| Abstract: | The application of the finite element method to multiphase flow problems with interphase mass and heat transfer is described. A general forinulation is used that determines the position of the interfacial boundary and allows for multiple solvents, differential volatilities and concentration- and temperature-dependent thermophysical properties. Species phase change and the dramatic volume change that acompanies interphase mass transfer make implementation of the theory challening, since these events lead to discontinuous velocities and concentrations at phase boundaries. These discontinuities are especially large in processes involving rapid evaporation or condensation. As examples we examine the effects of rapid drying on film and fibre formation of sol--gel materials, which are often laden with volatile species. |
