Dr. Elaine Oran, at the University of Maryland, studies the theoretical and computational problems of physics and engineering involving natural, accidental, and controlled explosions. By understanding the fundamental science underlying combustion and explosion, Dr. Oran hopes to extend her insights that will help us avoid explosions in coal mines and fuel-storage plants, develop efficient, “clean” engines for high-speed flight, and understand supernovae and many other cosmic and terrestrial explosions. For example, in December 2005, the Buncefield fuel depot in the United Kingdom caught on fire and resulted in a series of explosions. It caused £2 billion in damages, but fortunately few injuries. Experts were immediately deployed to investigate the conflagration, but precise causes remain unknown. Researching the mechanisms behind these explosions will be invaluable in eliminating further mishaps.

Explosions, whether natural, accidental, or controlled, all involve depositing energy into a fluid background at a speed fast enough to create shock waves. Using the computer as a major tool, Dr. Oran designs numerical algorithms and computer programs to study, predict, and diagnose these phenomena. These computer programs usually run on very large-scale computers, some of which are the fastest in the world. Dr. Oran’s research team collaborates with the US Naval Research Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratory, and other cutting-edge researchers around the world to test her predictions and generate new insights about the basic controlling mechanisms of explosive phenomena.
   
Current research areas include:

• Understanding Key Physics Underlying All Explosions: One of the most important factors contributing to explosions, from fuel-storage plants to supernovae, is the behavior of turbulent flames. By studying the interactions of flames and turbulence, and how these systems evolve, Dr. Oran hopes to find ways to eliminate the destructive impact of explosions at the source. This is approached by solving the fundamental physics equations using both theoretical models and very detailed computer simulations.
• Examining the Natural Means of Explosion: Large-scale natural means of explosion include such things as supernovae, volcanos, and eruptions in the solar corona. Because much of the physics at work in these large natural explosions share key components with smaller-scale and manmade explosions, understanding them will help establish a framework for predicting accidental explosions and creating engines that will use combustion more efficiently.
• Predicting and Preventing Paths Leading to Accidental Explosion: Catastrophic accidental explosions can occur in many places, such as coal mines, chemical plants, and fuel storage depots. Dr. Oran's computer simulations can predict different scenarios, and develop  and create solutions to prevent them.
• Creating New Options for Stabilizing and Controlling Explosions: Controlled explosions are used in engines for propulsion, operation of nuclear power plants, airbags, hardening metals, and many other applications. Using important elements of explosion, Dr. Oran’s research sheds light on creating efficient, “clean” engines, reducing industrial risk, and developing new industrial processes.