Fuid structure interaction in pulsatile flow

Fluid-structure interaction is of great importance in many physiological phenomena, such as pulse-wave propagation in the arteries, the function of cardiac and venous valves, and the flow-induced development and rupture of aneurysms. In many such systems transition to turbulence takes place and determines friction losses and wall shear stresses, thus impacting on the development of diseases. However, it is not fully understood under which circumstances turbulence arises and what is the role played by the flow-structure coupling. The aim of this project is to elucidate the transition to turbulence in pulsatile flow through compliant conduits and aorta replicas. This project strives to produce both significant scientific output and clinically relevant advances. We expect to better understand how the transition to turbulence depends on characteristics of wall material and fluid properties in both canonical (i.e., pipe) and realistic (i.e. aortic) geometries.