Scientific infrastructure
The CSIR is equipped for world-class innovation. The organisation recognises that scientific infrastructure is key in scientific discovery and producing solutions for industry and society. Scientific infrastructure includes laboratories, testing facilities, scientific instruments and equipment, clean rooms and pilot plants needed for research and technological innovation.
Collaboration between the research sector, industry and government results in the shared use of the infrastructure and helps build bridges that benefit the country.
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The CSIR Biosafety level three (BSL-3) laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility which enables scientists to conduct research and proof-of-concept studies in developing new diagnostics or therapeutics in HIV/Aids, tuberculosis and other infectious diseases. The facility, also known as the high-containment facility, is a controlled-access laboratory required for all experiments involving hazard group three pathogens (P3) of high potential risk to laboratory personnel and the environment.
The facility includes two wave flumes (4 m x 32 m x1 m, 12 m x 32 m x1 m) for quasi-3D modelling and two wave flumes (both 1 m x 32 m x 1 m, one glass and one concrete) for 2D modelling. The wave flumes use a single paddle wave maker (0.75 m paddle), also from HR Wallingford, and are capable of producing both regular and irregular wave shapes.
To support their work, the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) group has access to 325 computational nodes working in parallel. This facility underpins integrative engineering solutions – for example, integrated wind tunnel and experimental fluid dynamics studies in aerospace or industrial applications.
The CSIR constructed a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant on its Pretoria campus as part of its research into technologies and policies to support the increased use of renewable energy in South Africa. It also marks the start of a journey to a carbon-neutral campus.