The 'hidden science' of fluid dynamics

Fluid dynamics is central to understanding much of the world, from the way gases circulate around planets to improved manufacturing and modelling of blood flow. What is fluid dynamics and why is it so important?

The vision for Leeds is to have an interdisciplinary focus on fluid dynamics. One of our real strengths is the breadth and strength of what we do here

—Professor Catherine Noakes

Impact

• Infrastructure sustainability: applying fluid dynamics to improve the durability of concrete structures like motorways, bridges, and buildings
• Climate change mitigation: scientists study how rising atmospheric CO₂ accelerates concrete ageing, leading to potential structural weaknesses
• Chemical interaction analysis: the team examines how CO₂ and water penetrate the concrete, triggering reactions that affect its integrity
• Optimized concrete design: research findings contribute to developing more resilient and environmentally sustainable concrete materials
• Real-world applications: insights from fluid dynamics help create long-lasting infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impact

Key information

• Major funders: Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
• Partners and collaborators: Yorkshire Ambulance Service, NHS, BAE Systems, Procter & Gamble, Shell, National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS)
• Disciplines: fluid dynamics, science, environment
• Investigators: Professor Susan Bernal Lopez, Dr James Vigor, Professor Steve Tobias, Professor Catherine Noakes, Eva Antonopoulou, Tom Sykes

Keywords: engineering, chemistry, physics, carbon dioxide, infrastructure, materials, built environment, climate change mitigation and adaptation