Ames National Laboratory, located in Ames, Iowa, has a rich history that dates back to World War II. Originally established as Ames Laboratory, it has evolved significantly over the decades. This article explores the laboratory's journey from its early days as part of the Manhattan Project to its current status as a leading research facility affiliated with Iowa State University.
The Beginnings in the 1940s
The story of Ames National Laboratory begins in the 1940s during World
War II. In 1942, Frank Spedding, an expert in rare-earth elements, was tasked with setting up a chemical research and development program to support the Manhattan Project. This initiative, known as the Ames Project, focused on producing high-purity uranium from uranium ores. Harley Wilhelm played a crucial role by developing new methods for reducing and casting uranium metal, which significantly lowered production costs.
The Ames Project was instrumental in providing around two tons of uranium for the first self-sustaining nuclear reaction at the University of Chicago. The success of these efforts led to the formal establishment of Ames Laboratory in 1947 by the United States Atomic Energy Commission.
Growth and Diversification in the 1950s and 1960s
During the 1950s, Ames Laboratory's reputation for working with rare-earth metals grew, leading to an increased workload. The laboratory's scientists explored nuclear fuels and structural materials for nuclear reactors. Their efforts resulted in the production of the purest rare-earth metals globally, significantly reducing their cost.
The 1960s saw Ames Laboratory reach peak employment as it continued to explore new materials. The construction of a 5-megawatt heavy water reactor for neutron diffraction studies marked a significant milestone. Additionally, the establishment of the Rare-Earth Information Center at Ames Lab provided valuable information to the scientific community about rare-earth metals and their compounds.
Modern Developments and Achievements
In the 1980s, Ames Laboratory adapted to meet local and national energy needs, focusing on cleaner coal burning and nuclear waste site cleanup. The laboratory became a leader in superconductivity and nondestructive evaluation. The establishment of the Materials Preparation Center further solidified its role in developing new materials.
The 1990s and 2000s brought continued innovation, with Ames Laboratory transferring basic research findings to industry. The Scalable Computing Laboratory was established to make parallel computing more accessible. Researchers discovered new materials, such as non-carbon buckyballs, and developed advanced technologies like high-strength lead-free solder.
Today, Ames National Laboratory remains at the forefront of research in national security, energy, and environmental fields. Its affiliation with Iowa State University continues to foster collaboration and innovation, ensuring its place as a vital contributor to scientific advancement.
