Research
Four connected lines of inquiry, from the material response of a damaged structure to the operation and environmental performance of maritime systems.
Ship structural integrity and accident response
This research examines the nonlinear response of marine structures under accidental and extreme loading. It links detailed finite element simulation with practical questions in ship design, damage assessment, progressive collapse, and structural survivability.
Methods and approaches
- Nonlinear finite element analysis
- Progressive collapse modelling
- Collision and grounding simulation
- Ultimate strength assessment
Sustainable marine engines and shipping systems
Work in this theme investigates engine emissions, alternative fuel blends, energy-efficiency regulation, ballast-water treatment, and pathways toward lower-carbon shipping. The emphasis is on measurable interventions that can be adopted by existing fleets.
Methods and approaches
- Engine performance analysis
- Emissions modelling
- Regulatory impact assessment
- Machine-learning prediction
Marine composites and resilient materials
This theme explores plant-fibre hybrids, oil-palm-trunk epoxy systems, FRP-confined concrete, manufacturing defects, and material interfaces. It combines fabrication, mechanical testing, microscopy, and numerical analysis.
Methods and approaches
- Vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding
- Mechanical characterisation
- Morphology and defect analysis
- Composite finite element modelling
Maritime safety, ports, and operational analytics
Research in this area connects engineering analysis with operational systems. Topics include Port State Control, berth allocation, terminal productivity, ship recycling, towline dynamics, and resilience planning for maritime infrastructure.
Methods and approaches
- Data envelopment analysis
- Bayesian networks
- Optimization and simulation
- Computational fluid dynamics