Section of Fluid Mechanics, Coastal and Maritime Engineering

The main research areas are fluid mechanics, hydrodynamics, and the interaction with structures and seabeds. The methods applied include theoretical, numerical, and experimental modelling, and these methods are used to determine the behaviour of flows, including their impact on surrounding structures. Examples of technical applications green fuels for marine engines, estimation of sediment transport, coastal morphology, coastal protection schemes that improves biodiversity, interaction of current and waves with aquaculture, and determination of wave loads on ships and offshore energy facilities.

The research is directed towards three main industries. Fluid mechanics aims the basis for development of new products and consulting of central areas of benefit for Danish society. In the coming years, coastal and offshore engineering will focus on the development of new utilities, as aquaculture and improvement of biodiversity. The maritime industry is changing its focus towards a supporting industry with a large focus on optimisation of, for instance, sailing routes and marine operations.

Solutions to societal challenges

The research addresses several major strategies, such as EU’s Blue Growth strategy. This will enable a sustainable harvesting of the potential of resources from oceans, as well as coastal and inland waters. The research plays an important role in intensifying for instance different uses of ocean resources such as offshore wind, food production and sea surface transport. In coastal areas higher focus is on climate resilience as well as finding the right answers to enhanced development of infrastructure including reclamation for new urban and industrial areas, transport and energy systems. The development shall target sustainable growth in the marine and maritime sectors through a responsible management of marine resources for healthy, productive, safe, secure and resilient seas and oceans.