Experiments and modelling of instabilities in bilayer flows
Project description
A bilayer flow is a multi-phase flow of two immiscible and superposed liquids of different viscosities and densities. Multilayer flows are useful in a wide range of practical applications including oil recovery and transport.
This project will investigate the development of interfacial instabilities in bilayer flows, both theoretically and experimentally.
The theoretical component of the project will combine analytical and numerical techniques with aim to develop, analyse and solve appropriate mathematical models.
The successful candidate will also be involved in the development, build, validation and use of a modified Couette cell, suitable for studying instabilities in bilayer flows. In particular, we will look at the influence of surfactants and particles on the stability of these flows and use imaging techniques to monitor fluctuations at the interface between the two liquid layers.
The theoretical models will be developed alongside the experiments. Both theory and experiment will be used to inform each other throughout the project.
Funding
Full funding is available for Home (UK) students only, to include stipend, fees and travel to at least one overseas conference.
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Project published references
- P. Barthelet et al. (1995) Experimental study of interfacial long waves in a two-layer shear flow. J. Fluid Mech. 303, pp. 23-53.
- A. Kalogirou and M. G. Blyth (2023) Nonlinear dynamics of unstably stratified two-layer shear flow in a horizontal channel. J. Fluid Mech. 955, A32.
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