Fluid Mechanics
Articles tagged with Fluid Mechanics
From ship wakes to soft tissues: Exploring fluid and solid surface-wave physics
Researchers discovered that ultrasoft elastic materials generate a V-shaped wake similar to boat wakes, blurring the distinction between wave behavior on solids and fluids. This finding could lead to new approaches for soft-tissue diagnostics and understanding the properties of natural and engineered soft materials.
How fast does smoke rise, rain fall, and a supernova explode?
Researchers at OIST and University of Turin developed a general formulation for mixing heavy particles with fluid, enabling study of fundamental physics phenomena and applied research in fluid engineering. Simulations reveal the formation of sediment plumes and the role of friction in particle interactions.
Power in motion: transforming energy harvesting with gyroscopes
Researchers from The University of Osaka developed a novel device to harness wave power, achieving high energy absorption efficiency across broadband frequencies. By tuning gyroscopic parameters, the device can maximize performance, providing a roadmap for developing adaptable and efficient wave energy converters.
Compton highlights physics priorities of direct-ink writing in top journal
Direct-ink writing (DIW) technology faces unique physics puzzles, requiring a balance between liquid-like and solid-like behavior. The review aims to stimulate fundamental work on the central challenges of DIW, enabling more reliable and precise processes.
On the energy loss maximization in gas-liquid two-phase flows driven by rotors
The study reveals that torque maximization arises from both direct collisions and pressure imbalances in gas-liquid interface waves. This phenomenon is significant for energy savings and optimal design in complex industrial equipment, such as power transmission devices, cooling systems, and chemical agitators.
Making lighter work of calculating fluid and heat flow
Scientists from Tokyo Metropolitan University have re-engineered the Lattice-Boltzmann Method to store certain data, reducing memory usage and overcoming a key bottleneck. The new algorithm achieves significant accuracy and stability in simulations of fluids and heat.
Technique allows estimation of the force acting on each grain of sand in a dune
Brazilian researchers have developed a technique that estimates the force exerted on each grain of sand in a dune from images, enabling the study of previously unmeasurable physical processes. The method uses numerical simulations and artificial intelligence to transform the study of granular system dynamics.
Drip by drip: The hidden blueprint for stalagmite growth
Researchers from Poland, USA, and Slovenia found a mathematical description of stalagmite shapes, revealing that shape matters for climate science. The study provides an analytical solution for the growth of ideal stalagmites in constant cave conditions.
SwRI’s Dr. Pablo Bueno named AIAA Associate Fellow
Dr. Bueno, a lead engineer at SwRI's Computational Mechanics Section, has been recognized for his work on supersonic and hypersonic aerodynamics, turbulence, and renewable energy. He developed patented heat storage systems and advanced optical diagnostic imaging tools to study high-speed flows.
Soft materials hold onto “memories” of their past, for longer than previously thought
Researchers have discovered that soft gels and lotions retain residual stress from the mixing process, affecting their behavior over time. The study reveals that common products like hair gel and shaving cream hold onto these stresses for longer periods than previously assumed.
Information entropy untangles vortices and flows in turbulent plasmas
Researchers develop a novel analytical method to capture localized structures and reveal the intertwined behavior of multiple fluctuating fields. They introduce two new measures based on information entropy, which quantify structural complexity and degree of coupling between turbulent structures.
A drop hollows out the stone... and records the climate's history
A team of scientists from the University of Warsaw discovered that karstic solution pipes preserve a record of Earth's climatic history. The pipes evolve into an invariant shape as they deepen, encoding ancient rainfall patterns.
Espaitec and the Multiphase Fluids Group of the UJI present a demonstrator for optimizing water treatment plants
The team developed a demonstrator to optimize water treatment plant operation through full-scale tests at CIRTESU. The system simulates processes, measures water velocity and turbulence, and analyzes mixing effects.
Mathematical prediction of seismic wave propagation in magma containing crystals and bubbles
Researchers developed a new equation to predict seismic wave propagation in magma containing crystals and bubbles, revealing how crystal content influences wave velocity and waveform properties. The analysis also showed that bubble content affects attenuation effects, with discernible differences emerging between models.
