Diffuse interface modelling of soluble surfactants in two-phase flow

Abstract

Phase field models for two-phase flow with a surfactant soluble in possibly both fluids are derived from balance equations and an energy inequality so that thermodynamic consistency is guaranteed. Via a formal asymptotic analysis, they are related to sharp interface models. Both cases of dynamic as well as instantaneous adsorption are covered. Flexibility with respect to the choice of bulk and surface free energies allows us to realise various isotherms and relations of state between surface tension and surfactant. Some numerical simulations display the effectiveness of the presented approach. © 2014 International Press.