An Up-scaling Strategy for Counter-flow Based Microfluidic Network: A Numerical Study. (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lu, Xu; Leung, Dennis Y.C.; Wang, Yifei; Wang, Huizhi; Xuan, Jin
• Is Part Of: Energy procedia. Volume 142(2017)
• Page Start: 661
• Page End: 666
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: Fuel cell -- Microfluidics -- Up-scaling -- Numerical simulation -- Energy throughput; Power resources -- Congresses; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power resources; Conference proceedings; Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2017.12.109
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1876-6102

Abstract

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.