Chemistry

Chemical Science in support of the Laboratory’s mission

The Chemistry (C) Division supports the Laboratory’s mission with innovative chemical science and technology for energy research, threat identification and mitigation, weapons science, health, space, and more.

Our capabilities are essential for emerging mission areas of energy security, civilian-sector R&D, and industrial partnering.

Cels Featured Chemistry Tara Mastren

Our researchers support stockpile stewardship, detect chemical and biological threats, produce medical isotopes, and develop energy solutions.

Our research and development projects span several groups and divisions and involve partnerships with academic and industry partners. Our researchers have skills and expertise in cross-cutting capabilities:

Radiochemistry and Nuclear Science
Chemical Analysis and Certification
Isotope Science and Production
Synthetic and Mechanistic Chemistry
Spectroscopy and Detection Science
Chemistry of Materials
Data Analysis & Modelling for Chemical Sciences

Cels Side Chemistry Trace Element Analysis

Chemistry in Support of Stockpile Stewardship

Stockpile stewardship is the core mission of the Laboratory. Chemistry Division supports stockpile stewardship with a range of capabilities, including weapons analytical chemistry and compatibility testing and weapons materials and performance. These are cornerstone capabilities for weapons science and a robust plutonium production capability.

Cels Side Chemistry Fluid Characterization

Chemistry for Mitigating Threats

Los Alamos’ history in nuclear science has made us one of the most advanced laboratories in the world for nuclear forensics research and other threat areas. Our scientists work across a wide range of sample sizes and radioactivity levels to provide analytical capabilities for technical nuclear forensics; chemical synthesis and solutions to understand, detect, and mitigate chemical and biological threats; and advanced spectroscopy for remote sensing in the laboratory and in the field.

Chemistry for Health, Energy, and Space

Chemistry Division supports a broad range of national security missions.

Energy — Energy programs focus on production, storage, and utilization of energy solutions, with development of advanced biofuels, nanoparticles, and chemical solutions for energy applications.

Health — Health programs support rapid detection of infectious disease, support water and food security, and meet national and global needs for radioisotopes in medical, industrial, and research applications.

Space — Space programs produce heat sources for NASA and advanced instrumentation for space exploration.