Breaking a century-old physics barrier: perfect wave trapping with simple cylinders
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology and Jeonbuk National University successfully trapped mechanical waves within a single resonator, overcoming a century-old physics barrier. The discovery opens new possibilities for energy harvesting, ultra-sensitive sensors, and advanced communications.
How to get rid of carbon dioxide for good
Computer simulations show that captured CO2 can be permanently stored underground by mixing with groundwater, creating a denser liquid that sinks and remains there. Suitable geological conditions, such as impermeable rock layers and porous aquifers, are necessary for effective CO2 storage.
York University research sheds light on earliest days of Earth’s formation
A new study from York University combines fluid mechanics and chemistry to understand the Earth's early evolution. Researchers found that the lower mantle's structure was established four billion years ago, with most crystals forming at low pressure, leading to a different chemical signature than previously thought.
Unique cell shape keeps lymphatic vessels and plant leaves stable
Researchers from Uppsala University found that lymphatic endothelial cells have a lobate shape due to their capacity to change shape and increase overlap between cells. This shape supports resilience to changes in fluid volume and is also found in plant leaves.
Researchers receive $2.17 million grant to study noninvasive treatment for traumatic brain injury symptoms
Virginia Tech researchers Pamela VandeVord and Gunnar Brolinson received a $2.17 million grant to investigate cranial osteopathic manual manipulation as a potential treatment for traumatic brain injury symptoms, particularly headaches. The noninvasive technique aims to enhance brain fluid motion and balance the autonomic nervous system.
UMass Amherst nurse-engineer team honored for inventing IV pole designed to improve patient safety
The UMass Amherst nurse-engineer team, led by Elaine Marieb Center for Nursing and Engineering Innovation, has developed an innovative IV pole designed to enhance patient safety and reduce errors. The award-winning design features a smart pump that can detect potential problems and alert medical staff, improving overall care.
Teaming up tiny robot swimmers to transform medicine
Ebru Demir aims to study how groups of AI-driven microswimmers move in biological fluids for potential applications in drug delivery, fertility treatments, and other medical fields. Her research combines artificial microswimmers with machine learning to uncover the underlying physics governing their movement.
Rice-led study finds focused ultrasound therapy improves cancer treatment
A new study by Rice University and Vanderbilt University researchers found that combining focused ultrasound with the existing protein therapy TRAIL can significantly reduce tumor size and burden in prostate cancer models. The therapy works by amplifying the anticancer effects of TRAIL via Piezo1 activation, which triggers cell death.
New 3D printing method replicates nature's finest fibers
Researchers have developed an embedded 3D-printing technique that allows for the rapid production of fine, continuous, and soft fibers in gel. The method uses a solvent exchange approach to inhibit capillary breakup from surface tension, achieving resolutions as low as 1.5 microns.
New UVA professor’s research may boost next-generation space rockets
A UVA professor has made new discoveries about electron kinetic behavior within plasma beams, potentially revealing the 'shape' of future space technology. The findings could lead to more efficient and reliable electric propulsion systems for long-duration space missions.
Manta rays inspire the fastest swimming soft robot yet
Researchers developed a soft robot with fins shaped like manta rays, capable of swimming up and down throughout the water column. The robot uses spontaneous snapping-induced jet flows to achieve high speeds and maneuverability.
Seed slippage: Champati cha-cha
A team of physicists studied the unique motion of Champati seeds rolling down slopes, revealing a spread-out, then collapse-like behavior akin to rock avalanches. The research may provide valuable insights into geological flows and contribute to resolving challenges in this area.
New discoveries to be shared at the world’s largest fluid dynamics conference
Scientists will present new research on bio-inspired floating offshore wind farms, harbor seals' whisker sensing abilities, and Manu jumping. The conference features over 300 sessions and nearly 2,800 presentations.
From branches to loops. The physics of transport networks in nature.
In transport networks, competing branches change dynamics drastically when reaching the system's boundary, forming loops. This process leads to increased stability and reduced damage susceptibility. Various systems exhibit similar dynamics, supporting a simple physical explanation for loop formation.
