On a new passive scalar equation with variable mass diffusivity: flow between parallel plates

The present work investigates mass conservation equations in turbulent flow between parallel plates with variable mass diffusivity. Species conservation equations are relative to the average concentration, as well as to the concentration variance. The product of fluctuating mass diffusivity and space gradient of concentration fluctuation is appearing in the equation of mean and concentration variance. A physical interpretation is given to the different terms. The assumption of a relation between mass diffusivity and concentration allows writing expressions for average and fluctuating mass diffusivity, which can be simplified on the basis of theoretical considerations. The new mass flux is expressed as a function of mass diffusivity and a gradient of concentration variance. Further considerations make it possible to model the new terms appearing in the concentration variance equation. The mass conservation equation can be solved when coupled to the equation of concentration variance. The equations are solved numerically for flow between parallel plates in order to evaluate the influence of the new terms. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4002743]