Numerical analysis of roll waves generation on non-Newtonian fluids flowing down an inclined plane

Abstract

This article aims to determine roll waves generation criteria for mudflow events. A representative system of equations to mudflows is reached through Cauchy's equations (mass and momentum conservation) with proper stress tensor (non-Newtonian fluid) in shallow water conditions. Linear stability analysis is then applied to the system and two roll waves generation criteria are found: one related to Froude number and another related to flow disturbance frequency. Numerical simulations for both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids were carried. Good agreement was observed between numerical results and theoretical criteria. © (2014) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.