Lagrangian approaches for particle collisions: The colliding particle velocity correlation in the multiple particles tracking method and in the stochastic approach

Berlemont, A Achim, P Chang, ZTwo different Lagrangian approaches for particle/particle collisions are described. The first model is based on the simultaneous tracking of several particles and suitable treatment is developed on particle pairs to detect collisions on each time step of the particle trajectory realization. The second method is based on a stochastic approach where one single particle is tracked, and successive random processes are applied to generate a fictitious partner of collision. In order to validate both approaches, simulations have been carried out in homogeneous isotropic turbulence and they have been compared with LES data. The particle/particle correlated motion through the surrounding fluid is proved to be a key parameter in a particle/particle collision process. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics