URBAN FUTURES
National Facility for Physical Blast Simulation ( NFPBS )
Simulating real-world blast scenarios to enhance the safety and resilience designing of critical infrastructure against extreme events
Research Cluster
The National Facility for Physical Blast Simulation ( NFPBS ) at UNSW Canberra addresses the critical need for designing resilient infrastructure in an era of increasing threats from explosions , including man-made explosive devices and accidental gas explosions . Australia is striving to become a global leader in alternative energy sources , like hydrogen energy , to achieve net-zero goals . Therefore , ensuring the safety of hydrogen infrastructure is essential .
NFPBS provides advanced research capabilities in the laboratory-scale simulation of real-world blast scenarios , including replicating far-field detonation of chemical and hydrogen explosions , and enabling safer and more robust infrastructure design .
This cutting-edge facility supports research across various industries , such as defence , civil engineering , and renewable energy . The research cluster actively develops new methodologies and prototypes for blast-resistant designs and hydrogen safety standards , influencing industry practices and policy changes . The facility will be crucial in shaping Australia ’ s hydrogen future by enhancing public safety and infrastructure resilience .
Key capabilities
> Simulating real-world blast effects on materials and infrastructure
> Pioneering hydrogen explosion safety protocols and infrastructure solutions
> State-of-the-art testing facility to develop and validate blast-resistant designs and safety standards
Differentiators
> Largest blast simulator in the Southern Hemisphere
> Can simulate both conventional explosions and gas blast characteristics
> Pioneering hydrogen explosion safety research
> Developing industry standards and protocols
Key customers
> Academic researchers ( all universities in Australia and nearby regions )
> Defence Science Technology Group
( DSTG ) > Protective structure designers
Key partnerships
> University of Wollongong > Defence Science Technology Group
( DSTG ) > University of Melbourne
Sustainable development goals
> Affordable and clean energy > Industry , innovation and infrastructure > Sustainable cities and communities
unsw . to / damith-mohotti • 19