A new class of microscopic jet flows is here reported: for a certain range of physical parameters and geometrical configurations, a perfectly steady microscopic liquid thread can be formed by a laminar accelerating gas stream, eventually giving rise to a nearly monodisperse fine spray. Some interesting characteristics for many applications of this robust and versatile flow and related atomization technique are highlighted. Concentric multicomponent liquid threads can also be produced. A theoretical model is presented that shows agreement with experiments.

• Received 14 August 1997

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.80.285