NETL researchers joined other innovators and industry experts from around the globe as they pitched cutting-edge technologies with commercial potential at the 2020 TechConnect Business Virtual Summit and Showcase, held virtually Nov. 19-20.

The TechConnect Innovation Showcase provides a unique and vetted pipeline for corporate, federal and venture capitalist prospectors to discover and connect with emerging technologies. During a pre-recorded Thursday session, NETL researchers pitched a technology for removing carbon dioxide from flue gas and a technology for removing dyes from water sources. Both of these technology pitches were recognized with TechConnect Innovation Awards.

As an Innovation Partner, NETL also participated in the event through a virtual booth that featured two additional  pre-recorded technology pitches, which focused on a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy sensor for elemental analysis and a process for carbon capture based on microwave-accelerated regeneration of a slurry. The virtual booth also served as an online hub for NETL contact information and resources for prospective NETL partners such as technology overviews, videos and fact sheets.

“This is a great opportunity for our researchers to participate in valuable corporate matchmaking events,” said Mike Knaggs, associate director of NETL’s Strategic Partnerships. “Each of these technologies has significant potential for commercialization, and connecting these folks to possible investors could help get these innovations out there more quickly, so the American public can start benefitting from the reliable energy production and sound environmental stewardship these technologies could help provide.”

NETL is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory that produces technological solutions for America’s energy challenges. From developing creative innovations and efficient energy systems that make coal more competitive, to advancing technologies that enhance oil and natural gas extraction and transmission processes, NETL research is providing breakthroughs and discoveries that support domestic energy initiatives, stimulate a growing economy, and improve the health, safety, and security of all Americans. Highly skilled men and women at NETL’s sites in Albany, Oregon; Anchorage, Alaska; Houston, Texas; Morgantown, West Virginia; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania conduct a broad range of research activities that support DOE’s mission to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States.