Welcome to the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division

The Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division is one of the largest divisions at Argonne National Laboratory, a leading R&D center with the mission to advance scientific knowledge, sustainable energy, national security, and environmental management. The division is a science-based research, development, and early-stage engineering organization that conducts both fundamental and applied research using experimental, theoretical, and computational approaches.  Our R&D is distinguished by the development and application of fundamental understanding to yield transformational solutions that address issues of scientific and technological importance to the Department of Energy (DOE) and the nation.

The Division is multidisciplinary. Its people have formal training in chemistry; physics; materials science; and electrical, mechanical, chemical, and nuclear engineering. They are specialists in catalysis, electrochemical systems, nuclear fuel cycle, combustion chemistry, and time resolved, multi-scale and ultra-fast chemistry.  Our researchers have experience working in and collaborating with university, industry and government research and development laboratories throughout the world.

The Division’s R&D is focused around five theme areas (learn more about the research objectives and programs in each of these themes by clicking on the web links):

Fundamental Interactions  - programs in atomic, molecular and optical physics; chemical dynamics in the gas phase, and photosynthesis

Catalysis and Energy Conversion  – programs in heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, hydrogen production and storage, and fuel cell materials development and systems analysis

Electrochemical Energy Storage  – programs in advanced cell chemistry and materials development of lithium-ion batteries for transportation and other applications and independent battery testing.

Nuclear and Environmental Processes – programs in heavy element chemistry, separation science, nuclear fuel separations, repository performance, and radioactive waste management

National Security  - programs in forensics and attribution of radiological dispersal devices, radiological decontamination technologies, and sensors/detectors

The Division also hosts the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Premium Coal Sample Facility, and Glassblowing Shop, providing technical support of research within and outside Argonne.

If you are a potential partner interested in benefiting from our expertise in chemical sciences, engineering and cutting-edge technologies, contact me, Dr. Al Wagner, at (630) 252-4383.