Phase field approach to multiphase flow modeling (Q653927)

The phase field (or diffuse interface) model for fluid flows is reviewed. All quantities, such as density and composition, are assumed to vary continuously in space. Firstly, the diffuse interface model is formulated for single-component fluids at equilibrium. Then, the equations of motion are developed both for for single- and multi-component fluid mixtures. These results are applied to regular binary mixtures. After a brief summary of all the equations of motion, the results of numerical simulations are presented for the case of regular liquid binary mixtures and single-component van der Waals fluids.