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Modelling of Fluid Flow and Mass Transfer in a Hollow-Fibre Membrane Oxygenator

Gebbeken, J. (2023) Modelling of Fluid Flow and Mass Transfer in a Hollow-Fibre Membrane Oxygenator.

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Abstract:This study explores the impact of shear-driven particle migration experienced by red blood cells on oxygen transfer in hollow-fibre membrane oxygenators. These devices substitute lung function by oxygenating blood through gas-permeable fibres. The arrangement of these fibres results in spacings at least an order of magnitude larger than the red blood cell size. While studies examine oxygenation and migration separately, their combination remains underexplored for oxygenators. Therefore, the main research question was, "What is the effect of shear-driven particle migration on the gas transfer of oxygen inside hollow-fibre membrane oxygenators?" The study reviews models for two-phase flows, blood rheology, particle migration, and oxygenation, establishing a well-founded approach for their modelling. Numerical results reveal the crucial role of the bulk flow behaviour of red blood cells in observing oxygenation resistances due to migration. Differences in oxygen saturation between migratory and non-migratory considerations are approximately 12% in axisymmetric pipe flow but decrease to 1.56% in the oxygenator. The study also explores the influence of Newtonian rheology, indicating differences up to 9% in oxygen saturation. The considered oxygenation model overestimated oxygen saturation, highlighting the need for further research. In conclusion, the impact of particle migration on blood oxygenation in oxygenators is typically negligible.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:ET: Engineering Technology
Subject:52 mechanical engineering
Programme:Mechanical Engineering MSc (60439)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/97824
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