Multiscale Model of Clogging in Microfluidic Devices with Grid-Like Geometries

Abstract

Clogging in microfluidic systems can lead to significant changes in their behavior and predictability. We use a mean-field model to capture the dynamics of instantaneous channel clogging by constructing a clogging rate function. We provide examples in which we apply the model to problems under different conditions including constant total flow rate and constant pressure difference. We compare the predictions of the mean-field model to those of stochastic simulations and the results of previous studies. Lastly, we apply the model to experimental data on the clogging of sickle red blood cells and discuss its wider applicability.