Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) for Modelling Microfluidic Flow through 3D Printed Copper Filters

Abstract

This review article presents key aspects of applying Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) to model fluid filtration through FDM 3D-printed copper-based filters (80% Cu, 20% PLA composite filament) with microporosity. Conservation laws in continuum dynamics form the foundation of meshless SPH modeling. The complexity of modeling 3D printed copper-based filters lies in capturing the irregular shapes of microporosity. We present an initial SPH model that provides velocity and pressure distributions through a round pore, demonstrating better accuracy than the FEM model. Such SPH approach can accurately capture water flow parameters through complex porous structures. Unlike FEM, which relies on predefined finite elements, SPH is a Lagrangian method based on the distribution of virtual particles and periodic boundary conditions, making it well-suited for modelling irregular geometries. Combined with 3D printing, SPH can support the design of optimal structures for water filtration.