Interaction of a spark-generated bubble with a rubber beam: numerical and experimental study

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Spark-generated bubbles create dynamic pressure fields.
• Flexible boundaries like rubber beams exhibit significant deformation under external forces.
• Understanding bubble-elastic material interaction is crucial for various industrial and biomedical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physical behaviors of spark-generated bubble interactions with a rubber beam.
• To analyze the influence of key parameters on bubble dynamics and beam deformation.
• To explore potential applications in biomedicine and marine industries.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulations were employed to model bubble dynamics and beam deformation.
• Experimental observations were conducted to validate numerical models.
• Parametric studies were performed, varying bubble-beam distance, bubble radius, beam stiffness, and vapor pressure.

Main Results:

• A strong agreement was found between numerical simulations and experimental results.
• The ratio of bubble-beam distance to maximum bubble radius significantly affects bubble evolution and beam deformation.
• Beam stiffness critically influences the elastic response to bubble expansion and collapse.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive understanding of spark-generated bubble interactions with flexible elastic materials.
• Results offer valuable physical insights applicable to drug delivery systems and marine anti-fouling technologies.
• The findings are also relevant for understanding underwater explosions near elastic structures.