A non-linear algebraic model for the turbulent scalar fluxes

The need for a new approach to modelling the scalar fluxes stems from the lack of realism in the performance of the simple gradient-transport models and the inadequacy of many of the assumptions underlying the more complicated scalar-flux transport closures. The problems with the simple gradient-transport closures are well known. In models of this type, the scalar fluxes are related to the mean scalar field via a scalar turbulent diffusivity. The purpose of this paper is to report on a novel approach to the modelling of the turbulent scalar fluxes (u{sub i}{theta}) which arise as a consequence of time averaging the transport equation for a mean scalar ({Theta}). The focus of this paper will be on the case where {Theta} is a `passive` scalar; the extension of this approach to cases involving buoyancy and compressibility will be briefly discussed. Models of this type fail badly in complex and strongly-buoyant flows