A review of the research progress of boundary layer theory

In this paper, the important development process of boundary layer theory in the past over 120 years is reviewed, the development of boundary layer theory is sorted out, and the development in boundary layer measuring and testing technique, boundary layer solution, and engineering application is summarized. Prandtl first proposed the theory of flat plate boundary layer, which explained the frictional resistance phenomenon of the flow around the object from the physical concept, and solved the d’Alembert paradox which had been puzzling for many years. With the development of aviation industry, people began to expand the research on the stability theory of boundary layer flow, turbulent boundary layer, compressible boundary layer, high-speed boundary layer, temperature boundary layer, rotating boundary layer and other concepts. In the aspect of solving boundary layer equations, some classical numerical methods such as series solution, integral method, asymptotic expansion method and difference method have been developed. In recent years, with the needs of engineering applications, semi-theoretical and semi-empirical analytical methods have been developed to solve turbulent boundary layer. In terms of measuring and testing techniques, the initial Preston tube test has gradually changed to the hot-wire anemometer as the main test means. At the same time, from the characteristics of high speed, rotation and strong heat transfer of aerospace vehicles, this paper also introduces the relatively advanced research results in hypersonic boundary layer, rotational boundary layer and temperature boundary layer, so as to quickly grasp the development history and future development direction of boundary layer theory. © 2024 Chinese Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.