Our research intersects the multidisciplinary fields of energy, surface science and engineering, and thermofluidics, and we investigate experimentally how surfaces and bulk material properties can be engineered to beneficially interact with micro/nano-scale and interfacial transport phenomena. Armed with this new understanding, we create novel materials and processes facilitating the development of transformative nanotechnologies for applications at the water-energy nexus and in healthcare. To achieve these goals, we employ state-of-the-art micro/nanofabrication techniques, interfacial optical methods, and theoretical modeling capabilities to gain mechanistic insight into complex thermodynamic and transport processes.
See our Publications page for our recent and past published research.
Ongoing Projects:
1. Characterization of carbon dioxide deposition and blockage in individual pipes and relief headers
Industrial refrigeration systems require overpressure protection, but for CO2 there is a risk of solid deposition and pipe blockage during pressure relief leading to serious safety concerns. Design guidelines exist for pressure relief valve capacity determination, however, we lack clear guidelines for installing multiple relief valves from different vessels feeding into a common manifold. This is because the relationship between thermodynamic state, heating loads, and relieving vessels on deposition is unknown. We will use experimental and theoretical methods to create phase-maps that highlight ice deposition-prone areas in relief valve-manifold connected systems assisting engineers in designing safer overpressure protection systems.
Image source: www.scienceabc.com
2. FRIO: Fundamentals of Recalescent Freezing on Immersed Nano‑engineered Surfaces
Ice can form explosively: as the first microscopic crystals appear, they release latent heat that briefly warms the surrounding liquid, triggering a rapid, self‑propelling “recalescent” surge. On metal or polymer components, this runaway freezing can clog pipes, stall turbines, and compromise structural integrity. Conventional countermeasures—oversized heaters, thick coatings, and frequent de‑icing—are largely empirical and energy‑intensive, reflecting our limited grasp of how surface nano‑textures, dissolved solutes, and unsteady heat flux interact to ignite or suppress the recalescent burst.
Our work addresses this gap by probing both flowing and quiescent supercooled water in the presence of nano‑engineered surfaces, entrained microbubbles, and externally applied fields. By unraveling the governing physics of recalescent freezing under these conditions, we aim to develop reliable strategies for regulating supercooling, controlling ice nucleation, and managing subsequent growth—paving the way for safer and more energy‑efficient technologies.
Image source: www.earth.com
3. Nanobubbles
Nanoplastics are ubiquitous particles, elusive, and challenging to eliminate due to their small size, stability, and mobility in aqueous environments. Their submicron size and surface charge allow them to bypass conventional filtration and accumulate in the environment with uncertain health consequences. Current remediation methods target microplastics, but offer little control over nanoscale plastic dispersions in bulk water.
Our project explores the interactions between nanoplastics and bubbles in water using advanced bubble generation techniques and high-resolution imaging. We focus on characterizing particle–bubble binding behavior and tracking particle dynamics in the fluid environment to inform future strategies for nanoplastic remediation.
Image source: www.bbc.com
4. CalTeach Berkeley
CalTeach is a program for undergraduate STEM majors interested in pursuing a career in education. CalTeach provides coursework focused on up to date STEM pedagogy and gives students real teaching experience in local classrooms and tutoring centers, while also putting students in labs to get authentic research experience to better inform their STEM teaching practices.
Our CalTeach group is working on various projects tackling issues around solar panel soiling, and developing methods to test the efficacy of antisoiling coatings and nanoengineered surfaces. By partnering with CalTeach and engaging our CalTeach group in this work, future STEM educators are more prepared to teach STEM in a way that is reflective of the work being done in current research.
Image source: calteach.berkeley.edu
5. Cal-Next Solar project
Dust can stubbornly cling to solar panels: as wind-borne particles settle, they adhere through van der Waals forces, electrostatics, or capillary bridges, gradually reducing light transmission and power output. Jet impingement is a natural candidate for cleaning and coating such surfaces—its behavior on smooth, hydrophilic plates at normal incidence is well documented. Yet photovoltaic panels rarely present this ideal case: they are tilted at arbitrary angles, often carry textured or hydrophobic coatings, and accumulate rough, irregular contaminant layers. Under these conditions, how a jet strikes, spreads, and detaches is poorly understood.
Our work addresses this gap by systematically probing jet–surface interactions on PV materials that incorporate novel coatings and realistic soiling. By unraveling how wettability, roughness, and adhesion strength govern particle removal and film deposition, we aim to establish design principles for anti-soiling surfaces. This foundation will guide the development of coatings and cleaning protocols that sustain solar efficiency while minimizing water and energy use.
Image source: calnext.berkeley.edu