Flow and Materials

Physics-based modelling and simulation has become an integral part of the design process in a growing number of industries. The combination of increasing computer power and more efficient numerical algorithms continually increases the range of physical phenomena that can be considered with numerical models.

The research program Flow and Materials focuses on applications involving flow phenomena, including interaction with structures. That is, applications involving gases, liquids and objects in motion. The core activities are related to defence and societal security.

The research program includes a wide range of areas such as aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, acoustics, structural mechanics, dispersion and transport modelling, scientific visualization and fundamental fluid dynamics research. The applications cover everything from the study of aircraft, missiles, underwater vehicles, sonar systems and military vehicles, to the protection of society through studies of urban wind and the spread of threatening substances.

The societal-security research also involves the development of operational models to be used by first responders as decision support tools to handle releases of harmful chemicals.

Both commercial and non-commercial modelling and simulation tools are used in our research. In addition, we develop new models and methodology where it is needed to ensure sufficient accuracy for a given problem. Comparison with experimental results is an important part of the validation process, and the research program has access to data from a wide range of experimental facilities.

Main current projects

• Development of  Next Generation Operational Dispersion Modelling Tool
• Modelling and Simulation of Flow and Material – core activity
• Aerosols: Release, Transport and Effects – Dispersion of harmful agents