Evolution of Multiphase Lattice Boltzmann Method: A Review

With the simplicity and robustness of the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), it is getting more attention nowadays in the multiphase flow applications. Different models of multiphase flow studies are available in LBM. Theory and applications of lattice Boltzmann multiphase models R–K color gradient, Shan–Chen (SC), Free energy (FE) and He–Chen–Zhang (HCZ) approaches have been discussed in this review. The methodologies of these methods have been explained in details. Besides, the advantages and limitations of these models have been explained by considering the application field. Based on the applications in the multiphase flows, recent developments in these models have been explained. The major applications of LBM in multiphase flows are flow through porous media, cavitation phenomenon, bubble rise or droplet fall, Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities, coalescence of bubbles or droplets, wettability and contact angles. An effort has been made to explain the methodologies for the multiphase LBM. Modified R–K color gradient model is more accurate and less efficient. SC model is more efficient and less accurate. FE model is numerically more accurate and less efficient. HCZ model more efficient and more accurate. The efficiency of modified R–K color gradient and free energy models almost similar.