Enrichment Science and Engineering Division
The Enrichment Science and Engineering Division serves the nation in two critical areas: advancing enrichment technologies and exploring stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages an elite staff of scientists and engineers with the world-leading capabilities of Oak Ridge National Laboratory to deliver groundbreaking advancements with a variety of applications, from national security to life-saving medical treatments.
ESED SECTIONS
ESED is the national steward for the research, development, and demonstration of centrifuge technology. Researchers work with state-of-the-art systems, applying advanced theoretical and engineering analysis principles to design machines and manufacture prototypes using novel fabrication tools and techniques. Their research advances the physics and engineering understanding of gas centrifuge systems. Beyond innovating current technology, the division is also exploring bold, new ways to enrich stable and radioactive isotopes.
Centrifuge Science
These teams perform basic and applied research and development of gas centrifuge technology to meet the critical needs of the U.S. Government.
Plasma Enrichment Science and Engineering
These experts lead the development of new processes and dispensing protocols to deliver stable isotopes for national security, industry and medical applications.
Enrichment Systems Engineering
Scientists and engineers conceptualize, develop and deploy new gas testing for novel, state-of-the-art enrichment devices.
Enrichment Systems Fabrication and Demonstration
This team supports the deployment of new enrichment technology by fabricating and demonstrating systems.
Innovation To Meet The Nation's Needs
Innovation To Meet The Nation's Needs
ORNL has extensive institutional knowledge in the area of stable isotopes, most recently producing ruthenium-96 in 2018—the first domestic enrichment of an isotope since 1998. ESED enables the growth of the nation’s stable isotope portfolio by advancing electromagnetic isotope separations technology and innovating new enriched isotope production approaches. The division is also identifying new applications for stable isotopes.
By bringing enrichment science and stable isotope production under one organization, ESED is designed for innovation that will ensure ORNL meets the nation’s need for these vital materials and technology.