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HIGH-PRECISION FLOW VISUALIZATION: DIVERSE APPLICATIONS OF REFRACTIVE INDEX MATCHING (RIM) IN FLUID-SOLID INTERACTION STUDIES

The study of fluid-solid interactions has been significantly enhanced by the use of optical visualization techniques, which
offer a non-invasive means to observe and analyze the intricate dynamics at play. This method allows for the detailed
examination of fluid behavior around solid objects without altering the experimental setup. However, the utility of optical
visualization has traditionally been constrained by the requirement for transparent media and the challenges posed by
refractive index mismatches between different materials, which can distort visual data. The development of Refractive
Index Matching (RIM) technology has been a pivotal breakthrough, enabling researchers to overcome these limitations
and achieve precise measurements in complex, multi-material systems. This review article provides an in-depth
exploration of the RIM technique, detailing its application across diverse areas of fluid-solid interaction research. It aims to
fill a gap in the literature by offering a thorough examination of RIM's role in material selection and its practical applications
in engineering contexts. The article also includes a case study that utilizes RIM to explore the complex interactions
between vegetation and the flow dynamics associated with dam breaches, highlighting the technique's ability to elucidate
real-world phenomena. Furthermore, the review offers strategic recommendations for future research, advocating for the
development of RIM materials that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective, ensuring the technique's ongoing
evolution and relevance in the field of fluid-solid interactions.