Articles tagged with National Laboratories
Rice University researchers have developed a method to control defects in 2-D materials, which can enhance their electronic, magnetic and optical properties. By growing atomic-thin sheets on curved substrates, they can manipulate the appearance of grain boundaries, which are critical in determining material behavior.
A new study suggests that drought recovery times will increase due to climate change, potentially leading to widespread tree deaths and ecosystem disruption. The factors contributing to this increase include temperature extremes, precipitation, and carbon dioxide concentrations.
Researchers successfully performed thermonuclear measurements of nuclear reaction cross-sections in extreme plasma conditions, replicating previous accelerator experiments. This achievement lays groundwork for studying phenomena in stellar interiors, such as plasma electron screening.
The COHERENT experiment, using the world's smallest neutrino detector, has found a compelling evidence for a neutrino interaction process predicted by theorists 43 years ago. The researchers detected coherent elastic scattering of low-energy neutrinos off nuclei, which is a long-sought confirmation in particle physics.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a new class of low-cost fuel cell catalysts that match the performance of precious metal-based catalysts. Direct atomic-level observations have provided unique insights into their efficiency potential.
Researchers have discovered that quark-gluon plasma has the highest vorticity ever recorded, surpassing even the fastest spinning fluids. The findings provide new insights into the properties of this primordial soup and may help scientists understand the strongest force in nature.
A new statistical method for network anomaly detection uses machine learning to identify unusual behavior, potentially providing a more robust approach to cybersecurity. The model has been developed by researchers at the University of Oxford and is being presented at the 2017 Joint Statistical Meetings.
Berkeley Lab is leading a $9 million project to remove technical barriers to EGS, a clean energy technology that could power 100 million American homes. The project aims to develop field experiments to understand and model rock fractures, essential for geothermal systems.
A new integrated Earth System Model (iESM) reduces uncertainties in future climate predictions by coupling physical, biological processes with human activities. The iESM is being used to explore interactions among the physical climate system, biological components of the Earth system, and human systems.
Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered that the capture and release of ions at the interface between water and muscovite mica is controlled by electrostatic properties. This breakthrough allows for real-time observations of ion transport dynamics, giving new insights into environmental processes.
Researchers at Stanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences have captured the freezing of water into a strange, dense form called ice VII, which can be found naturally in otherworldly environments. This discovery could reveal how water and other substances undergo transitions from liquids to solids.
The lab's integrated computational model reduces uncertainty in climate predictions by coupling Earth systems with energy models. A secure platform developed for the Department of Veterans Affairs promises to improve health outcomes for millions of veterans.
Berkeley Lab researchers have found that carrageenan, a seaweed derivative, acts as a stabilizer in lithium-sulfur batteries, allowing for more cycling and an extended lifetime. The discovery opens up new possibilities for low-cost, high-energy energy storage solutions.
Scientists create a 'molecular black hole' by stripping electrons from atoms using the world's most powerful X-ray laser. The experiment uses intense pulses to study molecular behavior and could advance high-resolution imaging of viruses, bacteria, and complex materials.
Scientists have discovered 'halos' on Mars, indicating that liquid water lingered longer on the planet than previously believed. The findings suggest that substantial groundwater was present in Gale crater's past, expanding the window for when life might have existed on Mars.
A Los Alamos research team used neutron crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structure of a protein that breaks down cellulose, a key step in creating biofuels. The findings suggest that understanding the mechanism of this enzyme could lead to more efficient and cost-effective production of ethanol.
ORNL's software significantly speeds up microscopy image analysis, allowing researchers to explore how neurons migrate in the brain. The lab also made bioenergy advancements by identifying a bottleneck in breaking down woody plants for biofuels, and developed an ecosystem modeling method that can pinpoint key uncertainties.
For the first time, researchers have measured the force that draws tiny crystals together and visualized how they swivel and align. The van der Waals forces provide insights into how crystals self-assemble in nature.
Researchers have discovered how oxygen blows bubbles inside a lithium-air battery when it discharges, a crucial step towards improving the technology. The findings, published in Nature Nanotechnology, propose a new mechanism for bubble formation that could lead to smaller and more stable batteries.
The study explores disease-control measures using a simplified SIR model with low computational requirements, and proposes a platform for public-health collaborators to use and provide feedback on models. The research aims to improve disease-related decision making by providing quantitative estimates of outbreak trajectories.
