Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) optimization of microfluidic mixing in a MEMS steam generator

The challenge of achieving rapid mixing in microchannels is addressed through a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study using the ADINA-F finite element program. The study is motivated by the need to design an adequate mixing chamber for aqueous chemical reactants in a micro steam generator. The study focuses on the geometric optimization of a static micromixer channel by considering the trade-off between mixing quality and pressure drop. Both zigzag and straight channels are evaluated, in addition to channels with differing amounts of added obstruction features. Due to computational limits, the numerical analysis is conducted in two dimensions. The results indicate that hydrodynamic focusing of the reactant at the inlet, in addition to the amount and density of added obstruction features, has the most significant impact on mixing efficiency and increased pressure drop. The study presents mixing quality and pressure drop trends that provide useful information for the micro steam generator mixing chamber design.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2008

Author dc:creator

• Collins, Kimberlee C. (Kimberlee Chiyoko)

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Carol Livermore.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/45770

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/45770