Multiphase Flow Simulations of Dispersions in Microfiltration

Abstract

This review introduces numerical models based on direct numerical simulation and the phase-field method for dispersion systems in microfiltration, along with their application to membrane performance evaluation. The simulations employ focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM) image analysis to accurately reconstruct the three-dimensional microstructure of actual microfiltration membranes. To implement the complex geometries of microstructures in microfiltration membranes with a simple algorithm, a signed distance function (SDF) was used for granular flow simulation, and a free-energy-based wetting model was employed for emulsion simulation. These methods enable detailed analysis of colloidal suspension and emulsion dynamics in the membrane microstructures, revealing key correlations with membrane performance.