Experimental and theoretical studies of dissolution roughness

Abstract

Periodic dissolution patterns that result from the interaction of a soluble surface and an adjacent turbulent flow have been investigated experimentally and theoretically. They occur at a Reynolds number based on a characteristic wavelength and friction velocity of about 2200. Experimental results for the stable geometry, propagation, mass-transfer distribution, average mass-transfer correlation and friction factor are presented. An interpretation based upon the repetitive transitional nature of the flow structure is advanced to explain aspects of the origin and behaviour of this type of roughness.