Microclimate in Caves and Mines

A combined experimental/numerical approach has been developed to investigate microclimate issues in remediated mines and caves. In particular, the effect of “bat gates” installed at the entranced of abandonned mines in an attempt to reduce hazards to the public has been evaluated in a BLM-funded study.

A dual-scale numerical model is curently being developed to describe the overall flow in cave networks as well as provide a detailed three-dimensional characterization of the flow, temperature and humidity fields at critical locations. In situ measurements of air velocity, temperature, and humidity will be used to validate the model. This was a collaboration with Prof. King at CSM.

UC Davis/J-P Delplanque (2010)