Two-dimensional Navier-Stokes simulation of deformation and breakup of liquid patches.

Abstract

The large deformations and breakup of circular 2D liquid patches in a high Reynolds number ( $\mathrm{Re}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}1000$) gas flow are investigated numerically. The 2D, plane flow Navier-Stokes equations are directly solved with explicit tracking of the interface between the two phases and a new algorithm for surface tension. The numerical method is able to pursue the simulation beyond the breaking or coalescence of droplets. The simulations are able to unveil the intriguing details of the nonlinear interplay between the deforming droplets and the vortical structures in the droplet's wake.