Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory

NREL's Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to biomass recalcitrance research. Recalcitrance—the natural resistance of plant cell walls to deconstruction—is a key barrier to the development of next-generation biofuels. Here, researchers study plant structures from the tissue scale to the molecular scale to improve biofuels production techniques.

The Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory is an imaging and visualization facility that features a range of equipment to support atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, near-field scanning optical microscopy, and scanning laser confocal microscopy capabilities. Acoustic, thermal, mechanical, and radio frequency interference are controlled in the facility for optimal equipment performance.

The Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory is available to NREL partners for structural recalcitrance research. Cooperative research and development agreements, work for others, and analytical service agreement arrangements are possible. For more information, see the NREL Technology Transfer Web site.

Equipment Used in the Laboratory

The Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory uses a wide range of imaging, biomass sample preparation, and image analysis and visualization equipment. See the complete list of all of the equipment used in the laboratory.

Virtual Tour

Tour the Biomass Surface Characterization Laboratory with this online virtual tour. Select doors and equipment to see more information about the specialized labs and tools used in the laboratory.