Dale R. Tree

Dale R. Tree is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Brigham Young University (BYU), College of Engineering, where he has held academic appointments since 1994. He progressed from Assistant Professor (1994–2000) to Associate Professor (2000–2007) before attaining full professorship in 2007. His research focuses on experimental combustion diagnostics across diesel engines, coal, biomass, and black liquor systems, with emphasis on soot/NOx reduction and optical measurement techniques.

Education:

• PhD, Mechanical Engineering (Minor: Chemical Engineering), University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1992
• MSME, Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, 1988
• BS, Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 1986

Research Interests:
Professor Tree investigates combustion dynamics using advanced diagnostics like Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF) and Laser-Induced Incandescence (LII). Key areas include:

• Soot/NOx formation mechanisms in diesel engines
• Black liquor droplet combustion for pulp industry applications
• Biomass/coal cofiring impacts on emissions
• Low-NOx burner design for sustainable fuels
• High-temperature fuel spray characterization

Publication Trends:
His recent articles (2004–2010) predominantly explore combustion optimization, emissions reduction, and diagnostic methods. Common themes include soot modeling in compression ignition engines, black liquor spray dynamics, biomass cofiring emissions, and innovative temperature/pollutant measurement techniques. Collaborative work with national labs (e.g., Sandia) and industry (Cummins) underscores applied research focus.

Scientific Awards:
No awards mentioned in the source material.

Advising & Leadership:
Has advised 15+ graduate students (MS/PhD) in combustion research. Additional roles:

• SAE Advisor & Mini-Baja/FSAE Coach
• Department Assessment and ABET Coordinator
• Sabbatical researcher at Sandia National Laboratories (1999–2000)

Labs & Collaborations:
Conducts experiments at BYU Combustion Laboratory. Key collaborations include Sandia National Laboratories (optical diagnostics), Cummins Engine Company (diesel emissions), and industry partnerships in biomass conversion. Leads student engineering teams for SAE competitions.