Delaying transition in rotating boundary-layer flows

We investigate both the type I and II modes of stationary instability within the boundarylayer flow over a rotating disk. Extending the work of previous studies we find that the flow can be stabilised via the introduction of shear-thinning non-Newtonian fluids. Laminar-flow profiles are determined from a generalised von Kármán similarity solution. An asymptotic study is presented in the limit of large Reynolds number and a numerical investigation which includes the effects of streamline curvature and Coriolis force is also conducted. Favourable agreement is obtained between solutions from the two schemes. Results indicate that the transition process from laminar to turbulent flow can be significantly delayed, in this case at least. Such a study is presented with a view to suggesting potential control mechanisms in aerodynamically-significant flows.