Feature Articles

Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility

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Updates every hour. Last Updated: 4-Jun-2026 15:16 ET (4-Jun-2026 19:16 GMT/UTC)

New research enables methanol use in dual fuel marine engines

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Methanol has long shown promise as a marine fuel, but reliably igniting it in diesel engines has remained a challenge. Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Caterpillar demonstrated a dual-fuel approach that enables diesel engines to operate on more than 75% methanol without sacrificing performance while maintaining fuel flexibility. The work could expand fuel options for commercial shipping and other marine applications.

Funder: ORNL-Caterpillar CRADA

Underground acoustic signals reveal hidden tunnels

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Once a tunnel is constructed, it can be difficult to locate from the surface. Traditionally, researchers have used sensing technologies such as seismic surveys, ground-penetrating radar, and electrical resistivity, but these methods can be limited, especially in clay-rich soils or complex subsurface environments. ORNL scientists have demonstrated a new method to reveal hidden underground structures using acoustic signals generated below ground.

Funder: ORNL SEED

Sandia recreates flight-like heat to support NASA’s Dragonfly mission to Titan

DOE/Sandia National Laboratories

At Sandia National Laboratories’ National Solar Thermal Test Facility, engineers helped NASA prepare for that critical phase by recreating flight-like heating on large test articles to qualify Dragonfly’s heat shield thermal protection system. Sandia and NASA recently completed the sixth and final solar-tower test campaign at the facility, capping a multiyear effort that began in 2023.

As W88 production ends, Sandia looks to next phase

DOE/Sandia National Laboratories

Sandia National Laboratories and the nuclear security enterprise complete production of the W88 Alteration 370.

ORNL’s tSAGE fast-tracks microbial design for high-temp manufacturing

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a platform that engineers heat-loving microbes for industrial-scale manufacturing in a matter of weeks compared with previous approaches that can take months to years. This biotechnology tool strengthens American manufacturing capacity, supporting long-term energy security and global competitiveness.

Journal: Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology
Funder: U.S. Department of Energy

Error correction tech boosts the 3D printing of big composite parts

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have created a new tool that can catch and correct potential mistakes in real time while 3D printing large plastic parts. The automated system could help U.S. manufacturers produce large, custom parts with fewer defects, potentially reducing waste, lowering costs, and strengthening domestic competitiveness in additive manufacturing.

New semiconductor building blocks make power converters smaller, more affordable

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory incorporated gallium nitride semiconductors to create a high-efficiency power converter that is more compact, affordable and efficient.

3D printing lowers costs, expands hydropower opportunities

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Additive manufacturing enables rapid, customized and affordable production of components for low-head micro-hydropower systems, significantly reducing barriers to harnessing energy.

Technology reduces time, costs for machinists nationwide

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

MillMax is revolutionizing computer numerical control machining by enabling manufacturers to optimize cutting performance in minutes.

Driving smarter toward fuel savings

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Compiled by researchers at the National Transportation Research Center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the annual guide highlights new vehicle fuel economy and explains how driving habits and vehicle maintenance impact mileage and overall costs.

Funder: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

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