We construct an approximate Riemann solver for the isentropic Baer−Nunziato two-phaseflow model, that is able to cope with arbitrarily small values of the statistical phasefractions. The solver relies on a relaxation approximation of the model for which theRiemann problem is exactly solved for subsonic relative speeds. In an original manner, theRiemann solutions to the linearly degenerate relaxation system are allowed to dissipatethe total energy in the vanishing phase regimes, thereby enforcing the robustness andstability of the method in the limits of small phase fractions. The scheme is proved tosatisfy a discrete entropy inequality and to preserve positive values of the statisticalfractions and densities. The numerical simulations show a much higher precision and a morereduced computational cost (for comparable accuracy) than standard numerical schemes usedin the nuclear industry. Finally, two test-cases assess the good behavior of the schemewhen approximating vanishing phase solutions.
