Published online by Cambridge University Press: 28 March 2006
An analytical model of the interaction of a fibre tangle with an airflow is proposed. This model replaces the discrete fibres by a continuum medium with a non-linear stress-strain law. The governing equations have been examined for one-dimensional unsteady flow configurations and have been found to possess five characteristic directions.
A numerical-solution procedure, based upon the method of characteristics, has been outlined and applied to the flow within a dilation chamber. A fibre sample is located at the centre of the chamber, which is alternately pressurized and depressurized.