Numerical simulation of droplet formation in T-shape microchannel using two-phase level-set method

In this study a two-dimensional (2D) numerical simulation using two-phase level set method (LSM) have been carried out to investigate the influence of continuous phase entrance flow rate on the microdroplets generation process. The analysis of the breakup process of microdroplets in immiscible liquid/liquid two-phase flow in T-junction microchannel has been predicted. Governing equations on the flow field have been discretized and solved by using finite element method. Obtained numerical results have been validated by comparing the experimental data reported in literature which show acceptable agreement. The simulation results show that the continuous phase entrance flow rate has a major effect on the size of generated droplets. Studies have shown that pressure diagram of the junction point can reflect the number of formed droplets and the triple stages of droplet formation. Also, Examinations of the pressure and velocity gradient inside the main channel show that the pressure difference of the droplet’s tip and rear and shear force caused by viscosity dominates the droplet formation which the pressure difference between two side of droplet is more effective.