The Motion of High-Reynolds-Number Bubbles in Inhomogeneous Flows

TLDR

Predicting bubble motion in dispersed flows is a key fluid‑mechanics problem relevant to oceanography, chemical engineering, and other applications. This review synthesizes recent progress in describing bubble motion in inhomogeneous flows. The authors employ a trident approach—experimental, analytical, and numerical—to clarify hydrodynamic forces on isolated bubbles in inviscid or slightly viscous laminar flows, covering drag, added‑mass, shear‑induced lift, surfactant effects, shape distortion, and illustrating combined‑effect scenarios in inhomogeneous flows.

Abstract

▪ Abstract Predicting the motion of bubbles in dispersed flows is a key problem in fluid mechanics that has a bearing on a wide range of applications from oceanography to chemical engineering. In this review we synthesize the recent progress made in describing bubble motion in inhomogeneous flow. A trident approach consisting of experimental, analytical, and numerical work has given a clearer description of the hydrodynamic forces experienced by isolated bubbles moving either in inviscid flows or in slightly viscous laminar flows. A significant part of the paper is devoted to a discussion of drag, added-mass force, and shear-induced lift experienced by spheroidal bubbles moving in inertially dominated, time-dependent, rotational, nonuniform flows. The important influence of surfactants and shape distortion on bubble motion in a quiescent liquid is highlighted. Examples of bubble motion in inhomogeneous flows combining several of the effects mentioned above are discussed.