Bioheat and Mass Transfer Laboratory

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Research in this lab includes experimental and theoretical modeling of high and low temperature heat and mass transfer in biological systems, with particular emphasis on phase change phenomena. Current projects include experiments with quantitative biological microscopy techniques to dynamically, as well as, statistically observe single cells at supra and subphysiological temperatures. Experiments on whole tissues are also underway to investigate the mechanisms of ice formation and damage during freezing of an organ. Theoretical modeling based on experimental data for the prediction of supraphysiological thermal injury is an area of ongoing interest. Predictive models for freezing in single cells and whole tissues are also being developed. There are several areas of application of this research in the biomedical community. In high temperature bioheat and mass transfer, further understanding and prediction of thermal injury allows for the possible manipulation and treatment of burned cells and tissues. Furthermore, the low temperature research allows contribution to improved cryosurgical and cryopreservation protocols to either selectively destroy or preserve cells and tissues through freezing.

Participating Faculty: John C. Bischof
Mechanical Engineering 201 and Diehl G-144 (612-625-5513 and 626 4534)