A half-century of innovation

In 2004, Dr. Yogi Gupta founded the Applied Sciences Laboratory as the applied-research arm of WSU’s Institute for Shock Physics (ISP).

ISP is a multidisciplinary research organization located on Washington State University’s Pullman campus. Supported primarily by the U.S. Department of Energy, it studies how matter responds to extreme pressures.

WSU’s shockwave program began in the late 1950s, with theoretical studies in the physics department. This marks the onset of sustained research in shock mechanics at a U.S. academic institution.

By 1968, the initiative had grown and was christened the Shock Dynamics Laboratory. Its work in experimental shockwave research was another first for a domestic university.

In 1962, the program was renamed the Shock Dynamic Center to reflect the expanding scope of its work.

The Institute for Shock Physics was formed in 1997, with support from the Department of Energy’s defense programs. In support of its national security mission, the agency sought to ensure a strong, long-term relationship with an academic institution.

In 1999, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) provided long-term support for energetic materials research.

In 2003, the DOE’s National Nuclear Security Administration renewed its long-term support, and the Shock Physics Building was inaugurated.

In 2004, with support from ONR, the Institute initiated applied research in physical sciences and engineering by establishing the Applied Sciences Laboratory (ASL).