ESTEEMS: Efficient Simulation of Thermoelastic Effects on the Evolution of Microstructure and Stability of Prototypical Processing Flows of Complex Fluids

Washington University, Saint Louis MO

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CTS-0132730 R. Sureshkumar, Washington University The objectives of this proposed research are: (1) to develop efficient and robust three-dimensional simulation tools for the design, optimization, and control of manufacturing processes of polymeric materials, and (2) to use the simulation tools to investigate thermostatic effects on the stability of polymeric flows in complex geometric shapes likely to be encounter in industrial processes. The problem to be considered are flow in concentric cylinders, flow through arrays of cylinders in a channel, multilayer shear flows, uniaxial and/or biaxial extension, and fiber spinning. The broader impact of the proposed research is the development of simulation tools for industrial processes, to train graduate students in materials research and development, and to enhance the undergraduate students' design experience.