Fall 2005, Vol. 2, Issue 3

Future sleuthing

Analytical Chemistry's active research and development program helps ensure the success of Y‑12's future national security missions.

Through the Plant Directed Research, Development and Demonstration program, an invention disclosure for a new type of mass spectrometer has been completed, and Y‑12 is currently exploring outside partnerships for further technology development.

Y‑12 is collaborating with The University of Tennessee on a new gas sensor — the size of a computer microchip — for the surveillance of gas species.

Collaborations with other DOE sites continue, such as Y‑12's work with Oak Ridge National Laboratory on an air monitor for the detection of toxic materials in the work environment.

Y‑12 also continues to work with private companies. Scientists are investigating a novel laser-spectroscopy technique and the development of new materials for selective removal of metals from aqueous solutions. One such resin material has been successfully developed and is now used in a Y‑12 production laboratory.

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