Macroscopic simulations of thin film wetting/dewetting using a precursor film model

Abstract

Numerical simulation of dynamic wetting processes remains challenging due to the multiscale feature of the moving contact line. This paper presents a finite element method for two- or three-dimensional dynamic wetting problems within the framework of the lubrication equation and the precursor film model. By reconstructing the disjoining pressure formulation, a mesoscopic precursor film model is implemented to enable a relatively thick precursor film to reproduce the intermediate-region interfacial behavior of a physically thin precursor film. The proposed model reduces the requirement for excessive spatial resolution near the contact line, thereby significantly reducing the computational cost while preserving the macroscopic flow dynamics. This method does not incorporate any moving boundary and easily handles topological changes. Its capability and accuracy are validated through various simulations, including the spreading, retraction, sliding, and coalescence of drops, as well as the breakup of liquid ridges. Numerical results (with the mesoscopic precursor film model adopted) show good agreement with the available exact solutions and asymptotic theories.