Computational Fluid Dynamics
Many environmental systems are shaped by the movement of liquids and gases. These flows can be challenging to predict because they interact with complex surroundings, exhibit non‑linear behavior, and vary over time. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) uses advanced numerical methods and modern computing power to simulate these systems by solving the fundamental laws governing the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy. The result is a detailed, physics‑based representation of how fluids behave across complex environments.
Stone applies CFD to understanding and quantifying fluid processes that influence environmental fate and transport. In agriculture, this includes predicting how agrochemicals like pesticides move through the the air and interact with vegetation under a wide range of application scenarios. Our expertise spans aerial spray applications from planes and drones, orchard airblast spraying, and ground‑based spraying both within and beyond targeted fields. Building on Stone’s deep expertise in agrochemical fate and exposure, we develop advanced CFD models that simulate pesticide drift through wind tunnels and onto downwind vegetation.
We pair CFD modeling with advanced remote sensing techniques to generate highly accurate, three‑dimensional representations of complex plant canopies. These models allow us to evaluate how plant characteristics such as tissue roughness and flexibility influence spray interception and drift capture. Together, these approaches support more realistic assessments of agrochemical transport and potential exposure.
Beyond agriculture, Stone uses CFD to address a broad range of environmental challenges, including atmospheric pollutant transport, surface water hydrodynamics, and subsurface contaminant remediation. Across applications, our goal is the same: to deliver rigorous, science‑driven insights that help clients better understand fluid dynamics and make informed environmental management decisions.
Interactive 3D Plant Canopy Models
Click below to explore examples of our 3D plant canopy models:
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Velocity Profile
Wind tunnel drift experiment simulation showing disturbances in wind speed through coneflower canopies.
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Droplet Path Simulation
Simulated pesticide drift wind tunnel experiment showing droplet tracks as they move through plant canopies.
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Iris Leaf Surface Roughness Scan
Leaf surface roughness is measured with a laser scanning microscope and incorporated into drift simulations to determine whether droplets will stick, bounce, or shatter.
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Iris Leaf Surface Roughness Scan
Leaf surface roughness is measured with a laser scanning microscope (colored by height in this image) and incorporated into drift simulations to determine whether droplets will stick, bounce, or shatter.
