Convection Induced by Composition Gradients in Miscible Systems

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1-2002

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

School

Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Abstract

When two miscible fluids, such as glycerol (glycer-in) and water, are brought in contact, a large concentration (and density) gradient exists, which relaxes through diffusion. With a mathematical model based on the Korteweg stress, we show that convection can occur which is analogous to surface-tension induced convection (STIC) or Marangoni convection. Specifically. we show that with realistic parameters significant flows can occur with plane interfaces and that drops of miscible fluids can act like their immiscible counterparts. Regarding plane interfaces. an experimental confirmation of this phenomenon is planned for the International Space Station.

Publication Title

Comptes Rendus Mecanique

Volume

330

Issue

5

First Page

353

Last Page

358

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