At the Institute for the Simulation of Reactive Thermo-Fluid Systems (STFS), we develop models and conduct simulations of sustainable energy systems.
To power a sustainable world, our research focuses on chemical energy carriers and exploits the potential of renewable fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, iron and aluminum. We develop advanced modeling approaches and simulation techniques for chemically reactive laminar and turbulent multicomponent and multiphase flows. We use these simulation techniques to investigate combustion processes on all scales: from the smallest structures of the reaction zone and the formation of nanoparticles in solid fuel flames to the largest scales of of technically relevant combustion chambers.
The work of our research group is characterized by a close connection between fundamental and application-oriented research. Our aim is to understand the physical principles of combustion through direct numerical simulations (DNS) and to combine this knowledge in advanced mathematical models. By coupling these models with scale-resolving large-eddy simulations (LES), we can investigate even very complex practical applications such as aircraft engines, industrial furnaces and chemical reactors.
To achieve our goals, we work closely with colleagues, especially experimentalists, from science and industry.
In our research, we investigate clean energy conversion processes. With simulations on high-performance computers, we gain detailed insights into reactive flows that were unthinkable just a few years ago. In doing so, we bridge the gap between basic research and technical applications.
Kindling Minds, Not Just Filling Vessels – how teaching and the energy transition are coupled
September 30, 2025
Lecture re-designed
Right before the new semester kicks off — with our completely redesigned course Chemically Reactive Flows – Theory and Practice with Python [1] — a quote on my coffee mug caught my attention (see pictures [2]):
ERC Starting Grant for Arne Scholtissek – fantastic news for combustion research
September 26, 2025
A milestone that makes me truly proud as a mentor
A major milestone on this path is an ERC Starting Grant. Congratulations to Arne Scholtissek for being awarded the ERC Starting Grant “Protocol for data-driven Manifold generation, validation, and utilization in high-fidelity combustion simulations – ProtoMan”.
Why fundamental insights are crucial for turbulent hydrogen combustion
September 25, 2025
(or why thinking inside a box can be key to getting out of it)
It was a pleasure to welcome Thomas Howarth from the Institute for Combustion Technology, RWTH Aachen University, to Darmstadt. His talk Lean Premixed Hydrogen Flames: From Laminar Foundations to Turbulent Jets sparked lively discussions.
DFG Transfer Projects – combining the best of both worlds
September 15, 2025
(What are Transfer Projects? Why are they important? What’s our topic?)
German Research Foundation has approved my Transfer Project “Modelling of Flow–Flame–Cooling-Air Interaction under Technically Relevant Conditions”. The project is now part of the Collaborative Research Centre / Transregio 150 “Turbulent, Chemically Reacting Multiphase Flows Near Walls” (speaker: Andreas Dreizler) of Technische Universität Darmstadt and Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT).
Visit from Prof. Bassam Dally
September 04, 2025
Visit from Prof. Bassam Dally
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