Fusion-related technology transfer at the Sandia National Laboratories

Abstract

The technology Transfer Program at Sandia National Laboratories is focused on market pull and rapid commercialization. The emphasis is to apply lab strengths to problems of national importance by partnering with industry and universities with the result of enhancing the US economic competitiveness. The technology transfer of fusion-related technologies enhances the mission of the fusion program at Sandia. The short-term strategy in the Pulsed Power Center at Sandia is to develop teaming arrangements with other Sandia organizations to become participants in existing CRADAs. To that end, they are using the expertise and facilities in fusion-related lasers to participate in CRADAs for laser debridement with Massachusetts General Hospital and laser Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) with Mission Research Corporation. In addition, they are working with an existing CRADA partner to use the Quick Silver Code to solve advanced electronic packaging problems. The longer-term strategy is to establish CRADAs in surface treatment of metals with ion beams, deep penetration electron beam welding and food irradiation for disinfestation and sterilization. The strong interest shown by industry in these three areas demonstrates the potential commercial value in high average power electron and ion beam systems.