CAMTEC Guest talk

TITLE: An integrated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) - Image Analysis (CFD-IA) to study the fluid flow regimes inside the human meniscal tissue

SPEAKERS:             Dr. Olga Barrera

Reader in Engineering, School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, Oxford Brookes University, Wheatley Campus, tel +44 1865 648968.

Research fellow, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford.

Consultant at Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.

DATE:                      Monday, July 29, 2024

TIME:                      11:00 AM – 11:45 AM

LOCATION:              ELLIOTT 060 

SEMINAR ABSTRACT:

The meniscus, a porous soft tissue renowned for its load-bearing capabilities and energy absorption properties, remains the subject of profound interest in biomechanics. Through high-resolution micro-computed tomography (μCT) scans, we delve into the intricate mechanisms underlying energy dissipation, implementing a novel methodology merging Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with imaging techniques. Our examination highlights the meniscus's architectural resemblance to a sandwich structure, featuring a rigid outer layer and a pliant internal layer composed of collagen channels. These channels, intricately oriented to guide fluid flow, facilitate deformation and energy dissipation, suggesting a potential for optimised damping systems. Our investigation scrutinises the relationship between architectural characteristics and fluid flow dynamics, a pivotal pursuit for researchers endeavouring to identify biomimetic solutions for tissue replacement. Employing high-resolution 3D μCT scans, we analyse fluid flow patterns within the meniscal architecture across a spectrum of inlet velocities spanning from 0.1 mm/s to 1.6 m/s. Our findings unveil statistical correlations between architectural parameters (e.g., tortuosity, connectivity, porosity, and pore size) and fluid flow dynamics (e.g., number distribution, permeability). Some channels exhibit exceptional Reynold’s number values, reaching 1400 at an inlet velocity of 1.6 m/s, with a discernible transition from Darcy's regime to a non-Darcian regime occurring around an inlet velocity of 0.02 m/s. Furthermore, we identify location-dependent permeability variations ranging from 20 to 32 Darcy. Regression modelling shows relations between fluid velocity and tortuosity at elevated inlet velocities, while channel diameter emerges as a significant factor at lower inlet velocities. Moreover, as inlet velocities escalate, deviations from preferential flow directions increase, resulting in a notable reduction in the concentration parameter by an average of 0.4. This pioneering research offers invaluable insights into the fluid flow dynamics within the meniscus and its intimate interplay with structural attributes. By elucidating these intricate relationships, our findings pave the way for the development of biomimetic solutions tailored for tissue replacement leading to new innovation in biomechanics and regenerative medicine.