# Quantifying and Parameterizing Mixed-Phase Microphysical Properties Using Novel Measurement Technologies

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Utah (UT) · $499,746

## Abstract

Current systems used for weather observations have a difficult time discriminating between precipitation types in cold weather.  This uncertainty affects societally-relevant decisions about road maintenance, risk to electrical infrastructure, and even avalanche safety.  Scientifically, the lack of observations of the density of frozen precipitation impacts research on how winter precipitation is viewed by weather radars and how best to simulate winter precipitation in weather models.  This award will allow for the continued development and testing of a new instrument that can measure individual particles and assess their size and mass.

The Differential Emissivity Imaging Disdrometer (DEID) consists of a heated aluminum plate and an infrared camera.  The plate is maintained at a temperature just below the boiling point of water and the camera images precipitation particles that fall on the plate.  By measuring the temperature, area, melt time, and evaporation rate of each particle, the mass of the particle can be determined and density relationships calculated.  The new research under this award will add and improve techniques to distinguish precipitation phase and measure the mass of the particles.  Laboratory measurements will be conducted using well-characterized spherical and non-spherical ice particles to ensure a successful comparison between the DEID and known masses of frozen, partially melted, and liquid precipitation.  The DEID will also be deployed to an instrume

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2515622
- **Awardee organization:** University of Utah (UT)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** LL8GLEVH6MG3
- **PI:** Eric Pardyjak
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $499,746
- **Funds obligated:** $499,746
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2515622

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2515622, Quantifying and Parameterizing Mixed-Phase Microphysical Properties Using Novel Measurement Technologies. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2515622. Licensed CC0.

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