Center for Chemical Innovation (CCI)

Welcome to the NSF Center for Chemical Innovation (CCI):

MOSAIC: Multimodal Observatory for Single Atom Imaging of Chemistry

Redefining Chemistry with Real-Time, Single-Atom Dynamics

At MOSAIC, we advance the field of chemistry by enabling direct observation of chemical reactions at the atomic level. Through advanced imaging techniques and cutting-edge technology, we bring unprecedented clarity to the dynamic behavior of individual atoms during chemical processes. These insights hold the potential to transform industries such as energy storage, catalysis, manufacturing, opto-electronics, and beyond.

Figure: Studying the effect of dimensionality, environment and opto-electronic-chemical reactions

Image: Studying the effect of dimensionality, environment and opto-electronic-chemical reactions

Our Vision: Unlocking the Atom-Level Secrets of Chemistry

The NSF Center for Multimodal Observatory for Single Atom Imaging of Chemistry (MOSAIC) is dedicated to the goal of real-time visualization of single atoms during chemical reactions. By capturing the finest details of how atomic structures change, interact, and influence chemical properties, we are opening a new frontier in chemical science. These advancements are essential to meet society’s needs for new solutions in areas such as sustainability, energy, and material synthesis.

What We Do

Our research focuses on three primary areas:

Image: Three research thrusts of this Phase I effort

SINGLE-ATOM CATALYSTS

Developing catalysts that maximize metal utilization while minimizing material waste, leading to more efficient processes like hydrogen evolution and CO2 reduction.

CLUSTER CHEMISTRY

Exploring how atomic clusters form and impact chemical reactivity, shedding light on intermediate steps that have remained elusive.

ORGANIC-INORGANIC INTERFACES

Investigating surface-specific chemical reactions, particularly at the boundary where organic molecules meet inorganic materials, to understand and engineer new materials and processes.

KEY INNOVATIONS

Our work integrates groundbreaking innovations that enable us to push the boundaries of chemical science.

Real-Time Single-Atom Imaging:
For the first time, we are able to capture atomic movements and reactions as they occur

Graphene Liquid Cell Microscopy:
This allows us to observe reactions in liquid environments, previously inaccessible to traditional electron microscopy.

Development of Advanced Gen 2 and Gen 3 liquid cells to understand chemical pathways in nano-scale

Physics-Informed AI/ML:
Using artificial intelligence and machine learning, we can analyze data with unparalleled precision, revealing insights into reaction mechanisms.

Color logo of the U.S. National Science Foundation

This work is supported by funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation (Division Of Chemistry) under Grant Number CHE-2420536 (MOSAIC-CCI).

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