ITR: Liquid Atomization: Simulation, Discovery, and Control

Michigan State University, East Lansing MI

Investigators

Abstract

The primary objective of this proposal is to enable first-principle simulations of liquid atomization involving turbulence in a realistic atomizer, which is at least an order of magnitude more complicated than is possible today with current computing capabilities. Achieving this objective will facilitate the fundamental understanding needed of liquid atomization. It will also enable the develop of a theory-based method for design, control, and optimization of atomizers for ultra efficient, clean, and stable combustion in automotive, aircraft, and rocket engines, for spray forming that creates structurally perfect materials, for liquid jets that will not atomize until reaching high elevations for fighting fires as well as other applications. Broader Impacts of the Proposed Activity The proposed research will greatly enhance the university's infrastructure for performing high-performance scientific computing of liquid atomization through parallel network RAM and the scientific software to be developed. In terms of education and outreach, the results of this research will be disseminated via annual CFD short course and a workshop to be held at Michigan State University (MSU). There will also be a summer internship program for undergraduate students each summer at MSU, where students will work with the PIs of this proposal in carrying out the research. For this internship program, students from under represented groups will be aggressively recruited. Finally, undergraduate and graduate courses will be developed in liquid atomization in order to educate students in this area of scientific computing.