A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers

Details A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers

2012-04-20

arxiv.org/abs/1204.4660v1

Physics

Fluid Dynamics

5 pages, 4 figures

Scientific paper

It is presently believed that flows of viscoelastic polymer solutions in geometries such as a straight pipe or channel are linearly stable. Here we present experimental measurements that point to the contrary. We perform particle-tracking velocimetry in a long, straight microfluidic channel where we perturb the flow by placing a variable number of obstacles at the channel entrance. Above a critical flow rate and a critical size of the perturbation, a sudden onset of large velocity fluctuations indicates presence of a subcritical instability. Together with the previous observations of hydrodynamic instabilities in curved geometries, our results suggest that any flow of polymer solutions becomes unstable at sufficiently high flow rates.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A nonlinear elastic instability in channel flows at low Reynolds numbers will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-6003