researchers took home first place prizes for their posters in the Best Departmental Element Alignment and Best Cartography categories.
- Read more about ORNL wins top awards at DOE GIS Day Competition
Noah Miller: Intern working to make pellet inspection for Pu-238 Supply Program faster, safer coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 03/18/2024 - 10:41 College intern Noah Miller is on his 3rd consecutive internship at ORNL, currently working on developing an automated pellet inspection system for Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Plutonium-238 Supply Program. Along with his success at ORNL, Miller is also focusing on becoming a mentor for kids, giving back to the place where he discovered his passion and developed his skills.
- Read more about Noah Miller: Intern working to make pellet inspection for Pu-238 Supply Program faster, safer
Sustainable biomass production capacity could triple US bioeconomy, report finds coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/15/2024 - 11:54 The United States could triple its current bioeconomy by producing more than 1 billion tons per year of plant-based biomass for renewable fuels, while meeting projected demands for food, feed, fiber, conventional forest products and exports, according to the DOE’s latest Billion-Ton Report led by ORNL.
- Read more about Sustainable biomass production capacity could triple US bioeconomy, report finds
Scientists use Summit supercomputer to explore exotic stellar phenomena coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/15/2024 - 10:56 Astrophysicists at the State University of New York, Stony Brook and University of California, Berkeley, used the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s Summit supercomputer to compare models of X-ray bursts in 2D and 3D.
- Read more about Scientists use Summit supercomputer to explore exotic stellar phenomena
Hu Miao named outstanding referee of physics journals coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 03/13/2024 - 12:19 Hu Miao, a researcher at ORNL, has been selected as an Outstanding Referee by the American Physical Society in recognition of his exceptional service in assessing manuscripts for publication in the society’s journals. In 2024 APS recognized 156 recipients worldwide for the quality, quantity and timeliness of their reports from the society’s approximately 88,600 active referees.
- Read more about Hu Miao named outstanding referee of physics journals
Researchers from ORNL develop AI-driven tool for near real-time cancer surveillance coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 03/13/2024 - 10:22 In partnership with the National Cancer Institute, researchers from ORNL and Louisiana State University developed a long-sequenced AI transformer capable of processing millions of pathology reports to provide experts researching cancer diagnoses and management with exponentially more accurate information on cancer reporting.
- Read more about Researchers from ORNL develop AI-driven tool for near real-time cancer surveillance
Researchers achieve quantum key distribution for cybersecurity in novel experiment coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/12/2024 - 14:52 An experiment by researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory demonstrated advanced quantum-based cybersecurity can be realized in a deployed fiber link.
- Read more about Researchers achieve quantum key distribution for cybersecurity in novel experiment
Charging up the commute coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/12/2024 - 11:33 A team of researchers at ORNL demonstrated that a light-duty passenger electric vehicle can be wirelessly charged at 100-kW with 96% efficiency using polyphase electromagnetic coupling coils with rotating magnetic fields.
- Read more about Charging up the commute
More than flying cars: eVTOL battery analysis reveals unique operating demands coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/12/2024 - 10:00 Researchers at ORNL are taking cleaner transportation to the skies by creating and evaluating new batteries for airborne electric vehicles that take off and land vertically.
- Read more about More than flying cars: eVTOL battery analysis reveals unique operating demands
2024 SIAM award recognizes Kate Evans’ contributions to mathematics, earth science coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/12/2024 - 09:59 Kate Evans, director for the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division at ORNL, has been awarded the 2024 Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematicians Activity Group on Mathematics of Planet Earth Prize.
- Read more about 2024 SIAM award recognizes Kate Evans’ contributions to mathematics, earth science
Oak Ridge Reservation nature walks announced coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/08/2024 - 15:45 Six nature walks at the Oak Ridge Reservation have been scheduled for the 2024 season. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory-organized walks, which are open to the public, will take place at locations across the reservation from April through October.
- Read more about Oak Ridge Reservation nature walks announced
Contributing to community standards for AI security, privacy coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/08/2024 - 15:06 While government regulations are slowly coming, a group of cybersecurity professionals are sharing best practices to protect large language models powering these tools. Sean Oesch, a leader in emerging cyber technologies, recently contributed to the OWASP AI Security and Privacy Guide to inform global AI security standards and regulations.
- Read more about Contributing to community standards for AI security, privacy
KC Cushman: Seeing the forest and the trees coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 03/07/2024 - 15:51 Cushman, a Liane B. Russell Fellow at ORNL, has been studying trees and forests in an effort to help humans care for them and improve the health of the planet. Cushman’s fellowship research at ORNL aligns with that, utilizing ground, air and space platforms to study trees and forests in the Southeast.
- Read more about KC Cushman: Seeing the forest and the trees
AI-driven attention mechanisms aid in streamlining cancer pathology reporting coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 03/07/2024 - 09:06 In partnership with the National Cancer Institute, researchers from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Modeling Outcomes for Surveillance using Scalable Artificial Intelligence are building on their groundbreaking work to
- Read more about AI-driven attention mechanisms aid in streamlining cancer pathology reporting
ORNL to host international targetry conference bumpuskl@ornl.govWed, 03/06/2024 - 12:40 This summer, Oak Ridge National Laboratory will host the 31st Conference of the International Nuclear Target Development Society.
The INTDS conference covers current research and challenges in target development and application. The conference format includes general talks and oral contributions selected from the abstracts submitted to the scientific committee.
- Read more about ORNL to host international targetry conference
Scientists reveal molecular mysteries to control silica scaling in water treatment coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/05/2024 - 16:44 Collaborative research that combined experiments at Yale University and molecular dynamics simulations at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory provides new insights into solving a major technical obstacle to efficient and sustainable industrial operations.
- Read more about Scientists reveal molecular mysteries to control silica scaling in water treatment
Hands-on science creates winning conditions for local youth coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 03/05/2024 - 13:10 For kids in underserved communities, access to STEM experiences does not come as a given. Candice Halbert, YO-STEM founder and chemist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is working to change this through middle school robotics.
- Read more about Hands-on science creates winning conditions for local youth
Kapadia elected president of Southeastern Chapter of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 03/01/2024 - 13:00 Anuj J. Kapadia, who heads the Advanced Computing Methods for Health Sciences Section at ORNL, has been elected as president of the Southeastern Chapter of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine.
- Read more about Kapadia elected president of Southeastern Chapter of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine
City without walls: Buildings, energy, psychology overlap for researcher Frank Li coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/29/2024 - 16:13 Although he built his career around buildings, Fengqi “Frank” Li likes to break down walls. Li was trained as an architect, but he doesn’t box himself in. Currently he is working as a computational developer at ORNL. But Li considers himself a designer. To him, that’s less a box than a plane – a landscape scattered with ideas, like destinations on a map that can be connected in different ways.
- Read more about City without walls: Buildings, energy, psychology overlap for researcher Frank Li
Greenfield joins ORNL to bridge ITER, US fusion research coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/28/2024 - 15:11 Chuck Greenfield, former assistant director of the DIII-D National Fusion Program at General Atomics, has joined ORNL as ITER R&D Lead.
- Read more about Greenfield joins ORNL to bridge ITER, US fusion research
Scientists discover super sensor for the smallest scales coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/28/2024 - 14:31 A team that included researchers at ORNL used a new twist on an old method to detect materials at some of the smallest amounts yet recorded. The results could lead to enhancements in security technology and aid the development of quantum sensors.
- Read more about Scientists discover super sensor for the smallest scales
NASA uses ORNL supercomputers to plan smooth landing on Mars coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/28/2024 - 12:55 Since 2019, a team of NASA scientists and their partners have been using NASA’s FUN3D software on supercomputers located at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility to conduct computational fluid dynamics simulations of a human-scale Mars lander. The team’s ongoing research project is a first step in determining how to safely land a vehicle with humans onboard onto the surface of Mars.
- Read more about NASA uses ORNL supercomputers to plan smooth landing on Mars
DOE’s Building Technologies Office announces JUMP into STEM competition winners at ORNL coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/28/2024 - 12:35 Students with a focus on building science will spend 10 weeks this summer interning at ORNL, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Pacific Northwest Laboratory as winners of the DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s Building Technologies Office sixth annual JUMP into STEM finals competition.
- Read more about DOE’s Building Technologies Office announces JUMP into STEM competition winners at ORNL
ORNL employees win Secretary’s Honor Achievement Awards coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/27/2024 - 15:47 Two different teams that included Oak Ridge National Laboratory employees were honored Feb. 20 with Secretary’s Honor Achievement Awards from the Department of Energy. This is DOE's highest form of employee recognition.
- Read more about ORNL employees win Secretary’s Honor Achievement Awards
Naval officer receives 2023 Junior Scientist Officer of the Year award coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 02/26/2024 - 12:16 Lieutenant Commander Rich Harvey has spent the last three decades of his career serving his country. Harvey's efforts supporting the Office of Naval Research has earned him the 2023 Junior Scientist Officer of the Year award for coordination and computer modeling support for a project called TALISMAN, his leadership roles and other exemplary service markers.
- Read more about Naval officer receives 2023 Junior Scientist Officer of the Year award
Human-AI coworking coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/21/2024 - 09:46 To capitalize on AI and researcher strengths, scientists developed a human-AI collaboration recommender system for improved experimentation performance.
- Read more about Human-AI coworking
UT-Battelle donates $186,000 to support SEEED’s green construction program coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/20/2024 - 10:07 Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s managing contractor, UT-Battelle, presented a donation of $186,000 to Socially Equal Energy Efficient Development, or SEEED, to support the nonprofit’s third green solar home as part of their Green Construction Program.
- Read more about UT-Battelle donates $186,000 to support SEEED’s green construction program
Researchers, leaders reflect on AGU23, future plans for “wide open science” coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 02/16/2024 - 12:45 ORNL scientists and researchers attended the annual American Geophysical Union meeting and came away inspired for the year ahead in geospatial, earth and climate science.
- Read more about Researchers, leaders reflect on AGU23, future plans for “wide open science”
Chelsea Chen: Breaking barriers in energy storage coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 02/16/2024 - 12:25 Chelsea Chen, a polymer physicist at ORNL, is studying ion transport in solid electrolytes that could help electric vehicle battery charges last longer.
- Read more about Chelsea Chen: Breaking barriers in energy storage
UT-ORII selects two new UT-ORNL convergent research initiatives coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/15/2024 - 15:23 The University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute has selected circular bioeconomy systems and radiopharmaceutical therapies as its two newest Convergent Research Initiatives, areas of joint research for UT and ORNL.
- Read more about UT-ORII selects two new UT-ORNL convergent research initiatives
ORNL study projects geothermal heat pumps’ impact on carbon emissions and electrical grid by 2050 coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/14/2024 - 10:00 A modeling analysis led by ORNL gives the first detailed look at how geothermal energy can relieve the electric power system and reduce carbon emissions if widely implemented across the United States within the next few decades.
- Read more about ORNL study projects geothermal heat pumps’ impact on carbon emissions and electrical grid by 2050
Intensive caring: IT specialist, new father sees impact of ORNL’s ETCH contributions coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/14/2024 - 06:00 Ben Mellon was on his fourth week of sleeping in the ETCH neonatal intensive care unit when he learned his ORNL coworkers had raised $20,000 to help buy a premature infant training simulator for the hospital. By then, Mellon, an information technology specialist at ORNL, already had seen the impact that donation could have.
- Read more about Intensive caring: IT specialist, new father sees impact of ORNL’s ETCH contributions
Moriano awarded early career fellowship for underrepresented groups coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/13/2024 - 15:18 Pablo Moriano, a research scientist in the Computer Science and Mathematics Division at ORNL, was selected as a member of the 2024 Class of MGB-SIAM Early Career Fellows.
- Read more about Moriano awarded early career fellowship for underrepresented groups
Three FFESD staff members transition to new nuclear energy engagement roles coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 02/12/2024 - 12:20 Three staff members in ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate have moved into newly established roles facilitating communication and program management with sponsors of the directorate’s Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division.
- Read more about Three FFESD staff members transition to new nuclear energy engagement roles
ORNL to produce critical industrial radioisotope Ir-192 as part of DOE partnership with private company coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/08/2024 - 13:50 A key industrial isotope, iridium-192, has not been produced in the U.S. in almost 20 years. DOE's Isotope Program and QSA Global Inc. announced a joint product development agreement to initiate U.S. production of iridium-192.
- Read more about ORNL to produce critical industrial radioisotope Ir-192 as part of DOE partnership with private company
New process allows full recovery of starting materials from tough polymer composites coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/08/2024 - 12:09 In a win for chemistry, inventors at ORNL have designed a closed-loop path for synthesizing an exceptionally tough carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, or CFRP, and later recovering all of its starting materials.
- Read more about New process allows full recovery of starting materials from tough polymer composites
Q&A: Researchers from ORNL share insights from UN international climate conference coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/08/2024 - 10:56 ORNL was represented by four scientists at last year’s United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties, known as COP28. This is the first time ORNL participated as an official Observer Organization.
- Read more about Q&A: Researchers from ORNL share insights from UN international climate conference
DeGraw named ASHRAE Fellow coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 02/07/2024 - 10:44 The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers, or ASHRAE, selected Jason DeGraw, a researcher with ORNL, as one of 23 members elevated to Fellow during its 2024 winter conference.
- Read more about DeGraw named ASHRAE Fellow
ORNL’s Sholl elected to National Academy of Engineering coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/06/2024 - 16:47 David Sholl, director of the Transformational Decarbonization Initiative at ORNL, has been elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering for his contributions in addressing large-scale chemical separation challenges, including carbon dioxide capture, using quantitative materials modeling.
- Read more about ORNL’s Sholl elected to National Academy of Engineering
CyberShake study uses Summit supercomputer to investigate earthquake hazards coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/06/2024 - 10:10 Researchers at the Statewide California Earthquake Center are unraveling the mysteries of earthquakes by using physics-based computational models running on high-performance computing systems at ORNL. The team’s findings will provide a better understanding of seismic hazards in the Golden State.
- Read more about CyberShake study uses Summit supercomputer to investigate earthquake hazards
Deciphering dynamics of electric charge coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 02/06/2024 - 09:59 Research led by ORNL’s Marti Checa and Liam Collins has pioneered a groundbreaking approach described in the journal Nature Communications that enables visualizing charge motion at the nanometer level, or one billionth of a meter, but at speeds thousands of times faster than conventional methods.
- Read more about Deciphering dynamics of electric charge
New method monitors grid stability with hydropower project signals coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 02/05/2024 - 13:09 Scientists at ORNL and the University of Tennessee have developed an algorithm to predict electric grid stability using signals from pumped storage hydropower projects. The method provides critical situational awareness as the grid increasingly shifts to intermittent renewable power.
- Read more about New method monitors grid stability with hydropower project signals
Reaping agricultural emissions solutions coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 02/02/2024 - 08:53 ORNL climate modeling expertise contributed to a project that assessed global emissions of ammonia from croplands now and in a warmer future, while also identifying solutions tuned to local growing conditions.
