Gregg Lumetta

Dr. Gregg Lumetta is recognized nationally and internationally as an expert on chemical separations, especially as applied to nuclear and radiological materials. His research is focused on the study of solvent-extraction and ion-exchange systems that are being developed for advanced nuclear fuel cycles, the treatment of radioactive waste streams, radiological decontamination, and hydrometallurgy. The breadth of his work spans from the investigation of the fundamental coordination chemistry that underpins solvent extraction systems, to laboratory-scale testing of separation processes. In taking this broad approach, he has pioneered work in the separation of transuranic elements from both legacy nuclear waste and from used nuclear fuel. His research in separating americium and curium from used nuclear fuel has led to the development and testing of new processes that are internationally recognized. Dr. Lumetta is also an expert in actinide chemistry and leads efforts in synthesizing plutonium compounds for use in nuclear forensics. In this area too, his research spans from understanding the fundamental mechanisms by which such species form, to preparation of plutonium materials at the scale of hundreds of grams. His research influences a variety of U.S. Government agencies including the DOE Office of Nuclear Energy, DOE Office of Environmental Management, and the Department of Homeland Security.