Computational modelling of Cavitation Inception and Bubble–Material Interactions

Presenter: Muhammad Bilal, Aerospace and Ocean Engineering

Authors: M. Bilal, X. Zhao, P. Zhong, K. Wang

Abstract: Understanding single-bubble behavior is essential for predicting cavitating flows. Conventional bubble dynamics simulations assume initial bubbles and rigid-wall boundaries, simplifying computation but limiting accuracy. Initial conditions are often estimated because bubble-scale measurements of velocity, density, and pressure are challenging. Moreover, rigid-wall models ignore momentum and energy transfer across fluid–solid interfaces, leading to overpredicted pressures and velocities. To overcome these issues, we present a latent heat reservoir method for predicting laser-induced thermal cavitation, implemented in a multi-material compressible flow solver (M2C) with a level set method for bubble tracking. A state variable, Λ, represents the liquid’s intermolecular potential energy and accumulates heat until vaporization occurs. Coupled with a finite-element structural solver, M2C also simulates two-way bubble interactions, between bubble and fluid dynamics with structural responses, including deformation, damage, and fracture.