Numerical modeling of anisotropic fiber bundle behavior in oxygenators

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Medical Device Design

Background:

• Optimizing oxygenator design is crucial for efficient gas exchange and minimizing adverse effects like thrombus formation and hemolysis.
• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations offer a method to predict flow patterns and erythrocyte residence time within oxygenators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an accurate numerical model for oxygenators by integrating experimental data.
• To accelerate the design optimization process for oxygenator shape and diffuser plates.

Main Methods:

• Hollow fiber flow channels were used to experimentally measure fluid permeability in streamwise and transverse directions.
• Three-dimensional CFD models were developed using commercial software, incorporating experimental permeability data to represent anisotropic porous media.
• The validated CFD model was used to predict pressure loss, visualize blood distribution, and estimate erythrocyte residence time.

Main Results:

• Experimental measurements yielded a streamwise permeability of 1.143e(-8) m(2) and a transverse permeability of 2.385e(-9) m(2).
• The developed numerical model, incorporating anisotropic behavior, demonstrated a more uniform flow field within the oxygenator.
• CFD simulations coupled with experimental validation provide a powerful tool for oxygenator design.

Conclusions:

• Accurate modeling of anisotropic fiber bundle behavior enhances the representation of fluid dynamics in oxygenators.
• This integrated approach of CFD and experimental validation is effective for oxygenator design and development.
• Optimized oxygenator design can lead to improved patient outcomes by enhancing gas exchange and reducing device-induced complications.