- Read more about Reaping agricultural emissions solutions
Ilenne Del Valle: Rooting out clues to plant health with burbly microbes coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 02/01/2024 - 09:50 Ilenne Del Valle is merging her expertise in synthetic biology and environmental science to develop new technologies to help scientists better understand and engineer ecosystems for climate resilience.
- Read more about Ilenne Del Valle: Rooting out clues to plant health with burbly microbes
Employee-led giving at ORNL nets $967,871 for area nonprofits coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 01/31/2024 - 14:45 ORNL employees contributed over $828,000 to local nonprofits through the lab’s employee giving programs in 2023. ORNL’s managing contractor, UT-Battelle, provided an additional $139,600 in support of employee efforts. In addition, ORNL employees recorded over 1,497 volunteer hours, serving 56 nonprofits. With the value of these volunteer hours estimated at $36,232, total employee-led contributions for 2023 were valued at more than $1 million.
- Read more about Employee-led giving at ORNL nets $967,871 for area nonprofits
Encapsulating low-carbon materials coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 01/31/2024 - 13:31 ORNL researchers have developed a novel way to encapsulate salt hydrate phase-change materials within polymer fibers through a coaxial pulling process. The discovery could lead to the widespread use of the low-carbon materials as a source of insulation for a building’s envelope.
- Read more about Encapsulating low-carbon materials
Grid electronics research to bridge gap to cleaner, more reliable power coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 01/31/2024 - 08:27 Scientists at ORNL are looking for a happy medium to enable the grid of the future, filling a gap between high and low voltages for power electronics technology that underpins the modern U.S. electric grid.
- Read more about Grid electronics research to bridge gap to cleaner, more reliable power
National Society of Black Physicists members tour ORNL, discuss “Frontiers in Physics” coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 01/30/2024 - 08:48 ORNL and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, co-hosted the 2023 National Society of Black Physicists Annual Conference with the theme "Frontiers in Physics: From Quantum to Materials to the Cosmos.” As part of the three-day conference held near UT, attendees took a 30-mile trip to the ORNL campus for facility tours, science talks and workshops.
- Read more about National Society of Black Physicists members tour ORNL, discuss “Frontiers in Physics”
EPB, ORNL announce plans for research collaborative focused on energy resilience, quantum technology coffmanke@ornl.govFri, 01/26/2024 - 09:43 EPB and ORNL marked 10 years of collaboration with the announcement of the new Collaborative for Energy Resilience and Quantum Science. The new joint research effort will focus on utilizing Chattanooga’s highly advanced and integrated energy and communications infrastructure to develop technologies and best practices for enhancing the resilience and security of the national power grid while accelerating the commercialization of quantum technologies.
- Read more about EPB, ORNL announce plans for research collaborative focused on energy resilience, quantum technology
Coastal chemistry improves methane modeling coffmanke@ornl.govWed, 01/24/2024 - 15:02 Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using a new modeling framework in conjunction with data collected from marshes in the Mississippi Delta to improve predictions of climate-warming methane and nitrous oxide
- Read more about Coastal chemistry improves methane modeling
Janet Meier: Taking on the challenge coffmanke@ornl.govTue, 01/23/2024 - 14:08 ORNL’s Janet Meier won the Energy Security category of the U.S. Department of Energy’s inaugural National Lab Research SLAM on Capitol Hill.
- Read more about Janet Meier: Taking on the challenge
Advincula named Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Fellow coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 01/22/2024 - 14:16 Rigoberto “Gobet” Advincula, a scientist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been appointed a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
- Read more about Advincula named Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Fellow
ORNL wins five Federal Laboratory Consortium awards coffmanke@ornl.govMon, 01/22/2024 - 12:46 Four ORNL teams and one researcher were recognized for excellence in technology transfer and technology transfer innovation.
- Read more about ORNL wins five Federal Laboratory Consortium awards
Registration opens for second US quantum information science summer school coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 01/18/2024 - 16:07 From July 15 to 26, 2024, the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory will host the second U.S. Quantum Information Science, or QIS, Summer School.
- Read more about Registration opens for second US quantum information science summer school
ORNL’s Tourassi named IEEE Fellow coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 01/18/2024 - 12:18 Gina Tourassi, associate laboratory director for computing and computational sciences at the US Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named a fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the world’s largest organization for technical professionals.
- Read more about ORNL’s Tourassi named IEEE Fellow
Researchers at ORNL demonstrate scalability of GNNs on world’s most powerful computing systems coffmanke@ornl.govThu, 01/18/2024 - 08:56 Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories are evolving graph neural networks to scale on the nation’s most powerful computational resources, a necessary step in tackling today’s data-centric
- Read more about Researchers at ORNL demonstrate scalability of GNNs on world’s most powerful computing systems
Life in boiling water
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 09/12/2023 - 11:58
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists studied hot springs on different continents and found similarities in how some microbes adapted despite their geographic diversity.
- Read more about Life in boiling water
Charging ahead: New electrolyte goes extra mile for faster EV charging
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 09/12/2023 - 10:44
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers are taking fast charging for electric vehicles, or EVs, to new extremes. A team of battery scientists recently developed a lithium-ion battery material that not only recharges 80% of its capacity in 10 minutes but keeps that ability for 1,500 charging cycles.
- Read more about Charging ahead: New electrolyte goes extra mile for faster EV charging
2023 CNMS Annual User Meeting earns praise for exciting program
Speakers, scientific workshops, speed networking, a student poster showcase and more energized the Annual User Meeting of the Department of Energy’s Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, or CNMS, Aug. 7-10, near Market Square in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee.
New program to connect entrepreneurs with national laboratory-developed technologies
ORNL has launched a new entrepreneurial start-up program, Safari, as an addition to DOE's Office of Technology Transitions Practices to Accelerate the Commercialization of Technologies program. Safari seeks to connect post-exit entrepreneurs with commercially relevant technologies developed by world-leading scientific experts, which could provide the basis for a new business.
With automated treatment, affordable water from nontraditional sources can flow to underserved communities
Researchers at ORNL are developing advanced automation techniques for desalination and water treatment plants, enabling them to save while providing affordable drinking water to small, parched communities without high-quality water supplies.
OLCF to host 19th annual user meeting in October
The Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility, a Department of Energy Office of Science user facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will host its 19th annual user meeting on Oct. 17-18, 2023.
Wang receives Ecological Society of America Early Career Award
Yaoping Wang, postdoctoral research associate at ORNL, has received an Early Career Award from the Asian Ecology Section, or AES, of the Ecological Society of America.
Karnowski, Johnson named chair, vice chair of East Tennessee section of IEEE
Tom Karnowski and Jordan Johnson of ORNL have been named chair and vice chair, respectively, of the East Tennessee section of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, or IEEE.
US Air Force Academy cadet participates in ORNL-based air sampling study
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 09/05/2023 - 08:17
Cadet Elyse Wages, a rising junior at the United States Air Force Academy, visited the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory with one goal in mind: collect air.
- Read more about US Air Force Academy cadet participates in ORNL-based air sampling study
Mukherjee elevated to senior member of IEEE
Subho Mukherjee, an R&D associate in the Vehicle Power Electronics Research group at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been elevated to the grade of senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
Kidder receives American Chemical Society’s 2023 Mid-Career Award
Michelle Kidder, a senior R&D staff scientist at ORNL, has received the American Chemical Society’s Energy and Fuels Division’s Mid-Career Award for sustained and distinguished contributions to the field of energy and fuel chemistry.
Air leak detection system visualizes building drafts with the click of a camera
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have created a new detection system that allows home energy auditors to see air leaking from a building in real time with the help of a camera.
Exascale drives industry innovation for a better future
Outside the high-performance computing, or HPC, community, exascale may seem more like fodder for science fiction than a powerful tool for scientific research. Yet, when seen through the lens of real-world applications, exascale computing goes from ethereal concept to tangible reality with exceptional benefits.
Artificial intelligence research must remain an American priority
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 08/30/2023 - 11:40
Experts at the Department of Energy’s national laboratories are working with university and industry partners to improve machine learning and deep learning by reducing costs and times to solution. And as AI systems become increasingly integral to critical decision-making processes and more deeply integrated into research workflows, ensuring their reliability and accuracy is more important than ever.
- Read more about Artificial intelligence research must remain an American priority
Quantum study peers within sensing at the nanoscale
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/30/2023 - 09:00
A new nanoscience study led by a researcher at ORNL takes a big-picture look at how scientists study materials at the smallest scales.
- Read more about Quantum study peers within sensing at the nanoscale
ZEISS and ORNL sign licensing agreement for inspection of 3D-printed parts
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/29/2023 - 14:02 * Read more about ZEISS and ORNL sign licensing agreement for inspection of 3D-printed parts
Madhavi Martin: Shedding light on natural processes
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 08/29/2023 - 12:36
Madhavi Martin brings a physicist’s tools and perspective to biological and environmental research at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, supporting advances in bioenergy, soil carbon storage and environmental monitoring, and even helping solve a murder mystery.
- Read more about Madhavi Martin: Shedding light on natural processes
Distinguished researcher joins prestigious group for women leaders in nuclear sector
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/28/2023 - 12:45
Rose Montgomery, a distinguished researcher and leader of the Used Fuel and Nuclear Material Disposition group at ORNL, has been selected to participate in the U.S. WIN Nuclear Executives of Tomorrow, or NEXT, class of 2023 to 2024.
- Read more about Distinguished researcher joins prestigious group for women leaders in nuclear sector
Mike Huettel: Holistic approach to cybersecurity
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/28/2023 - 10:13
Mike Huettel is a cyber technical professional. He also recently completed the 6-month Cyber Warfare Technician course for the United States Army, where he learned technical and tactical proficiency leadership in operations throughout the cyber domain.
- Read more about Mike Huettel: Holistic approach to cybersecurity
INTERSECT launches autonomous ‘labs of the future’
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 08/24/2023 - 13:54
Autonomous labs are changing the nature of scientific investigation. Instead of humans manually orchestrating every part of an experiment, programmed equipment can carry out necessary functions. This workflow accelerates the pace of discovery by reducing the number of monotonous tasks that researchers must perform.
- Read more about INTERSECT launches autonomous ‘labs of the future’
ORNL wins six R&D 100 research awards
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/23/2023 - 09:30
Technologies developed by researchers at ORNL have received six 2023 R&D 100 Awards.
- Read more about ORNL wins six R&D 100 research awards
Nearly 100 next-gen scientists intern with biologists, environmental scientists at ORNL
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 08/22/2023 - 13:42 * Read more about Nearly 100 next-gen scientists intern with biologists, environmental scientists at ORNL
ORNL demonstrates power of new modeling approach to understand faults in the modern electric grid
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 08/22/2023 - 10:10
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are leading the way in understanding the effects of electrical faults in the modern U.S. power grid.
- Read more about ORNL demonstrates power of new modeling approach to understand faults in the modern electric grid
Koyanagi receives TMS Frontiers of Materials award
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 08/18/2023 - 08:56
Takaaki Koyanagi, an R&D staff member in the Materials Science and Technology Division of ORNL, has received the TMS Frontiers of Materials award.
- Read more about Koyanagi receives TMS Frontiers of Materials award
Big science reaches young minds
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 08/16/2023 - 13:17
A group at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory made a difference for local youth through hands-on projects that connected neutron science and engineering intuitively.
- Read more about Big science reaches young minds
Long-lived quantum state points the way to solving a mystery in radioactive nuclei
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/16/2023 - 09:00
Timothy Gray of ORNL led a study that may have revealed an unexpected change in the shape of an atomic nucleus. The surprise finding could affect our understanding of what holds nuclei together, how protons and neutrons interact and how elements form.
- Read more about Long-lived quantum state points the way to solving a mystery in radioactive nuclei
Maldonado to receive 2023 HENAAC Most Promising Engineer Award
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/15/2023 - 15:46
Bryan Maldonado, a dynamic systems and controls researcher at ORNL, has been recognized by the 2023 Hispanic Engineer National Achievements Awards Conference, or HENAAC, with the Most Promising Engineer Award.
- Read more about Maldonado to receive 2023 HENAAC Most Promising Engineer Award
Nuclear engineer uses machine learning on weapons testing images to understand fallout
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/15/2023 - 08:57
Cody Lloyd became a nuclear engineer because of his interest in the Manhattan Project, the United States’ mission to advance nuclear science to end World War II. As a research associate in nuclear forensics at ORNL, Lloyd now teaches computers to interpret data from imagery of nuclear weapons tests from the 1950s and early 1960s, bringing his childhood fascination into his career
- Read more about Nuclear engineer uses machine learning on weapons testing images to understand fallout
Neutrons prove ‘Bond villain’ did not cause Arecibo telescope collapse
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/14/2023 - 12:48
For more than half a century, the 1,000-foot-diameter spherical reflector dish at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico was the largest radio telescope in the world. Completed in 1963, the dish was built in a natural sinkhole, with the telescope’s feed antenna suspended 500 feet above the dish on a 1.8-million-pound steel platform. Three concrete towers and more than 4 miles of steel cables supported the platform.
- Read more about Neutrons prove ‘Bond villain’ did not cause Arecibo telescope collapse
Neutrons seek to stop cancer from hijacking a metabolic highway
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/14/2023 - 08:50
After a highly lauded research campaign that successfully redesigned a hepatitis C drug into one of the leading drug treatments for COVID-19, scientists at ORNL are now turning their drug design approach toward cancer.
- Read more about Neutrons seek to stop cancer from hijacking a metabolic highway
Two ORNL buildings researchers earn top ASHRAE honors
cramerbn@ornl.gov Thu, 08/10/2023 - 16:03
Kashif Nawaz and Mahabir Bhandari, building technologies researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, were recognized for research achievements in support of ASHRAE during the 2023 annual conference.
- Read more about Two ORNL buildings researchers earn top ASHRAE honors
Decarbonizing industry
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 08/10/2023 - 14:00
ORNL researchers have developed a training camp to help manufacturing industries reduce energy-related carbon dioxide emissions and improve cost savings.
- Read more about Decarbonizing industry
Mirko Musa: Rescuing rivers — and the world — with help from water power
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/08/2023 - 09:48
Mirko Musa spent his childhood zigzagging his bike along the Po River. The Po, Italy’s longest river, cuts through a lush valley of grain and vegetable fields, which look like a green and gold ocean spreading out from the river’s banks.
- Read more about Mirko Musa: Rescuing rivers — and the world — with help from water power
Microalgae vs. mercury
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 08/08/2023 - 09:05
In the search for ways to fight methylmercury in global waterways, scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory discovered that some forms of phytoplankton are good at degrading the potent neurotoxin.
