Improved Efficiency of Microdiffuser Through Geometry Tuning for Valveless Micropumps

Abstract

Flow rectification in a mechanical valveless micropump that has applications in biological and microrocket propulsion is brought about by pressure drop created across the nozzle/diffuser pair in conjunction with the actuation stroke of the micropump. It has been reported that geometric tuning of the diffuser helps in improving the overall diffuser efficiency. The aim of the present work is to apply the geometry tuning principle over a wide range of flow conditions and to study the usability of this technique for optimized micropump design. Finite element modeling (FEM) of the diffuser behavior with geometry tuning has been carried out for different diffuser configurations and flow conditions, and the results have been validated through selective experimentation.