Effects of Inertia and Viscosity on Single Droplet Deformation in Confined Shear Flow

Abstract

Lattice Boltzmann simulations based on the Cahn-Hilliard diffuse interface approach are performed for droplet dynamics in viscous fluid under shear flow, where the degree of confinement between two parallel walls can play an important role. The effects of viscosity ratio, capillary number, Reynolds number, and confinement ratio on droplet deformation and break-up in moderately and highly confined shear flows are investigated.