Volcanic eruptions are driven by the flow of magma through the subvolcanic plumbing system, and produce lavas that flow across the Earth’s surface. Magma and lava are complex multiphase materials that undergo bubble formation and growth, crystallization, and solidification during transport.
LAVA is a semi-permanent installation for the investigation of multiphase fluid dynamic processes in volcanic dykes (Capponi and Llewellin 2019, Capponi et al 2020). The kit houses a 3 m wide x 2 m tall fluid-filled slot into which gas can be injected via 18 bubble injection ports at the base of the slot. High-speed videography is used to capture the multiphase flow processes.
Other equipment and capabilities
Flexible space to host bespoke apparatus to investigate volcanological fluid dynamic phenomena. Previous examples include:
Equipment includes:
Research equipment facilities located in the department