September 8, 2026
6 MIN READ
ORNL researchers developed two domestically sourced materials for Smith-Root’s environmental DNA samplers that are cheaper and meet or exceed performance requirements. The materials could improve filtration while reducing reliance on international suppliers.
September 8, 2026
3 MIN READ
ORNL researchers developed an algorithm to help utilities and planners choose locations for urban power generation and storage projects. The tool considers grid infrastructure alongside local policies, costs, community priorities and other real-world factors.
September 8, 2026
7 MIN READ
ORNL’s M2IND brought together more than 350 leaders from industry, government and research to address manufacturing challenges, including supply chains, workforce gaps and technology qualification. The forum also highlighted new partnerships and advanced manufacturing projects aimed at accelerating U.S. industrial deployment.
September 6, 2026
15 MIN READ
To celebrate 60 years of groundbreaking science at the High Flux Isotope Reactor, this immersive, magazine-style feature explores HFIR’s legacy, daily operations, and future as a cornerstone of American innovation — from midnight reactor work to global scientific impact.
September 5, 2026
1 MIN READ
September 4, 2026
4 MIN READ
ORNL radiochemist Lætitia Delmau was elected a 2026 American Chemical Society Fellow for her contributions to radiochemical separations, actinide science, mentoring and service. She was also named an ACS Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Division Fellow for her research, leadership and professional service.
September 3, 2026
2 MIN READ
ORNL researchers measured how irradiation changes the mechanical properties of individual layers in HALEU TRISO fuel particles. The results will help improve fuel performance models and support advanced gas reactor development.
September 2, 2026
6 MIN READ
A broken rib from Scotty, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton discovered, is helping scientists uncover new information about life on Earth 66 million years ago. Using neutron imaging at ORNL, the scientists peered inside the fossilized bone to build 3D views without altering the preserved soft tissue.
September 2, 2026
5 MIN READ
Hundreds of students, educators and early-career researchers gained hands-on science and technology experience at ORNL this summer through programs designed to build pathways to STEM careers.
September 1, 2026
5 MIN READ
Researchers at ORNL and INL found that existing non-powered dams across the United States could generate as much as 15.2 terawatt-hours of electricity annually. The updated assessment uses improved data and modeling to help identify the most promising hydropower opportunities and provides new tools to support decision-making for policymakers, dam owners and researchers.
September 1, 2026
5 MIN READ
ORNL researchers developed an AI-guided system that autonomously arranges molecules to build functional materials atom by atom. The system created a 37-molecule artificial graphene lattice and confirmed that it behaved like graphene.
September 1, 2026
5 MIN READ
ORNL researchers more than doubled the peak power of a low-cost salt water battery by using a bleach-producing side reaction. Developed with Coulomb Technology, the battery avoids critical materials and could support long-duration grid energy storage.