Reflected Shock Bifurcation in a Square Channel

We examine the bifurcation of a reflected shock in a three-dimensional, square channel through numerical simulations using a distributed memory parallel adaptive mesh refinement, Navier-Stokes solver with multicomponent equation of state and microscopic transport. The three-dimensional, rather than axisymmetric, geometry introduces considerable complexity into the flow structures, particularly in the vicinity of the corners. Spanwise cross-sections show the boundary layer growth is significantly reduced in the corner regions, where the shape of the turbulent jet and recirculation regions are modified. This appears to be consistent with existing experimental studies which report the boundary layer in the corner region is deformed and the propagation velocity is reduced. A pair of triple points and a diagonally-oriented Mach reflection with shear layers directed towards the corner apex are also observed in the spanwise view.