Y-12 inventors recognized for patents, transferring technology

Several Y‑12 employees were honored for contributing to the site’s success in technology transfer, including several patents.

OAK RIDGE, Tenn — Y‑12 National Security Complex recently celebrated accomplishments in technology transfer over the last four years. Through the Partnerships and Technology Transfer Program, Y‑12 is able to share innovations and technologies that may have an impact in the private sector.

Partnerships and Technology Transfer program area lead Grant Allard said, “The work of Y‑12’s scientists, engineers, and inventors has not only advanced our national security mission but has also pushed the boundaries of innovation. It fuels progress, inspires future generations, and often opens doors we didn’t even know were there.”

“At its core, tech transfer is about creating bridges and taking the innovations developed at Y‑12 and connecting them to the outside world,” said Daniel Riddick, Technology Transfer program manager. “In short, we help transform invention into innovation, and we’re incredibly proud of the momentum we’ve built.”

The evidence of that momentum is shown by the following accomplishments over the last four years:

• 20 issued patents
• 33 invention disclosures
• 3 executed cooperative research and development agreements with industry partners
• 108 nondisclosure or proprietary information agreements
• 9 memoranda of understanding
• 2 commercial patent licenses
• $203,000+ in royalty revenue generated from those and previous licenses

The patents awarded ranged from a low‑temperature lithium production to a shaped cutting tool and method of use to efficiently form a finished part on a lathe that reduces material waste. Employees were also awarded patents for chemical, radiation, and neutron detectors as well as inventions to improve safety while processing molten metals.

Government use and technology support

“A lot of what we do is applicable across the Nuclear Security Enterprise,” said Scott Couture, senior director of Production Research, Development, and Integration. “Two employees fabricated and designed a modular ink lubricant barrier that enhances security across the enterprise by providing adaptable, modular barriers tailored to diverse facility needs.”

The barrier is licensed to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and is undergoing advanced testing at Idaho National Laboratory. The employees were honored with a Government Use Award for demonstrating how innovation originating within safeguards and security can drive enterprise‑wide advancements.

Randy Dziendziel, senior director of Development, praised another employee for her support of licensing technology. He said, “Licensing moves Y‑12 inventions through the process to commercialization, which can often take years.”

This employee took entrepreneurial leave to work with Color Tech Holdings to commercialize beryllium detection wipes. “Through her leadership, Y‑12 made the first royalty deal in 30 years, returning 3% of the profits to the site to invest in people and awards,” said Dziendziel.

“Every award represents the very best of Y‑12’s spirit — our drive to solve complex challenges, our commitment to national security, and our belief in the power of science and engineering to make a difference,” summarized Allard.

“These accomplishments don’t happen in isolation,” Allard continued. “They’re the product of teamwork, determination, and a culture that values curiosity, ingenuity, and persistence. We’re thankful for our inventors, partners, and champions of tech transfer. Their work continues to push boundaries, improve safety, strengthen our mission, and contribute to a safer and more secure world.”

Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC operates the Y-12 National Security Complex, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration. Bechtel National, Inc. is the lead member of CNS; minority members include Leidos, Inc.; ATK Launch Systems, LLC; and SOC LLC. Y-12 is a key facility in the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise, and CNS performs its work with a focus on performance excellence and the imperatives of safety, security, zero defects, and delivery as promised.

For more information, visit www.y12.doe.gov. Follow Y-12 on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

CONTACT
Kathryn King, APR
Communications
Office (865) 315.5996
Kathryn.King@y12nsc.doe.gov