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.