Diffuse-interface modeling of three-phase interactions

In this work, a numerical model is developed to study the three-phase interactions which take place when two immiscible drops suspended in a third immiscible liquid are brought together. The diffuse-interface model coupled with the hydrodynamic equations is solved by a standard finite element method. Partial and complete engulfing between two immiscible drops is studied, and the effects of several parameters are discussed. In the partial-engulfing case, two stages of wetting and pulling are identified, which qualitatively agrees with the experiment. In the complete-engulfing case, three stages of wetting and/or penetration, pulling, and spreading are identified.