Gradient destruction in flow through a rigid matrix

Abstract

Fluid flow through a solid matrix is examined by introducing a two-dimensional phenomenological model of flow through a unit cell. The effects of inter-cell mixing on reductions in the upstream prescribed gradients are studied. The velocity gradient is modelled by allowing flows of different average velocities to enter the cell. The exit conditions are then determined by solving for the flow field. It is shown that the extent of the reduction depends on the geometry, Reynolds number and the magnitude of the gradient. Also, some results for reductions in the temperature gradient and a regime diagram for gases are presented.