Converting fuels to thermal energy through combustion will remain a critical part of our energy future for at least the next 50 years. The next decade, however, will bring significant changes in the fuel supply and tighter regulations on emissions from combustion devices. Dr. Janet Ellzey's group is studying processes and developing technologies to address these challenges. Through conversion of hydrocarbons to syngas, her group is understanding ways to produce hydrogen for use in fuel cells and combustion engines. Development of a commercially viable reactor is a crucial component of developing this technology. Applications of this reactor to portable power are particularly promising, but advanced manufacturing techniques are necessary to produce compact reactors. Along with combustion sciences, the Ellzey group also carries out armature/rail gun research at the University's Pickle Research Campus. |
The team | |
Patryk Radyjowski Additive Manufacturing of Combustion Devices Email: patryk DOT radyjowski AT gmail DOT com | |
Amar Hajj-Ahmad Potential flow optimization | |
Inaya D'Souza Biomass smoldering | |
Advaitha Byereddy Biomass smoldering |
Contact and VisitDr. Janet Ellzey ETC 7.148B | |
Prof. Ellzey received her BS and MS degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and her PhD from University of California at Berkeley. After working at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington DC, she joined the faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas in 1990. She has worked on various problems in combustion and fluid mechanics and now focuses on environmental technologies. Her current research efforts include non-catalytic reforming of biofuels and , additive manufacturing of compact reactors for use in portable power.In addition to her research activities, Prof. Ellzey is Assistant Dean for International Engineering Education for the Cockrell School of Engineering. In this capacity, she initiates and administers international programs for engineering students. She recently became faculty advisor for Engineers Without Borders and is leading an effort to incorporate service learning in the engineering curriculum, and smoldering of biomass. Prof. Ellzey is an avid traveler and spends 6 weeks a year in France teaching a course to UT students on international standards and environmental regulation. She speaks French and is an admirer and student of French cuisine. |