Fluid Flow in Microchannels considering Variable Viscosity – Mathematical Modeling

Abstract

Lots of things have revolutionized using microfluidic devices: biomedical research, chemical engineering etc. These miniature marvels at the heart are physically the delicate dance of fluids through tiny channels. This understanding and prediction of these flows is fundamental for improving the efficiency of devices and expanding their use. In this article we explore the wonderful world of mathematical modeling for fluid flow in microchannels that has issues with flow with varying viscosity. We'll explore how researchers are moving the boundaries of what we understand as we make our way through the maze of microfluidic systems. We'll investigate the tools and approaches that are defining the future of microfluidic design from microscale fluid dynamics, from the fundamental principles governing fluid dynamics at the microscale to cutting edge computational approaches in designing microfluidic devices. It's not a simple journey through microchannels. We will study how such geometry, fluid properties and external forces working together lead to complex flow patterns. The modeling process will get a little more complicated because these non-newtonian fluids have a viscosity which changes with different conditions. At the end of this exploration we hope that you will have a good understanding of the current state of the art of mathematical modeling in microfluidics, its issues and how exciting the future can be. From the experienced researcher to the first comer, this article is intended to be a good source of valuable information in the intriguing area of fluid flow in microchannels.