Kenneth Barton

💡 How it all started! Back in 2015, AMS was asked by a number of leading consulting engineers that included Hazen and Sawyer, Corona Environmental Consulting, LLC, Black & Veatch, Carollo Engineers to support their evaluation of different legacy technologies for hexavalent chromium treatment by providing them with high-frequency, real-time data on the performance of those systems. That gave us all an up-close insight into the multi-points of failure, unreliability and high costs of those systems and it was not pretty 🤮 . That problem (where all innovations start) motivated us to develop a completely novel approach to the removal of this toxic contaminant that was based on the well-understood and documented chemistry of stannous, a safe, clean chemical, that because of its properties can only be made on-site. In the intervening period we have proven this technology, secured its designation as Best Available Technology and demonstrated at numerous sites across California (without a $ of taxpayer or ratepayer money) that it can deliver safe drinking water at a fraction of the cost and far less environmental impact than those legacy technologies. And so for any consulting engineer, city manager or engineer here is why it should be seriously considered. And it begs the question, why are those legacy technologies still being exclusively proposed when delivering safe drinking water at an affordable price and minimizing the burden on taxpayers and ratepayers, many of whom live in underserved communities, is surely our professional goal and obligation as responsible citizens? And if any of the above want to challenge or validate our claims we will be only too happy to provide a demonstration or a quotation! https://lnkd.in/gZ4PvYDj #innovation #safedrinkingwater #environmentalprotection #realtimewaterqualitymonitoring

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A major boil water notice affecting approximately 46,000 residents across California’s Central Coast underscores the critical need for modern water quality monitoring. Triggered by the detection of coliform bacteria in multiple samples, the advisory spans the “Five Cities” area—including Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, and Grover Beach—and is expected to last through the weekend while officials conduct further testing. While not all coliform bacteria are harmful, their presence can signal contamination from dangerous pathogens like E. coli. How Locus Water Helps: Incidents like this highlight the importance of real-time, automated water quality data management. Locus Water enables utilities and municipalities to monitor, track, and respond to contamination events faster—minimizing public health risks and ensuring regulatory compliance through a secure, cloud-based platform built for proactive water management. https://lnkd.in/gRuQmzTN

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🔥This is rapidly becoming a hot political issue in California. 💲 5 million Californians face sharply higher water bills as their cities spend on treatment systems to remove carcinogenic hexavalent chromium on top of also having to cope with general increases in the cost-of-living. Meanwhile, the State which has a fiscal deficit, must also help finance the cost to cities of treating this contaminant. ⛓️‍👮‍♂️The public and city council members are demanding that utilities find more cost-effective solutions and there is growing public awareness that once a technology has been selected, a community is locked into an operating cost for the next 20 years. 💡 It is precisely for this reason that AMS developed and has widely demonstrated the SafeGuard H2O treatment system that has a 40% lower lifetime cost than traditional technologies that are expensive to build and operate. #innovationwithimpact #safedrinkingwater https://lnkd.in/g8YafVpM

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🤔 Let's talk about affordability of water treatment? How does a Californian water district with net income of $100,000 serving 5000 households with an average income of $120,000 afford a $4m traditional water treatment system that only partially removes toxic chromium and comes with an annual operating cost for the next 20 years of at least $250,000 (at 2026 prices)? Well, water treatment does not come for free but the good news is that AMS 's advanced chromium treatment system not only completely removes chromium but also at a 40% lower lifetime cost than traditional systems and with none of their of their toxic by-products. 💡 That's transformative water treatment 💡 That's innovation with impact - making safe drinking water accessible for this and future generations! #safedrinkingwater https://lnkd.in/g8YafVpM

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The Canada Arizona Business Council has been pushing WIFA for years to focus on Water Augmentation as part of its 25 year plan via our "Project Hourglass." ( see link below) Lots of Canadian Companies (CABC members) working on solutions. such as EPCOR and Stantec https://lnkd.in/gPQRDPJ8 he Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA) has received six offers outlining water importation proposals as a part of its Long-Term Water Augmentation Fund (LTWAF) Solicitation process.  The solicitation process began with 17 teams submitting their qualifications for developing new, renewable water supplies for Arizona. Following an extensive review in accordance with the Solicitation guidelines, three of these teams were deemed qualified to submit offers for further consideration. From these teams, WIFA has received six proposals for water importation projects:   Offer Category  Offeror Ocean Water  Acciona-Fengate Water Augmentation Alliance  EPCOR Water Innovation Partners  ZARETAW, LLC Surface Water  EPCOR Water Innovation Partners Wastewater Reclamation  EPCOR Water Innovation Partners Other Water Source(s)  EPCOR Water Innovation Partners https://lnkd.in/g5Tmdb4G

