Hydrodynamic crystals: collective dynamics of regular arrays of spherical particles in a parallel-wall channel

Phys Rev Lett. 2008 May 2;100(17):174502. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.174502. Epub 2008 Apr 28.

Abstract

Simulations of over 10;{3} hydrodynamically coupled solid spheres are performed to investigate collective motion of linear trains and regular square arrays of particles suspended in a fluid bounded by two parallel walls. Our novel accelerated Stokesian-dynamics algorithm relies on simplifications associated with the Hele-Shaw asymptotic far-field form of the flow scattered by the particles. The simulations reveal propagation of particle-displacement waves, deformation, and rearrangements of a particle lattice, propagation of dislocation defects in ordered arrays, and long-lasting coexistence of ordered and disordered regions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Crystallization
  • DNA / chemistry
  • Linear Models
  • Microfluidics
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Particle Size
  • Polymers / chemistry

Substances

  • Polymers
  • DNA