BOKU River Lab

Opened just recently in June 2023, the BOKU River Lab stands as a testament to over a decade of planning and dedication. This innovative facility, situated right here at Am Brigittenauer Sporn 3 in Vienna, isn’t just another laboratory. The BOKU River Lab is a unique, groundbreaking achievement in hydraulic engineering research. Imagine a 90-meter long river passage, up to 25 meters wide, recreated within these walls. This allows researchers to study the Danube River in ways never before possible. The BOKU River Lab boasts a flow rate of 10,000 liters per second. Remarkably, this is achieved without pumps. The lab permits model tests at a 1:1 scale, offering unparalleled accuracy and insight. Research at the BOKU River Lab encompasses a wide range of crucial topics. Scientists here delve into the intricate movements of water and sediments, exploring the complex ecology of the Danube and its various uses. They study flood risk management, from flood plains to mobile flood protection. River reconstruction and renewable energy sources like sustainable hydropower are also key areas of investigation. The BOKU River Lab even allows for the study of waterway and low-water management during droughts. This research is especially critical in the face of climate change. The BOKU River Lab’s opening was a momentous occasion. Attended by prominent figures like the Mayor and Governor of Vienna, Michael Ludwig, and various government ministers, the event highlighted the importance of this facility. The lab signifies Austria’s commitment to leading the world in river-related research. BOKU’s own Rector, Eva Schulev-Steindl, and numerous EU officials were also present, underscoring the international significance of the BOKU River Lab.