Inertial Particle Dynamics in the Turbulent/Non-Turbulent Interface

Overview & Synopsis

This experimental project will investigate the dynamics of droplets at the interface between turbulent and non-turbulent regions, with shear. To conduct this research, we will utilize unique facilities and measurement techniques, namely two wind tunnels equipped with turbulence-generating systems that can be differentially activated to create a turbulent/non-turbulent interface. This collaboration will cover a wide range of turbulent intensity gradients, shear rates, and Reynolds numbers for studying the dynamics of inertial particles in turbulent/non-turbulent conditions. The study will produce data on various droplet sizes spanning the range of Stokes numbers, characterizing particle inertia relative to the micrometric scale of turbulence. Potential applications include fuel injection in energy conversion systems, industrial spray coating, warm rain formation in clouds, and sea spray in the surf zone.