Energy-based dissolution simulation using SPH sampling

Abstract

A novel unified particle-based method is proposed for real-time dissolution simulation that is fast, predictable, independent of sampling resolution, and visually plausible. The dissolution model is derived from collision theory and integrated into a smoothed particle hydrodynamics fluid solver. Dissolution occurs when a solute is submerged in solvent. Physical laws govern the local excitation of solute particles based on kinetic energy - when the local excitation energy exceeds a user-specified threshold (activation energy), the particle will be dislodged from the solid. Solute separation during dissolution is handled using a new Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)-based region growing method. The use of smoothed particle hydrodynamics sampling for both solute and solvent guarantees a predictable and smooth dissolution process and provides user control of the volume change during the phase transition. A mathematical relationship between the activation energy and dissolution time allows for intuitive artistic control over the global dissolution rate. We demonstrate this method using a number of practical examples, including antacid pills dissolving in water, hydraulic erosion of nonhomogeneous terrains, and melting.

Richard Southern

Head of Department
National Centre for Computer Animation

Researcher and Lecturer in Computer Graphics