Functionally within the MDF, ORNL operates DOE’s unique Carbon Fiber Technology Facility (CFTF)—a 42,000 ft2 innovative technology facility and works with leading companies to overcome commercialization and manufacturing barriers and realize the strength and energy saving benefits of these new materials. The CFTF, with its 390-ft. long processing line, is capable of custom unit operation configuration and has a capacity of up to 25 tons per year, allowing industry to validate conversion of their carbon fiber precursors at semi-production scale. CFTF produces market development quantities for compositing. As an integral part of DOE’s only MDF, the CFTF serves as a hub for public–private partnerships in the emerging national network for innovations in manufacturing.