Collaborations

Collaborations in Dynamic Compression of Materials: Multiscale Measurements and Analysis
Partnerships to Understand Materials at Extreme Conditions
To ensure the long-term intellectual vitality of dynamic compression science, the Institute for Shock Physics (ISP) at Washington State University (WSU) fosters strong, sustained collaborations between academic institutions and national laboratories with researchers at all career stages from multiple disciplines.
These efforts, supported by a Department of Energy (DOE)/National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA) Cooperative Agreement, advance the fundamental understanding of phenomena related to material response under extreme thermodynamic conditions – a field central to the NNSA’s Stockpile Stewardship Program (SSP). To meet this important goal, activities are conducted through two complementary areas:
- Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) – a national user facility located at the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Argonne National Laboratory
- Shock Wave Academic Partnership (SWAP) – a multi-institutional collaboration in dynamic compression research
Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS)
Frontier of Dynamic Compression Science
The Dynamic Compression Sector, a first-of-its-kind user facility with a focus on real-time x-ray diffraction, scattering, and imaging, provides in-situ, time-resolved measurements at microscopic length scales to achieve an understanding of the fundamental mechanisms governing a broad range of time-dependent, condensed matter phenomena under dynamic compression.
Its two-fold mission supports:
- NNSA’s scientific and programmatic needs for the Stockpile Stewardship Program (SSP)
- General User Program research priorities within the broader scientific community
Washington State University operates DCS and led the effort to develop and build DCS experimental capabilities and instrumentation in partnership with the following institutions, with whom meaningful ongoing collaborative efforts continue to advance dynamic compression science:
Shock Wave Academic Partnership (SWAP)
Combining Research Innovations and Rigorous Education
SWAP brings together WSU’s Institute for Shock Physics (as the lead institution) and three outstanding academic partners:
This partnership conducts substantive research leading to advances and innovations in the field of Dynamic Compression Science. It provides rigorous education and hands-on training for outstanding graduate students and postdoctoral fellows with an interest in seeking professional careers at the NNSA Laboratories. One of the partnership’s principal accomplishments is well-prepared scientists who have moved on to successful professional careers and leadership positions in the field.
Multidisciplinary Research
Research activities address exciting scientific challenges across different academic disciplines. These collaborative efforts comprehensively advance understanding of dynamic compression science.
- Condensed Matter Physics/Chemistry
- Geo/Planetary Sciences
- Materials Theory/Computation
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science
Photo Credits
NIF Target Area (LLNL Photo NIF-1209-18050)
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