Phase-field-based lattice Boltzmann modeling of thermal phase change initiated from a single phase

Surface tension plays a crucial role in governing interfacial dynamics during phase change phenomena spanning natural systems and industrial applications. The phase-field lattice Boltzmann (LB) method has emerged as a powerful approach for modeling phase change, particularly due to its inherent ability to capture interfacial tension effects in multiphase systems. However, there has been no three-dimensional phase-field LB method capable of simulating phase change initialed from a single-phase medium. In this study, we propose a phase-field-based LB method for modeling thermal phase change. A source term is derived to accurately describe phase change. A key distinguishing feature of our model is its capability to initiate phase change driven by the sensible heat of superheated or supercooled phases, thereby enabling the presence of superheated liquid and supercooled vapor. To validate the proposed model, we perform a series of benchmark tests using D3Q19 LB models with density ratios up to 1:1000. These include (i) a comparison between numerical results and analytical solutions of the one-dimensional Stefan problem and (ii) a quantitative evaluation of bubble departure diameter against the Fritz relation for bubble generation in a pure liquid phase under wall heating. The results demonstrate agreement with theoretical predictions, underscoring the accuracy and robustness of the proposed approach. This study extends the applicability of the LB method to scenarios requiring consideration of both surface tension and thermal phase change, offering a valuable tool for simulating complex multiphase systems.