Self-consistent modeling of the electrohydrodynamics of a conductive meniscus

A complete self-consistent model has been developed for the motion of a conductive liquid surface on a capillary orifice, under an applied electric field. The model uses a quasi-one-dimensional hydrodynamic formulation and a two-dimensional axisymmetric boundary element solution for the electric field. The model permits simulation of meniscus behavior with time-varying electric excitation or pressure. Results for resonance behavior and drop emission are presented, with experimental results given for comparison. The program presented is particularly suited for exploring electrostatic control of a meniscus for drop-on-demand applications.<>