Macromolecular Flows
Abstract
One of the unresolved problems of fluid mechanics with the greatest potential for important applications is turbulent drag reduction induced via the addition of additives, usually minute quantities of very high molecular weight polymer. This problem is unresolved in the sense that the basic mechanism remains a matter of controversy, and thus, the ability to optimize the process is limited. In part, this is because of the complexity of the base flow--i.e., turbulent flow near a solid boundary--and a lack of knowledge about the structure and dynamics of this flow in the absence of polymer. Equally, however, it is because of an incomplete understanding of the dynamical properties of dilute polymer solutions. The quest to understand (predict) drag reduction, in either qualitative or quantitative terms, holds the potential of pushing forward the frontiers in both areas--if e can understand in general how minute quantities of polymer can influence fluid motions, this may provide vital clues to understanding not only drag reduction, but also the underlying turbulence
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 09, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA267020
Entities
Organizations
- University of California, Santa Barbara