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Title: Numerical solution of the Hele-Shaw equations

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6321969

An algorithm is presented for approximating the motion of the interface between two immiscible fluids in a Hele-Shaw cell. The interface is represented by a set of volume fractions. We use the Simple Line Interface Calculation method along with the method of fractional steps to transport the interface. The equation of continuity leads to a Poisson equation for the pressure. The Poisson equation is discretized. Near the interface where the velocity field is discontinuous, the discretization is based on a weak formulation of the continuity equation. Interpolation is used on each side of the interface to increase the accuracy of the algorithm. The weak formulation as well as the interpolation are based on the computed volume fractions. This treatment of the interface is new. The discretized equations are solved by a modified conjugate gradient method. Surface tension is included and the curvature is computed through the use of osculating circles. For perturbations of small amplitude, a surprisingly good agreement is found between the numerical results and linearized perturbation theory. Numerical results are presented for the finite amplitude growth of unstable fingers. 62 refs., 13 figs.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley Lab., CA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00098
OSTI ID:
6321969
Report Number(s):
LBL-23342; ON: DE87011211
Resource Relation:
Other Information: Thesis (Ph.D.). Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English