IWMA recognises advancements in water mist technology

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has awarded its prestigious Young Talent Award for 2023 to Martin Thielens.

Thielens honoured for PhD work from Ghent University

Thielens, a graduate of Ghent University in October 2022, received the award for his PhD thesis titled, “Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics Modelling of Water Sprays in Fire-Driven Flows.”

The award will be presented in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 12th October during the 22nd International Water Mist Conference.

In a letter of support from his supervisors, it stated: “The main goal was to improve the current capabilities of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in the prediction of water spray dynamics and their interaction with fire-driven flows.”

Impact on the design of active fire suppression systems

The research is set to revolutionise the field by encouraging the use of CFD as a more reliable tool in the design of active fire suppression systems like sprinklers or water mist.

Next year’s award is slated to go to the author of the best master’s thesis, with the deadline for submissions being 30th April 2024.

About the International Water Mist Association (IWMA)

The IWMA is a leading authority in water mist technology for fire-fighting, renowned for promoting research and development in the field. Since 2016, its scientific council has been recognising exceptional academic work through the Young Talent Award, which alternates yearly between the best master’s and PhD theses.

IFSJ Comment

This award is significant as it continues to push forward the boundaries of our understanding in fire safety. Thielens’ research could potentially change the way we design active fire suppression systems, making them more reliable and effective. We look forward to the developments that this research will bring.