Theoretical analysis of Ellis fluid flow in two layers due to metachronal propulsion subject to heat and mass transfer: Application in biological function

Abstract

This study uses a metaphor to describe the motion of cilia with heat and mass transfer, and it highlights the importance of research for understanding biological function. This research article depicts analysis of double-layer of cilia induced flow for non-Newtonian (Ellis fluid) with additional effects of thermal and concentration fields. The Ellis fluid model is considering as mucus present in Human bronchial airways. Respiratory tract and bronchial airways consisted of ciliated epithelium which is further divided into two layers, Airway Ciliary Layer (ACL) and Peri Ciliary liquid Layer (PCL). Due to which double-layer model has been constructed in this investigation. Mathematical modeling of double-layer flow problem has been simplified using long-wavelength and small-Reynolds number approximation. Consequent governing equations with boundary conditions gives an exact/accurate result for velocity field, temperature distribution and concentration distribution in double-layers. The influence of emerging parameters on velocity profile, temperature distribution, concentration field was illuminated by graphs and discussed comprehensively. Contour plots have also been plotted to visualize flow pattern in both layers. Evidenced graphs show that velocity profile and temperature profile are the highest in inner layer of fluid (PCL) and concentration profile is the highest at outer layers of fluid (ACL).