Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) System
Collaboration with a visiting international researcher with laser expertise led to the successful setup and used of a planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF) system to investigate the detonation behavior of hydrogen under extremely tight time constraints. System components borrowed from other research labs had to transported and new lab infrastructure had to be built to accommodate the new system. Modification of existing apparatus by adding a new optical module to allow laser accessibility through quartz glass windows ensured the appropriate light wavelengths were able to reach the ultraviolet sensitive camera. Simultaneous schlieren images were also taken. The system consisted of an Nd:YAG pump laser (Spectra Physics Quanta Ray PIV 400) and dye laser (Sirah Precision Scan) using Rhodamine 6G as a dye. Adhering to laser radiation safety protocols including the development of a safety interlock system and detailed operating procedure were critical to project success. The collaboration resulted in the publication of a research paper in a top-tier scientific journal.