The objective of our research is to achieve a theoretical understanding of the microscopic properties of dense matter and of their consequences on the macroscopic properties such as equation of state, transport and optical properties.
We have developed (and continue to develop) and number of methods to predict and understand the electronic and ionic structure of dense plasmas. These include, for example, Orbital-Free Density Functional Theory, average atom methods, and Multiple Scattering Theory.
Particle transport properties of a material describe how a physical quantity is transferred through the system via electrons and ions. For example, we are interested in diffusivity, viscosity and thermal conductivity, which describe the transfer of matter, momentum and energy, respectively.
Photon transport properties of a material photons are absorbed, emitted or scattered in a dense plasma. Example of our work include applications of time-dependent density functional theory to absorption, free-free opacity in dense plasmas, and a model for X-ray Thomson scattering.
Los Alamos brings together experts from diverse backgrounds, including plasma physics, dynamic fluid flows, and computational sciences. Join us to tackle complex challenges in energy research, astrophysics, and inertial confinement fusion.