Three-dimensional solidification modeling of various materials using the lattice Boltzmann method with an explicit...

Area of Science:

• Computational physics
• Materials science
• Thermodynamics

Background:

• The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) with enthalpy-based models is common for simulating phase transitions in energy storage materials.
• Existing models struggle with mixed materials due to enthalpy distribution functions transferring material properties during simulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an improved enthalpy-based LBM model for accurate simulation of phase transitions in multi-material systems.
• To address deviations in current models when simulating mixtures of different materials.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a novel enthalpy-based model using various enthalpy distribution functions for different materials.
• Implemented a source term to model inter-material heat transfer based on temperature-dependent energy changes, avoiding direct enthalpy function transfer.
• Validated the model by simulating the solidification of water droplets in air.

Main Results:

• The proposed model accurately simulates the solidification process of mixed materials.
• Simulation results closely align with experimental outcomes for water droplet solidification.
• The new method effectively handles heat transfer between dissimilar materials.

Conclusions:

• The developed enthalpy-based LBM model provides a more accurate approach for simulating phase transitions in multi-material systems.
• This advancement is crucial for precise modeling of energy storage materials and other applications involving material mixtures.