(65f) Numerical Simulations with Continuous Flow in Magnetic Separator

The use of magnetic separation or purification is widespread because of its simplicity and convenience. Magnetic separators, which rely on permanent magnets, are cost-effective and maintain their separation ability indefinitely. The selectivity of the separator can be enhanced by increasing the magnetic gradient of the magnetic field, as the separation process is based on the magnetic property differences between materials.

Quadrupole magnetic sorting (QMS) generates a magnetic gradient within the channel and has the advantage that cell separation can be available even within continuous flow. Therefore, by incorporating devices at the outlet, this magnetic separator can be utilized for real-time detection.

The efficiency of the magnetic separator depends on several factors, including the magnetic properties (such as magnetic permeability) and physical properties (such as density, size, and visibility) of the substance and fluid types. As these values can vary with solution concentration, it is important to find the appropriate combination of magnetic field gradient magnitude and direction, as well as flow rate, to improve the effectiveness of the separator.

This study aims on blood cell separation and scaling up magnetic separator. Therefore, the simulation assumes under the circumstance to be performed assuming the separation of sickle cells from normal blood cells, and its results will present and suggest the optimum condition to improve separation efficiency.