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Suspension Jams in a Leaky Microfluidic Channel.
J S Yodh1, V Spandan2, L Mahadevan1,2,3
1Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
Physical Review Letters
|August 16, 2020
Summary
Clogs in leaky microfluidic channels propagate at steady speeds, unlike in impermeable channels. Researchers can control jam shape and particle ordering by adjusting channel geometry and fluid resistance.
Area of Science:
- Fluid dynamics
- Colloidal science
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Jamming phenomena are observed in various physiological and industrial systems.
- Understanding clog formation and propagation in microfluidic devices is crucial for controlling fluid flow and particle transport.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamics of clog propagation in leaky microfluidic channels.
- To explore methods for controlling jam shape and particle ordering within these channels.
Main Methods:
- Experimental study of colloidal suspensions in microfluidic channels with fluid-permeable walls.
- Numerical simulations using an Euler-Lagrangian framework for fluid and particle dynamics.
- Systematic variation of wall and gutter resistance ratios.
Main Results:
- Jams in leaky channels exhibit steady-speed propagation, differing from impermeable channels.
- Jam shape, typically wedge-shaped, can be controlled by adjusting resistance ratios.
- Particle ordering within the clog is tunable via leaky wall geometry.
Conclusions:
- Leaky microfluidic channels can function as filters and shunts.
- The study offers insights into controlling jam dynamics and particle organization in microfluidic systems.
- Potential applications in filtration, particle separation, and other microfluidic technologies.
