A Lattice Boltzmann Model of Ternary Fluid Mixtures

A lattice Boltzmann model is introduced which simulates oil-water-surfactant mixtures. The model is based on a Ginzburg-Landau free energy with two scalar order parameters. Diffusive and hydrodynamic transport is included. Results are presented showing how the surfactant diffuses to the oil-water interfaces thus lowering the surface tension and leading to spontaneous emulsification. The rate of emulsification depends on the viscosity of the ternary fluid.