Dr. Daniel Gardner, Parry McCluer High School’s class of 2014 valedictorian, recently had a scientific research paper published in Science Direct’s Journal of Energy Storage.
The paper, titled “Enhanced Estimation of Nucleation Rates in Supercooled Water Aiming at Novel Ice Thermal Energy Storage Systems,” explains how recent advancements in the characterization of nucleation rates in supercooled water have significant implications for thermal energy storage systems. Gardner’s study introduces novel statistical methods that improve the reliability of estimating nucleation parameters, crucial for designing efficient heat exchangers.
The research highlights two innovative approaches: a bias-corrected maximum likelihood estimation (BC MLE) method and a Bayesian analysis utilizing reference priors. These methods outperform traditional binning techniques, demonstrating enhanced accuracy and reduced bias in parameter estimation. The BC MLE method nearly eliminates bias, while the Bayesian approach offers robust uncertainty quantification, vital for engineering decisions.
Through Monte Carlo simulations and experimental validation, the study confirms that these new methods provide more reliable predictions of nucleation behavior at surfaces. This improved characterization is expected to enhance the design and scalability of supercooling thermal energy storage systems, which separate ice production from storage, thereby optimizing heat transfer efficiency.
Overall, this research lays a foundation for better material selection and risk assessment in energy storage applications where precise control of nucleation is essential for system performance.
Gardner is a son of Dr. Richard Gardner, biology professor at Southern Virginia University, and Naomi Gardner, gifted teacher at Waddell Elementary School. He currently resides in Logan, Utah, with his wife and two daughters.
