Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Thin Liquid Layers at Curved Solid Edges

The knowledge of the behavior of thin liquid layers on solid surfaces is of fundamental interest as far as basic research or applications like technical coating or lubrication processes are concerned. The subject is currently getting more important, particularly due to the increasing requirements of thin liquid layer functionalities. We therefore studied the development of the liquid layer thickness distribution field as well as the liquid layer disturbance propagation on a plane solid surface in the vicinity of a curved solid surface experimentally and numerically using LIF (Laser-induced Fluorescence) and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), respectively. The investigation focusses on the influence of the initial layer thickness and solid surface curvature as well as liquid properties like viscosity and surface tension on the film behavior, especially close to solid edges. Experimental and numerical results are shown pointing out relevant quantities for disturbance propagation and validation.