Airflow patterns in both sides of a realistic human nasal cavity for laminar and turbulent conditions

Abstract

Detailed data of air flow patterns can assist in the understanding of the physiological and pathological aspects of nasal breathing as well as the prediction of gas-particle flows. A computational model of a human nasal cavity was constructed from CT scans and air flow rates of 7.5L/min and 40L/min were simulated. The study obtained air flow patterns and its features such as pressure drop and airflow distribution and profiles for the left and right nasal cavities. The results were compared with each other while some results were compared with experimental and numerical data that were available. The flow patterns in the nasal valve and turbinate were studied in particular detail, since the airflow profiles in these regions have not been well investigated. Maximum velocities were found at the narrowest cross-sections at the nasal valve region. The airflow distribution showed airflow remaining close to the nasal septum wall and little flow reached the outer meatus regions. The role of the turbinates with respect to the airflow distribution and the possible health implications on the differences in the left and right cavities was briefly discussed.