The effect of flap parameters on fluid rectification in a microfluidic diode.

We have studied the effect of flap parameters on fluid rectification in a microfluidic diode. We use Navier-Stokes equations and arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian formulation to obtain dynamics of fluid flow and motion of the flap. The flap opens during forward flow and seals against a stopper during reverse flow. This allows flow in the forward direction and prevents it in the reverse direction. The rectifier is fluidic analog to a semiconductor diode in function because it rectifies fluid flow. Velocity-pressure (V-P) curves analog to the current-voltage (I-V) curves of the electronic diode has been obtained. The effect of the flap parameters, such as length, thickness, and Young's modulus has been found out. The transient response of the flap and fluid flow under oscillating pressure driven flow has also been obtained.