SENSORS -- Super-sensitive chemical detectors . . .
A new generation of chemical microsensors developed at ORNL offers increased
performance and versatility over conventional detectors. The new microsensor is
based on the photo-induced bending of micro-electro-mechanical systems as the
surface absorbs target chemicals. The sensor is activated by shining a laser
light, applying an external electric field or exposing it to radiation. While
the conventional approach is to coat the surface with chemical layers to achieve
chemical specificity, ORNL's sensors feature chemical layers that allow for
selectivity by activating the coating itself. [Contact: Panos Datskos]
ENVIRONMENT -- A river flows through it . . .
ORNL researchers hope to help strike a balance between power generation and
environmental concerns using a computer model they've adapted to a Montana river
system. At issue is the relicensing of several hydroelectric dams, particularly
along the Madison River, which flows north from Yellowstone country to the
Missouri River. The model was originally developed by the Tennessee Valley
Authority to simulate water flow through the system of dams in the Southeast.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is using an environmental assessment by
ORNL to weigh the merits of the arguments in deciding whether to issue the
renewals. [Contact: Bo Saulsbury]
AUTOMOTIVE -- Electric bus of the future . . .
A new motor controller with advanced soft-switching circuitry developed at ORNL
promises to make electric and hybrid vehicles more practical. The 100-kilowatt
inverter and controller, which are being tested aboard an electric bus in
Chattanooga, Tenn., represent breakthroughs in several areas, including in cost,
volume, weight and reliability. The soft-switching circuitry helps reduce
damaging power spikes and increases efficiency. Early results are promising,
according to ORNL and its partners, Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority,
Advanced Vehicle Systems and the Electric Transit Vehicle Institute. Researchers
plan to operate the system on a test track and city route and collect and
evaluate data. [Contact: Curt Ayers]
MANUFACTURING -- A safer workplace . . .
A rapid infrared heating device developed at ORNL for making steering wheel
assemblies significantly reduces repetitive stress injuries in one type of
automotive manufacturing. The device, called a polymer boot heater, eases the
installation of the protective boot used in automotive rack-and-pinion steering
assemblies. The heater expands the leading part of the polymer boot so it can be
easily mounted onto a metal housing. It reduces the amount of force needed to
install the boot and should decrease injuries. The heater is in use at General
Motors' Delphi Automotive Systems in Huntsville, Ala. [Contact: Vinod Sikka]
Story ideas from ORNL. To arrange for an interview with any of these researchers, please call Ron Walli of Communications and Public Affairs at 423-576-0226.