To make fluid flow in one direction down a pipe, it helps to be a shark
A team of researchers from the University of Washington has developed a flexible pipe with an interior helical structure inspired by shark intestines, which can keep fluid flowing in one direction without flaps. The design rivaled and exceeded Tesla valves, a one-way fluid flow device invented over a century ago.
Made in Canada breakthrough is a game changer in heart valve technology
A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has created a new mechanical heart valve that combines the strengths of both mechanical and tissue replacement technologies, offering improved performance and durability.
Intestinal organoids reveal the mechanism of gastrointestinal motility
Researchers developed a novel approach using intestinal organoids to study gastrointestinal motility. They found EEC stiffness values ranging from 60 to 70 pN/μm and demonstrated changes in EEC stiffness upon TDO2 inhibition.
Surprising properties of elastic turbulence discovered
Elastic turbulence, a chaotic fluid motion in non-Newtonian fluids, exhibits universal power-law decay of energy and intermittent behavior. This study reveals its unexpected similarity to classical Newtonian turbulence, paving the way for developing a complete mathematical theory and predicting flow patterns.
Understanding turbulence through artificial intelligence
A team from UPV has developed an AI technique to study turbulence, a key factor in energy dissipation and CO2 emissions. The method uses a neural network to predict turbulent flow movement and reproduce existing knowledge without prior physics knowledge.
A new test could predict how heart attack patients will respond to mechanical pumps
Researchers developed a test to predict which heart attack patients are likely to experience dysfunction after receiving mechanical pumps. The test measures pulmonary vascular compliance and its adaptability, helping doctors prevent right ventricle failure.
Cells respond quickly to small light-induced micro-environment movements
Researchers studied how epithelial cells sense small changes in their environment using ion channels. They found that even small movements can trigger rapid intracellular calcium changes via mechanosensitive cation channels, which play a key role in touch sensation and other physiological functions.
Discovering the physics behind 300-year-old firefighting methods
Researchers analyzed 17th and 18th century firefighting devices to uncover the physics behind their success. The study found that the Windkessel effect, a chamber in a wooden wagon, compressed air to pump water continuously through a hose.
Popping a champagne cork reveals propulsive dynamics
The study found that pressure forces at the cork's base control its motion, with friction forces playing a decisive role. The researchers also discovered the formation of Mach discs, which can be used to determine gas pressure or temperature inside a champagne bottle.
Want the secret to less painful belly flops? These researchers have the answer.
A Brown University research team investigated belly flop mechanics, finding that flexible impactors can sometimes increase the maximum impact force on the body, contradicting conventional thinking. The study's findings have implications for naval and marine engineering applications.
What a “2D” quantum superfluid feels like to the touch
Scientists at Lancaster University have discovered that superfluid helium-3 behaves like a two-dimensional system when probed with mechanical resonators. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of superfluidity and its potential applications in various fields.
New organ-on-a-chip model of human synovium could accelerate development of treatments for arthritis
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London developed a new organ-on-a-chip model of the human synovium to study arthritis mechanisms and develop new treatments. The three-dimensional microfluidic device successfully replicates key features of native synovium biology.
Revolutionary breakthrough: human stomach micro-physiological system unveiled
A new biomimetic chip has been developed to simulate the human gastric mucosa, combining organoid and organ-on-a-chip technologies. The biochip replicates mechanical stimulation and cell-to-cell interactions, mimicking key features of the human stomach's defense mechanisms.
Stick-to-itiveness: Pitt engineers show self-organization of sticky micron-to-mesoscale 3D structures in confined fluids
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a system that uses fluid mechanics and chemo-mechanical processes to autonomously assemble hierarchical 3D structures. The system utilizes sticky bonds to drive self-organization, allowing for the construction of complex devices with minimal external intervention.
UCF researcher leads $3.3 million project to develop floating offshore wind turbine simulators
A University of Central Florida engineer is leading a $3.3 million ARPA-E funded project to develop simulation software for floating offshore wind turbines. The goal is to improve turbine design and increase their use as a renewable energy source. The software will be licensed or commercialized and can be hosted on a university web page.
Ring-sheared drop experiment on ISS expanded
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers are using the ring-sheared drop module on the International Space Station to study protein solutions in microgravity. This research will aid in developing predictive models for both fundamental science and industry, including pharmaceutical development.
