Nonlinear dynamics of capillary bridges: theory

Finite-amplitude, forced and free oscillations of capillary bridges are studied. They are characterized by a resonant frequency and a damping rate which, in turn, depend on fluid properties, dimensions of the bridge, gravitational force relative to surface tension and amplitude of the external disturbance. The Navier–Stokes equations are solved numerically using the Galerkin/finite-element methodology for discretization in space and implicit finite differences with adaptive time stepping for discretization in time. It is found that the resonant frequency decreases and the damping rate increases almost linearly with the oscillation amplitude. Their relative changes from their corresponding values at infinitesimal amplitude depend on fluid properties and dimensions of the bridge. Moreover, careful measurement of the resonant frequency and damping rate in a well-controlled experiment may provide quite accurate values for properties of the liquid over a wide range of modified Reynolds numbers.