Emulsion droplet deformation and breakup with Lattice Boltzmann model

In this paper we have performed an extensive study of the effects of various dimensionless numerical parameters used in the Lattice Boltzmann implementation of the diffuse interface model describing deformation and breakup of an emulsion droplet in 2D. Such an extensive study on these parameter is absent in scientific literature of diffuse interface models. We have found that parameters like the dimensionless interface thickness and the Peclet number have to be within certain ranges for correct physical behavior. Outside these ranges droplets either dissolve, show incorrect Laplace pressures, or do not deform to stable shapes at subcritical capillary numbers. Furthermore, we have found that droplet breakup is sensitive to these parameters. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.