Flow properties for the continuum viewpoint of a non-equilibrium gas-particle mixture

Abstract

Flow properties for the non-equilibrium two-phase flow of a gas-particle mixture are formulated from the theoretical standpoint. A quasi-one-dimensional flow containing an arbitrary volume of particles is considered, and mass transfer between the phases is allowed. It is shown that meaningful definitions of the flow properties of each phase can be constructed as area-averages of (time-averaged local flow-field properties). Special definitions of averages overcome the difficulties introduced by the fact that one phase does not occupy the entire region at all times. Conservation equations for the newly defined properties are given and criteria for their validity determined. The results give fresh interpretation to several aspects of two-phase flow: the particle-phase pressure is associated with the internal particle pressure, whereas Reynolds-stress terms are introduced by fluctuations in particle velocity. Reynolds stresses for both phases are important in laminar as well as turbulent flow and provide a significant particlephase viscous effect. The interphase momentum transfer because of condensation or vaporization is shown to be characterized by the particle-phase velocity irrespective of the direction of the mass transfer.