Oak Ridge X-10: Two Nobel Laureates

US DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

The X-10 Graphite Reactor is located on the secure grounds of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). In-person visitation is only authorized via guided tours.

Text at the top of this panel reads,“Eugene P. Wigner, who directed ORNL research programs in the late 1940s, received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1963. Wigner was honored ‘for his contributions to the theory of the atomic nucleus and the elementary particles, particularly through the discovery and application of fundamental symmetry principles.’ His legacy continues at the laboratory through the Wigner Fellowships, two-year ORNL appointments awarded to exceptional young scientists.”

Below the text is a quote from Wigner which reads,“Maybe there is something new here…”

To the left is a portrait of Wigner. He sits facing us with short dark hair and a high, receding hairline. He holds a metal canister in his lap.

Below that text reads,“Clifford G. Shull received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1994 for ‘the development of the neutron diffraction technique.’ Shull conducted pioneering research in neutron scattering at ORNL from 1946 to 1955. His work led to development of high-strength plastics and improved magnetic materials used for small motors, credit cards, and computer disks. His research was the forerunner of today’s materials science work at the Spallation Neutron Source.”

Below the text is a quote from Shull which reads,“The techniques are ‘tools for learning things about materials.’”

To the right is a photograph of Shull in a laboratory. Dressed in a suit, he leans over a piece of equipment on a lab bench. At the bottom of the panel there is another photograph of each man.