Nondestructive
Examination

Materials used in extreme environments, such as those found in nuclear energy systems, must endure harsh conditions, including high temperatures, intense radiation, mechanical stress, and corrosive environments. Over time, these factors can lead to material degradation, reduced performance, and even failure, posing significant challenges to safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. Accurately evaluating the condition of these materials is critical to ensuring their integrity and functionality across their life cycle. 

Nondestructive examination—also called nondestructive evaluation or NDE—research offers powerful tools to assess materials in these demanding environments without causing damage, enabling early detection of degradation, better performance predictions, and extended service life for critical components. 

Nondestructive Evaluation machine being used on a piece of metal material on a counter in a lab setting
PNNL NDE experts apply ultrasonic array testing methods to a wide range of components, enabling the analysis of materials manufactured through additive processes.

At Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), we specialize in advanced NDE research that evaluates the integrity of materials, structures, and components. PNNL’s NDE experts deliver a comprehensive understanding of material conditions and the degradation state of components, providing essential insights to extend the useful life of critical systems and guide decisions related to mitigation, repair, or replacement. This work supports vital industries, including energy, infrastructure, and national security.

Small robotic device on white and black floor with wires
Robotic crawlers are being tested to inspect aging double-shelled radioactive waste tanks at the Hanford Site. Using sound waves, the crawlers assess the steel tank bottoms and sidewalls through small access slots. PNNL researchers are developing AI and machine learning models to help detect anomalies like cracks, pits, and corrosion.

PNNL’s NDE team stands at the forefront of innovation, with extensive expertise spanning nuclear, waste management, transportation, defense, and aerospace applications. Leveraging innovative examination facilities, advanced instruments and sensors, and artificial intelligence/machine learning models, PNNL drives the development of next-generation NDE techniques. The team’s efforts are reinforced through access to a library of components and mockups relevant to the nuclear industry, as well as advanced multiphysics-based modeling and simulation capabilities. 

Drawing on multidisciplinary expertise from across PNNL’s mission areas, the NDE team provides a holistic and tailored approach to solving complex challenges. This seamless integration of diverse skills and resources ensures PNNL remains a leader in the advancement of nondestructive evaluation technologies. PNNL’s NDE team stands at the forefront of innovation, with extensive expertise spanning nuclear, waste management, transportation, defense, and aerospace applications. Leveraging innovative examination facilities, advanced instruments and sensors, and artificial intelligence/machine learning models, PNNL drives the development of next-generation NDE techniques. The team’s efforts are reinforced through access to a library of components and mockups relevant to the nuclear industry, as well as advanced multiphysics-based modeling and simulation capabilities.