Surface wave scattering at nonuniform fluid interfaces

Abstract

Effects of spatially varying interfacial parameters on the propagation of surface waves are studied. These variations can arise from inhomogeneities in coverage of surface active substances such as amphiphillic molecules at the fluid/gas interface. Such variations often occur in phase coexistence regions of Langmuir monolayers. Wave scattering from these surface inhomogeneities are calculated in the limit of small variations in the surface parameters by using the asymptotic form of surface Green's functions in the first order Born approximation. When viscosity and variations in surface elastic moduli become important, modes other than transverse capillary waves can change the characteristics of propagation. Scattering among these modes provides a mechanism for surface wave attenuation in addition to viscous damping on a homogeneous surfactant covered interface. Experimental detection of waves attenuation and scattering is also discussed.