Visualization of three-dimensional chaos
Most chaotic mixing experiments have been restricted to two-dimensional, time-periodic flows, and this has shaped advances in theory as well. A prototypical, bounded, three-dimensional flow with a moderate Reynolds number is presented; this system lends itself to detailed experimental observation and allows for high-precision computational inspection. The flow structure, captured by means of cuts with a laser sheet (experimental Poincare section), was visualized with the use of continuously injected fluorescent dye streams and revealed detailed chaotic structures with high-period islands.
Laboratory for Fluid Mechanics, Chaos, and Mixing, Department of Chemical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering and Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208-3120, USA.
GO
Fountain
DV
Khakhar
JM
Ottino