Water and wastewater infrastructure

The CSIR’s work in water and wastewater infrastructure is geared towards technological innovation and development in the water infrastructure domain. The research currently focuses on water supply network analysis and modelling, the optimisation of treatment technologies for wastewater (industrial, mining and domestic), as well as off-grid water supply and sanitation. Expertise drawn on to do this work includes chemical engineering, civil/water engineering, mathematical modelling, as well as natural and social sciences.

Contact person: Dr Ryneth Mbhele: Research group leader; Email: rmbhele@csir.co.za; Tel: 012 841 3953
 

Coastal engineering and ports

The CSIR’s coastal engineering and ports group, situated in Stellenbosch, focuses on research in the marine and coastal domain. This includes port layout and ship manoeuvring optimisation through physical and numerical modelling, the assessment of structures (breakwaters, quays, revetments and groynes) using the latest techniques and the development of decision-support systems to aid ports in operations and safety. The group also has the capability to undertake marine surveys and data collection in support of projects related to marine construction (ports and harbours, marinas and pipelines). The group manages and operates the largest physical hydraulic modelling facility in Africa, enabling physical model tests of marine structures, as well as ship motions and ship manoeuvring to be conducted using innovative technology developed by the group.

Contact person: Eugene Mabille: Research group leader; email: emabille@csir.co.za; Tel: 021 888 2539