Dynamics of high viscosity contrast confluent microfluidic flows.

ABSTRACT: The laminar nature of microfluidic flows is most elegantly demonstrated via the confluence of two fluids forming two stable parallel flows within a single channel meeting at a highly stable interface. However, maintenance of laminar conditions can become complicated when there is a large viscosity contrast between the neighbouring flows leading to unique instability patterns along their interface. Here, we study the dynamics of high viscosity contrast confluent flows - specifically a core flow made of highly viscous glycerol confined by sheath flows made of water within a microfluidic flow focusing system. Our experiments indicate the formation of tapered core structures along the middle of the channel. Increasing the sheath flow rate shortens the tapered core, and importantly induces loca

SUBMITTER: Kurdzinski ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5517621 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature