Liquid Materials and Flow Processes in Reduced Gravity

Abstract

Fluid states are central to melt and vapor processing. Fluids flow. As they do they convect heat, solutes, and inclusions. Liquid/gas interfaces have tension. Their importance rises when scale is small or effective gravity low. The forces that move fluids and mold fluid interfaces are recounted here. Fundamentals of viscous flow, convective transport, and capillary phenomena are summarized with special attention to the roles of gravity in liquid processing. Research needs are highlighted.