Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Nucleation

We propose a lattice Boltzmann model capable of simulating nucleation. This LBM modifies a pseudo-potential so that it recovers a full set of hydrodynamic equations for two-phase flows based on the van der Waals-Cahn-Hilliard free energy theory through the Chapman-Enskog expansion procedure. Numerical measurements of thermal conductivity and of surface tension agree well with theoretical predictions. Simulations of phase transition, nucleation, pool boiling are carried out. They demonstrate that the model is applicable to two-phase flows with thermal effects. Using finite difference Lattice Boltzmann method ensures numerical stability of the scheme.