Mathematical modelling of humidity transport for the conservation of the historic ship the SS Great Britain

James Herterich (University College Dublin)

Time:

2.30PM Wednesday, 1 April 2026

Location:

Science East, E0.32

The preservation of the historic ship the SS Great Britain requires strict moisture control to limit corrosion of the iron hull. In this talk we present two mathematical models: (i) a fluid dynamics model of the air flow and the moisture distribution near the ship’s hull and (ii) a system-level model for the dehumidifier system. Using these models we evaluate if modifying the air-flow system, or reducing the sources of evaporation from water ingress and puddles might reduce humidity around the ship’s hull and therefore reduce the energy required to preserve the ship.