Neutrons for New Discoveries and Solutions

Breakthroughs in medicine, energy, technology, and industry follow advances in the understanding of materials. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is at the US epicenter for one of the most powerful techniques exploring the nature of materials and energy—neutron scattering.

ORNL hosts two of the world’s most powerful sources of neutrons for research: the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS). Neutrons have no electrical charge, which allows them to easily and safely pass through a sample, revealing information about the material’s structure and properties.

Neutron scattering is used in many industries—automotive, aerospace, steel, defense, industrial materials, energy storage, data storage, biomedicine, and others—to address the 21st century’s major scientific challenges.

Discoveries fueled by neutron research at ORNL help scientists answer big science questions and spur countless innovations such as stronger glass for mobile devices, drugs that more effectively treat diseases, more reliable aircraft and rocket engines, cars with better gas mileage, improved armor for the military, and batteries that are safer, charge faster, and last longer.

INNOVATION
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ORNL strengthens America through discovery science enabled by multidisciplinary teams and powerful research tools, translating advancements to address national priorities. We deliver breakthroughs that move innovation from the laboratory to national impact.

ENERGY
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ORNL advances technologies to ensure secure, affordable, and reliable energy to fuel the nation’s economic growth and energy independence. Our teams develop solutions supporting the Department of Energy’s mission and America’s energy future.

COMPETITIVENESS
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ORNL accelerates the transition of research into real-world applications to drive economic prosperity, reduce costs, and give US industries an edge. We foster innovation networks that create jobs, grow industries, and strengthen America's global competitiveness.

SECURITY
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ORNL protects America’s future through scientific and technological breakthroughs that secure critical infrastructure and address emerging threats. Leveraging our unique capabilities, we deliver solutions that safeguard our people, infrastructure, and economy against evolving security challenges.

Research Highlights

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