The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory marked another year of groundbreaking research and innovation in 2024, as detailed in the year’s top stories. These diverse accomplishments underscore ORNL’s approach of translating fundamental discoveries into scientific solutions that address the world’s most pressing challenges.
Promethium, rare earth chemistry unlocked
ORNL researchers made key advancements in understanding the coordination chemistry of promethium, a rare-earth element critical for energy and quantum technologies. By investigating its unique properties, scientists have uncovered pathways for developing novel applications in energy and material sciences.
World record achieved in wireless power transfer
A new polyphase wireless power transfer system developed by ORNL set a world record by delivering 270 kilowatts of power to charge electric vehicles. This technology enables efficient, high-capacity charging for heavy-duty EVs, including buses and trucks, without physical connectors. The achievement represents a significant step toward the future of wireless energy transfer for transportation and industrial systems.
Manufacturing large components for hydropower
In a collaborative effort, ORNL led a manufacturing initiative focused on enabling the domestic production of large components for hydropower systems. This novel approach leverages advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing with the aim of reducing costs, accelerating deployment and enhancing the efficiency of hydropower technologies.
Global plant carbon uptake increases by 31%
A major study led by ORNL revealed that global plant uptake of carbon dioxide has increased by nearly one-third, highlighting the significant role of plant biology in Earth systems research. The findings improve predictive climate models and inform strategies to harness natural processes for carbon sequestration.
Researchers develop green floor to replace steel
ORNL scientists unveiled an innovative “green floor” material as an alternative to steel in construction and industrial applications. This eco-friendly composite significantly reduces carbon emissions during production while maintaining strength or durability.
Efficient lithium extraction from unconventional sources
ORNL chemists developed a revolutionary method to more efficiently extract lithium from mining sites, oil fields and recycled batteries. The new process addresses supply chain challenges and supports the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems.
ORNL supercomputers aid NASA’s Mars missions
NASA used ORNL’s supercomputing resources for planning smooth landings on Mars. These high-performance simulations optimize spacecraft trajectories and ensure mission safety. The partnership underscores ORNL’s role in advancing space exploration and human missions to the Red Planet.
Neutron studies enhance glass design
Using ORNL neutron scattering tools and resources, Corning studied the atomic ring structures in glass materials. The findings help predict glass performance and improve the design of products used in telecommunications, construction and advanced optics. This research exemplifies how fundamental science can drive industrial innovation.
Writing atoms to transform quantum materials
ORNL demonstrated a revolutionary technique for “writing” individual atoms to create customizable quantum materials. This process could redefine materials fabrication, enabling the production of advanced devices for quantum computing and sensing.
First-of-its-kind database for uranium minerals published
ORNL scientists published the Compendium of Uranium Raman and Infrared Experimental Spectra, or CURIES, 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, supporting the lab’s nuclear nonproliferation mission.
Industrial radioisotope production expanded
Through a partnership with DOE and Massachusetts-based QSA Global Inc., ORNL began producing iridium-192, which is used to assess the integrity of oil and gas pipelines and to ensure manufacturing quality in shipbuilding, vehicles, aerospace, and other sectors. Ir-192 has not been produced in the United States for more than 20 years. ORNL’s unique expertise and facilities make it one of the only places in the world capable of producing Ir-192.
UT-Battelle manages ORNL for DOE’s Office of Science, the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States. DOE’s Office of Science is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, visit energy.gov/science. — Neil Gillette
