As the semiconductor material absorbs the TNT and is heated with power from a simple battery, the TNT molecules undergo tiny explosions that are detected by an optical beam. This technology could make possible flat-panel displays that are sharper and use less power than laptop computer screens, extending the life of batteries for these units. Highly efficient laser diodes for optical circuits may also be made using this technology. The chemical industry plays a vital role in the nation's economy, representing 10 percent of all manufacturing and employing more than 1 million Americans. The industry uses about 3.8 million tons of solvents per year, most of which are potentially hazardous to health, safety and the environment.
Solvents are necessary as media for chemical reactions, chemical separations and cleaning.
A new approach utilizes newly developed chemicals, called surfactants, to disperse insoluble substances in carbon dioxide. The technique is being pioneered by ORNL, the University of North Carolina, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the University of Texas. ORNL and Advanced Optical Systems are developing lightweight mirror technologies that could provide an alternative way to manufacture mirrors for telescopes used for space exploration and military applications. The key is in using existing technologies such as casting, nickel plating and precision machining to produce lightweight aluminum-silicon alloy mirrors. NASA needs lightweight mirror technologies to increase launch capacities, provide easier steering of the mirrors and make possible more portable ground-based applications.