Stokesian Dynamics in Python

Abstract

Summary Stokesian Dynamics (Brady & Bossis, 1988) is a microhydrodynamic, low Reynolds number approach to modelling the movement of suspensions of particles in fluids, which considers the interaction of particles with each other against a Newtonian background solvent. It is typically chosen for its suitability for three-dimensional simulation with low calculation and time penalty. In the most basic case, Stokes’ law states that a single sphere of radius 𝑎 , travelling with a velocity 𝑈 in an unbounded Newtonian fluid of viscosity 𝜇 , in a low Reynolds number regime, experiences a drag force, 𝐹 , of 𝐹 = −6𝜋𝜇𝑎𝑈 . Stokesian Dynamics, at its heart, is an extension of this linear relationship between the force acting on a particle and the velocity at which it travels. As a method, it is adaptable and continues to be used in the field, providing interesting insight into the behaviour of particle suspensions. Validations with experiments have shown it to provide results within acceptable error. The