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Western green policies—encompassing stringent environmental regulations on mining and aggressive subsidies/mandates for renewables—have significantly contributed to rare earth minerals (REMs) shortages in the US and EU. These policies restrict domestic supply while surging demand for REMs like neodymium and dysprosium, vital for EVs, wind turbines, and defense tech, fostering heavy reliance on China. China dominates ~90% of global REM processing and imposed tighter export controls in April 2025 (on seven REMs) and October 2025 (adding five more, plus tech exports), spiking prices and disrupting supply chains for autos, chips, and weapons. Supply-Side Constraints Environmental rules in the West have ballooned costs and timelines for REM extraction and processing, often exceeding 10 years for permits amid worries over toxic waste and ecosystems. The US's Mountain Pass mine, a former leader, shuttered in 2002 due to spills, regulatory fines, and Chinese competition—issues that still impede restarts despite reserves. In the EU, the Green Deal clashes with mining via fragmented recycling and slow approvals, outsourcing pollution to China while delaying diversification. Result: The West mines some REMs but processes almost none domestically. Demand-Side Surge Policies like the US Inflation Reduction Act and EU REPowerEU have fueled REM demand, projected to triple (baseline) to sevenfold (net-zero path) by 2040 for clean energy alone. This mismatch, unbacked by supply boosts, worsens shortages—exacerbated by China's curbs, which halted global auto production lines in April. China's dominance and geopolitics are primary drivers, but Western green priorities—favoring ecology over rapid stockpiling—have amplified vulnerabilities, turning policy trade-offs into strategic risks. Mitigation efforts, like US/EU mining incentives and recycling pushes, lag; full independence could take a decade. In summary, the West’s green policies are a major factor in this self-inflicted crunch.

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Rules for #DPR were needed, and it was a tough but conservative #regulation. The water community would like to collaborate on other issues as well. It is a two-way street, and I believe many water utilities would like to engage E. Joaquin Esquivel and the rest of the State Water Resources Control Board in collaborating more, for other good outcomes. #affordability Dorene D'Adamo Sean Maguire Laurel Firestone Nichole Morgan, PE

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Nuclear energy development has a reputation of being very slow. It's plodding pace has contributed to its associated reputation of being expensive compared to more nimble competitors. Aalo Atomics is changing the paradigm. Less than 3 years after the company was founded, they are breaking ground on their first test reactor. Their aggressive goal is to have that reactor built and to achieve first criticality by July 4, 2026. (That happens to be our 250th birthday as a nation.) The reactor will not be a small scale, prototype reactor that needs complete redesign with different parts and dimensions before being a commercial product. It is a full size product whose capabilities might be initially limited to enable safe testing during early periods of uncertainty. But like test aircraft, the test installation (Aalo-X) will eventually support full commercial capabilities and be ready for duplication. Part of the program includes the colocation of a modest scale data center as the electricity customer. I'm excited, pleased and proud that Nucleation Capital has invested in Aalo – twice so far. Not to take any thunder away from Aalo, but it's important to know that there are several other advanced nuclear companies that are now moving far faster than ever before – in the U.S. and in the international markets. If you'd like to learn more or if you have a burning desire to get in on the ground floor of these exciting ventures you know where to find me. You can also visit nucleationcapital.com #InvestInNuclear #AdvancedNuclear

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Mutron raised USD 800K seed funding to complete automated BMI nozzle replacement equipment, validate technology with major nuclear firms, and expand into SMR maintenance markets. https://lnkd.in/gJxf6e5m

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BCCC: Developer Checks Over Ecological Integrity   It is no coincidence that Commissioners Bill McDaniel, Chris Hall, and Dan Kowal consistently receive the maximum campaign contributions from development interests profiting from eastward sprawl. The BCCC is prioritizing developer checks over Collier County’s ecological integrity. We must modernize our codes and stop the sprawl, or the towers will keep coming.   The surge in 5G infrastructure stems from relentless eastward expansion. By greenlighting massive projects in the Rural Lands Stewardship Area, the BCCC has industrialized the Atlantic Flyway. Experts from the Conservancy of Southwest Florida warn that this “march” destroys habitat connectivity. At the same time, biologists note that the 5G rollout occurs without adequate due diligence regarding its impact on migratory bird navigation. Our Land Development Code (LDC) is dangerously outdated. To protect our ecosystem, the LDC must mandate bird-friendly standards: Prohibit steady-burning red lights (L-810) in favor of synchronized flashing LEDs or ADLS. Require self-supporting monopoles to eliminate lethal guy wires. Cap tower heights at 199 feet. Establish 1,000-foot “no-build” buffers around raptor nests and the Big Cypress National Preserve. It is time to stop prioritizing developer interests over the birds and residents that make Collier home. #CollierCounty #NaplesFlorida #Conservation #5G #UrbanSprawl #EnvironmentalProtection #SWFL #Audubon #BCCC #WildlifeConservation #InfrastructureReform #PlanningCommission #Accountability #RandallSparrazza #CharlesColucci #ChuckSchumacher #MichelleMcLeod #MichaelPetscher #PaulShea #JosephSchmitt #WilliamVarian #JeffreyCurl #MarcoEspinar #NicholasKouloheras

