Nasal Fluid Dynamics Visualization Using Particle Image Velocimetry in a 3D-Printed Nasal Replica Model

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Nasal drug delivery effectiveness relies on understanding airflow patterns.
• Traditional methods like dye visualization and CFD simulations have limitations in detailed 3D measurements and experimental validation.
• Accurate airflow data is crucial for optimizing nasal drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an innovative experimental platform for precise nasal airflow pattern visualization.
• To overcome the limitations of existing methods in measuring 3D nasal airflow dynamics.
• To provide reliable experimental data for advancing nasal drug delivery technologies.

Main Methods:

• Development of an experimental platform integrating Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV).
• Utilization of a 3D-printed silicon-based nasal replica model.
• Non-invasive, real-time measurement of airflow dynamics within the nasal cavity.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of a novel platform for direct, high-quality nasal airflow measurements.
• Acquisition of detailed 3D-flow pattern data, surpassing traditional methods.
• Demonstration of the platform's capability for real-time airflow dynamics assessment.

Conclusions:

• The developed PIV-integrated 3D-printed nasal model offers a superior method for nasal airflow visualization.
• This approach provides accurate, experimentally verified data for nasal drug delivery research.
• The findings offer practical insights for improving future nasal drug delivery technologies.