Collective Dynamics of Self-Propelled Particles: Poiseuille Flow States and Boundary Effects

• Applicant: Dr. Sebastian Heidenreich
• Subject Area: Statistical Physics, Nonlinear Dynamics, Complex Systems, Soft and Fluid Matter, Biological Physics
• Term: from 2009 to 2010
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 154606254

The intended research project focuses on the collective dynamics and flow behavior of self-propelled particles subjected to a Poiseuille flow. The objective is the understanding of the interplay between the orientational dynamics, activity, concentration and the external flow. To this purpose, we want to solve numerically hydrodynamic equations that model self-propelled particles in the continuum limit. Firstly, we want to calculate (in one spatial dimension) a non-equilibrium phase diagram spanned by activity, tumbling parameter (strength of the flow coupling) and the strength of the Poiseuille flow. Moreover, we want to derive appropriate boundary conditions that model the fluid wall interaction and investigate the effect on the collective flow behavior.Furthermore, we want to extend the numerical program to two spatial dimensions, in order to simulate, e.g. capillary flows. Here, we want to focus on promising flow modes that are found in the one-dimensional case and discuss possible applications.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: United Kingdom
• Host: Professorin Dr. Julia Yeomans