Charged wall growth in channel flow

The primary objective of this communication is to qualitatively describe charged wall growth in channel flow. The reduction of channel flow cross-section is often attributed to microscale suspensions and dissolved minerals which adhere to the flow boundaries (walls). In this analysis, the wall is comprised of an electrically conductive material, capable of carrying a charge. The flowing fluid, containing ions, is also assumed to be capable of carrying a charge. The resulting electrical field can be determined using Gauss’ law, which allows the associated electrical force to be computed at the solid–fluid interface. This force can impede or enhance the attachment of suspensions to the wall. Thus, there are two effects that play a role at the charged solid–fluid interface/wall: (1) mechanical shear due to the fluid flow and (2) an electrical force. It is the goal of this communication to develop a relationship that characterizes both contributions and to ascertain how this relationship scales with wall growth.