Collision Dynamics and Internal Mixing of Droplets of Non-Newtonian Liquids

Efficient internal mixing of colliding droplets upon coalescence is critical to technologies ranging from ink-jet printing to the reaction of gelled propellants in rocket engines. The authors simulate the head-on collision and subsequent dynamics of equal-sized droplets of non-Newtonian fluids. Shear-thickening fluids allow extended time for mixing, and greater rheological differences between the droplets facilitate internal mixing. This level of understanding is essential for addressing real-world problems in the behavior of complex fluids.