The Chemistry and Catalysis Division conducts research to elucidate the fundamental mechanisms governing chemical transformations relevant to energy production, chemical manufacturing, environmental processes, and biological function. Our work aligns with DOE priorities to enhance energy efficiency, ensure reliable production of critical materials, promote environmental stewardship, and foster scientific innovation. Leveraging advanced X-ray spectroscopy and imaging techniques, we investigate key materials and reactions underpinning catalysis, separations, geochemistry, and bioinorganic chemistry.

Catalysis—particularly photo-, electro-, and thermally-driven processes—is a core area of our research, with applications spanning fuel production, carbon conversion, and the efficient synthesis of commodity and specialty chemicals essential for industrial competitiveness. Complementary efforts within the Division explore the structure-function correlation of metals in biological systems, mineral transformations, molecular complexes, and actinide and radiological materials, contributing to advances in nuclear science, waste management, and research relevant to national security.

Our scientific approach integrates operando and time-resolved spectroscopy with theoretical modeling to connect electronic structures and local coordination environments to chemical reactivity and function. We investigate both transient and steady-state conditions to identify reaction intermediates and mechanisms influencing catalytic performance, durability, and selectivity. Techniques such as quick-scanning X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), modulation excitation spectroscopy, and laser pump–X-ray probe methods allow us to characterize both short-lived chemical states and longer-term processes under realistic experimental conditions.

The Division operates nine spectroscopy and four micro-XRF imaging beamlines spanning hard and tender X-ray energies, supported by specialized laboratories for sample preparation and complementary analyses. These capabilities facilitate high-precision studies of catalytic systems, environmental and biological samples, and nuclear-relevant materials. In addition to facility-driven research, the Division hosts programs funded by DOE-BES, DOE-BER, NSF, and other sponsors—including the Co-ACCESS consortium—which expand scientific access and deliver targeted expertise to the broader research community.

Looking forward, we aim to advance chemical processes that are increasingly efficient and resilient, contributing fundamental and applied knowledge to reinforce national scientific and technological leadership. We actively collaborate with partners from academia, industry, and national laboratories, and remain committed to mentoring and training the next generation of researchers prepared to tackle evolving scientific challenges and opportunities

Consortium for Operando and Advanced Catalyst Characterization via Electronic Spectroscopy and Structure

At SSRL, we have a new initiative, funded by DOE-BES, Co-ACCESS. The aim of this program is to allow any catalysis science user group (studying heterogeneous, homogeneous or electro-catalysis) to readily apply the capabilities at SSRL into their research program, whether a one-time measurement or a component of a multifaceted research program.

Co-Access Website

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SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis

SUNCAT’s mission is to overcome challenges associated with the atomic-scale design of catalysts for chemical transformations of interest for sustainable energy conversion and storage. SUNCAT develops a quantitative description of chemical processes at the solid-gas and solid-liquid interface through an approach that integrates electronic structure theory, kinetic modeling and data science with operando and in-situ characterization techniques, synthesis, and experimental testing under realistic process conditions.

SUNCAT Website

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