NETL researchers reached a high-performance computing (HPC) milestone, running advanced energy modeling code on the world’s first exascale supercomputer — a powerful new class of computing systems capable of ushering in a new era of precision, fidelity and reliability for simulation-based engineering.

NETL research scientist Thien “James” Tran won the Young Membrane Scientist Award, presented by the North American Membrane Society (NAMS), for his contributions in developing new gas separation membrane materials including separations from fossil-based industrial point sources such as electric power production, and steel and cement manufacturing.

A first-of-its-kind NETL research project involving the Bakken Shale has shown that a one-size-fits-all approach to understanding the subsurface and overcoming well site operational and water management challenges doesn’t necessarily apply. This is due to the often variable chemical and biological dynamics present at fossil fuel well sites.

NETL contributed to the success of the Exascale Computing Project (ECP), which earned an Achievement Award from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Researchers have initiated operations at a pilot-scale production facility to scale up technology developed by NETL to extract rare earth elements (REEs) from coal fly ash produced by power plants and transform a waste byproduct into a valuable feedstock.

When NETL celebrated its 25th anniversary as a Department of Energy national laboratory late last year, its busy Advanced Alloy Signature Center at its Albany, Oregon, site was highlighted as a national resource that bridges the gap between laboratory research and production for evolving metal alloys that are helping America develop more efficient and lasting energy systems.

For her work in developing microwave ammonia synthesis and enhancing America’s energy security and prosperity in the process, NETL’s Christina Wildfire won a 2025 Outstanding Researcher Award from the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC).

NETL helped scientists at Montana State University evaluate microscopic cementing agents developed by the University that can more effectively penetrate microfractures to improve underground storage of carbon dioxide (CO2), enhance gas well efficiency and seal fluid pathways in shales fractured for natural gas recovery.

North Allegheny’s Marshall Middle School Team 1 captured first place in the 2025 Western Pennsylvania Science Bowl (WPASB) middle school contest held Saturday, March 1, at the Community College of Allegheny County-South Campus in West Mifflin.

The NETL-led Critical Materials Supply Chain Research Facility (METALLIC) kicked off its five-year mission last year to develop a national capability for establishing new domestic critical minerals and materials (CMM) supply chains, from extraction to manufacturing.