An inventory of Lattice Boltzmann models of multiphase flows

Abstract

This document reports investigations of models of multiphase flows using Lattice Boltzmann methods. The emphasis is on deriving by Chapman-Enskog techniques the corresponding macroscopic equations. The singular interface (Young-Laplace-Gauss) model is described briefly, with a discussion of its limitations. The diffuse interface theory is discussed in more detail, and shown to lead to the singular interface model in the proper asymptotic limit. The Lattice Boltzmann method is presented in its simplest form appropriate for an ideal gas. Four different Lattice Boltzmann models for non-ideal (multi-phase) isothermal flows are then presented in detail, and the resulting macroscopic equations derived. Partly in contradiction with the published literature, it is found that only one of the models gives physically fully acceptable equations. The form of the equation of state for a multiphase system in the density interval above the coexistance line determines surface tension and interface thickness in the diffuse interface theory. The use of this relation for optimizing a numerical model is discussed. The extension of Lattice Boltzmann methods to the non-isothermal situation is discussed summarily.