Luke Fullard
Doctor of Philosophy, (Mathematics)
Study Completed: 2011
College of Sciences
Citation
Thesis Title
Modelling the Initiation of a Hydrothermal Eruption - The Shock Tube Model
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
Hydrothermal eruptions are an impressive phenomenon of nature. They are similar to geysers in that they erupt liquid water and steam, yet can be much larger, less predictable, and usually also erupt hot mud and rock. Mathematical models have been used in the past to study these eruptions but none have dealt with the initiation of an eruption. Mr Fullard developed a new model and numerical method to solve the associated flow equations. This model is able to simulate the first few seconds of an eruptive event from which he was able to infer conditions which increase the risk of a hydrothermal eruption. His research is a further step in predicting such eruptions, and protecting life and property at risk of damage from such an event.
Supervisors
Associate Professor Tammy Lynch
Distinguished Professor Robert McLachlan