Main research activities


Microgravity

The research is focused on Fluid Science and some of the most interesting research lines concern: free, natural, and Marangoni convection (caused by surface tension forces); fluid dynamic stability in multiphase systems.


Aerothermodynamics

New strategies for atmospheric re-entry based on the use of spaceplanes which, unlike traditional re-entry capsules, thanks to the presence of wing leading edges and fuselages with sharp edges in Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics materials (UHTC).


Infrared thermography in thermo-fluid dynamics

Infrared thermography has proven in recent decades to be an advanced tool for the characterization of complex motion fields and the measurement of flows applicable in motion regimes ranging from natural convection to hypersonic motions.


Aerospace systems

The research is focused on the design of aerospace systems regarding advanced technologies and techniques for increasing their autonomy in autonomous and coordinated flight applications of drones or small space platforms. Other analysed aspects are the design of space systems for earth observation and ATM/ATC issues.


Particle Image Velocimetry tomography (Tomo-PIV)

Tomographic Particle Image Velocimetry (Tomo-PIV) is a recent technology that allows instantaneous measurements of the velocity vector in a finished volume. In this line of research, the development and practical application of this technique are carried forward.


Synthetic jets

Design, construction, and experimental characterization of synthetic jet devices for flow control. Numerical simulation of the motion field generated by the jet especially in turbulent flow.


Two-phase flow analysis

Study of the physical phenomena characterizing two-phase flows in the presence of an interface. This analysis is generally conducted both through numerical simulation methods and techniques, and through theories and methods of instability in fluid dynamics (modal and non-modal).


Advanced analysis of the structural response

In the first frequency bands, it is possible to obtain accurate results with pseudo-deterministic solutions and therefore with considerable computational savings. In the next few years, this topic will be developed and perfected to analyse its applicability limits.


Uncertainties in the dynamics of structures

Many structural typologies are characterized by uncertain parameters. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to estimate the dynamic and, in general, vibroacoustic behaviour, characterized by uncertain parameters that have a different incidence when the frequency bands vary.