Translation of numerical methods for a zero-carbon future into industry

PI: Leach, Felix

Department: Engineering Science (DF)

Among all alternative fuels, compressed or liquefied hydrogen (H2) and ammonia (NH3) have been recognised as promising choices owing to their zero-carbon nature. Much of today's industrial development currently relies on the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. However, today's software is mostly designed around fossil fuels, which can behave very differently from zero-carbon alternatives. This project then seeks to incorporate models developed at Oxford into one of the leading global (US in origin) CFD codes (Converge). If successful, this will lead to improved virtual world development for all of Converge's customers (which include much of the automotive and marine industry, as well as renewable energy providers).

Knowledge of four underpinning research grants covering the fundamental characteristics of alternative fuels over the span of 10 years will be consolidated and translated into Converge's next software release for commercial development. A dedicated data platform will be created, enabling academia and industry to access our data for their needs. The timely nature of this project will make it a world-leading activity and position the Oxford Thermal Propulsion System Research Group (TPSRG) at the frontier of alternative fuels study. From this project, TPSRG aims to create an international collaboration platform among experimental and computational researchers in hydrogen/ammonia research. Case studies will also be promoted in the Converge user conference worldwide, making this project more visible for both domestic/international academia and industry partners.