PNNL researchers are advancing AI-assisted nuclear fuel recycling to tap more than 90% of the energy potential left in used fuel, reduce waste and support secure, cost-effective next-generation reactors.

Five PNNL innovations earned 2026 R&D 100 Awards for advances in biotechnology, manufacturing, critical minerals, and nuclear security.

PNNL scientists lead a first-of-its-kind study using real-time imaging to reveal how ultrasonic processing influences aluminum solidification.

PNNL’s nondestructive evaluation capabilities support advancements in nuclear energy, including research for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to preserve the nation’s existing nuclear fleet.

A new invention from PNNL could soon help manufacturers more easily adopt the Lab’s patented Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion (ShAPE™) technology, enabling faster manufacturing of superior extrusion products.

Mechanical engineer Scott Whalen is named the Department of Energy’s Innovator of the Year for turning the patented metal extrusion invention ShAPE™ into an industrially relevant extruded metal product juggernaut.

Researchers at PNNL have developed an interpretable, lightweight AI model that can easily predict weld microstructure features using only basic machine sensor inputs.

High-Velocity Joining is a new joining technology that could reduce energy use and cost for manufacturers.

Matteo Muratori, director of transportation and industry programs at PNNL, has been named to the 2026–2028 cohort of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s New Voices Program.

Secretary Wright visited PNNL's campus in Richland, Washington, late last year to meet with innovators in chemistry, biology, computing, and more.

As Laboratory Director Steve Ashby pens his last monthly column, he highlights PNNL’s accomplishments with pride and gratitude.

A breakthrough at PNNL could free friction stir from current constraints—and open the door for increased use of the advanced manufacturing technique on commercial assembly lines.

This summer, PNNL hosted the inaugural “As Conductive As Copper” (AC2.0) workshop, fostering a collaborative conversation on the future of the U.S. copper supply chain.

From vehicles and airplanes to solid-phase processing of metals—how Curt Lavender and his team at PNNL solve industry problems with practical ingenuity.

Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion (ShAPE) imparts significantly more deformation compared to conventional extrusion. The latest ShAPE system at PNNL, ShAPEshifter, is a purpose-built machine designed for maximum configurability.

PNNL researchers received an award from the Materials, Metals & Materials Society (TMS) for a publication on friction riveting.

Researchers at PNNL studied the effects of high temperatures and ionizing radiation on tungsten heavy alloys.

By combining computational modeling with experimental research, scientists identified a promising composition that reduces the need for a critical material in an alloy that can withstand extreme environments.

PNNL’s year in review includes highlights ranging from advancing soil science to understanding Earth systems, expanding electricity transmission, detecting fentanyl, and applying artificial intelligence to aid scientific discovery.

Solid phase manufacturing can create new custom metal alloys through an innovative process called solid phase alloying, researchers from PNNL report.