Computational fluid dynamics simulation of two-phase flow patterns in a serpentine microfluidic device

In the current research work, the flow behavior of a liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) process in a serpentine microchannel was analyzed. The simulation was performed using a 3D model and the results were found to be consistent with experimental data. The impact of the flow of chloroform and water on the flow model was also examined. The data indicate that once the aqua and organic phases flow rates are low and similar, a slug flow pattern is observed. However, as the overall flow rate raises, the slug flow transforms into parallel plug flow or droplet flow. An increment in the aqua flows while maintaining a constant organic phase flow rate results in a transition from slug flow to either droplet flow or plug flow. Finally, the patterns of flow rate in the serpentine micro-channel were characterized and depicted. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the behavior of two-phase flow patterns in serpentine microfluidic devices. This information can be used to optimize the design of microfluidic devices for various applications. Furthermore, the study will demonstrate the applicability of CFD simulation in investigating the behavior of fluids in microfluidic devices, which can be a cost-effective and efficient alternative to experimental studies.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the flow behavior of liquid-liquid extraction in a serpentine microchannel. A 3D model was used for simulation and the results matched experimental data. The effects of chloroform and water flow on the model were examined. The findings showed that at low and similar flow rates of both phases, a slug flow pattern was observed. However, as the overall flow rate increased, the pattern transformed into parallel plug flow or droplet flow. A higher water flow rate with a constant organic phase flow rate led to a transition from slug flow to droplet flow or plug flow. The study provides valuable insights into two-phase flow patterns in serpentine microfluidic devices and demonstrates the applicability of CFD simulation in investigating fluid behavior.