Science and Technology Highlights

A schematic of the SAPPHIRE diagnostic. The top half of a chirped laser beam passes through plasma, while the bottom half does not. Separating and recombining the beam creates interference patterns (right) that show how the plasma changes with time.
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Novel probe captures every scene of a plasma movie all at once

In a study published in Optica, LLNL researchers developed a new diagnostic that captures plasma evolution in time and space with a single laser shot. 

Samples of algae were taken from the Eel River (left) and measured with NanoSIMS (center). The results, right, demonstrate that a symbiotic bacterium fixes nitrogen inside the algae.
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River ecosystem holds clues for sustainable nitrogen production

LLNL researchers and collaborators investigated a California river ecosystem and found a nitrogen-fixing bacterium that acts like a proto-organelle.

A laboratory-scale carbon dioxide electrolyzer (left) and a schematic representation of the same (middle). This technology can be used to transform carbon dioxide into valuable products like fuel and plastics (right).
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Controlling water cuts energy costs for ethylene production

In a new study, LLNL researchers design a new polymer ink, called an ionomer, that controls how gas and water move in electrochemical devices. 

STARFIRE logo.
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LLNL-led fusion energy hub expands roster of diode experts

The STARFIRE Hub for IFE, led by LLNL, adds five new members to its Diode Technology Working Group. 

LLNL researchers created molecular dynamics simulations to explain why either graphite or diamond forms when carbon crystallizes.
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When carbon crystallizes: molecular simulations reveal why graphite outshines d…

LLNL researchers create molecular dynamics simulations to explain what material forms when carbon crystallizes.

With the arrival of the exascale supercomputer El Capitan, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers are entering a new era of scientific simulation — one in which they can model extreme physical events with unprecedented resolution, realism and speed.
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El Capitan revealing hidden worlds in previously unattainable simulations

LLNL researchers model extreme physical events with unprecedented resolution, realism and speed. 

LLNL researchers (from left): Jan Render, Quinn Shollenberger and Greg Brennecka in the laboratory where samples retrieved from the asteroid Bennu were prepared and analyzed.
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Samples from asteroid Bennu contain secrets of the early solar system

LLNL researchers analyzed asteroid material to show that its elements reflect the early composition of the solar system. 

In a paper published in Science, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers detail how they used physics-informed deep learning and a cognitive simulation framework to forecast the success of the historic Dec. 5, 2022 fusion ignition shot, predicting a greater than 70% probability that it would exceed the energy breakeven point — producing more energy from the fusion reaction than the laser energy used to drive it.
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LLNL used AI to predict historic fusion ignition shot

LLNL researchers employed an AI-driven model to predict fusion ignition days ahead of the historic 2022 shot.

Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have helped develop an advanced, real-time tsunami forecasting system — powered by El Capitan, the world’s fastest supercomputer — that could dramatically improve early warning capabilities for coastal communities near earthquake zones.
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LLNL scientists explore real-time tsunami warning system on world’s fastest sup…

LLNL scientists have helped develop an advanced, real-time tsunami forecasting system that could dramatically improve early warning capabilities. 

Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and their collaborators have created a new class of programmable soft materials that can absorb impacts like never before, while also changing shape when heated.
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LLNL team develops new material that bends, bounces and absorbs energy on demand

LLNL scientists and collaborators have created a new class of programmable soft materials that can absorb impacts like never before.