Free-surface Simulations of Newtonian and Non-Newtonian Fluids with the Lattice Boltzmann Method

This paper describes the application of a three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann method(LBM) to Newtonian and non-Newtonian(Bingham fluid in this work) flows with free surfaces. A mass tracking algorithm was incorporated to capture the free surface, whereas Papanastasiou’s modified model was used for Bingham fluids. The lattice Boltzmann method was first validated using two benchmarks: Newtonian flow through a square cross-section tube and Bingham flow through a circular cross-section tube. Afterward, the dam-break problem for the Newtonian fluid and the slump test for Bingham fluid were simulated to validate the free-surface-capturing algorithm. The numerical results were in good agreement with analytical results, as well as other simulations, thereby proving the validity and correctness of the current method. The proposed method is a promising substitute for time-consuming and costly physical experiments to solve problems encountered in geotechnical and geological engineering, such as the surge and debris flow induced by a landslide or earthquake.