An Up-scaling Strategy for Counter-flow Based Microfluidic Network: A Numerical Study

Xu Lu, Dennis Y. C. Leung, Yifei Wang*, Huizhi Wang, Jin Xuan

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
37 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

This paper reports a computational demonstration and analysis of an innovative up-scaling counter-flow based microfluidic network to convert formic acid into electricity. This design consists of multi-dimensional T-shaped micro-scale channels that allow the inflow of liquid catholyte and anolyte from oppositely positioned inlets. It is revealed that the up-scaling strategy could effectively form primary and secondary counter-flow patterns, which are beneficial for high power output and fuel utilization at low flow rate operation. The design shows a breakthrough of the overall energy throughput and reactivity because of the full engagement of all available reaction sites. The energy loss mechanism introduced by the up-scaling network is also examined, demonstrating its performance intensification effect.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)661-666
Number of pages6
JournalEnergy Procedia
Volume142
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2017

Keywords

  • Energy throughput
  • Fuel cell
  • Microfluidics
  • Numerical simulation
  • Up-scaling

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Energy

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