Numerical study of 3D vesicles under flow: discovery of new peculiar behaviors

TL;DR

This paper presents a comprehensive 3D analysis of vesicle behaviors under flow, revealing new dynamic regimes and robustness features that enhance understanding of blood flow mechanics.

Contribution

It introduces quantitative 3D analysis of vesicle flow behaviors and uncovers new qualitative features and parameter dependencies not previously documented.

Findings

Widening of VB mode region with increased shear rate

Robustness of TB and VB periods across shear rates

Analytical support for observed behaviors

Abstract

The study of vesicles under flow, a model system for red blood cells (RBCs), is an essential step in understanding various intricate dynamics exhibited by RBCs in vivo and in vitro. Quantitative 3D analyses of vesicles under flow are presented. The regions of parameters to produce tumbling (TB), tank-treating (TT), vacillating-breathing (VB) {and even Kayaking (K)} modes are determined. New qualitative features are found: (i) a significant widening of the VB mode region in parameter space upon increasing shear rate $\dot\gamma$ and (ii) a striking robustness of period of TB and VB with $\dot\gamma$. Analytical support is also provided. These findings shed new light on the dynamics of blood flow.