It is located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and is a collaborative research facility for the synthesis, characterization, theory/ modeling/ simulation, and design of nanoscale materials.
To accomplish this, the CNMS integrates nanoscale science with three national needs: Research in the CNMS is organized under seven related scientific themes and a nanofabrication research laboratory clean room) that have been selected to address challenges to scientific understanding as well as nanotechnology opportunities and needs.
Construction of the facility began in August 2003 and was completed in April 2005, with the research program beginning operation in October 2005.
The four-level main building comprises wet and dry laboratories, office space, and common areas to promote interaction among staff, long-term research guests, and users.
It is equipped with a wide range of specialized tools for synthesis, characterization, and integration of hard and soft materials.