Homogeneity of multilayers produced with a static mixer

Abstract

Abstract A multiflux static mixer can be used to produce multilayered structures. The flow is repeatedly cut, stretched and stacked by mixing elements in the channel of such a device. In the standard design, however, the obtained layer thicknesses are inhomogeneous. The causes for the multiflux static mixer's deviation from ideal behavior are identified by 3D numeical simulations as unequal pressure drops in the separating flows. Changes in the arrangements of the elements are proposed and their effects are verified by simulations and experiments. A significant improvement of the layer homogeneity is achieved by introducing additional elements with separatings walls at the inlets and at the outlets of the mixing elements.