[ESPResSo-users] Simulating partially immersed deformable objects

[Edvin Memet]

Dear all,

I'm interested in simulating a system like the following: an array of 
nanopillars partially immersed in a fluid. Capillary, bending, and 
interpillar interaction forces are all of interest.

I've been trying to understand methods of coupling LB to deformable 
object in general, as well as the current capabilities of Espresso in 
particular.

From my limited understanding, the objects-in-fluid (OIF) extension 
seems like the closest starting point for what I want. However, I want 
the pillars to be partially immersed in the fluid, which I'm not sure is 
possible. Would it be possible to get that effect by using a two 
component Shan-Chen fluid (e.g. water and air)? If so, can you even use 
OIF with Shan Chen? And from my documentation, it seems Shan Chen only 
runs on GPU - is that still the case?

Or rather than using Shan-Chen, perhaps an easier way of simulating 
partial immersion is to set the friction coefficient to zero for part of 
the mesh (it seems it isn't currently possible to  individually set the 
friction coefficient for each mesh node, but perhaps it shouldn't be too 
difficult for me to figure out a way to do so). Hope that makes sense.

Any guidance/thoughts appreciated.

Best,
Edvin