Oak Ridge National Laboratory

What if large-scale 3D printers could correct mistakes while printing? ORNL researchers developed an automated control system that uses sensors, thermal cameras, computer vision, and machine learning to monitor large-scale composite 3D printing in real time and automatically adjust the process when conditions drift off target. The system helps reduce defects, material waste, and production downtime while supporting more reliable manufacturing of large custom parts for transportation, construction, and energy applications. The work supports the #GenesisMission by combining AI, automation, and digital twin technologies to create smarter, more responsive manufacturing systems that can accelerate industrial innovation for the nation. Read more: 🔗 https://bit.ly/4u8aVsJ

One of the world’s most powerful neutron sources is produced at ORNL. Californium-252 supports: • Nuclear reactor startup • Materials analysis • Critical industrial applications Produced in extremely limited quantities, Cf-252 requires specialized infrastructure and decades of expertise. ORNL is a primary global supplier and ensures reliability for industry, energy, and national needs.

What if a 3D printer could catch its own mistakes in real time and tell scientists whether a part is ready to use? Researchers at the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at ORNL are advancing that capability with Peregrine, an AI-enabled platform that monitors metal additive manufacturing builds layer by layer to identify defects before they become costly failures. This work supports the #GenesisMission by combining AI, advanced manufacturing and real-time data analysis to accelerate smarter, more reliable manufacturing for US industry. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4ahvuvp

Smaller, more efficient power converters could help reduce the cost of grid technologies. ⚡️ Researchers at the Grid Research Innovation and Development Center at ORNL built and validated an electronic converter using a gallium nitride semiconductor to transform current and voltage more efficiently. The smaller, lighter ORNL converter can be more affordably delivered, installed, and maintained, enabling a flexible facility footprint that is less expensive for large projects. Read more: https://bit.ly/3POa6qJ

A tiny isotope can make a major difference in cancer care. Ytterbium-176, produced at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is the starting material for lutetium-177, a radioisotope used worldwide in targeted treatments for prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. By helping secure a reliable supply of ytterbium-176, ORNL is supporting nuclear medicine, patient care and U.S. leadership in isotope production.

On Memorial Day, ORNL pauses to honor the Americans who gave their lives in service to the nation. Their sacrifice continues to inspire the laboratory’s work in science, energy, and national security in service to the American people.

Did you know an ORNL isotope supports research into the origins of the universe? Berkelium-249 played a key role in the discovery of element 117 (tennessine) and supports research into the origins of the universe. This isotope is: ➡️ Produced as part of californium operations ➡️ Extremely rare and short-lived ➡️ Essential to advanced nuclear science And ORNL is one of the few places in the world capable of producing it.

When most people think about nuclear energy, they think about reactors. But none of it works without fuel. In this episode of the Sound of Science podcast, learn how nuclear fuel changes inside a reactor, what happens after its used, and how researchers are developing advanced fuels and recycling technologies for future energy systems. Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4nBW33P Spotify: https://bit.ly/4wGXPVK YouTube: https://bit.ly/3PpMc4K

A new upgrade to the Spallation Neutron Source, or SNS, is helping accelerate neutron research by delivering even better data in less time. With additional power thanks to the Proton Power Upgrade project, the upgrade is already helping accelerate the pace of scientific discovery across a wide range of materials and technologies.