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Library > Fact Sheets > AFOSR: Theoretical Chemistry
AFOSR: THEORETICAL CHEMISTRY
Air Force Office of Scientific Research
Aerospace, Chemical and Material Sciences Directorate
Theoretical Chemistry
Dr. Michael R. Berman, Program Manager
The objectives of the molecular dynamics program are to understand, predict, and control the reactivity and flow of energy in molecules. This knowledge will be used to improve our understanding of interactions in the upper atmosphere and the space environment; to develop novel energetic materials for propellants and propulsion systems; to develop new high-energy laser systems; and to control chemical reactivity and energy flow at a detailed molecular level in many other chemical systems in which this will be of importance.
Areas of interest in atmospheric and space chemistry include the dynamics of ion-molecule reactions relevant to processes in weakly ionized plasmas, the role of excited states in chemical reactions, and reactive and energy transfer processes that produce and affect radiant emissions in the upper atmosphere and space. Research on high energy density matter for propulsion applications investigates novel concepts for storing chemical energy in low-molecular-weight and high-density systems, and the stability and sensitivity of those energetic molecular systems. The coupling of chemistry and fluid dynamics in high speed reactive flows, and in particular, dynamics at interfaces, are also of interest. Research in energy transfer and energy storage in metastable states of molecules supports our interest in new concepts for hybrid lasers that exploit the advantages of chemical and electrical lasers. Interest in understanding and controlling processes is focused on applications to propulsion and energetics.
Materials-related research includes the study of the synthesis, structure, and properties of metal-containing molecular clusters and nanostructures. Interest in nanostructures has particular emphasis on nanoscale systems in which the number of atoms or specific arrangement of atoms in a cluster has dramatic effects on its reactivity or properties. Areas of interest include work on the mechanisms of catalysis, surface-enhanced processes mediated by plasmon resonances, and sensitive new diagnostic methods for detecting individual molecules and probing nanostructures. Fundamental studies aimed at developing basic understanding and predictive capabilities for chemical reactivity, bonding, and energy transfer processes are also encouraged.
Contact:
Dr. Michael R. Berman
AFOSR/NA
Tele: (703) 696-7781
DSN: 426-7781
FAX: (703) 696-8451
Email: michael.berman@afosr.af.mil
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