Feature Articles

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

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Updates every hour. Last Updated: 3-Jun-2026 19:15 ET (3-Jun-2026 23:15 GMT/UTC)

3-Jun-2026

Underground acoustic signals reveal hidden tunnels

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

1-Jun-2026

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.

28-May-2026

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.

28-May-2026

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

21-May-2026

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.

20-May-2026

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.

14-May-2026

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.

14-May-2026

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.

13-May-2026

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

11-May-2026

Vitriform3D and ORNL give glass a second life through 3D printing

DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Glass bottles tossed in the trash are finding new life thanks to a collaboration between the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Vitriform3D, an advanced manufacturing company. Together, they found a way to turn old glass into new products using 3D printing.