We study fast processes in molecules, materials, surfaces and interfaces with a focus on energy transfer and chemical energy generation and storage, using femtosecond (10-15 s) spectroscopic techniques that incorporate the latest developments in ultrafast infrared generation and coherent and nonlinear optics.

Chemical energy generation and storage. In these projects we create and study materials that can store and release large amounts of energy using ultrafast spectroscopy. The focus is on understanding the molecular level processes that underly the dynamics of energetic materials that can be used as propellants and explosives, nanotechnology materials that exhibit multifunctionality, for instance the ability to act as both structural and energy storage components, fuel cells and batteries. 

Shock compression science. We developed methods for using intense laser pulses to drive shock waves into materials in order to understand the behavior of materials and liquids under extreme conditions of high pressure, high temperature and high dynamic strain.  We developed state-of-the-art methods to probe the behavior of shocked materials with high time and space resolution.  The ability to produce and probe materials and liquids under extreme conditions with unprecedented depth has applications in defense, energy, manufacturing and chemical reaction dynamics.