Computational study of parallel valveless micropumps

An integrated study of parallel valveless micropumps is described which incorporates computations and a mathematical model. Two cylindrical pump chambers are driven out of phase and the circuit resistance is provided by an interconnecting pipe whose width is varied. A one-dimensional mathematical model, consistent with the pump configuration, is applied to provide a framework to interpret the results. In contrast to open circuit pumps, the maximum volume flux is determined by the properties of the diffuser/nozzle element and the pressure drop is determined by Darcy-Weisbach equation when it is controlled by the interconnecting pipe. The numerical results are in good agreement with mathematical models. The viability of such pumps to work with cells was examined by calculating the maximum shear stress and strain rate. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.