Coalescence of Drops and Bubbles Rising through a Non-Newtonian Fluid in a Tube
We conducted an experimental study of the interaction and coalescence of two drops (of the same fluid) or bubbles translating under the action of buoyancy in a cylindrical tube. The close approach of two Newtonian fluid particles of different size in a non-Newtonian continuous phase was examined using image analysis, and measurements of the coalescence time are reported for various particle size ratios, Bond numbers, and particle-to-suspending-fluid viscosity ratios. The flow disturbance behind the leading bubble and the viscoelastic nature of the continuous phase seemed to retard bubble coalescence. The time scale for coalescence of liquid drops in highly elastic continuous phase was influenced by the relative motion of the drops and their coalescence behavior.
coalescence bubbles non-newtonian fluid