title: Convection-driven pattern formation in phase-separating binary fluids.
abstract: Using a thermal-lattice Boltzmann model, we examine the rich phase behavior that develops when partially miscible fluids evolve in the presence of a vertical temperature gradient, which encompasses the critical temperature T(c) of the mixture. In particular, a binary AB fluid is confined between two plates in a gravitational field. The upper plate is fixed below T(c) and hence, the nearby fluid phase separates into A-rich and B-rich domains. The lower plate is fixed above the temperature T(c), and the surrounding fluid is in the homogeneous phase. A coupling between convection (driven by the temperature gradient) and phase separation gives rise to unique pattern formation. A number of regimes are identified: regularly spaced stripes, convective steady-state columns, the periodic disturbance of these columns, and finally, chaotic dripping from the upper surface. These results highlight dynamical behavior in partially miscible mixtures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Pooley
authors.forename: Olga
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Kuksenok
authors.forename: Anna C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Balazs