Mixing performance of T-shape micromixers equipped with 3D printed Gyroid matrices: A numerical evaluation

Abstract

This paper introduces innovative T-shape micromixers equipped with various 3D printed Gyroid matrices aiming to boost the mixing performance. A regular Gyroid matrix has been adapted into more complicated twisted, functionally graded, and stochastic Gyroid structures to promote a chaotic flow regime. A numerical model has been derived and validated to investigate the impact of various Gyroid matrices on the mixing index, pressure drop, and performance index of T-shape micromixers at various Reynolds and Schmidt numbers. The results indicate that, among all structures, the twisted Gyroid matrix provides the highest enhancement in the mixing performance by boosting the mixing index up to 172%. Moreover, the twisted micromixer provided a 135% higher mixing index with a mixing channel that is 41% shorter as compared to a full-length plain micromixer. The novel design, therefore, could be implemented in developing more compact and more efficient microfluidic systems in chemical and pharmaceutical integrated micro-operations.