The elastohydrodynamic collision of two spheres

Abstract

The dynamic deformation of a solid elastic sphere which is immersed in a viscous fluid and in close motion toward another sphere or a plane solid surface is presented. The deformed shape of the solid surfaces and the pressure profile in the fluid layer separating these surfaces are determined simultaneously via asymptotic and numerical techniques. This research provides the first steps in establishing rational criteria for predicting whether a solid particle will stick or rebound subsequent to impact during filtration or coagulation when viscous forces are important.