Optical Diganostics

In the Optical Diagnostics and Imaging Laboratory, we develop and apply cutting-edge laser techniques to study reacting and non-reacting flows such as combustion, propulsion, plasma systems, and hypersonic flows.  These techniques are enabled by modern laser systems ranging from a continuous wave (CW) to ultrashort (i.e, femtosecond-duration) laser pulses, coupled with state-of-the-art imaging cameras and related hardware components.  Such methods provide new tools for measuring physical properties such as temperature, pressure, velocity, and density, as well as, time and spatially resolved chemical species composition.  The end goal is the detailed understanding of flow physics coupled with complex reaction chemistry in numerous mechanical & aerospace engineering applications.  The specific outcomes include cleaner and more efficient internal combustion engines and aircraft gas turbines, remote sensing tools for explosives and airborne pollutants, chemical detection in extreme environments, as well as a variety of other applications in defense, energy, and environmental fields.