Complex fluid mechanics and environmental physics

We develop physical models to understand and predict wave dynamics and coastal evolution.

Environmental phenomena such as wave formation and beach morphology result from complex interactions between fluids, winds, and sediments. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for anticipating the impacts of climate change and managing coastal areas.

Researchers involved in this theme (M. Manna, SCPN; C. Chaubet, METQ; and N. Kern, PhyStat) design physico-mathematical models to describe the generation and evolution of wind-driven surface waves in coastal zones, incorporating nonlinear effects and realistic conditions. These models reproduce field observations and predict extreme events.

We also study beach morphodynamics, particularly the formation of self-organized structures such as cuspate spits, by developing equations that link their geometric characteristics to measurable physical parameters.

This research contributes to a better understanding of coastal dynamics and to the development of tools for forecasting and managing coastal environments.

Sub-Themes :

• Generation and Dynamics of Wind Waves
• Nonlinear Modeling of Coastal Systems
• Self-Organization and Beach Morphodynamics