Multi-Physics & Bio-Fluids

This research area investigates the complex interactions between fluid flow and structural behavior, with a particular emphasis on the fundamental physics governing Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI). We utilize high-fidelity numerical models to study the coupled dynamics of elastic structures immersed in flow, addressing phenomena such as vortex-induced vibrations and aeroelastic instabilities. Our work in Nonlinear Dynamics explores the transition to chaos, bifurcation analysis, and the identification of coherent structures within complex fluid systems. "Our work in Bio-Fluids bridges the gap between mechanical engineering and vascular biology. A primary focus is the study of hemodynamics in microvascular networks, such as the mouse retina during angiogenesis. By employing high-fidelity CFD simulations, we investigate how Wall Shear Stress and pressure gradients act as signaling mechanisms for vessel pruning and remodeling. This research (e.g., Kumar et al., PLOS Comp. Bio 2026) provides critical insights into how fluid forces regulate tissue growth and disease progression."

1. Fluid-Structure Interaction

Our research in Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) investigates the complex, two-way coupling between deformable or moving structures and unsteady fluid flows. A primary focus is the Vortex-Induced Vibration (VIV) of bluff bodies, such as circular and square cylinders. We utilise high-fidelity 3D numerical simulations to map the "lock-in" regions where vortex shedding frequencies synchronise with structural natural frequencies. By examining the impact of mass ratios, damping, and blockage effects, our work provides critical insights into the structural integrity of heat exchanger tubes, marine risers, and energy-harvesting devices. We bridge the gap between fundamental fluid physics and engineering reliability by predicting fatigue-inducing oscillations in chaotic flow environments.

2. Nonlinear Dynamics

Beyond simple flow visualisation, we study the nonlinear dynamics and bifurcations inherent in unsteady separated flows. Our research explores how "incoming shear" modulates the wake transition of surface-mounted prisms and cylinders. By analysing the frequency spectra and phase-space trajectories of flow-induced oscillations, we identify the transition from laminar to chaotic regimes. We utilise modal decomposition techniques to extract coherent structures, allowing us to understand the fundamental instabilities that govern the birth and evolution of vortices in shear layers. This deep dive into stability theory is essential for controlling noise, vibration, and transport phenomena in industrial applications.

3. Bio-Fluids

In the realm of biomedical fluid mechanics, we apply engineering principles to understand physiological processes like vascular remodelling and angiogenesis. Our work involves modelling the complex relationship between vessel diameter, blood pressure, and wall shear stress in microvascular networks. Using data from biological systems (such as the zebrafish hindbrain), we simulate how blood vessels prune or expand in response to haemodynamic forces. This research has profound implications for understanding cardiovascular diseases and tissue engineering, proving that the laws of fluid mechanics are as vital to biology as they are to mechanical engineering.

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