Research

The purpose of the research unit is to perform both fundamental studies, to improve the understanding of physical and chemical processes occurring in the internal combustion engines, and applied research, to provide computational tools which can help the engine design. All the areas of research are in the field of numerical modeling, regarding the development of advanced 1D and multiD fluid dynamic models for the calculation of the in-cylinder combustion process and the pollutant formation and for the simulation of the unsteady flows in the complete intake and exhaust systems, including catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters, DeNOx traps and silencers. The goal is the prediction of the pollutants discharged by modern engines (Otto, Diesel, HCCI) and of the fluid-dynamic, chemical and thermal behaviour of the exhaust gas after-treatment system; this is achieved by means of innovative 1D and multiD thermo-fluid dynamic simulation codes.

» Presentation of the Group's activity

Research Lines

Fluid dynamics
» Wave motion in complex pipe systems
» Numerical solvers for flows through porous media
» Boundary conditions for Navier-Stokes equations
» Large eddy simulation
» Aerodynamics of vehicles
» Particle laden flows
» Exhaust aftertreatment systems
» Acoustics and silencers
» Turbocharger modeling

Combustion and spray
» Lagrangian spray models
» Premixed turbulent combustion
» Non-premixed turbulent combustion
» Autoignition and knocking
» Gaseous and solid pollutant formation mechanisms
» Alternative fuels (hydrogen, CNG, biofuels,...)

Other topics
» Moving mesh algorithms for complex geometries
» Multi-objective optimization
» CFD analysis of volumetric expanders for organic Rankine cycles
» CFD analysis of Stirling engines
» Gas-liquid phase separation

H2020 European project
» UPGRADE, High efficient Particulate free Gasoline Engines
» THOMSON, Mild Hybrid cOst effective solutions for a fast Market penetratiON
» HDGAS, Heavy Duty Gas Engines integrated into Vehicles
» IMPERIUM, IMplementation of Powertrain control for Economic, low Real driving emIssions and fuel ConsUMption