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Updated: Apr 10, 2026
08:38
Microfluidic Devices for Characterizing Pore-scale Event Processes in Porous Media for Oil Recovery Applications
Published on: January 16, 2018
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Structural optimization of porous media for fast and controlled capillary flows
1Department of Fiber Science & Apparel Design, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA.
Summary
This study presents a quantitative model for capillary flow in porous materials, optimizing structures to minimize penetration time. The model enables programmable flow behaviors for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Capillary flow in porous media is crucial for various applications.
- Controlling flow behavior in such media presents significant challenges.
- Existing models may not fully capture the dynamics in heterogeneous structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a general quantitative model for capillary flow in homogeneous porous media with varying cross-sectional sizes.
- To optimize porous structures for minimized penetration time under global constraints.
- To achieve programmable capillary flows with controlled volumetric flow rate and linear distance-time evolution.
Main Methods:
- Development of a quantitative model for capillary flow.
- Optimization of porous media structure.
- Analysis of the dynamic competition between capillary force and viscous resistance.
- Comparison with Washburn's equation for dynamic transport.
Main Results:
- A general quantitative model for capillary flow in porous media is established.
- Optimized porous structures demonstrate minimized penetration times.
- Programmable capillary flows with constant volumetric flow rate and linear distance-time evolution were achieved.
- Controlled flow behaviors were derived from the interplay of capillary and viscous forces.
Conclusions:
- The developed model provides a framework for understanding and controlling capillary flow in porous materials.
- Structural optimization can significantly enhance flow performance.
- The findings have implications for optimizing processes in fields like biomedical diagnostics and oil recovery.
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