Chemistry

the back of an open phone showing chips and circuits

Magnets sustainably separate mixtures of rare earth metals

Chemists at Penn have identified a new approach for purifying rare earth metals, crucial components of technology that require environmentally-damaging mining procedures.

an x-ray scattering system made out of a long white tube connected to a sample box at one end. lee is shown in two separate images placing a sample inside of the box, partially obscured behind darkened panel glass

Researchers think small to make progress toward better fuel cells

A collaborative study describes how fuel cells, which use chemical energy to power cars and devices, can be developed to be more cost-effective and efficient in the long term.

Cartoon drawing of Edgar Fahs Smith in a lab circa 1927

Stories of Penn scientists: Edgar Fahs Smith

The story of the professor and provost whose affinity for science and history led him to amass a collection that stands as a testament to his passion for chemistry.

Training the next generation of globally minded researchers

As part of the Research and Education in Active Coatings Technologies for the Human Habitat program, students conduct fundamental research on materials that can improve lives while engaging in international collaborations and educational activities.

thomas mallouk poses in a laboratory surrounded by equipment and glassware

Materials for a more sustainable future

Using a collaborative approach and their expertise in fundamental chemical research, new Chemistry Department faculty member Thomas Mallouk and his group address challenges faced by engineers and materials scientists.

a group of people standing in a chemistry lab wearing lab coats and goggles

As molecular engineers, chemists create innovative tools for scientific research

Ivan Dmochowski’s group brings together approaches from diverse fields in chemistry to build custom molecules for biologists and medical researchers.

subotnik, anna, and schelter posing in a chemistry lab wearing googles, schelter is holding a round-bottomed flask

Penn chemists to lead NSF-sponsored center for sustainable metals supply chains

The Center for Sustainable Separations of Metals will conduct research on metals recycling to reduce pollution, greenhouse-gas emissions, and energy usage while promoting political and environmental sustainability.

a massive blue an orange firework exploding over the Philadelphia skyline

Q&A

The chemistry behind fireworks

A Q&A with inorganic chemist Eric Schelter about the chemical reactions that create explosive displays and how different metals are used to create bright and brilliant colors.

blue neurons on a white background with red nucleuses

Protein-linked sugars are crucial for the uptake of proteins linked to Parkinson’s disease

A new study shows that glycoproteins, proteins with added sugar molecules, impact how neurons uptake alpha-synuclein, a protein that clusters together and can lead to Parkinson’s disease.

Inside the scientific glassblower’s studio

A glimpse inside Penn’s glass shop and how the art of scientific glassblowing makes the innovative research happening on campus possible.

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