On the use of time-dependent fluids for delaying onset of transition to turbulence in the flat plate boundary-layer flow: A passive control of flow

Inelastic time-dependent fluids display continuous and reversible changes in viscosity when subjected to a constant shear-rate. These alterations arise from the gradual modification of the material's microstructure due to shear-induced effects, known as shear rejuvenation. When this process generates smaller structural units, it is termed thixotropy; conversely, if it produces larger units, it is labeled anti-thixotropy. Aging is another characteristic of such fluids, denoting the capacity of the material to regain its original structure in the absence of shear, thus reversing the initial time-dependent change. This phenomenon often results from thermally activated Brownian motion prompting the reorganization of the material's microconstituents. Consequently, attractive forces between these components can instigate the reconstruction of a network-like structure within the material. This study centers on investigating how variations in fluid microstructure impact the onset of transition to turbulence in a flat plate boundary-layer flow. Specifically, the focus is on cases where larger structural units emerge during the breakdown process (anti-thixotropy). To represent such fluids, the Quemada model, an inelastic structural-kinetic model, is employed. This model effectively captures thixotropy and anti-thixotropy by appropriately configuring model parameters. The analysis begins with obtaining a local similarity solution for the generalized Blasius equation, representing the base flow. Subsequently, the stability of this flow is assessed using linear temporal stability theory. This involves introducing infinitesimally-small normal-mode perturbations to the base flow, yielding the generalized Orr-Sommerfeld equation. Solving this equation using the spectral method provides insights into stability. Results from this study indicate that for low Deborah numbers, the shear-thickening behavior prevails, causing destabilization. In contrast, higher Deborah numbers lead to stability. This implies that anti-thixotropy effectively delays the onset of transition to turbulence and could hold practical applications for flow control.