Three innovative NETL energy technologies have been awarded patents:

• NETL researchers Douglas Kauffman, Christopher Matranga; Dominic Alfonso, Paul Ohodnicki, and Xingyi Deng, and collaborators Rajan Siva, Chenjie Zeng, and Rongchao Jin, were issued a patent on July 23, 2019 for a process to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water into synthesis gas using a unique Au25 nanocatalyst (US Patent #10,358,726).
• NETL researchers Paul R. Ohodnicki, Jr., Chenhu Sun, John P Baltrus, and Thomas D. Brown were issued a patent on July 9, 2019 for a new process for selective H₂ sensing. The ability to selectively sense H₂ is important for a range of applications in energy, defense, aviation, and aerospace (U.S. Patent US 10,345,279 B1).
• NETL researchers James Bennett, Jinichiro Nakano, and Anna Nakano were issued a patent on June 11, 2019 for a new technology that enables economical extraction of lithium from liquid sources such as natural brines, which can be combined with existing geothermal power generation. Inventors are (U.S. Patent 10,315,926A).

NETL researchers develop technology solutions to difficult problems and have produced a wide range of available technologies. Collaborative opportunities are available with entrepreneurs, companies, universities and others to move lab-developed technologies to commercialization.

NETL technologies available for commercialization can be reviewed here. Information about the partnership and licensing mechanisms that NETL uses to enable collaborations and technology transfer is available here.

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 home-grown energy initiatives, stimulate a growing economy, and improve the health, safety, and security of all Americans.

Highly skilled men and women at three NETL research sites – Albany, Oregon; 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.