Reynolds number dependence of drag reduction by rod-like polymers

Abstract

We present experimental and theoretical results addressing the Reynolds number (Re) dependence of drag reduction by sufficiently large concentrations of rod-like polymers in turbulent wall-bounded flows. It is shown that when Re is small the drag is {\em enhanced}. On the other hand when Re increases the drag is reduced and eventually the Maximal Drag Reduction (MDR) asymptote is attained. The theory is shown to be in excellent agreement with experiments, rationalizing and explaining all the universal and the non-universal aspects of drag reduction by rod-like polymers.