Dynamics of nano-structural aerosol particles of complex geometry-bioengineering aspects

Aim of project
During the project realization, investigations into deposition of aerosol particles in the human breathing system have been made. The aim of this project was to establish the relations between dynamic properties of aerosol particles and the total deposition accrued in the models of parts of human upper breathing system. The researchers focused on the deposition in the model of the human nose because it is a first “defense” line against particulate pollutants carried with air into the breathing system. The process description should comprise the geometry of the system, air dynamics and aerosol aggregates dynamics. Based on the data obtained from the Medical University, numerical models of nasal cavity and oro-pharynx have been created. Those models were used during calculations of aerosol deposition process, performed using the CFD FLUENT package.

Expected results
The results of the investigations obtained during the project can help to understand the phenomenon of deposition of aerosol particles in the human breathing system. They prove that the dynamics of aerosol aggregates can strongly affect the deposition process. There are two key aspects which should be taken into account during the process of design and optimization of devices for aerosol therapy: dynamics of flow and dynamics of aerosol aggregates.