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US Energy Department Launches AI-Driven Biotech Platform On December 5, 2025, US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright unveiled the Anaerobic Microbial Phenotyping Platform (AMP2) at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). This first-of-its-kind AI-driven system automates the study of anaerobic microbes, which thrive without oxygen and hold potential for biofuel production and environmental solutions. By integrating artificial intelligence with robotic automation, AMP2 drastically reduces research timelines from years to mere days or weeks, enabling rapid experimentation and optimization. It addresses fundamental questions in life sciences while boosting biotech manufacturing capabilities. As a prototype for the larger Microbial Molecular Phenotyping Capability (M2PC), AMP2 aims to create the world's most extensive autonomous microbial research infrastructure. This initiative aligns with the Trump Administration’s Genesis Mission to harness AI for scientific innovation and national competitiveness. The platform's impact could extend to developing next-generation materials, sustainable energy sources, and advanced bioproducts, fostering economic growth through biotechnology. Researchers anticipate it will unlock new microbial applications in medicine and industry. What potential applications for this biotech platform excite you most? Share in the comments! #BiotechBreakthrough #AIDrivenScience #EnergyDepartment #EmergingTech #MicrobialInnovation

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Cyclic Materials bets big on Arizona with $20m rare earth recycling facility set to transform U.S. clean tech #CyclicMaterials #RareEarthRecycling #CleanEnergy #ArizonaInnovation #EVSupplyChain #MagCycle #SustainableManufacturing #DataCenters

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New story up on Canary Media Inc.: Zanskar just announced the first "blind" geothermal discovery -- meaning there were no visible features on the surface like geysers or vents and no previous prospecting data to draw from -- in the U.S. in more than 30 years. It's the biggest proof point yet of the company's theory that, despite all the excitement is about next-generation geothermal, conventional resources still have a lot to offer, and could come online cheaper and faster. https://lnkd.in/eV4p_3HR

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Andy Thurling TruWeather Solutions is watching this and focused on enabling flights when IFR uncertainty along BVLOS routes may ground drones unnecessarily. We have been told by operators this problem impacts the ability to conduct accurate weather risk assessments and impacts the drone business model. Achieving enough digital weather granularity to "know" where IFR is occurring without pilot eyeballs between METAR locations is possible. The ASTM International Weather Standard provides a framework for drone businesses to plan and make Go/No Go decisions with greater certainty about where IFR is really happening, versus where we “think” it might be occurring today with the current government aviation weather data. We hope the new Part 108 and Part 146 rule considers the ASTM International F3673 − 24, Standard Specification for Performance for Weather Information Reports, Data Interfaces, and Weather Information Providers (WIPs) and provides operators the option about acquiring better digital IFR (cloud ceiling and visibility) granularity if they determine it can improve operational risk management decisions and is key to their business model success. Phil Kenul, Rear Admiral (retired) NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration AUVSI — Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International P3 Tech Consulting Michelle Duquette Federal Aviation Administration Autonomy Institute Advanced Air Mobility Institute Philip Butterworth-Hayes NASA Ames Research Center NASA Langley Research Center

