Y-12 lithium metal production technology offers a unique licensing opportunity

Lithium metal is essential to the Y-12 National Security Complex nuclear deterrence mission. Conventional lithium metal production processes, however, are energy intensive and environmentally burdensome; they also present significant safety risks to workers. Y-12 inventor and scientist John Freiderich is changing that paradigm with a breakthrough technology he has developed. 

Y-12 achieves historic lithium production levels

Oak Ridge, TN – The Y-12 National Security Complex recently completed a highly successful 2026 lithium metal production campaign, nearly doubling its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 goal and marking the most successful campaign in decades. This accomplishment also significantly increased Y-12’s stockpile of enriched lithium, helping to ensure the future of the nation’s nuclear deterrent. The lithium metal produced at Y-12 is unlike lithium used for batteries because it is enriched for use as part of the nation’s nuclear weapons deterrent.

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