- Read more about Microalgae vs. mercury
Recycling revival: Jonathan Harter’s initiative brings creative problem-solving to EV battery recycling
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/08/2023 - 09:00
After being stabilized in an ambulance as he struggled to breathe, Jonathan Harter hit a low point. It was 2020, he was very sick with COVID-19, and his job as a lab technician at ORNL was ending along with his research funding.
- Read more about Recycling revival: Jonathan Harter’s initiative brings creative problem-solving to EV battery recycling
ORNL, UT’s Spark Cleantech Accelerator partner to support entrepreneurs
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 08/07/2023 - 08:59
Entrepreneur-fellows in Innovation Crossroads will complete the Spark Cleantech Accelerator, a 12-week program offered by the Spark Innovation Center at the UT Research Park.
- Read more about ORNL, UT’s Spark Cleantech Accelerator partner to support entrepreneurs
Five ORNL scientists to receive DOE Early Career Research awards
cramerbn@ornl.gov Fri, 08/04/2023 - 10:52
Since its inception in 2010, the program bolsters national scientific discovery by supporting early career researchers in fields pertaining to the Office of Science.
- Read more about Five ORNL scientists to receive DOE Early Career Research awards
Quantum Science Center hosts students from University of Tennessee
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 08/03/2023 - 15:17
Quantum computing sits on the cutting edge of scientific discovery. Given its novelty, the next generation of researchers will contribute significantly to the advancement of the field. However, this new crop of scientists must first be cultivated.
- Read more about Quantum Science Center hosts students from University of Tennessee
Quantum experts gather for fourth annual Quantum Computing User Forum at ORNL
cramerbn@ornl.gov Thu, 08/03/2023 - 13:38
For the first time since 2019, the Quantum Computing User Forum welcomed attendees for an in-person gathering at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory from July 17 to 20. Hosted by the Quantum Computing Institute and the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility, the fourth annual event brought together over 100 attendees to discuss the latest developments in quantum computing and to learn about results from projects supported by the OLCF’s Quantum Computing User Program.
- Read more about Quantum experts gather for fourth annual Quantum Computing User Forum at ORNL
Scientists dig into wildfire predictions, long-term impacts
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/02/2023 - 12:59
Wildfires are an ancient force shaping the environment, but they have grown in frequency, range and intensity in response to a changing climate. At ORNL, scientists are working on several fronts to better understand and predict these events and what they mean for the carbon cycle and biodiversity.
- Read more about Scientists dig into wildfire predictions, long-term impacts
$100,000 gift from UT-Battelle to launch nuclear technology program at Roane State pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/02/2023 - 12:39 * Read more about $100,000 gift from UT-Battelle to launch nuclear technology program at Roane State
Seven entrepreneurs join Innovation Crossroads seventh cohort
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Wed, 08/02/2023 - 09:32
Seven entrepreneurs will embark on a two-year fellowship as the seventh cohort of Innovation Crossroads kicks off this month at ORNL. Representing a range of transformative energy technologies, Cohort 7 is a diverse class of innovators with promising new companies.
- Read more about Seven entrepreneurs join Innovation Crossroads seventh cohort
ORNL researcher, team received honors for advanced alloy development with industry
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/02/2023 - 09:00
Dean Pierce of ORNL and a research team led by ORNL’s Alex Plotkowski were honored by DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office for development of novel high-performance alloys that can withstand extreme environments.
- Read more about ORNL researcher, team received honors for advanced alloy development with industry
Polsky elected American Society of Mechanical Engineers Fellow
cramerbn@ornl.gov Mon, 07/31/2023 - 09:41
Yarom Polsky, director of the Manufacturing Science Division, or MSD, at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been elected a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or ASME.
- Read more about Polsky elected American Society of Mechanical Engineers Fellow
Improving wildfire predictions with Earth-scale climate models
cramerbn@ornl.gov Fri, 07/28/2023 - 13:56
Wildfires have shaped the environment for millennia, but they are increasing in frequency, range and intensity in response to a hotter climate. The phenomenon is being incorporated into high-resolution simulations of the Earth’s climate by scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, with a mission to better understand and predict environmental change.
- Read more about Improving wildfire predictions with Earth-scale climate models
Researchers use commercial quantum computer to identify molecular candidate for development of more efficient solar cells
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 07/28/2023 - 09:00
Using the full capabilities of the Quantinuum H1-1 quantum computer, researchers from ORNL not only demonstrated best practices for scientific computing on current quantum systems but also produced an intriguing scientific result.
- Read more about Researchers use commercial quantum computer to identify molecular candidate for development of more efficient solar cells
Stephen K. Streiffer named director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Thu, 07/27/2023 - 13:42
UT-Battelle has appointed Stephen K. Streiffer to be the next director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, joining the lab in October.
- Read more about Stephen K. Streiffer named director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Phelps teaches online college course to boost STEM success
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 07/27/2023 - 13:35
ORNL nuclear chemist Clarice Phelps has long worked to educate the next generation of STEM scientists. A new endeavor will let her reach students entering college who need extra help mastering the basics they need to pursue careers in science.
- Read more about Phelps teaches online college course to boost STEM success
Geoscientists aim to improve human security through planet-scale POI modeling
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 07/24/2023 - 12:34
When geoinformatics engineering researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory wanted to better understand changes in land areas and points of interest around the world, they turned to the locals — their data, at least.
- Read more about Geoscientists aim to improve human security through planet-scale POI modeling
Spallation Neutron Source accelerator achieves world-record 1.7-megawatt power level to enable more scientific discoveries
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Fri, 07/21/2023 - 11:13
The Spallation Neutron Source at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory set a world record when its particle accelerator beam operating power reached 1.7 megawatts, substantially improving on the facility’s original design capability.
- Read more about Spallation Neutron Source accelerator achieves world-record 1.7-megawatt power level to enable more scientific discoveries
‘Secret sauce’ enables new way to fabricate compositionally graded alloys pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 07/21/2023 - 07:46
Research into a new, unique technology to fabricate composite metal parts for a wide range of applications operating in extreme environments across the aviation, space and energy industries is showing promise for additive manufacturing.
- Read more about ‘Secret sauce’ enables new way to fabricate compositionally graded alloys
Dry manufacturing process offers path to cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 07/18/2023 - 11:45
Early experiments at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have revealed significant benefits to a dry battery manufacturing process. This eliminates the use of solvents and is more affordable, while showing promise for delivering a battery that is durable, less weighed down by inactive elements, and able to maintain a high capacity after use.
- Read more about Dry manufacturing process offers path to cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries
McCulley named IEEE senior member
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Mon, 07/17/2023 - 16:14
Jacob McCulley of the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been named a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, or IEEE, one of the world’s largest technical professional organizations.
- Read more about McCulley named IEEE senior member
Trillion-Pixel Challenge looks ahead to next decade of GeoAI innovation
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 07/14/2023 - 08:31
Experts across varied technology fields gathered ORNL to collaborate on the future of geospatial systems at the Trillion-Pixel GeoAI Challenge workshop. The third iteration of this event focused on multimodal advances in the field, including progress in artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, high-performance computing and remote sensing. These capabilities, when combined, can help solve problems in national and human security such as disaster response and land-use planning.
- Read more about Trillion-Pixel Challenge looks ahead to next decade of GeoAI innovation
Scientists use ORNL’s Summit supercomputer to learn how cicada wings kill bacteria
cramerbn@ornl.gov Thu, 07/13/2023 - 14:36 * Read more about Scientists use ORNL’s Summit supercomputer to learn how cicada wings kill bacteria
Air Force Weather-funded research aims to improve predictability of extreme weather pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 07/11/2023 - 09:00
As extreme weather devastates communities worldwide, scientists are using modeling and simulation to understand how climate change impacts the frequency and intensity of these events. Although long-term climate projections and models are important, they are less helpful for short-term prediction of extreme weather that may rapidly displace thousands of people or require emergency aid.
- Read more about Air Force Weather-funded research aims to improve predictability of extreme weather
Georgia State researchers use ORNL supercomputer to gain new insights into DNA repair
cramerbn@ornl.gov Fri, 07/07/2023 - 10:26
Transcription factor IIH is a veritable workhorse among the protein complexes that regulate human cell activity, playing critical roles both in synthesizing DNA and in enabling DNA repair. But how can one protein assembly participate in two such vastly different jobs? A team of researchers led by chemistry professor Ivaylo Ivanov of Georgia State University used the Summit supercomputer at ORNL to tackle that question.
- Read more about Georgia State researchers use ORNL supercomputer to gain new insights into DNA repair
Saubhagya Rathore: Divining manmade infrastructure impacts on watersheds
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 07/06/2023 - 13:09
Growing up exploring the parklands of India where Rudyard Kipling drew inspiration for The Jungle Book left Saubhagya Rathore with a deep respect and curiosity about the natural world. He later turned that interest into a career in environmental science and engineering, and today he is working at ORNL to improve our understanding of watersheds for better climate prediction and resilience.
- Read more about Saubhagya Rathore: Divining manmade infrastructure impacts on watersheds
California researchers use ORNL supercomputer Summit to investigate a mystery of the cosmos: dark matter
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 07/05/2023 - 15:26
A research team from the University of California, Santa Cruz, have used the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s Summit supercomputer to run one of the most complete cosmological models yet to probe the properties of dark matter.
- Read more about California researchers use ORNL supercomputer Summit to investigate a mystery of the cosmos: dark matter
Yakubov named IEEE senior member
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 06/30/2023 - 12:44
Sergey Yakubov of tORNL has been named a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
- Read more about Yakubov named IEEE senior member
JungHyun Bae, Wigner Fellow, uses fundamental particles to probe nuclear material
cramerbn@ornl.gov Fri, 06/30/2023 - 10:07
JungHyun Bae is a nuclear scientist studying applications of particles that have some beneficial properties: They are everywhere, they are unlimited, they are safe.
- Read more about JungHyun Bae, Wigner Fellow, uses fundamental particles to probe nuclear material
Neutrons look inside working solid-state battery to discover its key to success
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 06/28/2023 - 13:13
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory were the first to use neutron reflectometry to peer inside a working solid-state battery and monitor its electrochemistry.
- Read more about Neutrons look inside working solid-state battery to discover its key to success
Exascale blastoff: Early users helped launch Frontier to success
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 06/28/2023 - 09:00
With the world’s first exascale supercomputer now fully open for scientific business, researchers can thank the early users who helped get the machine up to speed.
- Read more about Exascale blastoff: Early users helped launch Frontier to success
US-Japan fusion materials collaboration marks 40 years of progress
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 06/27/2023 - 09:11
Creating energy the way the sun and stars do — through nuclear fusion — is one of the grand challenges facing science and technology. What’s easy for the sun and its billions of relatives turns out to be particularly difficult on Earth.
- Read more about US-Japan fusion materials collaboration marks 40 years of progress
Making the switch: Lab innovates for the electric grid’s smallest components
cramerbn@ornl.gov Tue, 06/27/2023 - 08:00
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are supporting the grid by improving its smallest building blocks: power modules that act as digital switches.
- Read more about Making the switch: Lab innovates for the electric grid’s smallest components
Kenneth Herwig: Right on target for 25 years in neutron science
cramerbn@ornl.gov Mon, 06/26/2023 - 15:22
Kenneth Herwig's scientific drive crystallized in his youth when he solved a tough algebra word problem in his head while tossing newspapers from his bicycle. He said the joy he felt in that moment as a teenager fueled his determination to conquer mathematical mysteries. And he did.
- Read more about Kenneth Herwig: Right on target for 25 years in neutron science
Showcase event to highlight new inventions for commercialization
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Wed, 06/21/2023 - 14:53
Scientist-inventors from ORNL will present seven new technologies during the Technology Innovation Showcase on Friday, July 14, from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Joint Institute for Computational Sciences on ORNL’s campus.
- Read more about Showcase event to highlight new inventions for commercialization
Novel way to manipulate exotic materials
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/20/2023 - 12:00
An advance in a topological insulator material — whose interior behaves like an electrical insulator but whose surface behaves like a conductor — could revolutionize the fields of next-generation electronics and quantum computing, according to scientists at ORNL.
- Read more about Novel way to manipulate exotic materials
High-tech pavement markers support autonomous driving in tough conditions, remote areas
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/20/2023 - 09:00
Working with Western Michigan University and other partners, ORNL engineers are placing low-powered sensors in the reflective raised pavement markers that are already used to help drivers identify lanes. Microchips inside the markers transmit information to passing cars about the road shape to help autonomous driving features function even when vehicle cameras or remote laser sensing, called LiDAR, are unreliable because of fog, snow, glare or other obstructions.
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GE Aerospace runs one of the world’s largest supercomputer simulations to test revolutionary new open fan engine architecture
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 06/19/2023 - 09:00
To support the development of a revolutionary new open fan engine architecture for the future of flight, GE Aerospace has run simulations using the world’s fastest supercomputer capable of crunching data in excess of exascale speed, or more than a quintillion calculations per second.
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Gearhart named director of ORNL’s Environment, Safety, Health and Quality Directorate
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 06/14/2023 - 07:47
John Gearhart has been named director of the Environment, Safety, Health and Quality Directorate at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, effective June 19.
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Visionary report unveils ambitious roadmap to harness the power of AI in scientific discovery
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/13/2023 - 12:13
Innovations in artificial intelligence are rapidly shaping our world, from virtual assistants and chatbots to self-driving cars and automated manufacturing.
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Summit study fathoms troubled waters of ocean turbulence
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/13/2023 - 09:14
Simulations performed on the Summit supercomputer at ORNL revealed new insights into the role of turbulence in mixing fluids and could open new possibilities for projecting climate change and studying fluid dynamics.
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Quantum Science Center hosts first in-person all-hands meeting
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/13/2023 - 08:43
In late May, the Quantum Science Center convened its first in-person all-hands meeting since the center was established in 2020. More than 120 QSC members gathered in Nashville, Tennessee to discuss the center’s operations, research and overarching scientific aims.
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Good vibrations: Seismic science draws clearer picture of clean energy
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 06/12/2023 - 08:04
Like most scientists, Chengping Chai is not content with the surface of things: He wants to probe beyond to learn what’s really going on. But in his case, he is literally building a map of the world beneath, using seismic and acoustic data that reveal when and where the earth moves.
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New approach ‘stacks’ genes for faster plant transformation
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 06/08/2023 - 13:30
In a discovery aimed at accelerating the development of process-advantaged crops for jet biofuels, scientists at ORNL developed a capability to insert multiple genes into plants in a single step.
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David receives Joining and Welding Science Award
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 06/07/2023 - 14:41
Stan David, retired scientist and Corporate Fellow Emeritus at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was awarded the Joining and Welding Science Award from the Joining and Welding Research Institute at Osaka University, Japan.
