Sandia researcher Dean Dibble monitors a biomass pretreatment experiment to enhance plant cell wall solubilization
The Physical and Engineering Sciences Center provides solutions to a broad spectrum of research challenges involving engineered materials, micro/nanosciences, and computational modeling and simulation of materials and processes. Our research and development supports systems engineering for nuclear weapon stewardship, energy and environmental challenges, homeland security needs, and technological business development.
Our research approach applies to theory, experiments, and computational modeling and simulation toward understanding materials and materials phenomena and developing scientifically tailored materials from the ground up. By building an understanding of phenomena and processes at the atomistic and molecular levels, we provide a scientific basis for macroscopic performance predictions.
Our primary responsibility is in support of Sandia’s role as a Department of Energy national security laboratory. Our work provides the scientific basis for technical options and decisions about polymers, ceramics, metals, and the interfaces among these in nonnuclear components of the nuclear weapons stockpile. However, we are increasingly applying the technical expertise, intellectual property, and resources amassed for carrying out this mission to technical challenges faced in support of our national security mission. Our work is increasingly conducted in close collaboration with industry, academia, and other federal laboratories.
Located at Sandia’s Livermore, California facility, the Physical and Engineering Sciences Center is made up of about 135 staff members, including 91 PhD's. Our center's strength lies in our ability to tackle problems from a science-based, multidisciplinary perspective.
Teams of staff members often collaborate with other researchers at federal agencies, universities, and in industry to pursue problems of mutual interest. These partnerships benefit our partners, but also enhance our ability to carry out our primary mission as well.