On strongly degenerate convection-diffusion problems modeling sedimentation-consolidation processes (Q1576953)

The paper deals with a quasilinear strongly degenerate parabolic (convection-diffusion) equation \[ \partial_t u+ \partial_x(g(t)u+ f(u))= \partial^2_x \int^u_0 a(s) ds,\quad a(u)\geq 0,\quad 0\leq x\leq 1,\quad 0\leq t\leq T. \] Two initial-boundary value problems are solved: with mixed Dirichlet-flux boundary conditions (Problem A) and with two flux conditions (Problem B). The authors define the concept of entropy solutions and prove their existence when the diffusion coefficient \(a(u)\) is discontinuous. The existence of entropy solutions of Problem A is proved by the vanishing viscosity method, while the existence of entropy solutions of Problem B is proved by the regularization of the initial-boundary value problem. The regularization is performed by replacing one boundary condition. The uniqueness of the solutions of both initial-boundary value problems is proved technique known as doubling of the variables. An example is presented in the end in which theoretical statements are applied to gravitational sedimentation-consolidation processes.