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Superlubricity coating could reduce economic losses from friction, wear
cramerbn@ornl.gov Wed, 06/07/2023 - 10:51
Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have invented a coating that could dramatically reduce friction in common load-bearing systems with moving parts, from vehicle drive trains to wind and hydroelectric turbines. It reduces the friction of steel rubbing on steel at least a hundredfold. The novel ORNL coating could
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Navigating the crossroads: Mali Balasubramanian takes a new path for battery research
Having passed the midpoint of his career, physicist Mali Balasubramanian was part of a tight-knit team at a premier research facility for X-ray spectroscopy. But then another position opened, at ORNL— one that would take him in a new direction.
Direct air capture technology licensed to Knoxville-based Holocene
An innovative and sustainable chemistry developed at ORNL for capturing carbon dioxide from air has been licensed to Holocene, a Knoxville-based startup focused on designing and building plants that remove carbon dioxide from atmospheric air.
Quantum Science Center members teach, learn at third summer school
For the third year in a row, the Quantum Science Center held its signature workforce development event: a comprehensive summer school for students and early-career scientists designed to facilitate conversations and hands-on activities related to multiple areas of quantum research.
Advincula receives Netzsch NATAS Fellows Award
Rigoberto Advincula, a renowned scientist at ORNL and professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Tennessee, has won the Netzsch North American Thermal Analysis Society Fellows Award for 2023.
Partnership offers direct career path from Pellissippi State to ORNLbumpuskl@ornl.govThu, 06/01/2023 - 13:37
It’s official: A partnership between Pellissippi State Community College and Oak Ridge National Laboratory is set to bring new career options to students and a stronger workforce to the national lab.
On May 31, representatives from the college and the U.S. Department of Energy’s ORNL signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the new Chemical Radiation Technology pathway, an option within Pellissippi State’s multidisciplinary Associate of Applied Science in General Technology degree.
LLNL’s Diachin takes helm of DOE’s Exascale Computing Project
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s Lori Diachin will take over as director of the Department of Energy’s Exascale Computing Project on June 1, guiding the successful, multi-institutional high-performance computing effort through its final stages.
Mukherjee recognized for exceptional refereeing in peer review
ORNL’s Debangshu Mukherjee has been named an npj Computational Materials “Reviewer of the Year.”
Jerry Parks: Solving protein puzzles for better environmental, human health
When reading the novel Jurassic Park as a teenager, Jerry Parks found the passages about gene sequencing and supercomputers fascinating, but never imagined he might someday pursue such futuristic-sounding science.
Farragut High graduate Nia Maheshwari receives UT-Battelle Scholarship
Nia Maheshwari, a recent graduate of Farragut High School, has been named recipient of the 2023 UT-Battelle Scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee.
ORNL establishes Seaborg initiative for study of actinides
Oak Ridge National Laboratory joins four other national laboratories — Idaho, Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore and Lawrence Berkeley — that have institutes named after nuclear chemist and Nobel Prize winner Glenn T. Seaborg. The ORNL Glenn T. Seaborg Initiative will serve as a center for actinide science, facilitating global leadership through the performance of cutting-edge research, national and international collaboration, and the training of the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Ordering ions: ORNL study inches toward answer on power source origins
A study led by researchers at ORNL could uncover new ways to produce more powerful, longer-lasting batteries and memory devices.
RSICC, ORNL’s longest running institution, observes 60th anniversary
John Glenn launched into orbit, Marvel launched Spider-Man, NASA launched its first communications satellite, Bob Dylan launched “Blowin’ in the Wind,” the world was launched into a missile crisis, and the atomic age entered into its teenage years.
Sieger selected to lead ORNL's next supercomputer, OLCF-6
The Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s Matt Sieger has been named the project director for the OLCF-6 effort. This next OLCF undertaking will plan and build a world-class successor to the OLCF’s still-new exascale system, Frontier.
The NCCS’s operational orchestrator of high-performance computing: Ashley Barker
At the National Center for Computational Sciences, Ashley Barker enjoys one of the least complicated–sounding job titles at ORNL: section head of operations. But within that seemingly ordinary designation lurks a multitude of demanding roles as she oversees the complete user experience for NCCS computer systems.
Transforming plants into allies in the fight against climate change
Nature-based solutions are an effective tool to combat climate change triggered by rising carbon emissions, whether it’s by clearing the skies with bio-based aviation fuels or boosting natural carbon sinks.
Element creation in the lab deepens understanding of neutron stars
Led by Kelly Chipps of ORNL, scientists working in the lab have produced a signature nuclear reaction that occurs on the surface of a neutron star gobbling mass from a companion star. Their achievement improves understanding of stellar processes generating diverse nuclear isotopes.
Kao named fellow of American Society of Civil Engineers’ Environmental & Water Resources Institute
Shih-Chieh Kao, manager of the Water Power program at ORNL, has been named a fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineer’s Environmental & Water Resources Institute, or EWRI.
Restrepo selected as VC for new international diversity, advocacy group
Juan M. Restrepo, a distinguished researcher and head of the Mathematics in Computation section at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named vice-chair of the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics' new Activity Group on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. SIAM is one of the world’s premier societies for mathematics and computational sciences.
Exascale-level simulation toolkit advances state-of-the-art nuclear reactor design
As renewable sources of energy such as wind and sun power are being increasingly added to the country’s electrical grid, old-fashioned nuclear energy is also being primed for a resurgence.
Early Frontier users seize exascale advantage, grapple with grand scientific challenges
With the world’s first exascale supercomputing system now open to full user operations, research teams are harnessing Frontier’s power and speed to tackle some of the most challenging problems in modern science.
Learning with the flow: GE study on Summit could lead to cleaner, greener jet flights
The bigger the swirl, the bigger the problem — and the bigger the computing power needed to solve it.
High schoolers weave a Webb of quantum connections
In mid-April, students from Webb School of Knoxville taking an advanced science class that focuses on quantum computing topics visited the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory to tour its world-class facilities and discover the many career paths available in the ever-growing field of quantum information science.
Firsthand fieldwork: ORNL scientists establish monitoring in at-risk coastal ecosystem
As a biogeochemist at ORNL, Matthew Berens studies how carbon, nutrients and minerals move through water and soil. In this firsthand account, Berens describes recent fieldwork in Louisiana with colleagues.
New ORNL study first to compare quantum computers
Researchers used Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Quantum Computing User Program to perform the first independent comparison test of leading quantum computers.
Iversen named director of next-gen Arctic ecosystem project
Colleen Iversen, ecosystem ecologist, group leader and distinguished staff scientist, has been named director of the Next-Generation Ecosystem Experiments Arctic, or NGEE Arctic, a multi-institutional project studying permafrost thaw and other climate-related processes in Alaska.
Zarkadoula named guest editor at JOM
Eva Zarkadoula, an R&D staff member at ORNL's Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, has been named guest editor in a special issue on "Interface Engineering and Property Functionalization" for JOM.
Generations of separation: EMIS keeps improving
ORNL’s electromagnetic isotope separator, or EMIS, made history in 2018 when it produced 500 milligrams of the rare isotope ruthenium-96, unavailable anywhere else in the world. And EMIS technology just keeps getting better, said Brian Egle, who heads the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division’s Stable Isotope Research, Development and Production Section. “It’s capable of, essentially, separating the whole periodic table,” he said.
Inventor Saito honored at Battelle Celebration of Solvers
Tomonori Saito, a distinguished innovator in the field of polymer science and senior R&D staff member at ORNL, was honored on May 11 in Columbus, Ohio, at Battelle’s Celebration of Solvers.
Chipps appointed to federal Nuclear Science Advisory Committee
Kelly Chipps, a nuclear astrophysicist at ORNL, has been appointed to the Nuclear Science Advisory Committee, or NSAC. The committee provides official advice to DOE and the National Science Foundation, or NSF, about issues relating to the national program for basic nuclear science research.
Abston, manager of Frontier and Summit data centers, named best of the year
Paul Abston, leader of the HPC Infrastructure Operations Group of the National Center for Computational Sciences and manager of the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s data center, has been named Data Center Manager of the Year for 2023.
The copper key to more efficient biomass breakdown
Nonfood, plant-based biofuels have potential as a green alternative to fossil fuels, but the enzymes required for production are too inefficient and costly to produce. However, new research is shining a light on enzymes from fungi that could make biofuels economically viable.
Campbell honored as Emerging Professional by ASTM
Anne Campbell, an R&D associate at ORNL, has been selected for an Emerging Professional award from ASTM International. ASTM, formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials, is an international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems and services.
Clearing the runway
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists led the development of a supply chain model revealing the optimal places to site farms, biorefineries, pipelines and other infrastructure for sustainable aviation fuel production.
Jack Dongarra elected to National Academy of Sciences
Computing pioneer Jack Dongarra has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences in recognition of his distinguished and continuing achievements in original research.
Teletrix licenses methods for ionizing radiation training using augmented reality
A method using augmented reality to create accurate visual representations of ionizing radiation, developed at ORNL, has been licensed by Teletrix, a firm that creates advanced simulation tools to train the nation’s radiation control workforce.
Squeezing data from a diamond sandwich
For decades, scientists sought a way to apply the outstanding analytical capabilities of neutrons to materials under pressures approaching those surrounding the Earth’s core.
Speedy composite manufacturing
An ORNL-developed advanced manufacturing technology was recently licensed by Orbital Composites and enables the rapid production of composite-based components, which could accelerate the decarbonization of vehicles, airplanes and drones.
ORNL celebrates 80th anniversary, unveils International Hall representing diversity
ORNL leadership and staff gathered at the lab’s main campus in Oak Ridge, Tenn., on April 27 to dedicate a renovated International Hall of flags and unveil new displays reflecting the lab’s rich 80-year history.
Cybersecurity goes undercover to protect electric grid data
Inspired by one of the mysteries of human perception, an ORNL researcher invented a new way to hide sensitive electric grid information from cyberattack: Within a constantly-changing color palette.
ORNL, UMaine 3D print home from biobased materials, develop blueprint for rapid manufacturing
On the grounds of the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center sits the nation’s first additively manufactured home made entirely from biobased materials - BioHome3D.
Yu takes on three prestigious editorial roles
Xiao-Ying Yu, a distinguished scientist in the Materials Science and Technology Division of the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has recently been chosen for several prominent editorial roles.
Simulating a more detailed universe with Frontier
A trio of new and improved cosmological simulation codes was unveiled in a series of presentations at the annual April Meeting of the American Physical Society in Minneapolis.
Cooper appointed to DOE’s Basic Energy Sciences Advisory Committee
Valentino “Tino” Cooper, a scientist at ORNL, has been appointed to DOE’s Basic Energy Sciences Advisory Committee for a three-year term. Cooper’s research elucidates the fundamental understanding of advanced materials for next-generation energy and information technologies.
Yue Yuan, Weinberg Research Fellow, uses nature to create sustainable materials
Growing up in China, Yue Yuan stood beneath the world’s largest hydroelectric dam, built to harness the world’s third-longest river. Her father brought her to Three Gorges Dam every year as it was being constructed across the Yangtze River so she could witness its progress.
ORNL’s Robert Wagner receives 2023 SAE Medal of Honor
SAE International has awarded ORNLy Buildings and Transportation Science Division Director Robert Wagner with the SAE Medal of Honor for his dedication and support of the organization’s mission of advancing mobility solutions.
ORNL’s Lupini elected fellow of the Microscopy Society of America
Andrew Lupini, a scientist and inventor at ORNL, has been elected Fellow of the Microscopy Society of America.
Sudershan Gangrade: Analyzing a flood of data to prepare for climate change
Climate change often comes down to how it affects water, whether it’s for drinking, electricity generation, or how flooding affects people and infrastructure. To better understand these impacts, ORNL water resources engineer Sudershan Gangrade is integrating knowledge ranging from large-scale climate projections to local meteorology and hydrology and using high-performance computing to create a holistic view of the future.
Study seeks to define quantum compression
A study led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers identifies a new potential application in quantum computing that could be part of the next computational revolution.
Dixit receives 2023 Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award
Marm Dixit, a Weinberg Distinguished Staff Fellow at ORNL has received the 2023 Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award.
Deep learning–based data analysis software by ORNL promises to accelerate materials research
Researchers at ORNL have developed a machine-learning inspired software package that provides end-to-end image analysis of electron and scanning probe microscopy images.
Protein domain common to plants and animals plays role in COVID-19 infection
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists exploring bioenergy plant genetics have made a surprising discovery: a protein domain that could lead to new COVID-19 treatments.
Location intelligence shines a light on disinformation
Using disinformation to create political instability and battlefield confusion dates back millennia. However, today’s disinformation actors use social media to amplify disinformation that users knowingly or, more often, unknowingly perpetuate. Such disinformation spreads quickly, threatening public health and safety. Indeed, the COVID-19 pandemic and recent global elections have given the world a front-row seat to this form of modern warfare.
Wang named IEEE senior member
Xiao Wang, a research scientist at ORNL, has been named a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the world’s largest organization for technical professionals. Wang works in the lab’s Computing and Computational Sciences Directorate’s Advanced Computing for Health Sciences Section.
ORNL, NOAA launch new supercomputer for climate science research
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is launching a new supercomputer dedicated to climate science research. The new system is the fifth supercomputer to be installed and run by the National Climate-Computing Research Center at ORNL.
Andrew Ullman, Wigner Fellow, gets a charge out of batteries
Andrew Ullman, Distinguished Staff Fellow at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is using chemistry to devise a better battery
Tax credit tool tracks EV savings
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers have developed an online resource to help consumers understand the electric vehicle tax credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act.
Craig Blue joins the IACMI Consortium Council
Craig Blue, Defense Manufacturing Program Director at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was recently elected to a two-year term on the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation Consortium Council, a body of professionals from academia, state governments, and national laboratories that provides strategic direction and oversight to IACMI.
Andrea Delgado unites fundamental, high energy physics with quantum computingpearcejw@ornl.govMon, 04/10/2023 - 09:00
Andrea Delgado is looking for elementary particles that seem so abstract, there appears to be no obvious short-term benefit to her research.
Phil Snyder: Helping to bring fusion down from the stars
When virtually unlimited energy from fusion becomes a reality on Earth, Phil Snyder and his team will have had a hand in making it happen.
ORNL names Parks director of Computer Science and Mathematics Division
ORNL has named Michael Parks director of the Computer Science and Mathematics Division within ORNL’s Computing and Computational Sciences Directorate. His hiring became effective March 13.
SUPER technology manages intelligent building blocks for a more reliable electric grid
Researchers at ORNL are helping modernize power management and enhance reliability in an increasingly complex electric grid.
50 years after NASA’s Apollo mission, moon rocks still have secrets to reveal
How did we get from stardust to where we are today? That’s the question NASA scientist Andrew Needham has pondered his entire career.
ORNL’s Lee named Materials Research Society Fellow
Ho Nyung Lee, a condensed matter physicist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been elected a Fellow of the Materials Research Society.
Wade named associate lab director for Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directoratepearcejw@ornl.govThu, 03/30/2023 - 08:20
Mickey Wade has been named associate laboratory director for the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, effective April 1.
