Rui Ni, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University

 

2024 Experimental Physics Investigators

Rui Ni, Ph.D.
Image Credit: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University
 

Research Description

In electrified storms and during volcanic eruptions, a portion of the turbulent kinetic energy transforms into electrostatic potential through charged particles, ultimately giving rise to discharging events, i.e., lightning, which are important for global climate, air quality, and aviation safety. Rui Ni’s research seeks to understand the physics of the underlying two-phase flow process that governs these spectacular natural phenomena. Dr. Ni’s experiments consist of two unique turbulent systems that feature homogeneous and isotropic turbulence and turbulent channel flow, both of which were designed to host charged particles and measure the developed electric fields.

Research Impact

Dr. Ni’s research on charge segregation in particle-laden turbulent flows could improve the understanding of geophysical events, such as lightning, volcanoes, and dust storms, and it could optimize industrial processes, such as fluidized beds, electrostatic precipitators, powder coating, and pharmaceutical granulation that involve particles that are inevitably charged due to triboelectrification.

 
 

related links

Experimental Physics Investigators Initiative Science Johns Hopkins University, Department of Mechanical Engineering Back

Education

PhD, The Chinese University of Hong Kong 
BS, Hefei University of Technology

 

Affiliated Investigators