Droplet and spray dynamics

Microfluidic convergent nozzles enable the generation of ultra-thin planar liquid sheets that subsequently atomize into highly controllable sprays, offering a compact and efficient approach for thermal management in confined spaces. By tailoring nozzle geometry and operating conditions, the morphology, breakup dynamics, droplet-size distribution, and cooling footprint of the spray can be precisely controlled. These planar sheet sprays provide localized high heat-flux cooling while occupying significantly smaller volumes than conventional spray systems, making them attractive for electronics cooling, aerospace thermal management, and advanced energy technologies.

Our research combines high-speed imaging, laser-based spray diagnostics, and infrared thermal imaging to investigate the coupled fluid-dynamic and heat-transfer mechanisms governing sheet formation, atomization, and spray impingement cooling. Through experimentally validated scaling frameworks, we aim to establish predictive design methodologies for next-generation compact spray-cooling systems.