MRI: Acquisition of a Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) system to promote state-of-the-art experimental techniques for fluid dynamics research and education at UPRM

University Of Puerto Rico Mayaguez, Mayaguez PR

Investigators

Abstract

1039915 Cancelos Although the Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique is a method of flow characterization of wide spread use in research and industry, the University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez (UPRM) lacks availability of this technology for research and education. This proposal requests funds to acquire a 3D stereoscopic PIV system with added capabilities to perform shadow-sizing, micro-PIV and Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) to support research and education efforts in aerospace, wind engineering, hydraulics, biomedical, environmental and earth sciences, microfluidics and nuclear safety at UPRM. The equipment uses a dual head laser to illuminate a slice of a flow field, and 2 CCD cameras coupled to specialized software for image acquisition with post-processing capabilities to determine 3D velocity fields in fluids. The characteristics of this equipment will further ongoing UPRM research initiatives related to bubble and Janus particles dynamics, nearshore hydrodynamics, pollution dispersion within urban areas, wind interaction with civil structures, behavior of bacteria populations and whole-cell manipulation in microfluidic devices. The versatile PIV system requested in this proposal will strengthen research efforts conducted by the PI, Co-PIs and Senior Personnel, all faculties from underrepresented groups serving in an Institution with a proven track record of producing high-quality bilingual Hispanic professionals.