Large-scale implementation of NASA-developed two-phase thermal control mechanisms
In the modern built environment, ultra high-efficiency cooling systems are of increasing interest in datacenters and grid-scale battery infrastructure, among other areas. Two-phase heat transfer takes advantage of the latent heat of vaporization to maintain a small temperature differential in a closed loop cooling system. The student will focus on determining critical design parameters for optimizing these systems through a combination of experimental and computational methods. This project is ideal for students interested in metallurgy, thermo-fluid dynamics, and mechanics. Specific projects can be tailored to the student's interests. Introductory laboratory experience is required. Additional training will be provided if necessary. Depending on interest, students may focus on either experimental or computational methods. For students interested in fully computational studies, a strong background in linear algebra and calculus is necessary.
For an overview of recent progress in the field, see https://nescacademy.nasa.