Investigation of mixing and simulation of an electroosmotic micromixer

An investigation of mixing in a micromixer structure with a novel designed chamber and some ribs in it is carried out through the use of COMSOL Multiphysics software. By designing a new chamber structure, some ribs with considered dimensions, four microelectrodes and using computer simulation, acceptable mixing results are achieved. The performance of the micromixer and pressure requirement with different rib dimensions, with and without microelectrodes is compared. The design under continuous flow conditions using computer simulation is analyzed. By the generation of eddies, flow deviation and electroosmotic effect, mixing performance is enhanced. In spite of obstacles, to have better performance, the pressure need for rapid mixing is decreased. In the final stage, the effects of the AC voltage and its frequency on mixing quality were surveyed. Advantages of this design are easy fabrication, admirable mixing performance, and high integration capability.