Numerical simulation of static interaction between sessile or pendent liquid droplets and an electric field

A numerical technique for solving the static coupling problem between an electric field and a sessile or pendent liquid droplet is presented. The electric field is produced by two parallel electrodes which are large enough so that the original field is uniform, or by a conducting tube above the plane. Assuming an initial shape of the droplet, the electric field is analyzed by means of the finite element method. Next, all pressures on the droplet surface are balanced and the droplet distortion is predicted. Iterations are continued until convergence is reached. Calculations have been performed for different electrode voltages, hydrostatic pressures, and directions of the gravitational force. The droplet shape as a function of all parameters has been determined. In each case the stability limit beyond which the droplet distortion is not stable and the droplet disintegrates has been investigated