Hydrodynamics of electro-capillarity propelled non-Newtonian droplets through micro-confinements

ABSTRACT: In this article, we theoretically explore the dynamics of droplet motion and its evolution during electro-capillarity propelled actuation within microfluidic systems. The study covers a wide gamut of fluids, wherein we investigate the dynamics of both pseudoplastic and dilatant fluid droplets. It is observed that change in the fluid rheology of the non-Newtonian fluids leads to significant morphing of the droplet dynamics during the actuation and propulsion event when compared to the Newtonian counterparts. We validate the theory using experimental reports on similar systems employing Newtonian droplets. The influence of governing parameters such as the actuation voltage and its transients, dielectric layer thickness on the electrodes and electrode spacing is probed. We also explore the influence of the interfacial properties of the system, such as channel wall friction, droplet wettability, and capillary friction, and establish that the fluid rheology, in conjunction with the interfacial features regulate the electro-actuation and propulsion of the droplets. We further provide theoretical estimates on the optimal design of the electro-actuation system in terms of a proposed electro-interfacial tension parameter. The findings may hold significance towards design and development of microfluidics with electro-actuation systems. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1140/epje/s10189-022-00196-0.