Mixing performance of T, Y, and oriented Y-micromixers with spatially arranged outlet channel: evaluation with Villermaux/Dushman test reaction

This study aims to investigate the micromixing performance of three basic types of spatial shaped micromixers. New configurations of T, Y, and oriented Y-spatial mixers were designed with change in the angles of the confluence and the outlet channel to achieve the efficient micromixing. These micromixers offer advantages that are not attainable with the typical types of these mixers. Experimental tests were carried out in the laminar flow regime and the mixing efficiency was evaluated using Villermaux/Dushman test reaction. The geometries of the channels were cylindrical with the length of 30 mm and the diameter of 800 μm. The experimental results show that the angle of outlet channel has a significant effect on the pressure drop and segregation index. Generally, the results reveal that at various feed flow rates the spatial shape of channels can lead to considerable improvement in micromixing performance. In all T, Y, and oriented Y-mixers, significant enhancement by increasing the confluence angle was also seen because the fluid elements were stretched and folded in the two inlet fluid interfaces. Furthermore, the micromixing time for the more efficient geometry of three shapes of microchannels was determined based on the incorporation model, which it was in the range of 0.001–0.1 s.