Study of “whitewater zone” optical properties in ship wake

The "whitewater zone" represents a critical maritime feature intimately tied to ship identification and stealth capabilities. In this study, the large eddy simulation method is employed to analyze wake fields under varying operational conditions, and the influence of propeller turbulence and bubble wakes on the "whitewater zone" is investigated in conjunction with a self-built optical testing platform. The results indicate that an increase in propeller speed serves to stabilize the vortex structure but also results in a unimodal signal waveform. Moreover, the behavior of bubbles exerts a significant impact on the flow field structure. The coalescence and division of large bubbles play a primary role in altering the flow field structure of the "whitewater zone," consequently accelerating the mixing and diffusion of the "whitewater." The smaller bubbles exhibit prolonged retention times and a broader disturbance area within the surrounding flow field. The research conclusion has certain reference significance for the future development of ocean exploration technology.