Finite element methods for microscale multiphase flows: application in separation processes

Abstract

This Phd research project propose the study of finite element methods for dynamic meshes, intending to simulate multiphase flows, specially those happening in dense-packed layer of droplets. Such flows are inherent to oilindustry applications, specially in the modeling of phase separation devices. The equations modeling such fluid flows will be discretized in an arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian framework, with suitable boundary conditions between the different fluids. Some numerical challenges in this application are the correct representation of the interface between fluids, the geometry and topology maintenance of the dynamic mesh and modeling of microscale phenomena, such as droplets coalescence. (AU)