Theoretical Modelling of Droplet Extension on Hydrophobic Surfaces
K. Nandakumar Chandran, P. T. Naveen, R. Abhilash, S. Kumar Ranjith
Abstract
In this work, droplet impact dynamics on hydrophobic surfaces under different wettability and impact conditions are examined numerically. Multi-phase finite volume simulations are carried out by employing volume-of-fluid scheme and are validated against experimental results. Numerous droplet impact experiments are performed by varying Weber number, Reynolds number and substrate contact angle. Sticking, bouncing and splitting regimes are identified. It is observed that, for the same Reynolds number, the droplet attaches, rebounds or fragments depending on the Weber number. A semi-analytical representation using a single mass-spring-dashpot model is employed for the prediction of droplet height evolution during spreading and retraction. The spring and damping coefficients required for the model are estimated from the empirical correlations for contact time and restitution coefficients obtained from the simulations. Even though the Reynolds number is found to influence the coefficient of restitution significantly, it is found to have negligible influence on contact time. The theoretical forecasting exhibited good agreement with simulated results and it gives a significant reduction in computational time compared to the conventional full-field continuum simulations.