Abstract
Abstract
Highlights
Swimming droplets are artificial micro-swimmers that are driven by an asymmetric distribution of external energy sources across the interface (Maass et al 2016; Weber et al 2019)
We have shown the impact of the inertial effect on the self-propulsion of the droplet with inhomogeneous surface tension
In this work we have demonstrated the role of convective inertial forces of the external fluid medium on the self-propulsion of a viscous droplet with an inhomogeneous interfacial tension
Summary
Swimming droplets are artificial micro-swimmers that are driven by an asymmetric distribution of external energy sources across the interface (Maass et al 2016; Weber et al 2019). Following the classical solutions of Proudman & Pearson (1957) and Taylor & Acrivos (1964) of improving the Stokes solution for a flow past a solid and a fluid sphere, respectively, in the present study we carefully utilize the matched asymptotic analysis of a spherical droplet driven by interfacial Marangoni flow at small, but non-zero Reynolds number and predict the effect of the convective inertia on the swimming velocity, power dissipation and swimming efficiency of the droplet swimmer. We prescribe a generic description of the Marangoni effect across the surface of the spherical droplet independently of how the variability in the interfacial tension might have been induced In this regard, we note that several other studies have examined the self-propulsion of solid bodies at small, but non-zero, Reynolds numbers, and have investigated the relevant swimming properties (Khair & Chisholm 2011; Wang & Ardekani 2011; Chisholm et al 2016).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
