Mathematical Sciences Department Virtual Analysis/PDE Seminar
Speaker: Michael Novack, Louisiana State University
Thursday, March 20th
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Zoom Link: https://wpi.zoom.us/j/93026374690
Meeting ID: 930 2637 4690
Title: A variational model for 3D features in films/foams
Abstract: Area minimization among a suitable class of 2D surfaces is the basic variational model describing the interfaces in films/foams. In this talk we will discuss a modification of this paradigm in which surfaces are replaced with regions of small but positive volume. The model captures features of real films/foams, such as Plateau borders, that cannot be described by zero volume objects. We will also discuss the PDE approximation of this problem via the Allen-Cahn equation and its relation to Plateau's laws, which govern the possible singularities.