Fluid dynamics

Novel methods for the computationally efficient simulation of compressible fluid flow will be developed, with applications to aerospace and space physics. First, new formulations of multigrid techniques for the implicit solution of time-dependent flows will be studied, using parabolization to increase diagonal dominance and solution efficiency. Second, new direct solution methods for steady transonic flows will be developed, employing dynamical systems and characteristic analysis.

This research project looks to develop computer programs which will enable the study of reactive flows and combustion processes in gas turbine engines. Combustion is inherently a multi-scale process that involves a wide range of complicated physical/chemical phenomena, as well as a wide range of spatial and temporal scales.