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Former Top Rookie a Valuable Player in Multiphase Fluid Dynamics Research Role

Dr. Isaac K. Gamwo

Dr. Isaac K. Gamwo

Dr. Isaac K. Gamwo thoroughly enjoys his non-work hobby, soccer, but he earned the “Outstanding Rookie of the Year” gold award from the Federal Executive Board’s Excellence in Government Awards program in 2002 for his research efforts, shortly after joining DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory in 2000.

Since that time, Dr. Gamwo has become a most valuable player at NETL as evidenced by significant research achievements, numerous publications, significant patent applications, and academic accomplishments.  Dr. Gamwo, a professional engineer and a graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, works as a chemical engineer in NETL’s Earth and Mineral Sciences Division.  He relishes the process of science.

“I enjoy observing that our research contributions are leading to a better understanding of multiphase reactive fluid dynamics,” Dr. Gamwo said.  “That includes improving mathematical models to better describe multiphase flow behavior in reactors and subsurfaces.”

Working in one of the most technical disciplines, Dr. Gamwo attempts to improve multiphase theory and mathematical modeling.  An example of his work has been in the area of fossil engineering, such as the production of methane from methane hydrate reservoirs, the production of hydrocarbons from coal-derived synthesis gas, and the modeling of a fuel reactor in a chemical looping combustion system. 

“Successful production of methane from hydrate resources would revolutionize the nation’s economic growth by ensuring long-term energy security without relying on foreign natural gas from unstable regions,” Dr. Gamwo said of the work in gas hydrates.

While conducting his research, Dr. Gamwo has found time to author or co-author more than 60 scientific publications and presentations, has applied for two patents in his field, and academically has served as co-advisor to doctoral students at a number of universities, as well as a guest lecturer at the university level.  The American Chemical Society selected a book he has co-edited to its top-ten best sellers list.

This range of accomplishments, along with others too lengthy to mention, resulted in Dr. Gamwo’s receipt of one of NETL’s 2007 Outstanding Employee Performance Awards.  But, he won’t rest on his laurels until advances in slurry bubble column reactors, hot filter vessels, chemical looping combustion processes, and reservoir modeling are applied commercially.

 

Submitted by DOE's National Energy Technology Laboratory