On flow visualization using reflective flakes

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Abstract
An analysis of flow visualization using small reflective flakes is introduced. This rational analysis is based on a stochastic treatment of Jeffery's (1922) solution for the motion of ellipsoidal particles in a viscous fluid, wherein thin flakes tend to align with stream surfaces. The predicted light fields are confirmed by examples of parallel flows, the flow over a rotating disk, and the spinup from rest in a cylindrical cavity. The Tollmien–Schlichting wave packet trailing a turbulent spot is taken as an example to discuss the suitability of the technique for visualizing small-amplitude waves. Attenuation of light through a suspension is described.