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Multidimensional Tests of a Finite-Volume Solver for MHD With a Real-Gas Equation of State

Journal Article · · IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science
 [1];  [2];  [2];  [3]
  1. Tech-X Corp., Boulder, CO (United States); Tech-X Corporation
  2. Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA (United States)
  3. Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)

This work considers two algorithms of a finite-volume solver for the MHD equations with a real-gas equation of state (EOS). Both algorithms use a multistate form of Harten-Lax-Van Leer approximate Riemann solver as formulated for MHD discontinuities. This solver is modified to use the generalized sound speed from the real-gas EOS. Two methods are tested: EOS evaluation at cell centers and at flux interfaces where the former is more computationally efficient. A battery of 1D and 2D tests are employed: convergence of 1D and 2D linearized waves, shock tube Riemann problems, a 2D nonlinear circularly polarized Alfvén wave, and a 2D magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instability test. The cell-centered EOS evaluation algorithm produces unresolvable thermodynamic inconsistencies in the intermediate states leading to spurious solutions while the flux-interface EOS evaluation algorithm robustly produces the correct solution. The linearized wave tests show this inconsistency is associated with the magnetosonic waves and the magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instability test demonstrates simulation findings where the spurious solution leads to an unphysical simulation.

Research Organization:
Tech-X Corporation, Boulder, CO (United States); Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, VA (United States); Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC), Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) (SC-24); USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
SC0016531; SC0016515; NA0003525; AC04-94AL85000
OSTI ID:
1617050
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1619217
Report Number(s):
SAND--2020-1197J; DE-SC0016515, DE- NA0003525
Journal Information:
IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Journal Name: IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 48; ISSN 0093-3813
Publisher:
IEEECopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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