Work

Rapid vortex ring bubble transport via bubble-pulsation of constrained underwater spark discharge

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The transport of gas bubbles in liquid environments is essential across applications like microfluidics, drug delivery, and energy systems, but achieving stable, high-speed motion remains a challenge. We present an advanced implementation of submerged spark discharge-driven ring bubble generation by leveraging the dynamic interactions and fluid motion at high velocities and accelerations generated by high initial overpressure, achieving high-circulation bubbles that reach initial velocities of 12 m/s, travel 800 mm, which also can be generated in extreme stroke ratios and minimal space. Key features include self-contained movement, collision resilience, and adaptability across media. Scalable and programmable, this method enables precision in bubble manipulation, paving the way for advanced applications in fluid transport, environmental engineering, and biomedical systems. The controlled transport of gas bubbles in liquids is crucial for applications like microfluidics and energy systems, yet achieving stable, high-speed motion remains a significant challenge. The authors demonstrate a spark discharge–driven ring bubble generator that produces high-circulation bubbles with velocities up to 12 m/s and travel distances of 800 mm, offering programmable, resilient, and scalable bubble transport in confined spaces.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61569-5