Recent News & Highlights

With the help of other researchers from ORNL and Colorado State University, Daniel Olds and Katharine Page developed a U-tube gas flow cell to study catalysts and better understand how they facilitate chemical reactions. With this cell integrated into a new sample environment, they can combine neutron diffraction and isotope analysis techniques to view catalytic behavior under realistic operating conditions. (Image credit: ORNL/Genevieve Martin)
Interdisciplinary team designs gas flow cell to analyze catalytic behavior
August 2, 2017
Researchers used neutrons to probe a running engine at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source, giving them the opportunity to test an aluminum-cerium alloy under operating conditions. From left, researchers Orlando Rios, Ke An, and Lt. Eric Stromme show off a cylinder head made from the new alloy. (Image credit: ORNL/Genevieve Martin)
Neutrons peer into a running engine
July 26, 2017
As the proton beam (pink) impinges upon the target and passes into the liquid mercury inside, the mercury absorbs the protons and creates a “spall” of neutrons (blue) that are then sent through moderators and guides to research instruments to study the fundamental properties of materials. (Image credit: ORNL/Jill Hemman)
Leading the way: ORNL builds more reliable, longer-lasting targets for high-powered neutron scattering
July 20, 2017
A combination of X-ray and neutron scattering has revealed new insights into how a highly efficient industrial enzyme is used to break down cellulose. Knowing how oxygen molecules (red) bind to catalytic elements (illustrated by a single copper ion) will guide researchers in developing more efficient, cost-effective biofuel production methods. (Image credit: ORNL/Jill Hemman)
'On your mark, get set' Neutrons run enzyme’s reactivity for better biofuel production
July 20, 2017
Daryush Aidun uses HFIR beam line HB-2B to study a dissimilar weldment of low carbon steel and stainless steel, measuring where and how residual stresses are distributed within the structure. (Image credit: Genevieve Martin)
Neutrons aim at improving integrity in dissimilar metal welds
July 6, 2017
ORNL mentors Candice Halbert, Lakeisha Walker, Neelam Pradhan, and Tara Thompson (left to right) provide hands-on scientific experiences for Vine Middle School students through the gSTEM program. These students conduct experiments and learn about academic and professional opportunities in STEM fields. (Image credit: ORNL/Genevieve Martin).
NScD mentors empower girls in STEM
June 27, 2017

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