Brenden Ortiz, Wigner Fellow, is living his dream and discovering new materials
For as long as he could remember, Brenden Ortiz wanted to do only one thing. “My childhood dream was to be a scientist. All I wanted to do was tinker in a lab like a pure scientist,” Ortiz said.
Pellissippi State, ORNL partner for new pathway to chemical radiation career
A series of new classes at Pellissippi State Community College will offer students a new career path — and a national laboratory a pipeline of workers who have the skills needed for its own rapidly growing programs.
ORNL-led team designs molecule to disrupt SARS-CoV-2 infection
A team of scientists led by the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory designed a molecule that disrupts the infection mechanism of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and could be used to develop new treatments for COVID-19 and other viral diseases.
Research fellow Jeff Foster investigates ways to create designer molecules
Chemist Jeff Foster is looking for ways to control sequencing in polymers that could result in designer molecules to benefit a variety of industries, including medicine and energy.
It’s back to school for ORNL engineers during Engineers Week
Nine engineers from ORNL visited 10 elementary and middle school classrooms in three school districts during National Engineers Week, Feb. 21 to 24, 2023, describing and demonstrating the excitement of the engineering profession to more than 300 Tennessee students.
Modernizing a century-old power giant
A new report published by ORNL assessed how advanced manufacturing and materials, such as 3D printing and novel component coatings, could offer solutions to modernize the existing fleet and design new approaches to hydropower.
Chemist’s formula for change helps disadvantaged kids dream big
A chemist from Oak Ridge National Laboratory attracted national attention when her advocacy for science education made People magazine’s annual “Women Changing the World” issue.
History: Physicist Frances Pleasonton joined early ORNL studies of the neutron
The old photos show her casually writing data in a logbook with stacks of lead bricks nearby, or sealing a vacuum chamber with a wrench. ORNL researcher Frances Pleasonton was instrumental in some of the earliest explorations of the properties of the neutron as the X-10 Site was finding its postwar footing as a research lab.
Research team supports isostatic pressing for solid-state battery manufacturing
Following months of promising test results, battery researchers at ORNL are recommending that the solid-state battery industry focus on a technique known as isostatic pressing as it looks to commercialize next-generation batteries.
ORNL malware ‘vaccine’ generator licensed for Evasive.ai platform
A technology developed at ORNL and used by the U.S. Naval Information Warfare Systems Command, or NAVWAR, to test the capabilities of commercial security tools has been licensed to cybersecurity firm Penguin Mustache to create its Evasive.ai platform. The company was founded by the technology’s creator, former ORNL scientist Jared M. Smith, and his business partner, entrepreneur Brandon Bruce.
Eco-friendly foam insulates buildings without warming the globe
Scientists at ORNL developed a competitive, eco-friendly alternative made without harmful blowing agents.
ORNL and NETL researchers join forces to accelerate decarbonization
ORNL is teaming with the National Energy Technology Laboratory to jointly explore a range of technology innovations for carbon management and strategies for economic development and sustainable energy transitions in the Appalachian region.
‘Neutron camera’ method captures atomic-scale activity in a flash
Scientists have long sought to better understand the “local structure” of materials, meaning the arrangement and activities of the neighboring particles around each atom. In crystals, which are used in electronics and many other applications, most of the atoms form highly ordered lattice patterns that repeat. But not all atoms conform to the pattern.
Stephen Dahunsi: Fueling a nuclear future
Stephen Dahunsi’s desire to see more countries safely deploy nuclear energy is personal. Growing up in Nigeria, he routinely witnessed prolonged electricity blackouts as a result of unreliable energy supplies. It’s a problem he hopes future generations won’t have to experience.
Plant, microbe matchmaking for better bioenergy crops
ORNL researchers have identified specific proteins and amino acids that could control bioenergy plants’ ability to identify beneficial microbes that can enhance plant growth and storage of carbon in soils.
DOE funds next-generation Center for Bioenergy Innovation to advance renewable jet fuel
The Center for Bioenergy Innovation has been renewed by the Department of Energy as one of four bioenergy research centers across the nation to advance robust, economical production of plant-based fuels and chemicals.
Busby named associate lab director for Isotope Science and Engineering
Jeremy Busby has been named associate laboratory director for the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate at ORNL, effective April 1.
Adding up the geothermal benefits
A tool developed by ORNL researchers gives building owners and equipment manufacturers and installers an easy way to calculate the cost savings of a heating and cooling system that utilizes geothermal energy and emits no carbon.
Research team proves bacteria-killing viruses deploy genetic code-switching to deceive hosts
Scientists at ORNL have confirmed that bacteria-killing viruses called bacteriophages deploy a sneaky tactic when targeting their hosts: They use a standard genetic code when invading bacteria, then switch to an alternate code at later stages of infection.
Campbell named editor for special issue on women in nuclear engineering
Anne Campbell has been selected as a topical editor for a special issue of the journal Frontiers in Nuclear Engineering, titled “Women in Nuclear Engineering Research.”
Drones give bird’s-eye view for collecting environmental and security data
The Autonomous Systems group at ORNL is in high demand as it incorporates remote sensing into projects needing a bird’s-eye perspective.
Solar celebration energizes microgrid research
ORNL researchers Ben Ollis and Max Ferrari will be in Adjuntas to join the March 18 festivities but also to hammer out more technical details of their contribution to the project: making the microgrids even more reliable.
New ORNL partnership takes a deep look into plasma materials
ORNL has entered a strategic research partnership with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, or UKAEA, to investigate how different types of materials behave under the influence of high-energy neutron sources. The $4 million project is part of UKAEA's roadmap program, which aims to produce electricity from fusion.
Sutharshan named ORNL deputy for operations
Balendra Sutharshan has been named chief operating officer for Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He will begin serving as ORNL’s deputy for operations and as executive vice president, operations, for UT-Battelle LLC effective April 1.
A wise tool for modifying microbes
A DNA editing tool adapted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists makes engineering microbes for everything from bioenergy production to plastics recycling easier and faster.
WPTO Spotlights ORNL Water Power Projects
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) recently highlighted several ORNL water power projects in its recently released its 2021-2022 Accomplishments Report.
Alice Perrin spills the beans about alloys
Alice Perrin is passionate about scientific research, but also beans — as in legumes.
Neutrons reveal how the spider lily preys on cancer, preserves healthy cells
A scientific instrument at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory could help create a noninvasive cancer treatment derived from a common tropical plant.
Researchers publish ‘final word’ on Majorana Demonstrator
For nearly six years, the Majorana Demonstrator quietly listened to the universe. Nearly a mile underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility, or SURF, in Lead, South Dakota, the experiment collected data that could answer one of the most perplexing questions in physics: Why is the universe filled with something instead of nothing?
University-ORNL collaborations broaden student environmental research opportunities
Environmental scientists at ORNL have recently expanded collaborations with minority-serving institutions and historically Black colleges and universities across the nation to broaden the experiences and skills of student scientists while bringing fresh insights to the national lab’s missions.
Joanna Tannous: Harnessing an unlikely climate challenge ally
Joanna Tannous has found the perfect organism to study to satisfy her deeply curious nature, her skills in biochemistry and genetics, and a drive to create solutions for a better world. The organism is a poorly understood life form that greatly influences its environment and is unique enough to deserve its own biological kingdom: fungi.
Spallation Neutron Source achieves record power to enable more discoveries
ORNL's Spallation Neutron Source set a world record when its linear accelerator reached an operating power of 1.55 megawatts, which improves on the facility’s original design capability.
Neutrons reveal key to extraordinary heat transport
Warming a crystal of the mineral fresnoite, ORNL scientists discovered that excitations called phasons carried heat three times farther and faster than phonons, the excitations that usually carry heat through a material.
DOE reports win prestigious tech comms awards
ORNL staff members played prominent roles in reports that won one Distinction award and two Excellence awards in the 2022 Alliance Competition of the Society for Technical Communication. PSD's Karren More and Bruce Moyer participated.
Add-on device makes home furnaces cleaner, safer and longer-lasting
Natural gas furnaces not only heat your home, they also produce a lot of pollution. Even modern high-efficiency condensing furnaces produce significant amounts of corrosive acidic condensation and unhealthy levels of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and methane. These emissions are typically vented into the atmosphere and end up polluting our soil, water and air.
Study finds sinking tundra surface unlikely to trigger runaway permafrost thaw
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists set out to address one of the biggest uncertainties about how carbon-rich permafrost will respond to gradual sinking of the land surface as temperatures rise.
Changing process leads to purer Pm-147 — and more of it
With larger, purer shipments on a more frequent basis, Oak Ridge National Laboratory is moving closer to routine production of promethium-147. That’s thanks in part to the application of some specific research performed a decade ago for a completely different project.
Pulling the shades for energy savings
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers demonstrated that window shades with a cellular or honeycomb structure provide higher energy savings during winter compared to generic venetian blinds and can save millions of tons of carbon emissions.
Reused car batteries rev up electric grid
When aging vehicle batteries lack the juice to power your car anymore, they may still hold energy. Yet it’s tough to find new uses for lithium-ion batteries with different makers, ages and sizes. A solution is urgently needed because battery recycling options are scarce.
Satellites may enable better quantum networks
A study by Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers has demonstrated how satellites could enable more efficient, secure quantum networks.
Addis Fuhr: Working to control impurities in materials
When Addis Fuhr was growing up in Bakersfield, California, he enjoyed visiting the mall to gaze at crystals and rocks in the gem store.
Neutrons uncover hydrogen’s hidden role in twisting iron
Researchers from Yale University and ORNL collaborated on neutron scattering experiments to study hydrogen atom locations and their effects on iron in a compound similar to those commonly used in industrial catalysts.
Federico Gallo: Road to ORNL job was rocky, but with rewarding work at end
Federico Gallo had toiled for a decade in the oil and gas industry, with long workweeks and lots of travel. In late 2020, he was ready to find something with better work-life balance, ideally making use of his aerospace experience and advanced degree.
But about a month after accepting a position at ORNL, his wife had a medical emergency — 900 miles away in Houston, Texas, where she and their five children were preparing to move to join him in East Tennessee.
With his wife in intensive care and rapidly losing blood, Gallo called his then-supervisor, Jason Cook.
“I told him, ‘This has happened, and I don’t know where this is going, but I need time,’” Gallo remembered. “I said, ‘I understand if you need to let me go.’”
Jesús Gomez-Velez: Exploring the ways of water
Hydrologist Jesús “Chucho” Gomez-Velez is in the right place at the right time with the right tools and colleagues to explain how the smallest processes within river corridors can have a tremendous impact on large-scale ecosystems.
Scientists find sex differences in mosses play key role in carbon storage
A quest to understand how Sphagnum mosses facilitate the storage of vast amounts of carbon in peatlands led scientists to a surprising discovery: the plants have sex-based differences that appear to impact the carbon-storing process.
Gai named section editor-in-chief for Magnetochemistryhuffac@ornl.govMon, 02/06/2023 - 10:14
Zheng Gai, a senior staff scientist at ORNL’s Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, has been selected as editor-in-chief of the Spin Crossover and Spintronics section of Magnetochemistry.
Hachtel named to Microanalysis Society Board of Directors
Jordan Hachtel, a research scientist at ORNL’s Center for Nanophase Materials, has been elected to the Board of Directors for the Microanalysis Society.
Huang named associate editor of Frontiers in Soft Matter
Jingsong Huang, a staff scientist at ORNL’s Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, has been selected as an associate editor of Frontiers in Soft Matter.
AAAS elects three ORNL scientists as fellows
Three scientists from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have been elected fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, or AAAS.
Employee-led giving at ORNL provides $937,000 to area nonprofits in 2022
Employees ORNL gave nearly $786,000 to local nonprofits through the lab’s employee giving programs in 2022. ORNL’s managing contractor, UT-Battelle, provided an additional $151,000 in corporate contributions.
Computational study finds genetic links, therapy targets for varicose veins
As part of a multi-institutional research project, scientists at ORNL leveraged their computational systems biology expertise and the largest, most diverse set of health data to date to explore the genetic basis of varicose veins.
‘T’ molecules huddle around rare earth elements
Researchers at ORNL zoomed in on molecules designed to recover critical materials via liquid-liquid extraction — a method used by industry to separate chemically similar elements.
Campbell named associate editor of Journal of Nuclear Materials
Designer molecules may help valuable minerals float
Critical Materials Institute researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Arizona State University studied the mineral monazite, an important source of rare-earth elements, to enhance methods of recovering critical materials for energy, defense and manufacturing applications.
ORNL to receive three awards from Federal Laboratory Consortium
A partnership of ORNL, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, the Community Reuse Organization of East Tennessee and TVA that aims to attract nuclear energy-related firms to Oak Ridge has been recognized with a state and local economic development award from the Federal Laboratory Consortium.
Center for Bioenergy Innovation adds three new board members
The Department of Energy’s Center for Bioenergy Innovation, led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, recently added three new members to its board of directors: Deborah Crawford of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Susan Hubbard of ORNL; and Maureen McCann of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
ORNL’s Merlin Theodore appointed to National Science Board
Scientists use neutrons to discover strengthening behavior in alloys
ORNL researchers have identified a mechanism in a 3D-printed alloy – termed “load shuffling” — that could enable the design of better-performing lightweight materials for vehicles.
Agave gene delays poplar dormancy
A team of scientists led by ORNL discovered the gene in agave that governs when the plant goes dormant and used it to create poplar trees that nearly doubled in size, increasing biomass yield for biofuels production and carbon sequestration.
Erica Prates: Bridging science across scales with computational biology
Erica Prates has found a way to help speed the pursuit of healthier ecosystems by linking the function of the smallest molecules to their effects on large-scale processes, leveraging a combination of science, math and computing.
Recent discoveries in phases of uranium oxide advance nuclear nonproliferation
Langan named associate lab director for Biological and Environmental Systems Science
Paul Langan will join ORNL in the spring as associate laboratory director for the Biological and Environmental Systems Science Directorate.
2022 in review: Top 10 ORNL news stories
A new supercomputer breaking performance records, a mind-blowing physics experiment trying to spot dark matter and the groundbreaking for a new isotope facility were among Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s most popular news stories of 2022.
Busby named associate lab director for Fusion and Fission Energy and Science
Jeremy Busby has been named associate laboratory director for the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, effective Jan. 1.
ORNL’s David McCollum shares insights from COP27
David McCollum, a senior scientist at the ORNL and lead for the lab’s contributions to the Net Zero World Initiative, was one of more than 35,000 attendees in Egypt at the November 2022 Sharm El-Sheikh United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, or UNFCCC, Conference of the Parties, also known as COP27.
Two ORNL staff members chosen for DOE Oppenheimer Leadership Program
The Oppenheimer Science and Energy Leadership Program has selected Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Jens Dilling and Christian Petrie as fellows for its 2023 cohort.
Belharouak, Burke, Snyder named ORNL Corporate Fellows
Three researchers at ORNL have been named ORNL Corporate Fellows in recognition of significant career accomplishments and continued leadership in their scientific fields.
