This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5). Granted funds will support acquisition of a Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) imaging system and shock wave tube to study the dynamics of simulated volcanic eruptions in laboratory experiments. Laser-based multi-phase fluid dynamic diagnostic capabilities will enable simulation of a range of particle laden nonsteady flows including subaerial volcanic eruptions and hydrothermal black smokers. PI Amanada Clarke and her students will focus on experimental simulation and quantitative observation of the fluid dynamics of Vulcanian eruptions, base surges, lateral blasts, and shock-generating explosions. Laboratory results will be compared with field observations and numerical eruption models in order to improve volcanic hazards predictions.