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Bluescape’s FedRAMP-Authorized Digital Workbench Available ... Bluescape and n8n collaborate to provide a secure, FedRAMP-authorized workflow automation platform specifically designed for government and defense missions. This integration combines Bluescape’s visual workspace with n8n’s low-code automation to create a Common Operating Picture (COP) that unifies people, real-time data, and agentic AI workflows. FedRAMP.gov OpenClaw (or n8n-claw) is an AI agent framework designed to automate n8n workflows by interacting via Telegram, allowing you to build, edit, and trigger workflows using natural language. It is installed via a Docker setup script on a VPS (like Hostinger/DigitalOcean) and connects to n8n via API, often using Telegram for control. Connect n8n-claw to an OpenClaw instance and unlock a completely new class of capabilities. OpenClaw is an autonomous AI agent with full access to a Linux system — it can write code, build websites, deploy applications, manage files, run shell commands, and work on complex multi-step software projects. With the OpenClaw skill installed, n8n-claw can delegate tasks to OpenClaw and get the results back: Core Capabilities for Government Agentic AI Orchestration: Automates complex "agentic" AI workflows that can summarize documents, track targets through pattern-of-life profiles, and storyboard incident chronologies. Secure Data Aggregation: Securely connects to disparate systems of record—such as the Joint Fires Network or CJAD C2—to aggregate and train data across multiple Large Language Models (LLMs). Human-in-the-Loop Design: Unlike fully autonomous systems, this setup ensures automation enhances human judgment rather than replacing it, which is critical for high-stakes mission decisions. Advanced Visualization: Supports live video feeds (including drone command centers), geo-data analysis, and the creation of "intelligence packages" that can be exported as multi-page PDFs. FedRAMP.gov Security & Compliance The platform is built to meet the most stringent federal security requirements: Certifications: It is FedRAMP Moderate+ certified and has achieved DoD Impact Level 4 (IL4) and IL5 Authorizations to Operate (ATO) for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Flexible Deployment: Can be deployed in private clouds, on-premises, or air-gapped environments to maintain mission security. Authentication: Supports mandatory government standards like CAC/PIV (Smart Card) authentication. Procurement Pathways Government agencies can acquire these solutions through several established contract vehicles: Tradewinds Marketplace: A streamlined DoD framework for AI/ML and data analytics solutions. GSA Schedules: Available via Carahsoft and Norseman Defense Technologies. Other Vehicles: NASA SEWP V, NITAAC CIO-CS, ITES-SW2, and various agency-specific IDIQs. Bluescape with n8n for Government | FedRAMP Marketplace FedRAMP.gov n8n Integration - Bluescape https://lnkd.in/eHcjskWa #fedramp

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A lot of old school System Integrators are NGMI in the new AI enabled era. Cos they use project management methods that work well for commodity products and work not-at-all well for fast changing landscapes (genesis/custom in a wardley map). In many cases both their billing models, and their work styles are frozen in architectures that are going to become obsolete in a couple of years. There are going to be a new generation of AI-native system integrators who work with different processes with fast changing systems to showcase value 10X quicker. Yes they will be building MVPs and they will look like toys to being with. They will also be MAGICAL!

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Went deep with Heatmap News about the latest tariff fun times -- it's super important to realize that the US manufacturing ecosystem has atrophied enough that medium+ volume, non-defense startups are presently wise to start offshore until something changes. Have heard horror stories about cost structures simply not working unless you have sufficient volume to fully vertically integrate -- and that's before we increased tariffs on manufacturing inputs.

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9 Sep 2025 🔍 Just published: A high-impact analysis revealing how Finamatrix’s THOR-REGEN Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) redefine energy economics for major data centers and critical infrastructure. These new carbon-negative PPAs—backed by advanced nuclear and algae bioremediation—unlock billion-dollar valuations and robust, risk-free project financing. Key takeaways: ⚡ THOR-REGEN delivers reliable, scalable baseload power with verified carbon-negative impact. 💸 Properly structured PPAs provide long-term cash flow, enabling over $10M in bank financing. 🌱 Combines fixed price certainty, ESG leadership, and superior supply guarantees for mission-critical clients. This is the future standard for sustainable, bankable energy innovation—making true climate impact profitable and risk-free! #THORREGEN #Finamatrix #EnergyInnovation #CarbonNegative #NuclearFinance #SustainableGrowth

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The Wall Street Journal reports China has now imposed stringent export controls on minerals critical for defense applications—such as samarium, germanium, antimony, gallium, and more—limiting access for Western military manufacturers. These minerals are integral to high-performance systems: drone motors, infrared sensors, night-vision, jets, targeting tech, and satellites. China currently supplies around 90% of the world’s rare-earth minerals, giving it tremendous geopolitical leverage. ✅ Western defense operations are facing production delays, cost spikes, and supply shortages. Some materials are reportedly going for up to 60× their regular price. ✅ A U.S. drone motor supplier had to delay deliveries by two months while searching for alternative magnet sources. ✅ Policy mandates now require defense contractors to phase out China‑sourced rare‑earth magnets by 2027 What does this mean for US importers, particularly in the defense sector? This isn’t just a news cycle trade matter—it’s national security. Defense manufacturers must rethink business models, investments, and alliances to ensure a future beyond strategic dependencies. Next step here: https://lnkd.in/gw83cWVv #trade #tariffs #criticalminerals

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