Quantitative Analysis of Phase Separation Using the Lattice Boltzmann Method

Abstract

Phase separation is widely observed in multiphase systems. In this study, it has been investigated using Shan–Chen lattice Boltzmann method. The adhesion parameter in SC model leads to the desired fluid–fluid phenomenon, which was varied to specify the strength of separation between two phases to present emulsified performance in oil production. In order to describe such behaviors quantitatively, graphical distributions were described with time and were corresponded with a statistical index–Fourier structure factor that is able to predict complex phase separation behaviors, thereby providing a measurement for calculating such random distribution during the process of separation as well as evaluating heterogeneous degrees of the entire domain. The repulsive interactions are specified as low, intermediate, and high values. Phase separations with clear boundaries have been observed and each stage of separation evolvement has been discussed in this study. Magnitudes of structure factors are increased with higher degrees of fluctuations.