Research
Granular Flow and Segregation
In collaboration with Julio M. Ottino and Paul B. Umbanhowar, we use measurements, simulations, and theory to understand and characterize the segregation of particles of different sizes in canonical granular flows such as granular flow in partially-filled rotating drums and heaps.
Membrane Filtration
In collaboration with Sinan Keten, we use molecular dynamics simulations to understand reverse osmosis and nanofiltration at the molecular level.
Other Research
Rich Lueptow’s research interests and expertise range from fundamental
flow physics to water purification to planetary acoustics. His current research
focuses on molecular modeling of water purification membranes and granular
flow dynamics for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. He has published nearly 200 refereed journal papers and 6 patents.
Richard M. Lueptow
Richard M. Lueptow is Senior Associate Dean at the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Co-Founder of the Master of Product Design and Development Management Program, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, and former Charles Deering McCormick Professor of Teaching Excellence at Northwestern University. He received his BS in engineering (1978) from Michigan Technological University and his master’s degree (1980) and doctorate (1986) in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He has five years of product development experience in the biomedical industry and nearly four decades of academic experience on the faculty at Northwestern University. He has received numerous teaching and research awards and is a Registered Professional Engineer as well as a Fellow of three professional societies: the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the American Physical Society, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.