Numerical simulation of inertial microfluidics: a review

Abstract

Since the proposal of inertial microfluidics in 2007, it has been widely used for particle focusing and separation with superior performances. The particle migration behaviour in microchannel is extremely complicated involving various parameters. Recently, computational approaches have been utilized to obtain better insights into the underlying physics, which facilitates a comprehensive and intuitive understanding of particle migration in inertial flow. The numerical methods are ideal ways for assessing the effects of various parameters on particle focusing. In this review, numerous theories and models proposed to systematically explore the effects on migration of particles are summed concisely, especially numerical methods. Besides, latest research advances in direct numerical simulation of diverse particle motion and migration, whether rigid or deformable, spherical or non-spherical, suspended in simple or complex channel, are introduced comprehensively. Then, numerical simulations for microfluidic devices design are provided and discussed to facilitate the optimization of microchannel and the design of coupling microfluidic device for real- particles separation. Finally, we further discuss the remaining challenges in the modeling of inertial particle microfluidics and provide several suggestions for future investigators.