Thermal Engineering

Research Area

Thermal Engineering

The Thermal Engineering Group conducts extensive research on next-generation energy conversion and utilization. 1) Development of high-efficiency/environmentally-friendly internal combustion engines, gas turbines, and hybrid systems, 2) experimental and numerical studies on combustion and chemical kinetics of alternative fuels, 3) development of environmentally-friendly heat pumps for both heating and cooling, and 4) life-cycle analyses of greenhouse gases from energy uses have been the primary research focuses of the group. In addition, interdisciplinary studies employing micro/nano and energy technologies and utilizing graphene and nano fluids are ongoing as well to acquire core technologies in the fields of nano-scale photon and molecular energy. These cutting-edge interdisciplinary studies will facilitate the developments of future solar cells and fuel cells that can compete with current high-energy density fossil fuel energy systems.

Robotics Laboratory

Prof. Park, Frank Chongwoo

Our research activities focus on robot manipulation, motion optimization, control, learning and design. The unifying thread in our approach is the use of geometric methods, particularly concepts and tools from differential geometry and Lie groups. Our current research is focused on real-time algorithms for optimal trajectory generation, sampling-based methods for motion planning subject to constraints, and the leveraging of machine learning techniques for robot motion learning.

Nano Energy Transfer and Engineering Lab

Prof. Kim, Taeyong

By employing optical spectroscopy and ultrafast electron microscopy, we systematically investigate transport phenomena of microscopic energy (thermal and electronic) carriers, to develop highly efficient novel energy materials and devices. Specifically, we conduct researches on thermal conduction in inorganic / organic materials, radiative cooling, and ultrafast photocarrier imaging.

SNU Automotive Laboratory

Prof. Min, Kyoungdoug

In order to develop next-generation automotive powertrain technology, research on eco-friendly automotive innovation systems such as hydrogen-electric vehicles (FCEVs) and electric vehicles (BEVs) is being conducted. Studying on new combustion technologies that increase the efficiency of internal combustion engines is also being conducted with CFD, engine experiments, and deep learning.

Reacting Flow Laboratory

Prof. Do, Hyungrok

1) Developing & designing high-performance environmental-friendly combustors for propulsion and high-efficiency energy conversion systems driven by high-pressure & high-temperature fluids.
2) Investigating compressible and high-energy fast reacting flows to develop hypersonic air-breathing propulsion systems.
3) Developing novel laser diagnostics methods for measurements in fluids and on solid surfaces.

Advanced Energy System Laboratory

Prof. Song, Han Ho

– Thermodynamics
– Applied Thermodynamics
– Life Cycle Assessment
– Advanced Thermodynamics
– Energy System Modeling

Refrigeration System & Control Laboratory / Fuel Cell System Laboratory

Prof. Kim, Min Soo

We are conducting research on refrigeration and heat pump systems to improve the performance and optimize energy utilization, as part of our commitment to rational energy use and our goal of contributing to carbon neutrality. Additionally, we are studying fuel cell systems for harnessing hydrogen energy, with a focus on designing, improving performance, and diagnosing faults which are essential for their operation and control, thereby advancing the utilization of hydrogen.

Wearable Soft Electronics Lab

Prof. Ko, Seung Hwan

ANTS lab trys realize all the conventional rigid electronics into wearable electronics by developing flexible/stretchable electronics. Generally, we study (i) nanomaterial synthesis, (ii) laser based low temperature process, (iii) various application in electronics. The applications includes e-skin, soft robotics, AI based wearable sensors, transparent/stretchable electronics, VR/AR devices, energy storage, energy generation, air filters, etc.

Computer Aided Thermal Design Laboratory

Prof. Kim, Charn Jung

The CATD laboratory conducts research related a variety of fuel cell and battery models such as the performance and life prediction of lithium ion battery (LIB) using the Multi-Scale Multi-Dimensional (MSMD) modeling technique and the micro / CFD analysis model for efficient calculation of solid oxide fuel cells.

Clean Energy & Nanoheat Laboratory (CLEAN Lab.)

Prof. Park, Sangwook

Thermodynamics (M2794.001100)
New Energy Engineering (M3500.002300)
Hydrogen Production and Feul Cell Application (M3228.001200)
Future Energy Conversion Engineering (M2794.009900)

Turbulence, Flow Control and CFD / Bio-Mimetic Engineering Laboratory

Prof. Choi, Haecheon

Professor Haecheon Choi teaches fundamental knowledge on fluid mechanics from the courses of Fluid Mechanics and Applied Fluid Mechanics (undergradue), and also teaches turbulence physics and numerical simulation from the courses of Numerical Analysis in Mechanical Engineering, Turbulent Flow, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (graduate).

Multiphase Flow and Flow Visualization Laboratory

Prof. Park, Hyungmin

Among the fluid mechanics, focusing on multiphase flow and flow visualization, we offer the lectures on fluid mechanics and applied fluid mechanics (undergraduate), and operates fluid dynamics experiment courses. As graduate level, classes such as multiphase flow, inviscid flow, and viscous flow are opened by reflecting applied research fields such as environment, energy, and bio fields.

Energy & Environmental Flow Laboratory

Prof. Hwang, Wontae

Undergraduate courses deal with the basic theory of fluid mechanics and also experimental measurement of flow phenomena using various flow diagnostic techniques. Flow and design methodology that is relevant for compressors and turbines that can be found in aircraft jet engines and power generation gas turbines is also taught. Graduate courses further explore advanced theories on inviscid and viscous flows.

Renewable Energy Conversion Lab

Prof. Cha, Suk Won

The renewable energy conversion laboratory is a team working on two specific kinds of research; fuel cells and data-driven programming. We are designing various types of fuel cells such as SOFCs, PEMFCs by analyzing and testing the performance of the fuel cell. Based on the experimental data, we are progressing the research of fuel cell system and hybrid vehicle modeling, adjusting to the application of many industries by utilizing AI technology and data-driven programming.