Computational analysis of radon progeny deposition patterns in the human respiratory system

Abstract

In the last year, the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques has gained prominence as a powerful tool for modeling biological phenomena and influencing the design of biomedical devices. In this study, we utilized a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model to simulate airflow and the deposition of aerosol particles within the human respiratory tract. To achieve this, we meticulously constructed a 3D model of the human tracheobronchial airways using SolidWorks software. Our computational analyses encompassed a range of breathing conditions, ranging from 15 to 60 (L/min). Through the application of discrete phase modeling (DPM), we investigate the behavior of two-phase flow dynamics. Our focus lies in the examination of aerosol particles, with diameters ranging from 1 to 10 (μm), in order to evaluate the influence of aerosol particle size on deposition rates . Our findings encompass velocity contour maps, deposition rates of aerosol particles, and insights into the process of aerosol particle entrapment at various locations within the respiratory tract. Our study reveals a direct correlation between higher inhalation rates and larger aerosol particle sizes, resulting in increased deposition rates. Additionally, we observe a heightened deposition of aerosol-particles at bronchi region. These computational results hold significant value in estimating the distribution of doses resulting from radon progeny exposure in distinct anatomical regions of the respiratory tract. • Airflow and aerosol-particle deposition within the three-dimensional human respiratory tract under turbulent flow conditions have been studied. • This study focuses on examining the distribution of aerosol-particle deposition at various locations within the airway model. • It was found that more aerosol-particles are deposited at bronchi within the respiratory tract when compared to the deposition on the walls of the subsequent bronchi. • The current respiratory tract model is particularly well-suited for assessing internal doses resulting from short-range source aerosol-particles.