Harnessing random low Reynolds number flow for net migration
Phys. Rev. E 101, 063101 – Published 3 June, 2020
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.101.063101
Abstract
Random noise in low Reynolds number flow has rarely been used to obtain net migration of microscale objects. In this study, we numerically show that net migration of a microscale object can be extracted from random directional fluid forces in Stokes flow, by introducing deformability and inhomogeneous density into the object. We also developed a mathematical framework to describe the deformation-induced migration caused by noise. These results provide a basis for understanding the noise-induced migration of a microswimmer and are useful for harnessing energy from low Reynolds number flow.
