Rheological Aspect of Cell-Free Layer Formation in Micro-blood Flow: Experimental and Numerical Study

This thesis aims to provide detailed insight into the rheological aspects of cell-free layer (CFL) formation in micro-blood flow and its relation to red blood cell (RBC) aggregation. Both experimental and computational approaches were utilized in characterizing the relationship between the CFL width change and RBC aggregation. The rheological effects of the CFL on the arteriolar wall shear stress (WSS) were examined in the rat cremaster muscle in vivo. A new histogram-based algorithm was suggested for better determination of the CFL width. The elevation in RBC aggregation increased the CFL width and attenuated the RBC-wall contact frequency. Computational prediction showed that the aggregation effect on the CFL width was prominent in low shear conditions, but this effect was diminished in high shear conditions. Inclusion of the CFL width in determining the WSS revealed that the temporal CFL variation might have an increasing effect on the WSS, and this could be enhanced by RBC aggregation.

Author dc:creator

• NAMGUNG BUMSEOK

• Microcirculation, Plasma layer, Red blood cell aggregation, Wall shear stress