Three small businesses will collaborate with PNNL on projects addressing technical challenges in bio-coal and hydrogen transportation. The collaborations aim to overcome critical technology hurdles and gain a global competitive advantage for advanced energy products.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have discovered that FIB can fundamentally alter a material's structure, affecting its entire sample. The team developed new X-ray techniques to assess this damage and will focus on developing strategies to mitigate FIB damage.
A recent study found that climate change has led to a 20% loss in the annual maximum amount of water contained in the Western US's mountain snowpack over the last three decades. The researchers estimate that further losses of up to 60% could occur within the next 30 years, posing significant economic and societal impacts.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new technology that mimics imprint processes used in industrial manufacturing, creating nanowire-array structures similar to those found in touch-screens for sensors, computers, phones, and TVs. The pressure-based fabrication process is faster and more environmentally friendl...
Scientists found that certain electrode materials can accommodate large volume changes by transforming into a glassy phase, making them less prone to cracking. This discovery could lead to the development of longer-lived and higher-capacity batteries.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing three new approaches to improve deep learning technologies. They are bringing together quantum, high-performance, and neuromorphic computing architectures to optimize complexity in a low-power environment. Additionally, scientists have created an approach to get a better look ...
Researchers have developed layered 2D hybrid perovskites with nanometer thickness, improving optoelectronic performance for efficient devices. The discovery of layer-edge-states at the edges of perovskite layers enables uninhibited charge transport and enhances photovoltaic and light-emitting properties.
Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have invented a new foam called Oleo Sponge that can absorb and reuse oil from water. The material has been shown to collect diesel and crude oil from both below and on the surface of the water.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative methods for creating complex patterns, accelerating gas separation, and optimizing manufacturing processes. The lab's expertise in additive manufacturing has enabled the rapid prototyping of components, while membrane-based gas separation has shown promising results.
The new automated measurement system at Oak Ridge National Laboratory improves Pu-238 production quality by reducing human handling. The system enables the efficient processing of neptunium-237 feedstock, resulting in high-quality plutonium-238 for NASA's Mars missions.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory created tiny swirling vortices out of magnetic particles using magnetic fields. The discovery provides insight into the behavior that governs such systems and opens up new opportunities for materials and devices with new properties.
A Washington State University study has improved understanding of challenging nuclear waste by analyzing the chemistry of technetium-99. The research could lead to better cleanup methods, particularly addressing difficult plutonium byproducts.
Scientists at Stanford University and Sandia National Laboratories have developed an artificial synapse that mimics the human brain's efficient processing. This innovation could lead to the creation of more brain-like computers that can interpret visual and auditory signals with improved accuracy.
A global research team led by Professor Mike Stratton will study genetic samples from five continents to understand the causes of cancer. The project aims to identify unknown causes, determine environmental factors, and figure out how they lead to cancer.
Scientists at Berkeley Lab discovered particle cracking in cathode materials during charging and discharging, reducing battery capacity and life. The research provides unprecedented mechanistic understanding of electrode material and potential ways to minimize cracking, leading to improved stability and longer battery lifespan.
Researchers now have unprecedented access to space-weather data from 23 GPS satellites, measuring charged particles and their impact on satellite operation. This data helps answer key questions about space weather events, enabling improved forecasting models.
The discovery of tennessine, the seventh row's heaviest element, marks Tennessee's significant contribution to nuclear research. The state's institutions, including Vanderbilt University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, played crucial roles in its creation.
Researchers at Argonne have discovered a new approach to detail the formation of material changes at the atomic scale, capturing images of structural defects in palladium when exposed to hydrogen. This imaging capability will help validate models predicting material behavior and enable defect engineering for better materials.
A new collaborative project is using a unique climate-simulating laboratory system to quickly identify promising algae strains for renewable fuels. The Algae DISCOVR Project aims to reduce the cost and time needed to move promising algal strains from the laboratory to production.
Scientists at ORNL have developed a novel crystallization method to capture carbon dioxide directly from ambient air. The method uses a guanidine sorbent that can be heated at relatively low temperatures to release the gas, reducing energy consumption and emissions.
