Title: Finite volume computations of convective exergy losses in microfluidic devices

Authors: E.O.B. Ogedengbe, G.F. Naterer

Addresses: CANMET Energy Technology Centre-Ottawa, 1 Haanel Drive, Nepean ON K1A 1M1, Canada. ' Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, ON L1H 7K4, Canada

Abstract: Exergy losses affect the net power required to transport fluid through microfludic devices. Unlike pressure losses or friction factors, modelling of exergy losses can encompass all types of irreversibilities within a microsystem, including thermofluid, chemical and electromagnetic irreversibilities. In this paper, a finite volume method with a SIMPLEC formulation is developed to predict exergy losses in microchannels. The continuum Navier–Stokes equations are solved numerically with a slip-flow boundary condition. The implications of the two coefficients on exergy destruction, involved in the first-order boundary model, are investigated. By reducing exergy destruction within the microchannel, pressure losses and fluid friction can be minimised to reduce power input and improve overall energy efficiency.

Keywords: exergy losses; non-inverted skew upwind scheme; NISUS; finite volume method; entropy production; exergy destruction; convective exergy; microfluidics; irreversibilities; microchannels; pressure losses; fluid friction; power input; energy efficiency.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2008.016670

International Journal of Exergy, 2008 Vol.5 No.2, pp.117 - 131

Published online: 12 Jan 2008 *

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