Available for Licensing: Machine Learning-Enhanced Spectroscopy Technology for High-Resolution Radiation Detection Using Low-Cost Detectors
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Energy (DOE), through the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), has issued a Special Notice announcing the availability of a Machine Learning-Enhanced Spectroscopy Technology for licensing and commercialization. This innovative technology enables high-resolution radiation detection using low-cost detectors, significantly reducing system cost, size, and cooling requirements without sacrificing performance. This notice is not a solicitation for funding or services, but an invitation for industry to explore licensing opportunities. Expressions of interest are encouraged by June 1, 2026.
Technology Overview
INL's technology applies a compact convolutional neural network (CNN) to reconstruct high-energy-resolution spectra from low-resolution measurements obtained from inexpensive, room-temperature detectors like sodium iodide (NaI) scintillators. This overcomes the limitations of traditional high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors, which are costly, fragile, and require cryogenic cooling. The CNN model is compact (1.6M parameters, 6.2 MB), allowing for fast, portable deployment.
Key Advantages
- Cost Reduction: Enables ≥10× lower system cost and maintenance.
- Operational Simplicity: Eliminates the need for cryogenic cooling.
- Improved Deployability: Suitable for remote, field, and mobile environments.
- Higher Throughput: Supports higher count rates with minimal peak deformation.
- Cross-Technology Applicability: Adaptable for gamma-ray, x-ray, and neutron detection.
Market Applications
Potential applications include nuclear materials monitoring and safeguards, space-based radiation detection, industrial quality control, medical and environmental radiation monitoring, and homeland security.
Contact & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice (Technology Licensing)
- Agency: Department of Energy / Idaho National Laboratory
- Response Date: June 1, 2026
- Published Date: March 4, 2026
- Contact: Javier Martinez (javier.martinez@inl.gov)