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Phase coexistence in consolidating porous media
Emilio N M Cirillo1, Nicoletta Ianiro, Giulio Sciarra
1Dipartimento Me. Mo. Mat., Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza, via A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Roma, Italy. cirillo@dmmm.uniroma1.it
Physical Review. E, Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics
|September 28, 2010
Summary
External pressure induces fluid-rich phases in porous media. A two-field second gradient model reveals nonmonotonic interfaces at phase coexistence, advancing fluid dynamics understanding.
Area of Science:
- Porous media physics
- Fluid dynamics
- Materials science
Background:
- Understanding fluid behavior in porous media is crucial for various applications.
- External pressure significantly influences phase distribution within saturated porous materials.
- Existing models may not fully capture complex interfacial phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the emergence of fluid-rich phases in saturated porous media under external pressure.
- To develop and apply a comprehensive model for describing this phenomenon.
- To analyze the interfacial behavior between fluid phases.
Main Methods:
- Introduction of a two-field second gradient model.
- Simulation and analysis of the coexistence profile between poor and rich fluid phases.
- Parameter selection to explore interfacial characteristics.
Main Results:
- The developed model successfully describes the appearance of fluid-rich phases.
- Analysis of coexistence profiles revealed distinct interfacial behaviors.
- Demonstration that nonmonotonic interfaces emerge under specific parameter conditions.
Conclusions:
- The two-field second gradient model provides a complete description of fluid-rich phase appearance.
- Nonmonotonic interfaces are a key feature at phase coexistence in this system.
- This research offers new insights into fluid behavior in porous media under pressure.
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