The Chemistry Division conducts basic and applied research and development to address critical Navy needs and advance the frontiers of physical, chemical, biological, and material science as well as nanoscience. Research ranges from laboratory to intermediate and real-scale experiments and demonstrations. The division has over 90 years of internationally recognized scientific accomplishments and has been recognized with numerous awards that reflect the high scientific quality.

The Chemistry Division consists of four branches that work collaboratively to conduct world class science and develop state-of-the-art technology. Our well-equipped laboratories and facilities provide the research tools needed to conduct cutting-edge science and real-world demonstrations.
 

• Materials Chemistry and Dynamics Branch - Addresses naval needs through a balanced mix of research projects carefully chosen both to advance the frontiers of synthetic chemistry and materials science, spectroscopy and dynamics and to provide definitive solutions to Navy needs in areas of critical material deficiencies.

• Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering - To address problems in corrosion and marine fouling, a Marine Corrosion Facility is located in Key West, Florida. This laboratory resides in an unparalleled site for natural seawater exposure testing and marine related materials evaluation. 

• Surface Chemistry Branch - Conducts experimental and theoretical S&T programs to study surfaces and interfaces including the properties of the gas-solid, liquid-solid, and solid-solid interface. These programs develop a fundamental understanding of the properties and behavior of surfaces and interfaces through composition, structure and dynamics measurements taken under a variety of conditions (temperature, environment, ionizing radiation, and electron/photon excitation). 

• Navy Technology Center for Safety and Survivability - To enhance protection of Navy personnel and platforms from damage and injury in peace and wartime, the Navy Technology Center for Safety and Survivability performs RDT&E on fire and personnel protection, fuels, chemical defense, submarine atmospheres, and damage control aspects of ship and aircraft survivability.

Facilities