I have no publications and did recieve an award. My broader impacts section was strong and I talked about volunteer work (Habitat for humanity officer) and teaching experiences (peer group tutor for 3 years). I am also continuing to help others during grad school through a program called SEED. All of the reviewers commented on those aspects of my application. They all said publications would help me. They commended me for doing research in 7 different areas through undergrad and summer opportunities and having a good understanding of my impact in each area. They also commented on having good grades and a strong chem GRE to back them up. Between the three reviewers, they covered almost every positive thing that I included in my application. There's no doubt publications (because they are somewhat rare for undergrads, although I have a lot of friends with them and could have had 2 myself) help to separate some students from the rest of the pack. Remember, they're comaring thousands of excellent applicants. I really think you need something that makes you stand out.