Science in the kitchen
Researchers from the University of Warsaw explore how kitchen phenomena lead to breakthroughs in biomedicine and nanotechnology. They describe bubbles in champagne, Leidenfrost effect, and surface tension, revealing surprising connections between food science and scientific discoveries.
Electronic noses sniff out volatile organic compounds
The new design improves detection sensitivity and reduces response time by controlling fluid flow, promoting uniform VOC concentration. The authors plan to further optimize the chamber structure for ultrasensitive volatile sensing.
Preserving pine forests by understanding beetle flight
Researchers used fluid dynamics models to study the mountain pine beetle's flight, finding that wing shape, age, and size impact thrust production. This knowledge can improve statistical confidence levels for insect dispersion studies and help preserve pine forests.
Why do Champagne bubbles rise the way they do? Scientists’ new discovery is worthy of a toast
Researchers from Brown University and the University of Toulouse found that surfactants make Champagne bubble chains stable. The experiments showed that larger bubbles and surfactants help reduce tensions between liquid and gas, creating a smooth rise. This discovery has implications for understanding bubbly flows in fluid mechanics.
New metric allows researchers to better understand soft material behavior
A new metric called a correlation ratio has been developed to correlate microscopic-level processes with macroscopic-level behavior in soft materials. This breakthrough allows for the design of new soft materials by tweaking microscale parameters to achieve desired macroscale properties.
Improving bloodstain pattern analysis with fluid dynamics
Researchers used fluid dynamics to model blood drop behavior during secondary atomization, finding smaller droplets are easier to sweep up by firearm gases. This discovery could explain how short-range shooters remain clean from blood stains.
Want better kimchi? Make it like the ancients did
Researchers found that traditional handmade clay jars, called onggi, ferment kimchi faster and produce more beneficial bacteria due to their unique porous structure. The study highlights the connection between the earthenware's material properties and the fermentation process, providing new insights into ancient technology.
WPI researcher leads project to determine how stretching and blood flow impact engineered heart valves
A WPI researcher is leading a three-year project to investigate the effects of stretching and blood flow on cardiovascular cells in tissue-engineered heart valves. The project aims to expand understanding of mechanical forces that propel cells in the body, with potential applications in other fields like cancer and wound healing.
Unravelling the shapes of DNA minicircles
Researchers study DNA minicircles using hydrodynamic measurements to understand their behavior under twisting, revealing unique shapes and compactness. The investigation combines theoretical approaches with experimental methods to elucidate dynamic hydroelastic effects in DNA.
To uncover new fluid flow laws, researchers turn to drinking straws
A team of researchers has discovered new laws governing fluid flow through experiments on drinking straws, defying previously known resistance laws. The findings have promise for improving fluid handling in medical and engineering applications.
UCF researcher studies bird wings to improve stability in aerial vehicles
Assistant Professor Samik Bhattacharya is studying bird wing morphing to engineer stable solutions for unmanned aerial vehicles and micro air vehicles. His research could lead to improved control during airflow disturbances, reducing anxiety for pilots.
New wind field models accurately describe wind gusts
Researchers at the University of Oldenburg have developed a new statistical model that accurately describes wind turbulence and generates fully three-dimensional wind fields using limited measurement points. This breakthrough enables precise wind turbine load estimation and improves wind farm planning, with applications in various fiel...
The theory of micro-hairs
Researchers have developed a continuum theory of micro-hairs, allowing for the study of collective movements and fluid flows. The theory reveals that even random movement is unstable and leads to synchronisation, while perfect unison is also unstable, resulting in specific patterns of movement.
Early use of ECMO devices did not improve outcomes in people with cardiogenic shock
A clinical trial found that early use of ECMO devices did not improve outcomes for adults with rapidly deteriorating or severe cardiogenic shock. Participants who received immediate ECMO therapy showed similar clinical outcomes as those receiving early conservative therapy, including treatment with inotropes and vasopressors.
Simulating the shear destruction of red blood cells
Researchers developed a model to simulate red blood cell destruction in high shear flows, revealing acceleration as a major factor. They recommend adding flow buffers to VADs to reduce hemolysis, aiming to improve hydraulic performance and patient outcomes.