Crossing the quantum frontier
ORNL’s next major computing achievement could open a new universe of scientific possibilities accelerated by the primal forces at the heart of matter and energy.
Scientists find iron cycling key to permafrost greenhouse gas emissions
The interaction of elemental iron with the vast stores of carbon locked away in Arctic soils is key to how greenhouse gases are emitted during thawing and should be included in models used to predict Earth’s climate.
Celeritas code will accelerate high energy physics simulations with supercomputers
Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are leading a new project to ensure that the fastest supercomputers can keep up with big data from high energy physics research.
Army strong: Research teams join forces to invent weld wire for tank, infrastructure repair
The U.S. Departments of Energy and Defense teamed up to create a series of weld filler materials that could dramatically improve high-strength steel repair in vehicles, bridges and pipelines.
New study reveals profound properties of a simple metal alloy
Scientists have measured the highest toughness ever recorded, of any material, while investigating a metallic alloy made of chromium, cobalt and nickel, or CrCoNi.
New insights advance atomic-scale manufacturing
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers serendipitously discovered when they automated the beam of an electron microscope to precisely drill holes in the atomically thin lattice of graphene, the drilled holes closed up.
Long-haul trucking meets megawatt-scale charging
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have designed architecture, software and control strategies for a futuristic EV truck stop that can draw megawatts of power and reduce carbon emissions.
Next-gen hydropower starts with testing
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have identified a key need for future hydropower innovations – full-scale testing – to better inform developers and operators before making major investments.
Naturally derived materials fit for 3D printing
The presence of minerals called ash in plants makes little difference to the fitness of new naturally derived compound materials designed for additive manufacturing, an Oak Ridge National Laboratory-led team found.
Biomembrane research findings could advance understanding of computing and human memory
While studying how bio-inspired materials might inform the design of next-generation computers, scientists at ORNL achieved a first-of-its-kind result that could have big implications for both edge computing and human health.
Manufacturing process produces better, cheaper cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
Researchers at ORNL have developed a new method for producing a key component of lithium-ion batteries. The result is a more affordable battery from a faster, less wasteful process that uses less toxic material.
Technician’s custom tools make tricky tasks easier
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Tue, 11/29/2022 - 20:38
Mark Roberts was working on a machine, trying to attach a tricky fitting to the end of a pipe while holding three other components in place, and he realized he could use another hand.
So he went back to his desk, gave it some thought, and came up with the next best thing: a custom, 3D-printed tool to hold the valve in place and keep the other components aligned, leaving his hands free to attach the fitting.
As a mechanical technician in the Enrichment Systems Engineering Section, Roberts needs to complete this particular task fairly regularly.
“It was a real pain to get in there and do that,” he said. “After doing my first one, I started trying to figure out a way to make it easier and more reliable.”
- Read more about Technician’s custom tools make tricky tasks easier
Researchers use blockchain to increase electric grid resiliency
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 11/22/2022 - 10:20
Although blockchain is best known for securing digital currency payments, researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using it to track a different kind of exchange: It’s the first time blockchain has ever been used to validate communication among devices on the electric grid.
- Read more about Researchers use blockchain to increase electric grid resiliency
ISED car show raises money for YO-STEM
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Fri, 11/18/2022 - 14:25
ISED’s Nov. 3 ORNL Gives car show drove donations of nearly $3,000 for YO-STEM.
The event on the main campus of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which included a silent auction and food trucks donating a percentage of their earnings, let past and present ORNL employees and their families showcase their vehicles. Admirers “voted” for their favorites by making a donation in that vehicle’s name.
- Read more about ISED car show raises money for YO-STEM
Liquid-to-solid battery electrolyte technology licensed exclusively to Safire
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Fri, 11/18/2022 - 09:06
The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has exclusively licensed battery electrolyte technology to Safire Technology Group. The collection of five patented technologies is designed for a drop-in additive for lithium-ion batteries that prevents explosions and fire from impact.
- Read more about Liquid-to-solid battery electrolyte technology licensed exclusively to Safire
GEM Fellow finds purpose in targeted radioisotope therapy research
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Thu, 11/17/2022 - 12:55
As a high-school sophomore, Ngozi Akingbesotewas captivated by her first experience in a science laboratory. But her father’s lack of support had her hesitant to pursue college and a career in science. It was a two-week stint at George Washington University’s Go Girl Science Camp that cemented her ambition and, ultimately, led her to enter an Independent Science Research course studying fungal pathogens.
That path eventually brought her to the GEM Fellowship at ORNL, which complements academic programs by utilizing the Lab’s unique resources of ORNL to enhance STEM education, encourage careers in science and technology, and improve scientific literacy.
- Read more about GEM Fellow finds purpose in targeted radioisotope therapy research
National laboratories launch buildings consortium leveraging benefits of thermal and electrochemical energy storage for all Americans
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 11/15/2022 - 12:32
Stor4Build is a new consortium focused on energy storage for buildings that will accelerate the growth, optimization and deployment of storage technologies.
- Read more about National laboratories launch buildings consortium leveraging benefits of thermal and electrochemical energy storage for all Americans
Eight ORNL scientists among world’s most cited researchers
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/15/2022 - 09:10
Eight ORNL scientists are among the world’s most highly cited researchers, according to a bibliometric analysis conducted by the scientific publication analytics firm Clarivate.
- Read more about Eight ORNL scientists among world’s most cited researchers
Experience shines at student scintillation detector workshop
huffac@ornl.gov Thu, 11/10/2022 - 10:23
Nine student physicists and engineers from the #1-ranked Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences Program at the University of Michigan, or UM, attended a scintillation detector workshop at Oak Ridge National Laboratory Oct. 10-13.
- Read more about Experience shines at student scintillation detector workshop
Philipe Ambrozio Dias — Shedding lights on human migration under a changing climate
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 11/09/2022 - 15:33
Having lived on three continents spanning the world’s four hemispheres, Philipe Ambrozio Dias understands the difficulties of moving to a new place.
- Read more about Philipe Ambrozio Dias — Shedding lights on human migration under a changing climate
Nanoreactor grows hydrogen-storage crystals
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/08/2022 - 13:06
Neutron scattering techniques were used as part of a study of a novel nanoreactor material that grows crystalline hydrogen clathrates, or HCs, capable of storing hydrogen.
- Read more about Nanoreactor grows hydrogen-storage crystals
Evaluating buildings in real time
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/08/2022 - 12:59
Researchers at ORNL have developed a tool that provides accurate measurements and positioning directions to those installing energy-efficient panels over existing building exteriors. This method will decrease installation time and cost by more than 25%.
- Read more about Evaluating buildings in real time
Recyclable composites help drive net-zero goal
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/08/2022 - 12:29
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists designed a recyclable polymer for carbon-fiber composites to enable circular manufacturing of parts that boost energy efficiency in automotive, wind power and aerospace applications.
- Read more about Recyclable composites help drive net-zero goal
Genetic markers for autism, hiding in plain sight
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/08/2022 - 12:12
ORNL researchers discovered genetic mutations that underlie autism using a new approach that could lead to better diagnostics and drug therapies.
- Read more about Genetic markers for autism, hiding in plain sight
Oak Ridge, Argonne national laboratories collaborate with Wabtec on hydrogen-powered trains to decarbonize rail industry
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/08/2022 - 11:24
As the United States shifts away from fossil-fuel-burning cars and trucks, scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge and Argonne national laboratories are exploring options for another form of transportation: trains. The research focuses on zero-carbon hydrogen and other low-carbon fuels as viable alternatives to diesel for the rail industry.
- Read more about Oak Ridge, Argonne national laboratories collaborate with Wabtec on hydrogen-powered trains to decarbonize rail industry
Zapf named deputy director of the Quantum Science Center pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 11/07/2022 - 11:12
Vivien Zapf has been named deputy director of the Quantum Science Center headquartered at ORNL. The QSC combines resources and expertise from national laboratories, universities and industry partners to accelerate the design and development of novel quantum technologies.
- Read more about Zapf named deputy director of the Quantum Science Center
Kidder takes top award at ORNL’s Awards Night for leadership in mentoring
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Sat, 11/05/2022 - 12:41
Laboratory Director Thomas Zacharia presented five Director’s Awards during Saturday night's annual Awards Night event hosted by UT-Battelle, which manages ORNL for the Department of Energy.
- Read more about Kidder takes top award at ORNL’s Awards Night for leadership in mentoring
ORNL to receive $497 million in Inflation Reduction Act funding
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 11/04/2022 - 11:37
Several significant science and energy projects led by the ORNL will receive a total of $497 million in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Read more about ORNL to receive $497 million in Inflation Reduction Act funding
Thornton named director of the Climate Change Science Institute at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 11/03/2022 - 09:58
ORNL appointed Peter Thornton as director of its Climate Change Science Institute, or CCSI, effective November 1, 2022.
- Read more about Thornton named director of the Climate Change Science Institute at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Matthew Craig: Solving the mysteries of soil carbon storage
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 11/01/2022 - 13:32
Matthew Craig grew up eagerly exploring the forest patches and knee-high waterfalls just beyond his backyard in central Illinois’ corn belt. Today, that natural curiosity and the expertise he’s cultivated in biogeochemistry and ecology are focused on how carbon cycles in and out of soils, a process that can have tremendous impact on the Earth’s climate.
- Read more about Matthew Craig: Solving the mysteries of soil carbon storage
Deep learning underlies geographic dataset used in hurricane response
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 11/01/2022 - 08:58
Over the past seven years, researchers in ORNL’s Geospatial Science and Human Security Division have mapped and characterized all structures within the United States and its territories to aid FEMA in its response to disasters. This dataset provides a consistent, nationwide accounting of the buildings where people reside and work.
- Read more about Deep learning underlies geographic dataset used in hurricane response
Denise Antunes da Silva: Unraveling concrete’s secrets to decarbonize building materials
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 10/31/2022 - 15:09
Materials scientist Denise Antunes da Silva researches ways to reduce concrete’s embodied carbon in the Sustainable Building Materials Laboratory at ORNL, a research space dedicated to studying environmentally friendly building materials. Credit: ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy
- Read more about Denise Antunes da Silva: Unraveling concrete’s secrets to decarbonize building materials
ORNL’s Sheng Dai named Office of Science Distinguished Scientist Fellow
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 10/28/2022 - 11:35
Sheng Dai, a Corporate Fellow and section head at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been selected by the DOE Office of Science as a 2023 Distinguished Scientist Fellow.
- Read more about ORNL’s Sheng Dai named Office of Science Distinguished Scientist Fellow
ORNL’s Vasudevan elected Fellow of the American Physical Society
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 10/25/2022 - 07:20
Rama Vasudevan, a research scientist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society, or APS. The honor recognizes members who have made significant contributions to physics and its application to science and technology.
- Read more about ORNL’s Vasudevan elected Fellow of the American Physical Society
Energy Secretary breaks ground on new isotope facility at ORNL
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Mon, 10/24/2022 - 14:19
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm visited Oak Ridge National Laboratory today to attend a groundbreaking ceremony for the U.S. Stable Isotope Research and Development Center. The facility is slated to receive $75 million in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Read more about Energy Secretary breaks ground on new isotope facility at ORNL
Racing company licenses innovative ORNL fast-charging battery technologies
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Thu, 10/20/2022 - 11:24
Marc-Antoni Racing has licensed a collection of patented energy storage technologies developed at ORNL. The technologies focus on components that enable fast-charging, energy-dense batteries for electric and hybrid vehicles and grid storage.
- Read more about Racing company licenses innovative ORNL fast-charging battery technologies
Deep learning makes X-ray CT inspection of 3D-printed parts faster, more accurate
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 10/14/2022 - 08:04
A new deep-learning framework developed at ORNL is speeding up the process of inspecting additively manufactured metal parts using X-ray computed tomography, or CT, while increasing the accuracy of the results. The reduced costs for time, labor, maintenance and energy are expected to accelerate expansion of additive manufacturing, or 3D printing.
- Read more about Deep learning makes X-ray CT inspection of 3D-printed parts faster, more accurate
Bringing custom microbes to the business of recycling plastic
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 10/13/2022 - 14:30
Scientists working on a solution for plastic waste have developed a two-step chemical and biological process to break down and upcycle mixed plastics into valuable bioproducts.
- Read more about Bringing custom microbes to the business of recycling plastic
New measurements quantifying qudits provide glimpse of quantum future
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 10/13/2022 - 10:00
Using existing experimental and computational resources, a multi-institutional team has developed an effective method for measuring high-dimensional qudits encoded in quantum frequency combs, which are a type of photon source, on a single optical chip.
- Read more about New measurements quantifying qudits provide glimpse of quantum future
Existing water infrastructure may hold key to generating more hydropower
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 10/12/2022 - 12:18
Millions of miles of pipelines and conduits across the United States make up an intricate network of waterways used for municipal, agricultural and industrial purposes.
- Read more about Existing water infrastructure may hold key to generating more hydropower
Speakers announced for ARIA workshop focused on evolving cancer therapies
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Thu, 10/06/2022 - 12:49
This workshop, which will focus on Evolving Targeted Therapies for Cancer, will have both in-person and virtual options. Its purpose is to discuss the emerging use of targeted novel radio, chemo and immunotherapies for monotherapy and combination therapy approaches to treat cancer.
- Read more about Speakers announced for ARIA workshop focused on evolving cancer therapies
Tomás Rush: Decoding the secret language of plants and fungi
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 10/06/2022 - 08:41
Tomás Rush began studying the mysteries of fungi in fifth grade and spent his college intern days tromping through forests, swamps and agricultural lands searching for signs of fungal plant pathogens causing disease on host plants.
- Read more about Tomás Rush: Decoding the secret language of plants and fungi
Earth System Grid Federation launches effort to upgrade climate projection data system
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Wed, 10/05/2022 - 10:22
The Earth System Grid Federation, a multi-agency initiative that gathers and distributes data for top-tier projections of the Earth’s climate, is preparing a series of upgrades that will make using the data easier and faster while improving how the information is curated.
- Read more about Earth System Grid Federation launches effort to upgrade climate projection data system
Ultrasound for battery health
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 10/03/2022 - 08:36
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using ultrasounds — usually associated with medical imaging — to check the health of an operating battery. The technique uses sensors as small as a thumbnail, which could be attached to a lithium-ion battery inside a car.
- Read more about Ultrasound for battery health
Moss genome study identifies two new species
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 10/03/2022 - 08:28
A team from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Duke University and other institutions studying Sphagnum moss have identified two new species in North America, and they are learning how evolution may affect the species’ role in carbon storage.
- Read more about Moss genome study identifies two new species
VERIFI-ing and tracking carbon’s big footprint
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 10/03/2022 - 08:18
Researchers at ORNL have developed an online tool that offers industrial plants an easier way to track and download information about their energy footprint and carbon emissions.
