Regularization of Grad's 13 moment equations: Derivation and linear analysis

A new closure for Grad's 13 moment equations is presented that adds terms of Super-Burnett order to the balances of pressure deviator and heat flux vector. The additional terms are derived from equations for higher moments by means of the distribution function for 13 moments. The resulting system of equations contains the Burnett and Super-Burnett equations when expanded in a series in the Knudsen number. However, other than the Burnett and Super-Burnett equations, the new set of equations is linearly stable for all wavelengths and frequencies. Dispersion relation and damping for the new equations agree better with experimental data than those for the Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations, or the original 13 moments system. The new equations also allow the description of Knudsen boundary layers. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.