Mechanism of bubble cutting by fibers: Experiment and simulation

Abstract

Bubble fragmentation plays a crucial role in plenty of industrial applications. The incorporation of fiber mechanism enhances fluid turbulence and facilitate bubble fragmentation in gas–liquid flows. However, the bubble cutting mechanism associated with fibers is not fully understood. Here, we sought to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and characteristics of bubble fragmentation by varying solution type, bubble impact velocity, fiber diameter, and surface wettability. Based on the experimental outcomes observed under these varied conditions, a mathematical model describing the bubble fragmentation pattern was developed. Further analysis of velocity, gas–liquid interfacial area liquid film, and dissipation energy by CFD simulations proved instrumental in explicating the results observed in our visual experiments. The interface area of bubble increases from 0.8 × 10-4 m2 to 1.45 × 10-4 m2 with the enhancement of fiber hydrophilicity. This investigation enriches our understanding of bubble fragmentation facilitated by fibers, thereby guiding the optimal design of fibers for enhanced gas–liquid interface interactions.