Stokes flow through microstructural model of fibrous media

Viscous flow through a two-dimensional model of fibrous media is analyzed. The periodic model is based on array of cylindrical fibres on a triangular lattice. The numerical approach consists in satisfying boundary conditions by using a least squares method applied to the analytical solution of Stokes motion around a cylinder. Our interest is in the drag force exerted on the array, and hence the permeability of such arrays. Results are given over the full porosity range. Furthermore, the flow structure analysis is carried out as a function of porosity. For low porosity values, recirculation motion composed of Stokes eddies are obtained that play an important role in pollution phenomena.