Acoustic Streaming Flows in Non-Newtonian Fluids: The Effect of Vibrating Objects and Fluid Types on the Flow Pattern.

Microbubble streaming is a phenomenon where a micro-sized bubble is vibrated by an acoustic pressure to induce vortex flows around the bubble. We have investigated the microbubble streaming in non-Newtonian fluids. Multiphase simulation of the microbubble has been performed to investigate the bubble dynamics and its effect on flow patterns in the microchannel. Simulations of steady streaming induced by an oscillating cylinder were performed for the comparison with the flow patterns induced by a vibrating microbubble with the same diameter. Flow patterns induced in Newtonian, Power-law fluids, and viscoelastic fluids are also compared. Experimental results and mathematical modeling are also compared for discussion.