Numerical investigation of particle migration in poiseuille flow of composite system

Shear-induced particle migration was investigated by using a continuum diffusive-flux model for the creep flow of nickel powder filled polymers which is viscous with shear-thinning characteristic. The original model of Phillips et al. [Phys. Fluids A (1992) 4:30], for a Newtonian binder was extended to a generalized Newtonian binder, taking into consideration of local shear deformation rate. The model, together with flow equations, was employed for solving the non-Newtonian flow patterns and non-uniform particle concentration distribution of mono-niodal suspensions in a pressure-driven tube flow. Particle volume fraction and velocity fields for the non-homogenous shear flow field were predicted. Effects of different viscosity model of binder system on particle migration during non-homogenous shear fluid flow were investigated. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.