The University of Utah is part of a national coalition aiming to reduce embodied energy and decrease emissions in US manufacturing. The goal is to achieve a 50% improvement in energy efficiency by 2027, saving billions in energy costs and creating new jobs for American workers.
The consortium aims to develop predictive spray models for fuel sprays in the engine cylinder, addressing uncertainties associated with fuel injection equipment. By understanding flow within the fuel injector nozzle and dispersion of liquid outside the nozzle, researchers hope to improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory developed a way to efficiently create complex nanoscale structures by leveraging self-assembly and guided layering. The technique enables the creation of intricate 3D structures with internal channels or pockets, advancing nanotechnology for medicine, energy generation, and other applications.
Researchers employ a new 'stop-action' technique using laser pulses to measure complex electron interactions in materials. They discovered an unusual form of efficient energy loss at a specific energy level, which may play a role in superconductivity.
Researchers at PNNL have created a smaller muon detector that can be used to monitor CO2 movement or leakage underground. The detector uses optical fibers and electronics to count muons passing through it, allowing for the detection of anomalies in density and the creation of images.
The RAPID institute aims to improve efficiency and productivity in industries like oil and gas, pulp and paper, and chemicals. Researchers from PNNL and OSU will develop breakthrough technologies to save over $9 billion annually.
Researchers used supercomputer simulations to confirm the link between human-induced climate change and deadly heat waves in India and Pakistan. The study found a substantial increase in the likelihood of such heat waves, with chances expected to rise as global warming continues.
Researchers discovered a chain reaction of energy redistribution in quasicrystals, resembling a lightning strike's forked branches. This unique behavior has implications for the development of low-energy computing devices.
ORNL's technologies help in disaster response, urban planning, and energy management. Researchers have developed novel fluorescent air leak detection systems, faster scanning methods for microscopy, and more efficient motors for electric vehicles.
Raju Venugopalan, a Brookhaven National Laboratory physicist, has been awarded the Humboldt Research Award for his work on quark-gluon plasma and ultra-cold atomic gases. The award will enable him to continue collaborations with German researchers and further explore connections between these systems.
EDGE brings genomics expertise to everyone with a user-friendly web-based platform that integrates cutting-edge tools and reduces data analysis times from days to minutes. The platform has already helped streamline data analysis for groups worldwide, including those in Thailand, Georgia, Peru, and Egypt.
Scientists have discovered a new way to study the atomic structure of materials, revealing the existence of 'polarons' that affect the flow of current. The ultrafast electron diffraction technique captures subtle lattice distortions, showing that electrons and atoms move cooperatively, driving deformations in the material's lattice.
Researchers have published a new study that explicitly quantifies the thermodynamic scale of metastability for almost 30,000 known materials. This understanding paves the way for designing and making promising next-generation materials with superior properties.
The Brookhaven-led SOLLVE project aims to standardize OpenMP functionality features for exascale applications, while the CODAR co-design center focuses on developing services for online data analysis and reduction. This will enable scientists to gain insights from data at exascale systems.
The ECP has selected four co-design center proposals, focusing on co-optimizing applications, data services, and exascale platforms. The Block-Structured AMR Co-Design Center aims to develop a new framework for solving complex PDEs on exascale architectures.
The Exascale Computing Project has awarded $34 million in software development funding to 35 research organizations, covering various components of the software stack for exascale systems. The funding aims to enable application developers to write highly parallel applications that can target diverse exascale architectures.
The US Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory has received three 2016 R&D 100 Awards for its innovative technologies in microscopy, catalysis, and nanomaterials. The lab's custom-built x-ray microscope has advanced imaging capabilities, while the MoSoy Catalyst produces hydrogen in an environmentally friendly way.
Researchers at the University of Delaware are using the International Space Station's U.S. National Laboratory to study self-assembly in microgravity, with a focus on creating new types of colloidal materials that can be used in various applications such as phononic bandgap materials and ultra-low thermal conductivity coatings.
Researchers created an atomic-scale map of a foraminifera shell's chemistry, uncovering elevated sodium and magnesium levels in the organic layer. This discovery will improve our understanding of environmental change and climate reconstructions using ancient shells.
Researchers from DOE's Brookhaven National Laboratory tracked particles in the Amazon rainforest, studying how natural particles form clouds. In the absence of industrial emissions, particles are carried down by rainfall and condense into nuclei for cloud formation.