Science with Impact

The Energy Science and Technology Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory has a rich history of pioneering innovative research that propels cutting-edge technologies from concept to deployment. From foundational discoveries to real-world impact, the work accelerates the development of secure, resilient, and affordable technologies for buildings, transportation, manufacturing, and the electrical grid.

Explore highlights from all focus areas or search by topic below.

MedUSA, large-scale hybrid additive manufacturing system

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Advanced Manufacturing

Accelerating the creation of new materials and systems to transform energy applications and industrial processes that improve efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of American manufacturers.

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Building Technologies

Reducing energy use in building materials to create smart, energy-efficient buildings that enhance energy security, affordability, and resilience.

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Grid & Electrification

Targeting breakthroughs to improve the reliability and efficiencies of energy storage systems, electric grid protections and controls, and advancements in power electronics.

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Transportation Technologies

Developing transportation solutions with a focus on energy storage, mobility options, biofuels, and intelligent systems.

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ORNL building technologies scientists have been instrumental in the research, development and deployment of heat pump water heaters for use in residential applications.

researcher adjusts wires in a standard refrigerator/freezer unit

Buildings researchers demonstrated advanced technologies that reduced, by greater than 50 percent, the 1993 National Appliance Energy Conservation Act standard energy consumption for a 20 ft. top-mount, automatic defrost, refrigerator/freezer.

researcher reaches into refrigeration unit

ORNL buildings researchers were the first to accurately evaluate the effectiveness of a low global warming potential, or GWP, refrigerant known as R-448A.

ORNL researchers successfully demonstrated the first 270-kW wireless power transfer to light-duty electric vehicle using the ORNL-developed polyphase wireless charging system.

ORNL-developed recycling technologies help recover rare earth materials from old hard drives and spent lithium-ion batteries.

ORNL researchers have developed an orchestrator to automate management of interconnected microgrids powered by renewable energy, allowing them to support each other if one part becomes compromised.

red truck with popped hood in testing facility

ORNL fuels, engines and emissions scientists proved that gasoline containing 15% ethanol (E15) would not cause emission control system failure in light-duty vehicles.

An ORNL-patented cascade multilevel inverter was developed 30 years ago and is widely used today by global energy, machinery and plant solution providers.

graphic representation of transportation

ORNL researchers have produced and maintained the Department of Energy’s Transportation Energy Data Book which serves as the definitive mobility trend guide for industry, policymakers, researchers and consumers.

ORNL demonstrated the use of additive manufacturing in the production of hydrofoils and spokes for small hydropower systems.

concrete cast mold on a 3D printing machine

ORNL developed a 3D-printed precast concrete mold using a carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic known as CF-ABS.

researcher with safety glasses uses tool to adjust machine

ORNL invented and deployed a modal tap testing system for the calibration of CNC machines.

tall building with a crane lifting building materials next to it

ORNL researchers 3D-printed a single-piece, recyclable natural-material floor panel tested to be strong enough to replace construction materials like steel.