JOHOR BAHRU – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), proudly congratulates Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhaila Ismail from the Department of Mathematical Sciences on successfully securing a research grant worth RM117,000 under the Exploratory and Transformative Research Grant (GET), Phase 1, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), Malaysia.
The awarded research project, entitled “Numerical Modelling of Debris Flow Erosion and Deposition Using Herschel-Bulkley Papanastasiou and Voellmy Rheological Models and Geographic Information System Integration,” focuses on developing advanced mathematical and computational approaches to understanding debris flow behaviour and its potential impacts on the environment and infrastructure.
The research investigates the movement, erosion, and deposition of debris flows, which are rapid movements of soil, rocks, water, and other materials commonly triggered by intense rainfall or slope instability. These natural hazards can cause significant damage to infrastructure, communities, and ecosystems, particularly in mountainous and landslide-prone regions.
A key aspect of the project involves applying Herschel–Bulkley–Papanastasiou and Voellmy rheological models to simulate complex debris flow behaviour. These mathematical models describe how flowing materials respond to forces and changing conditions, enabling researchers to investigate the physical mechanisms influencing debris movement, erosion, and deposition.
By integrating these numerical models with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the research aims to improve spatial analysis and visualisation of debris flow behaviour across different terrains. This integration could contribute to more comprehensive hazard assessments, identification of vulnerable areas, and improved understanding of potential debris flow pathways.
The project highlights the important role of applied mathematics, computational modelling, and geospatial technology in addressing environmental challenges and natural disaster risks. Its findings could provide valuable scientific insights to support disaster risk reduction, infrastructure planning, and sustainable land management.
With Malaysia experiencing heavy rainfall and slope-related hazards in certain regions, research on debris flow modelling is particularly relevant. Improved understanding of these natural processes could support future development of more reliable hazard assessment tools and evidence-based disaster preparedness strategies.
The successful acquisition of this competitive research grant reflects Dr. Zuhaila’s commitment to advancing mathematical sciences with meaningful real-world applications. This achievement further strengthens the Faculty of Science’s research excellence and aligns with UTM ASCEND 2030, particularly in promoting impactful research, technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and societal resilience.
The Faculty of Science extends its heartfelt congratulations to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhaila Ismail on this achievement and wishes her continued success in advancing mathematical modelling research that contributes to disaster risk management, environmental protection, and safer communities.
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