Micromixing enhancement of a three-dimensional split-and-resombine micromixerFu-Chiang Yang, Pei-Ying Su, Yi-Tui Chen, Ping-Tsan Ho, and Jui-Chan Huang Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
E-mail: evanptho@nkust.edu.tw Received: 29 September 2025 Accepted: 18 October 2025 Abstract: This study presents a novel design and numerical investigation of a three-dimensional split and recombination (SAR) micromixer featuring three perpendicularly arranged mixing chambers with distinct obstacle geometries to enhance mixing efficiency (ME). Using a finite element method (FEM) with a fully coupled solver for the Navier-Stokes and convection-diffusion equations, the micromixer’s performance is evaluated under varying Reynolds number (Re), Peclet number (Pe), aspect ratio (AR), and slip versus no-slip wall boundary conditions. The micromixer performance is also evaluated by applying a DC electric field using a pair of negative and positive electrodes mounted on the top and bottom surfaces. Results demonstrate a nonlinear dependence of ME on Re, with diffusion-dominated mixing at very low Re and inertially-driven vortex formation enhancing mixing at higher Re. Larger AR values significantly promote fluid stretching and folding, improving ME, while Pe values show a limited effect within the studied range. Slip boundary condition reduces pressure drop (Δp) but slightly diminishes ME due to weaker secondary flows. The Figure of Merit (FoM) is inversely proportional to inflow velocity and directly proportional to the applied DC electric field. Consequently, the FoM is maximized at low Re values and high DC voltages. Keywords: Microfluidics; Micromixing; Split and recombine; Electroosmosis; Chaotic advection Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com. DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04470-1
Chemical Papers 80 (2) 1553–1563 (2026) |
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