Study of a dissipative particle dynamics based approach for modeling suspensions

Abstract

In this paper, a dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) based approach for modeling suspensions is examined. A series of tests is applied comparing simulation results to well established theoretical predictions. The model recovers the dilute limit intrinsic viscosity prediction of Einstein and provides reasonable estimates of the Huggins coefficient for semidilute suspensions. At higher volume fractions, it was necessary to explicitly include lubrication forces into the algorithm as the usual DPD interactions are too weak to prevent overlaps of the rigid bodies and account for other related effects due to lubrication forces. Results were then compared with previous studies of dense hard sphere suspensions using the Stokesian dynamics method and experimental data. Comparison of relative viscosity values determined from strain controlled shearing versus stress controlled shearing simulations are also given. The flow of spheroidal objects is studied. The rotation of a single spheroid under shear is consistent with the predictions of Jeffery. Simulations of sheared spheroids at higher volume fractions produce an apparent nematic phase. An example is given of the application of DPD to model flow in another geometry, gravitational driven flow between parallel cylinders, which is of practical interest.