The research activities of the group encompass thermodynamic and numerical modelling of fluid flow and thermo-fluid phenomena, as well as experimental investigations of energy transformations and conversion processes in hybrid energy systems and individual technologies based on renewable energy sources. Additional research areas include improving the efficiency and durability of photovoltaic systems, developing novel waste-based phase change materials, aerodynamic modelling of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and the development and application of smart technologies to enhance thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption in buildings. The overall objective of the group’s research is to develop innovative solutions for more efficient energy utilization while minimizing adverse environmental impacts.

• Thermodynamic and numerical modelling of fluid flow and thermo-fluid phenomena
• Analysis of energy conversion and transformation processes across various applications
• Analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems
• Aerodynamic modelling of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
• Enhancement of the energy efficiency and durability of photovoltaic technologies
• Energy efficiency in buildings
• Development and application of smart building technologies for improving thermal comfort
• Development of waste-based phase change composite

Laboratories

• Laboratory for Thermodynamics and Energy Efficiency (LTEF)
• Laboratory for Aero and Hybrid Energy Systems (LAHES)

Equipment

• THW-L1 – Thermal conductivity measurement device for liquids and pastes
• Thermtest HFM-100 (100 Series) – Heat Flow Meter
• Hot Disk TPS 500 S – Thermal Constants Analyzer
• ViscoQC 300-L – Viscometer
• Data loggers for monitoring process parameters (temperature, pressure, flow velocity, heat flux)
• FLIR E76 – Infrared thermal imaging camera

• Research and Application of Novel Phase Change Composites for Operating Temperature Regulation of Silicon Photovoltaic Panels (IP-2022-10-3971)
• Smart Hybrid Cooling Techniques for Silicon Photovoltaic Panels (IP-01-2018-2814)
• Application of Biosensors for Investigating Thermal Comfort Conditions in Public Office Buildings with the Aim of Optimizing Energy Consumption and Integrating Data into the ESCO MONITOR Platform
• Development and Research of Ice Platforms, DIV Group Ltd.
• UNDP Project: Removing Barriers to Energy Efficiency in Croatia
• New Aspects of Solar Energy Utilization in Solar Chimney Power Plants (023-0231751-3011)
• Significant Reduction of Solar Chimney Power Plant Height, Ministry of Science, Education and Sports
• IR-103 (IRI2): Development of a Zero-Emission Passenger Sailing Vessel, European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
• Numerical Simulations of the Welding Process for Thick-Walled Reactor Heat Exchangers, EU Industrius (Technical Study)
• Techno-Economic Assessment for the Conceptual Design of the Thermal Energy System for the Poljud Swimming Pools Complex
• Development of Multi-Purpose Heat Pumps with a Proposal for Industrial Production (Technical Study)
• Preliminary Assessment of the Jelina Draga 850 kW Solar Power Plant (Technical Study)
• Thermodynamic Assessment of Rapid Thermal Shock Potential, Interdisciplinary Expert Working Group Investigating the Kornati Island Fire (Expert Report)
• Thermal Energy Consumption Study for the Following Facilities: Poljud Swimming Pools Sports Complex, Poljud City Stadium, Croatian Hydrographic Institute, and Maritime Electronics Centre (Technical Study)
• Conceptual HVAC Design for the TDM Administrative Building (Technical Study)
• Conceptual Design Study of a Multi-Purpose Thermal Energy Plant for Air Conditioning and Recreational Ice Rink Operation (Technical Study)
• Conceptual Design Study of an Energy-Optimal HVAC System for the Poljud Swimming Pools Sports Complex (Technical Study)

The research group specializes in the development, analysis, numerical modelling, and experimental investigation of individual technologies and integrated systems in the field of mechanical engineering energy systems, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy sources. The group possesses expertise in the development of advanced materials, particularly phase change composites, as well as in the implementation of smart building technologies aimed at improving thermal comfort and enhancing energy efficiency. The group also has extensive experience in preparing technical studies, feasibility analyses, and expert reports for industrial partners and the energy sector.