Separation of particles of different sizes from non-Newtonian suspension by using branched capillaries

In this experimental study, we have investigated the separation of particles with different sizes dispersed in liquids using the flow through branched capillaries. We investigated four different kinds of fluids of a Newtonian fluid, shear thinning fluid, non-shear thinning elastic fluid and shear thinning and elastic fluid. Only in the shear thinning fluid, the separation of large particles from a mixture of particles with different sizes was achieved. This separation has been found to be possible because of the fast migration of non-interacting particles across streamlines and the proper partitioning characteristics at the branch in shear thinning fluids. From the experimental results it has been concluded that the scale down of the system to miniaturize the system will be possible and therefore the process intensification can be achieved.