Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari was arrested on Wednesday and charged with attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction.
The US said he had sought to purchase chemicals and other kit needed to construct a bomb to wage "Jihad".
Mr Aldawsari, 20, is due to appear in federal court on Friday. If convicted, he faces up to life in prison.
In a court filing, the US justice department said investigators were alerted to Mr Aldawsari on 1 February when a chemical supplier became suspicious of an order he made of toxic chemicals that can be used to make explosives.
Investigators said Mr Aldawsari appeared to have researched ways to conceal bombs in children's dolls and in backpacks.
Yesterday's arrest demonstrates the need for and the importance of vigilance and the willingness of private individuals and companies to ask questions and contact the authorities when confronted with suspicious activities," Assistant Attorney General David Kris said in a statement.
Mr Aldawsari is accused of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction, based on the alleged purchase of chemicals and explosive-making equipment and his research of potential US targets
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