Subproject 2

SP2: Aerosol Propagation in Dynamic Systems

AIDA Wolkensimulationskammer
Aerosol research at KIT’s large AIDA cloud chamber; Copyright: KIT/ Markus Breig
EDB High Speed Cam
Investigating a single levitated aerosol particle with KIT’s electrodynamic ion trap; Copyright: KIT/ Markus Breig

SP2 targets an improved understanding of aerosol thermodynamics (KIT, HZG) and the aerosol transport in rooms (DLR) for an assessment of the efficacy of mitigation measures for dynamic situations. Thereby we develop and extend numerical and experimental tools for efficient demand-oriented numerical prediction of aerosol dispersal and use them for assessment of room ventilation scenarios (DLR, HZDR). We extend simulation tools by multi-physics capability to assess designs of filter systems and air cleaning technologies (HZDR). Thus, we couple open-source Euler/Lagrange aerosol flow solvers with modules for radiation propagation used in WP 3.2 and microwave propagation in WP3.3 and 3.4. In particular, we have the following R&D objectives:

  • Development of a simulation toolbox for efficient aerosol propagation simulations in highly dynamic systems
  • Inclusion of multi-physics capability into the toolbox. Modules for thermo-physics (evaporation, condensation), micro-scale interaction (droplet impingement onto fibres) and interaction with heat and wave fields (UV light and daylight, microwaves)
  • Development of experimental techniques for Lagrangian particle tracking with flexible use in real-word assessments
  • Setup of an integral facility for demonstration and assessment of ventilation systems efficiency, virus inactivation technologies at DLR