Mixing and fluid flow characteristics in a micromixer with circular chamber

초록

In this paper analysis of mixing and fluid flow characteristic has been carried out on a microchannel with circular mixing chambers joined together in series with constriction channel. A detailed investigation has been performed by solving Navier-Stokes equations at low Reynolds number. Mixing characteristics has been evaluated by using a parameter called mixing index which is based on the variance of mass fraction. Different flow characteristic has been investigated at various Reynolds numbers to be contributing to enhance mixing. Recirculation zone is found in the circular chamber at low Reynolds numbers. However, at higher Reynolds numbers, recirculation zone is shown in constriction channel, which is likely to contribute more to mixing. The characteristics of the pressure drop have also been investigated as a function of the Reynolds number.