Author(s)

S. Woudberg

Abstract

An adaptable geometric pore-scale model is proposed to determine the effect of compression of a fibrous porousmedium on the permeability. The model is applied to a soft compressible polyester material typically found in pillows. Seven stages of compression of the porous medium are considered. The effect of compression on the micro-structural parameters is determined, because it directly affects the permeability and pressure drop predictions. The model is also adapted to account for the combined effects of compression and developing flow on permeability. A sensitivity analysis is performed to determine the effect of experimental errors on the permeability prediction. Keywords: permeability, porous media, compression, fluid dynamics, mathematical modelling, pressure drop, laminar, microstructure.

Keywords

Keywords: permeability, porous media, compression, fluid dynamics, mathematical modelling, pressure drop, laminar, microstructure.