Thorough computational analysis of the staggered herringbone micromixer reveals transport mechanisms and enables mixing efficiency-based improved design

摘要: Abstract The problem of mixing solutions biomolecules in the famous staggered herringbone micromixer (SHM) is revisited through a computational study with focus on two overlooked aspects, namely accuracy numerical solution and thorough analysis process. based continuity Navier-Stokes equations mass balance solute. instabilities, induced by high Peclet number (extremely low diffusion coefficient biomolecules), are handled stabilization methods ensured a) dense adaptive meshes constructed an error criterion b) systematic studies mesh independence solution. importance calculated efficiency (ME) design SHM demonstrated comparison results for non-adaptive coarse meshes. ME versus length compared experimental data first time, independent good agreement them. brings to light symmetries periodicities velocity field explains inflection point SHM, observed studies. Without optimization algorithm, designs which increase up 100% reduce proposed. In particular, reduced 8% introduction symmetric grooves 39%, if bottom made slippery, c) 49% adding case (b). effect chaotic advection demonstrated.