College

College of Engineering

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Date

5-2025

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Bart Lipkens

Abstract

Macroscale bulk ultrasonic standing waves oriented at an angle relative to a fluid velocity field offer a method for sensitive particle separation. We have previously reported on the theoretical development of such a system (Proceedings of Meetings on Acoustics Vol. 30, 045004 (2017), https:// doi.org/10.1121/2.0000652). Particle deflection is uniquely defined by two parameters, i.e., the non- dimensional ratio of the acoustic radiation force to the fluid drag force exerted on the particle and the angle of the standing wave with respect to the fluid velocity. Here, we highlight the development and testing of a thirty-degree acoustofluidic angled wave device with a 0.5”x0.5” main fluid flow channel. A 0.5”x0.5” PZT-8 3 MHz air-backed transducer was fabricated. Acoustic resonance quality factors of 3,000 were measured using electrical impedance measurements. The particle suspension enters the fluid channel through a 4mmx0.4mm inlet centrally located in the square channel. The particle inlet is surrounded by a buffer flow. Testing was performed with 3-, 6-, and 10-micron polystyrene particles at a total flow rate of 31ml/min, corresponding to a peak velocity of 5mm/s. Successful deflection of all particles were achieved at electrical powers in the range of 1-5W.

Original Citation

Nicholas M. Rivet, Bart Lipkens, Walter Presz; Particle deflection in a macroscale ultrasonic angled wave device. Proc. Mtgs. Acoust. 18 May 2025; 56 (1): 045005. https://doi.org/10.1121/2.0002136

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