Double droplet splashing on a thin liquid film with a pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method

Abstract

This paper studies the interaction of two droplets splashing on a stationary film. A source term is included in the large-density-ratio pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method to achieve tuneable surface tension. This model offers excellent numerical accuracy and stability for droplet impacts on liquid films. The influence of the Reynolds number, Weber number, film thickness, and horizontal/vertical distance between the droplets on the crown geometry evolution is investigated. The energy loss during the impact process and the velocity discontinuity in the liquid film are the two key factors affecting the stability and evolution process of the crown. A smaller Reynolds number or thicker liquid film enhances the energy loss and decreases the velocity discontinuity, leading to more stable side and central jets. An increase in the horizontal distance between the droplets reduces the velocity discontinuity, causing the central jet height to decrease. An increase in the Weber number does not affect the energy loss or velocity discontinuity, but the lower surface tension leads to a dramatic deformation in both the central and side jets. A vertical distance between the two droplets causes an asymmetrical evolution of the crown geometry, and postpones the breakup time of the central jet .