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Chris's Project Page - RISE summer 2003 |
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Intern: Chris Lightcap, Lehigh University
Mentor: Kimball Hall
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Matthys
Department: Mechanical and Environmental Engineering |
DRAG REDUCTION OF TURBULENT FLOWS BY MICROALGAE
The goal of this project is to determine the drag reducing potential of a
polysaccharide produced by the red algae porphyridium. We are testing to find
if they can be applied to the surface of a ship to increase its velocity and
reduce cavitation, the process creating noise. Microalgae are found naturally
in the ocean, however, for this experiment they are grown in a bioreactor, or
specialized aquarium. The solution of polysaccharide and algae are subject to
a measured pressure drop along a pipe. This information, along with the
volumetric flowrate, will reveal the percent difference in skin friction
coefficient, also known as the drag reduction. The results have been outstanding,
nearly 60% drag reduction relative to water; the solution has reached its
greatest potential according to Virk’s maximum drag reduction asymptote. The
polymer remains exceptionally drag reducing despite successive dilutions with
water, having 15-20% drag reduction after diluted more than 95%. The solution
will become highly diluted onboard the vessel making this information paramount.
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