- Read more about VERIFI-ing and tracking carbon’s big footprint
Reducing molten salt’s corrosive effect
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 10/03/2022 - 08:00
Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists recently demonstrated a low-temperature, safe route to purifying molten chloride salts that minimizes their ability to corrode metals. This method could make the salts useful for storing energy generated from the sun’s heat.
- Read more about Reducing molten salt’s corrosive effect
Scientists develop tech to manage two-way power flow to commercial buildings
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 09/28/2022 - 09:09
Researchers at ORNL recently demonstrated a new technology to better control how power flows to and from commercial buildings equipped with solar, wind or other renewable energy generation.
- Read more about Scientists develop tech to manage two-way power flow to commercial buildings
Taking it to the streets: ORNL models climate solutions for U.S. cities
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 09/27/2022 - 11:23
ORNL researchers are deploying their broad expertise in climate data and modeling to create science-based mitigation strategies for cities stressed by climate change as part of two U.S. Department of Energy Urban Integrated Field Laboratory projects.
- Read more about Taking it to the streets: ORNL models climate solutions for U.S. cities
Advanced energy entrepreneurs pitch innovations during showcase
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 09/26/2022 - 14:43
A crowd of investors and supporters turned out for last week’s Innovation Crossroads Showcase at the Knoxville Chamber as part of Innov865 Week. Sponsored by ORNL and the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council, the event celebrated deep-tech entrepreneurs and the Oak Ridge Corridor as a growing energy innovation hub for the nation.
- Read more about Advanced energy entrepreneurs pitch innovations during showcase
Gang Seob “GS” Jung: Solving scientific puzzles using computational models
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 09/23/2022 - 07:52
Gang Seob “GS” Jung has known from the time he was in middle school that he was interested in science.
- Read more about Gang Seob “GS” Jung: Solving scientific puzzles using computational models
Thomaz Carvalhaes: Combining technology and society to build energy resilience for Puerto Rico
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 09/22/2022 - 13:30
In human security research, Thomaz Carvalhaes says, there are typically two perspectives: technocentric and human centric. Rather than pick just one for his work, Carvalhaes uses data from both perspectives to understand how technology impacts the lives of people.
- Read more about Thomaz Carvalhaes: Combining technology and society to build energy resilience for Puerto Rico
New report ensures hydropower sustainability amid climate change
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 09/22/2022 - 07:58
ORNL has provided hydropower operators with new data to better prepare for extreme weather events and shifts in seasonal energy demands caused by climate change.
- Read more about New report ensures hydropower sustainability amid climate change
Industry partners use ORNL software to trim carbon footprint of buildings
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 09/20/2022 - 10:47
Two years after ORNL provided a model of nearly every building in America, commercial partners are using the tool for tasks ranging from designing energy-efficient buildings and cities to linking energy efficiency to real estate value and risk.
- Read more about Industry partners use ORNL software to trim carbon footprint of buildings
QIS profile: Daniel Claudino
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Tue, 09/20/2022 - 10:29
Daniel Claudino studies the software development of libraries that enable large-scale quantum-classical heterogeneous computations. In this role, Daniel targets quantum simulations of interest in quantum chemistry.
- Read more about QIS profile: Daniel Claudino
Lithium-ion battery material breaks barrier on fast charging
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 09/19/2022 - 15:45
Researchers at ORNL and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, discovered a key material needed for fast-charging lithium-ion batteries. The commercially relevant approach opens a potential pathway to improve charging speeds for electric vehicles.
- Read more about Lithium-ion battery material breaks barrier on fast charging
QIS profile: Warren Grice
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 17:58
Warren Grice studies aspects of quantum information with a focus on optical approaches. In this role, Warren is involved in several projects aimed at transitioning the capabilities of quantum information to real-world applications.
- Read more about QIS profile: Warren Grice
QIS profile: Joseph Lukens
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 17:48
Joseph Lukens studies experimental and theoretical quantum information with an emphasis on photonic quantum systems compatible with fiber-optic communications. In this role, Joe works to develop advanced quantum networks that could serve as the foundation for a future quantum internet.
- Read more about QIS profile: Joseph Lukens
QIS profile: Ryan Bennink
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 17:18
Ryan Bennink leads the Quantum Computational Science Group in the Quantum Information Science Section.
- Read more about QIS profile: Ryan Bennink
QIS profile: Vicente Leyton Ortega
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 16:36
Vicente Leyton Ortega studies the potential of near-term quantum computing hardware for scientific applications, the performance of quantum and classical algorithms including optimization and machine learning
- Read more about QIS profile: Vicente Leyton Ortega
QIS profile: Ali Passian
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 16:12
Ali Passian studies the physics of sensing and imaging. In this role, Ali explores how new or better sensors can be developed to enable higher sensitivity, detection limit, and resolution for studying complex materials. This field of study applies to a broad class of materials of current interest such as biomass, bacteria, and environmental gases and chemicals.
- Read more about QIS profile: Ali Passian
QIS profile: John Serafini
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Fri, 09/16/2022 - 14:51
John Serafini studies integrated photonics for developing secure quantum communications hardware. In this role, John simulates, designs and tests quantum-based photonic integrated circuits.
- Read more about QIS profile: John Serafini
Mission to a distant moon
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Thu, 09/15/2022 - 15:41
Planetary scientist and aerospace engineer Ralph Lorenz spent Tuesday morning telling an ORNL audience what the Dragonfly rotorcraft might find out about possible life on Saturn’s moon Titan — and what it could tell us about life on Earth.
- Read more about Mission to a distant moon
Lab experiments support COVID-19 bradykinin storm theory
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 09/15/2022 - 08:09
A new paper published in Nature Communications adds further evidence to the bradykinin storm theory of COVID-19’s viral pathogenesis — a theory that was posited two years ago by a team of researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
- Read more about Lab experiments support COVID-19 bradykinin storm theory
Scott Stewart: Mentoring the next generation of nuclear nonproliferation professionals
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 09/14/2022 - 10:18
Though Scott Stewart recently received an Early Career Award from the Institute of Nuclear Material Management, he is regarded as a seasoned professional in the nuclear field with over 10 years of experience.
- Read more about Scott Stewart: Mentoring the next generation of nuclear nonproliferation professionals
Researchers bring more reliable electricity to Puerto Rican microgrids
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 09/12/2022 - 10:17
When Hurricane Maria battered Puerto Rico in 2017, winds snapped trees and destroyed homes, while heavy rains transformed streets into rivers. But after the storm passed, the human toll continued to grow as residents struggled without electricity for months. Five years later, power outages remain long and frequent.
- Read more about Researchers bring more reliable electricity to Puerto Rican microgrids
New division's purpose is to standardize amount, quality of critical isotopes from ORNL
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Thu, 09/08/2022 - 11:43
The new Isotope Processing and Manufacturing Division's challenge is to separate isotope manufacturing from research and development — and excel at both.
The decision dovetails with an increased demand for radioisotopes for medical, industrial and national security uses, as well as the United States’ renewed focus on reducing the need to rely on foreign suppliers — such as Russia — for isotopes.
- Read more about New division's purpose is to standardize amount, quality of critical isotopes from ORNL
Using fusion technology, scientists probe the depths of the earth
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 09/07/2022 - 10:39
Researchers in the geothermal energy industry are joining forces with fusion experts at ORNL to repurpose gyrotron technology, a tool used in fusion. Gyrotrons produce high-powered microwaves to heat up fusion plasmas.
- Read more about Using fusion technology, scientists probe the depths of the earth
Fernanda Santos: Digging into charred landscapes for clues to carbon storage
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 09/07/2022 - 09:58
With wildfires increasing in scope and intensity around the world, Fernanda Santos’ research into how such calamities affect soil carbon storage has taken on new urgency.
- Read more about Fernanda Santos: Digging into charred landscapes for clues to carbon storage
ORNL showcases defense manufacturing capabilities
swansonej@ornl.gov Wed, 09/07/2022 - 08:53
Last month, Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks and Deputy Secretary of Energy David Turk visited Oak Ridge National Laboratory to see how DOE's science investments are applied directly to real-world DoD missions.
- Read more about ORNL showcases defense manufacturing capabilities
Using math to predict SARS-CoV-2 protein mutations
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 09/06/2022 - 12:35
Researchers from ORNL, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Tuskegee University used mathematics to predict which areas of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein are most likely to mutate.
- Read more about Using math to predict SARS-CoV-2 protein mutations
Improving materials for energy storage, generation
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 09/06/2022 - 12:27
A multi-lab research team led by ORNL's Paul Kent is developing a computer application called QMCPACK to enable precise and reliable predictions of the fundamental properties of materials critical in energy research.
- Read more about Improving materials for energy storage, generation
Cancer-fighting chemistry
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 09/06/2022 - 12:18
Researchers at ORNL explored radium’s chemistry to advance cancer treatments using ionizing radiation.
- Read more about Cancer-fighting chemistry
Sealed with silica
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 09/06/2022 - 12:11
ORNL researchers demonstrated a process for producing a moisture-stable, lightweight thermal insulation material using hollow silica particles, or HSPs.
- Read more about Sealed with silica
Inland water carbon emissions on the rise
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 09/06/2022 - 12:01
Global carbon emissions from inland waters such as lakes, rivers, streams and ponds are being undercounted by about 13% and will likely continue to rise given climate events and land use changes, ORNL scientists found.
- Read more about Inland water carbon emissions on the rise
ORNL showcases scientific support to homeland security challenges
swansonej@ornl.gov Wed, 08/31/2022 - 12:22
ORNL recently hosted visitors from the Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate to better understand the laboratory’s facilities and research
- Read more about ORNL showcases scientific support to homeland security challenges
Bill Partridge: Groundbreaking transportation research with industry sets stage for decarbonization transition
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/31/2022 - 08:02
When Bill Partridge started working with industry partner Cummins in 1997, he was a postdoctoral researcher specializing in applied optical diagnostics and new to Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
- Read more about Bill Partridge: Groundbreaking transportation research with industry sets stage for decarbonization transition
West Point Cadet hosted by ORNL’s Physics Division
huffac@ornl.gov Tue, 08/30/2022 - 13:28
ORNL Physics Division hosted West Point Cadet Andrew Sanchez for a three-week appointment to learn about nuclear detection methods.
- Read more about West Point Cadet hosted by ORNL’s Physics Division
UT-Battelle recognized with Defense Secretary’s Freedom Award
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Tue, 08/30/2022 - 10:00
The Department of Defense has recognized UT-Battelle with a 2022 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given by the United States government to employers for their support of staff members who serve as reserve members of the U.S. Armed Forces, known collectively as the Reserve component.
- Read more about UT-Battelle recognized with Defense Secretary’s Freedom Award
ORNL to lead new center on polymer electrolytes for energy storage
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/30/2022 - 09:00
ORNL has been selected to lead an Energy Frontier Research Center, or EFRC, focused on polymer electrolytes for next-generation energy storage devices such as fuel cells and solid-state electric vehicle batteries.
- Read more about ORNL to lead new center on polymer electrolytes for energy storage
Ana Raffo Caiado: Bridging policy, technology to advance peaceful use of nuclear material
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/30/2022 - 07:46
Countries around the world have unique languages, cultures, food, entertainment and governments. Yet, more than 170 countries are finding common ground in an unlikely field: nuclear material and science.
- Read more about Ana Raffo Caiado: Bridging policy, technology to advance peaceful use of nuclear material
Five ORNL technologies identified for investment toward commercialization
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/29/2022 - 12:25
Five technologies invented by scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have been selected for targeted investment through ORNL’s Technology Innovation Program.
- Read more about Five ORNL technologies identified for investment toward commercialization
Libby Johnson: On the frontier for nuclear safety
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 08/26/2022 - 15:57
Oak Ridge National Laboratory physicist Elizabeth “Libby” Johnson (1921-1996), one of the world’s first nuclear reactor operators, standardized the field of criticality safety with peers from ORNL and Los Alamos National Laboratory.
- Read more about Libby Johnson: On the frontier for nuclear safety
ORNL researchers Weber, Naskar receive DOE clean energy awards
huffac@ornl.gov Fri, 08/26/2022 - 12:12
Two ORNL research projects were awarded through the Chemical and Materials Sciences to Advance Clean Energy Technologies and Low-Carbon Manufacturing funding opportunity, sponsored by the Office of Basic Energy Sciences within the DOE Office of Science.
- Read more about ORNL researchers Weber, Naskar receive DOE clean energy awards
National Quantum Information Science Research Centers harness the quantum revolution
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 08/25/2022 - 13:25
Five National Quantum Information Science Research Centers are leveraging the behavior of nature at the smallest scales to develop technologies for science’s most complex problems.
- Read more about National Quantum Information Science Research Centers harness the quantum revolution
Seven ORNL technologies win R&D 100 research awards
demarcoag@ornl.gov Wed, 08/24/2022 - 14:44
Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and their technologies have received seven 2022 R&D 100 Awards, plus special recognition for a battery-related green technology product.
- Read more about Seven ORNL technologies win R&D 100 research awards
Unearthing the secrets of plant health, carbon storage with rhizosphere-on-a-chip
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/23/2022 - 10:16
Scientists at ORNL have created a miniaturized environment to study the ecosystem around poplar tree roots for insights into plant health and soil carbon sequestration.
- Read more about Unearthing the secrets of plant health, carbon storage with rhizosphere-on-a-chip
Matt McCarthy: Influencing public policy using remote sensing data
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/23/2022 - 09:55
When Matt McCarthy saw an opportunity for a young career scientist to influence public policy, he eagerly raised his hand.
- Read more about Matt McCarthy: Influencing public policy using remote sensing data
CNMS User Meeting recognizes students and staff
huffac@ornl.gov Thu, 08/18/2022 - 08:41
The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory hosted a virtual user meeting August 8 – 11, 2022. The meeting brought together the center’s staff and users from across the globe for sessions on current and future directions in nanoscience research.
- Read more about CNMS User Meeting recognizes students and staff
ORNL celebrates launch of Frontier – the world’s fastest supercomputer
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 08/17/2022 - 08:18
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory celebrated the debut of Frontier, the world’s fastest supercomputer and the dawn of the exascale computing era.
- Read more about ORNL celebrates launch of Frontier – the world’s fastest supercomputer
Bobby Sumpter named fellow of Institute of Physics, International Association of Advanced Materials
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/16/2022 - 12:33
ORNL Corporate Fellow and Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences researcher Bobby Sumpter has been named fellow of two scientific professional societies: the Institute of Physics and the International Association of Advanced Materials.
- Read more about Bobby Sumpter named fellow of Institute of Physics, International Association of Advanced Materials
ORNL’s Allard named Microanalysis Society Fellow
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 08/16/2022 - 10:11
Larry Allard, a distinguished research staff member at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been named a Fellow of the Microanalysis Society.
- Read more about ORNL’s Allard named Microanalysis Society Fellow
Sensor research helps fight wildfires
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/15/2022 - 12:08
As climate change leads to larger and more frequent wildfires, researchers at ORNL are using sensors, drones and machine learning to both prevent fires and reduce their damage to the electric grid.
