Topology optimization for particle flow problems using Eulerian-Eulerian model with a finite difference method

Abstract: Particle flow processing is widely employed across various industrial applications and technologies. Due to the complex interactions between particles and fluids, designing effective devices for particle flow processing is challenging. In this study, we propose a topology optimization method to design flow fields that effectively enhance the resistance encountered by particles. Particle flow is simulated using an Eulerian-Eulerian model based on a finite difference method. Automatic differentiation is implemented to compute sensitivities using a checkpointing algorithm. We formulate the optimization problem as maximizing the variation of drag force on particles while reducing fluid power dissipation. Initially, we validate the finite difference flow solver through numerical examples of particle flow problems and confirm that the corresponding topology optimization produces a result comparable to the benchmark problem. Furthermore, we investigate the effects of Reynolds and Stokes numbers on the optimized flow field. The numerical results indicate that serpentine flow fields can effectively enhance the variation in particle drag force.