My research introduced the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to the study of transport and dispersion of pollutants in large urban environments. I have extensive experience in porting finite-element CFD codes across multiple high-performance computing (HPC) platforms and in developing scalable numerical methodologies for complex, real-world flow problems.

Computational Methodologies and Applications

I develop and apply advanced CFD models to analyze the transport and dispersion of contaminants in both urban and maritime environments. A significant component of this work focuses on the dispersion of gaseous emissions from ship stacks and their interaction with ship superstructures. These methodologies were applied to study flow fields and thermal effects for the San Antonio–class amphibious transport dock (LPD-17) and later extended to the T-AKE 1 class, a next-generation transport ship for the U.S. Navy. This research also included the identification and characterization of flow features in helicopter landing zones on ship decks, with direct implications for flight safety.

Data Development and Engineering Integration

I have led the development of specialized datasets to support applied research and operational tools, including datasets used in helicopter flight simulators for the LPD-17 platform. In parallel, I have contributed to engineering and technology development through the creation of algorithms that automate the extraction of building geometries and complex terrain from geospatial data. These algorithms significantly accelerate CAD reconstruction in dense urban environments and triangulated terrains. The resulting technologies have been integrated into FEFLO-PC, along with AT Planner and VAPO, as part of the research activities of the Center for Blast Mitigation at George Mason University.

Urban Dispersion and National Security Applications

In 2005, I provided computational support to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dispersion experiments in New York City, performing simulations of atmospheric transport and dispersion around Madison Square Garden. More broadly, my research addresses the dispersion of chemical and biological agents in urban environments, an area of critical importance to national security. Through the Center for Computational Fluid Dynamics, we have developed the capability to simulate airflow across entire cities under realistic atmospheric conditions. Ensembles of these simulations are used to predict concentration levels and to optimize the placement of sensor networks at strategic locations. This work incorporates atmospheric variability and turbulence modeling and has been carried out in collaboration with national laboratories, universities, and industry partners.