- Read more about Sensor research helps fight wildfires
Humble named director of the Quantum Science Center
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/08/2022 - 09:10
Travis Humble has been named director of the Quantum Science Center headquartered at ORNL. The QSC is a multi-institutional partnership that spans industry, academia and government institutions and is tasked with uncovering the full potential of quantum materials, sensors and algorithms.
- Read more about Humble named director of the Quantum Science Center
ORNL Nuclear Professionals Win Distinctions from the Institute of Nuclear Material Management
neunsingerel@o… Fri, 08/05/2022 - 14:44 * Read more about ORNL Nuclear Professionals Win Distinctions from the Institute of Nuclear Material Management
Twardy appointed to GEM board of directors
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 08/05/2022 - 07:53
The National GEM Consortium, one of the premier organizations for the best and brightest underrepresented minority STEM talent in the country, has appointed ORNL Chief of Staff Lindsey Twardy as a member of its board of directors.
- Read more about Twardy appointed to GEM board of directors
URBAN-NET infrastructure modeling tool to be incorporated into EAGLE-I
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Thu, 08/04/2022 - 18:42
After nearly seven years of intense development, the URBAN-NET infrastructure quantification tool is being made available to users.
- Read more about URBAN-NET infrastructure modeling tool to be incorporated into EAGLE-I
Using algorithms to see the world differently
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 08/01/2022 - 10:39
Cameras see the world differently than humans. Resolution, equipment, lighting, distance and atmospheric conditions can impact how a person interprets objects on a photo.
- Read more about Using algorithms to see the world differently
Saving e-waste scraps
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 07/28/2022 - 15:17
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Momentum Technologies have piloted an industrial-scale process for recycling valuable materials in the millions of tons of e-waste generated annually in the United States.
- Read more about Saving e-waste scraps
Steady as it goes and flows
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 07/28/2022 - 15:10
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers demonstrated that microchannel heat exchangers in heating, ventilation and air conditioning units can keep refrigerants evenly and continually distributed by inserting a device called a piezoelectric-driven magnetic actuator
- Read more about Steady as it goes and flows
Automating neutron experiments with AI
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 07/28/2022 - 15:00
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers are developing a first-of-its-kind artificial intelligence device for neutron scattering called Hyperspectral Computed Tomography, or HyperCT.
- Read more about Automating neutron experiments with AI
The facts behind hydropower
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 07/28/2022 - 13:53
To further the potential benefits of the nation’s hydropower resources, researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed and maintain a comprehensive water energy digital platform called HydroSource.
- Read more about The facts behind hydropower
Orchestrating rhythms of the light
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 07/28/2022 - 13:37
A team of scientists led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a theory that thylakoids, membrane networks key to plant photosynthesis, also function as a defense mechanism to harsh growing conditions, which could aid the development of hardier plants.
- Read more about Orchestrating rhythms of the light
Magnetic quantum material broadens platform for probing next-gen information technologies
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 07/27/2022 - 15:28
Scientists at ORNL used neutron scattering to determine whether a specific material’s atomic structure could host a novel state of matter called a spiral spin liquid.
- Read more about Magnetic quantum material broadens platform for probing next-gen information technologies
Winning presentation explains use of spectroscopy to gather real-time data
bumpuskl@ornl.gov Wed, 07/27/2022 - 09:56
Hunter Andrews’ “light” topic was one of the judge’s choice winners in the lab’s annual Your Science in a Nutshell competition.
But the science he presented could have a serious impact by giving scientists a real-time look at chemical separations happening in hot cells, glove boxes, or any other hard-to-reach location.
- Read more about Winning presentation explains use of spectroscopy to gather real-time data
Data science teams analyzed COVID-19 data for early pandemic response
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 07/27/2022 - 09:52
When the COVID-19 pandemic stunned the world in 2020, researchers at ORNL wondered how they could extend their support and help
- Read more about Data science teams analyzed COVID-19 data for early pandemic response
Adsorbent material filters toxic chromium, arsenic from water supplies
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 07/26/2022 - 11:21
Researchers at ORNL are tackling a global water challenge with a unique material designed to target not one, but two toxic, heavy metal pollutants for simultaneous removal.
- Read more about Adsorbent material filters toxic chromium, arsenic from water supplies
Samarthya Bhagia: Biomaterials for a modern, decarbonized economy
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 07/22/2022 - 09:28
Chemical and environmental engineer Samarthya Bhagia is focused on achieving carbon neutrality and a circular economy by designing new plant-based materials for a range of applications from energy storage devices and sensors to environmentally friendly bioplastics.
- Read more about Samarthya Bhagia: Biomaterials for a modern, decarbonized economy
ORNL welcomes sixth cohort of Innovation Crossroads clean energy entrepreneurs
demarcoag@ornl.gov Tue, 07/19/2022 - 14:42
Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Innovation Crossroads program welcomes six new science and technology innovators from across the United States to the sixth cohort.
- Read more about ORNL welcomes sixth cohort of Innovation Crossroads clean energy entrepreneurs
ORNL Director Zacharia announces retirement
mccorkleml@ornl.gov Tue, 07/12/2022 - 17:18
Dr. Thomas Zacharia announced his intent to retire as director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory at the end of 2022, the culmination of a 35-year career at the nation’s largest science and energy laboratory.
- Read more about ORNL Director Zacharia announces retirement
Nell Barber: Using psychology to teach machines facial recognition
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 07/11/2022 - 09:16
Though Nell Barber wasn’t sure what her future held after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, she now uses her interest in human behavior to design systems that leverage machine learning algorithms to identify faces in a crowd.
- Read more about Nell Barber: Using psychology to teach machines facial recognition
Marm Dixit: Creative juices fuel solid state battery research
pearcejw@ornl.gov Mon, 07/11/2022 - 09:00
Mechanical engineer Marm Dixit’s work is all about getting electricity to flow efficiently from one end of a solid-state battery to the other. It’s a high-stakes problem
- Read more about Marm Dixit: Creative juices fuel solid state battery research
Melanie Mayes: On the trail of climate impacts, from the tropics to cities
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 07/06/2022 - 12:04
Science has taken Melanie Mayes from Tennessee to the tropics, studying some of the most important ecosystems in the world.
- Read more about Melanie Mayes: On the trail of climate impacts, from the tropics to cities
ORNL’s Ozpineci selected for Nagamori Award
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 07/05/2022 - 16:19
Burak Ozpineci, a Corporate Fellow and section head for Vehicle and Mobility Systems Research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is one of six international recipients of the eighth Nagamori Award.
- Read more about ORNL’s Ozpineci selected for Nagamori Award
Scientists discover cancer trigger that could spur targeted drug therapies
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 07/05/2022 - 08:39
Researchers at ORNL have definitively linked the function of a specific domain of proteins important in plant-microbe biology to a cancer trigger in humans, knowledge that had eluded scientists for decades.
- Read more about Scientists discover cancer trigger that could spur targeted drug therapies
ORNL hosts third AIRES conference to advance AI
jonesg@ornl.gov Fri, 07/01/2022 - 14:11
ORNL took yet another step toward leading the AI revolution by hosting its third workshop on Artificial Intelligence for Robust Engineering and Science, or AIRES.
- Read more about ORNL hosts third AIRES conference to advance AI
ORNL’s Steven Arndt to serve as American Nuclear Society president pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 07/01/2022 - 09:11
Steven Arndt, distinguished R&D staff member in the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division at ORNL, began a one-year term on June 16 as the 68th President of the American Nuclear Society.
- Read more about ORNL’s Steven Arndt to serve as American Nuclear Society president
Hydropower — Retrofitting untapped dams
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 06/30/2022 - 11:11
Although more than 92,000 dams populate the country, the vast majority — about 89,000 — do not generate electricity through hydropower.
- Read more about Hydropower — Retrofitting untapped dams
Plants — Serendipitous silicon
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:36
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are closer to unlocking the secrets to better soil carbon sequestration by studying the tiny, sand-like silicon deposits called phytoliths in plants.
- Read more about Plants — Serendipitous silicon
Buildings — Split-second leak detection
demarcoag@ornl.gov Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:18
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers demonstrated that an electrochemical sensor paired with a transmitter not only detects propane leaks within seconds, but it can also send a signal to alert emergency services.
- Read more about Buildings — Split-second leak detection
Physicists confront the neutron lifetime puzzle
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/28/2022 - 15:15
To solve a long-standing puzzle about how long a neutron can “live” outside an atomic nucleus, physicists entertained a wild but testable theory positing the existence of a right-handed version of our left-handed universe.
- Read more about Physicists confront the neutron lifetime puzzle
Celebrate the Higgs discovery anniversary with free screening of PARTICLE FEVER at Central Cinema
huffac@ornl.gov Mon, 06/27/2022 - 09:50
Join physics enthusiasts worldwide in celebrating the tenth anniversary of the discovery of the Higgs boson, which imparts mass to all the other particles.
- Read more about Celebrate the Higgs discovery anniversary with free screening of PARTICLE FEVER at Central Cinema
ORNL sponsors 100Knoxville entrepreneur cohort
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 06/27/2022 - 08:22
ORNL is sponsoring a cohort of 100Knoxville, a five-week mentorship and support program for Black founders of businesses.
- Read more about ORNL sponsors 100Knoxville entrepreneur cohort
ORNL military fellows graduate, recount national lab experience
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 06/16/2022 - 09:13
In front of family and friends, Lt. Col. Jessica Critcher and Maj. Micah McCracken gave their final report on their eye-opening year as ORNL military fellows.
- Read more about ORNL military fellows graduate, recount national lab experience
Closed-loop additive manufacturing fueled by upcycled plastic
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Mon, 06/13/2022 - 11:02
ORNL researchers have developed an upcycling approach that adds value to discarded plastics for reuse in additive manufacturing, or 3D printing.
- Read more about Closed-loop additive manufacturing fueled by upcycled plastic
Kothe named associate laboratory director for Computing and Computational Sciences
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 06/10/2022 - 10:25
Doug Kothe has been named associate laboratory director for the Computing and Computational Sciences Directorate at ORNL, effective June 6.
- Read more about Kothe named associate laboratory director for Computing and Computational Sciences
Researchers aim to better quantify greenhouse gas emissions from hydropower reservoirs
pearcejw@ornl.gov Fri, 06/10/2022 - 09:07
As the United States moves toward more sustainable and renewable sources of energy, hydropower is expected to play a pivotal role in integrating more intermittent renewables like wind and solar to the electricity grid
- Read more about Researchers aim to better quantify greenhouse gas emissions from hydropower reservoirs
Microbes enhance resilience of carbon-rich peatlands to warming
pearcejw@ornl.gov Thu, 06/09/2022 - 12:25
Microorganisms may provide hope that peatlands can withstand hotter temperatures in a changing climate.
- Read more about Microbes enhance resilience of carbon-rich peatlands to warming
Three ORNL scientists to receive DOE Early Career Research awards
pearcejw@ornl.gov Wed, 06/08/2022 - 10:03
The Department of Energy’s Office of Science has selected three Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists for Early Career Research Program awards.
- Read more about Three ORNL scientists to receive DOE Early Career Research awards
International team visualizes properties of plant cell walls at nanoscale
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/07/2022 - 14:23
To optimize biomaterials for reliable, cost-effective paper production, building construction, and biofuel development, researchers often study the structure of plant cells using techniques such as freezing plant samples or placing them in a vacuum.
- Read more about International team visualizes properties of plant cell walls at nanoscale
ARM plans upgrades as it marks 30 years of collecting atmospheric data
pearcejw@ornl.gov Tue, 06/07/2022 - 09:00
The Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Data Center is shepherding changes to its operations to make the treasure trove of data more easily available accessible and useful to scientists studying Earth’s climate.
- Read more about ARM plans upgrades as it marks 30 years of collecting atmospheric data
Quantum Science Center concludes second annual summer school in style
rosenthalec@ornl.gov Mon, 06/06/2022 - 15:18
Building off the blueprint of last year’s all-virtual event, the Quantum Science Center held its second annual summer school in a hybrid format on May 8–12, 2022. The agenda included online and in-person activities hosted by core QSC partner Purdue University.
- Read more about Quantum Science Center concludes second annual summer school in style
Experts chip away at corrosion for the future of fusion
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Fri, 06/03/2022 - 14:26
Practical fusion energy is not just a dream at ORNL. Experts in fusion and material science are working together to develop solutions that will make a fusion pilot plant — and ultimately carbon-free, abundant fusion electricity — possible.
- Read more about Experts chip away at corrosion for the future of fusion
ORNL, partners launch first experiments using new facility to make cosmic isotopes on Earth
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Fri, 06/03/2022 - 08:51
Two decades in the making, a new flagship facility for nuclear physics opened on May 2, and scientists from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have a hand in 10 of its first 34 experiments.
- Read more about ORNL, partners launch first experiments using new facility to make cosmic isotopes on Earth
ORNL’s Nanda elected fellow of the Materials Research Society
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Fri, 06/03/2022 - 07:47
Jagjit Nanda, a distinguished staff scientist, has been elected a fellow of the Materials Research Society. The lifetime appointment recognizes outstanding members whose sustained and distinguished contributions to the advancement of materials research are internationally recognized.
- Read more about ORNL’s Nanda elected fellow of the Materials Research Society
Inaugural Techstars accelerator cohort presents pitches
dunlapkk@ornl.gov Thu, 06/02/2022 - 09:18
ORNL Director Thomas Zacharia joined Jeff Lyash, CEO of the Tennessee Valley Authority, and Randy Boyd, president of the University of Tennessee, for a panel discussion moderated by Tricia Martinez, managing director of Techstars, at Techstars Industries of the Future 2022 Demo Day, held May 26 at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
- Read more about Inaugural Techstars accelerator cohort presents pitches
Climate — Improving model accuracy
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Tue, 05/31/2022 - 21:53
Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers developed an invertible neural network, a type of artificial intelligence that mimics the human brain, to improve accuracy in climate-change models and predictions.
- Read more about Climate — Improving model accuracy
Microscopy — Beyond Moore’s Law
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Tue, 05/31/2022 - 21:48
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Korea’s Sungkyunkwan University are using advanced microscopy to nanoengineer promising materials for computing and electronics in a beyond-Moore era.
- Read more about Microscopy — Beyond Moore’s Law
Polymers — Better battery electrolytes
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Tue, 05/31/2022 - 21:36
New polymer materials under development at Oak Ridge National Laboratory could enable safer, more stable batteries needed for electric vehicles and grid energy storage.
- Read more about Polymers — Better battery electrolytes
Materials — Tailor-made molecules
shoemakerms@ornl.gov Tue, 05/31/2022 - 20:54
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are using state-of-the-art methods to shed light on chemical separations needed to recover rare-earth elements and secure critical materials for clean energy technologies.
- Read more about Materials — Tailor-made molecules