Author(s)

S. T. GrilliandZ. Hu S.T. Grilli and Z. Hu

Abstract

A new continuous vortex sheet model is proposed to compute the time evolution of the interface between two inviscid fluids (e.g., oil and water) moving with uniform velocity, subjected to instabilities of the Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) type, under the controlling effects of gravity, density difference, and interfacial tension. Such instabilities are known to limit the efficiency of oil containment systems (boom) used in the fight against oil spills. 1 Introduction Floating booms with a catenary shape are the classic means of containment of oil spills in the ocean or in rivers. Due to the relative boom-water velocity I/, oil is forced to accumulate in the boom's apex, as a gradually thickening slick; other equipments are then used to pick-up the oil. For optimum efficiency of the clean-up proce

Keywords