A thermodynamically consistent pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann model for multi-component, multiphase, partially miscible mixtures

Abstract

Current multi-component, multiphase pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann models have thermodynamic inconsistencies that prevent them to correctly predict the phase behaviors of miscible multi-component mixtures, such as hydrocarbon mixtures. This paper identifies these inconsistencies and attempts to design a thermodynamically consistent multi-component, multiphase pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann model that allows mass transfer across the phase interfaces and is capable to predict the phase behavior of typically miscible hydrocarbon mixtures. The designed model qualitatively predicts the phase behavior of hydrocarbon mixtures, and shows that achieving precise thermodynamic consistency requires enforcing the more general iso-fugacity rule, which is also briefly discussed.