Studies of Multi-Component Droplet Groups with Wall, Surface Tension, and Non-Ideal Influences

University Of California-Davis, Davis CA

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CTS-0089444 H. Dwyner, U of Cal Davis This project consists of a set of experimental and numerical modeling studies of multicomponent arrays of droplets. Alkane fuels containing ethanol additive are studied. The addition of ethanol introduces processes not present in undoped alkane fuels, and these are the focus of the study. They include nonideal liquid effects in the droplet, Marangoni forces along the droplet surface, preferential diffusion of the additive into the gas phase, and real-gas influences on thermodynamic properties. The study includes isolated droplets, droplets in arrays and groups, and interactions of droplets with hot and cold walls. The results are relevant to the use of fossil fuels in fuel-injected engines and the control of pollutants.