Researchers at CCL are conducting fundamental yet applied research on detonation and deflagration events at large scale in constant volume systems. This work is in conjunction with other CCNY engineering research laboratories to understand conditions of high energy release events, such as those which result in the potentially dangerous launching of manhole covers from the roadbed. The facilities at CCL allow for the validation of mitigation strategies for the high pressure reaction fronts. The measurement of stereoscopic data from these high-speed chemical and electrical events allows for an experimentally-derived understanding of complex hydrocarbon mixtures. The goal of this research is to reduce the safety risks associated with manhole events which occur throughout New York City and beyond.
