Development of Advanced Numerical Fluids models for complex flows found in composites

The project aims to significantly improve on what can be effectively modelled with smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). The project aims to model fluid, fluid-void and fluid-void-solid interactions in composite layers. It should develop a high performance, scalable code which can be applied to manufacturing processes. This model would then be tested against test data taken from a variety of sources, and it would then be used to perform numerical optimisation to reduce void content. Finally a demonstrator would be built to quantify the void content compared to SPH predictions.
This project would be pursued in the context of the unsatisfactory quality of current models used to model void formation in composites. Analytical models assuming spherical voids are currently the best available, and these cannot satisfactorily describe the evolution of non spherical voids found during manufacture. SPH offers the capability to model all of the relevant physical behaviour, while allowing for non spherical voids and avoiding the problems of mesh generation.
The main method used to achieve this will be smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), however the method would have to be developed significantly beyond how it has been used to date. The project would benefit from Dr Rendall's extensive experience in numerical fluid modelling, SPH and optimisation, as well as Dr Kratz's links to experimental data, the ACCIS composites group and the NCC. Resources such as in-situ micro CT data and access to Blue Crystal would also be available.