Numerical Modeling of an Ion-Drag Micropump Performance

This paper presents a numerical model for the electrophoretic force interaction in dielectric liquids, and results of applying this model to a multi-stage planar ion-drag micropump. Experimental results were checked against a mono-ionic numerical model results and good agreement was found. The model takes into account the unipolar charge injection with ohmic conduction where the migration of only one type of charge carriers (positive or negative) is simulated. The EHD governing equations are deduced from two basic sets of equations, namely, Maxwell’s equations and fluid flow conservative equation. Under special assumptions, these equations are simplified to form the governing equations of EHD. With the help of numerical model optimization of the planar ion-drag micropump geometrical design is offered.Copyright © 2005 by ASME