Suspension Mechanics@IITB

ChatGPT rendition of spheroids acting as stresslets

Our group studies the dynamics of particles suspended in fluid flows — a key problem in understanding the microphysics of complex suspensions. Such systems are found across nature and industry, ranging from blood and pulp suspensions all the way to Cirrus clouds that play a crucial role in the earth-atmosphere radiation budget. We use theoretical models and numerical simulations to investigate how particle motion and orientation influences the bulk properties of a suspension. Our research lies at the intersection of fluid mechanics, applied mathematics and computational physics, aiming to bridge microscopic particle behavior with macroscopic flow phenomena.

Research Themes

(current, but not limited to)

• Microhydrodynamics & low Reynolds number flows: Studying the motion of particles, using applied mathematics, in canonical flows; better understanding of suspension mechanics.
• Migration of particles in channel flows: Transverse migration of anisotropic particles, drops, vesicles in pressure-driven channel flows with rigid/flexible walls; useful for particle sorting applications in medical diagnostics, inductry etc.
• Motion of anisotropic particles in Turbulence: Collision of anisotropic particles translating and rotating in turbulent flows; useful in industry and nature
• Homotopy Analysis methods in fluid dynamics: Going beyond perturbative methods for studying particle motion in fluid flows; opens up new avenues for analytical studies in fluid dynamics

Open Positions

I am always interested in motivated students who wish to work on fundamental problems in fluid mechanics.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact me with a brief description of their research interests and a CV.