Aerodynamic Stability of Ultra-lean premixed flames
Lean premixed flames have long been identified as a means to achieving ultra-low levels of harmful pollutants such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Using stereo particle image velocimetry (PIV), we are studying flame stabilization using a novel low-swirl burner design initially developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. Results look particularly promising for the adaptation of this technology into next generation gas turbines.
Delivery of Inhaled Medical Aerosols
The fluid mechanics of aerosol generation, transport, and deposition are complex both experimentally and numerically. Although inhaled medical aerosols are widely used (e.g. asthma inhalers), significant challenges remain for understanding and improving their efficacy. Using advanced experimental techniques such as stereo particle image velocimetry and particle sizing techniques coupled with computational fluid dynamics, we are conducting a range of research from developing better delivery technologies to understanding and quantifying deposition.
Coherent structure of low-momentum jets in crossflow
The jet in crossflow is one of the fundamental problems in fluid mechanics but full understanding of the generation and interaction of coherent structures from an elevated jet remains elusive. Using innovative water channel based visualization and experimental techniques, we are investigating the structure of low momentum jets in crossflow. Results of this fundamental work are relevant to a wide variety of practical applications including dispersion of pollutants, “fuel stripping” from flares, and fluid mixing.
Other projects
As always, research and understanding continue to evolve and other potential projects are in early phases of development. A few of these diverse projects include novel optical diagnostics and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) techniques for detection of fugitive emissions, flame propagation in stratified flows as a means to developing highly efficient combustion engines, and residential-scale co-generation of heat and electricity using biofuel powered Stirling engines I am particularly interested in applications of advanced experimental techniques and through collaborations with colleagues at National Research Council (NRC), Natural Resources Canada, Carleton University, and others.