Particle behavior in the turbulent boundary layer. II. Velocity and distribution profiles

Abstract

The velocity, flux, and concentration distribution of solid particles in a turbulent boundary layer of a horizontal water flume were investigated experimentally by means of LDA and visualization techniques. The particles were of polystyrene (specific density ∼1.05). Results show that coherent wall structures are responsible for most of the characteristics of particle behavior throughout the boundary layer. Particles are often concentrated in regions of low velocity, associated with wall structures, and as a result the average particle velocity is lower than the fluid’s. This was also noted previously by Rashidi et al., but not explained. The actual relative velocity between the particles and the surrounding fluid is often small. In addition, the data suggest that as the shear rate increases, the particle flux profiles asymptotically approach a shape where a strong gradient of particle flux exists in the lower part of the boundary layer (y+≤250), while it is relatively constant at higher elevations. This phenomenon may also be attributable to interactions with the wall structures.