Numerical Investigation of Particle Inhalation from Ambient Environment and Deposition in Human Nasal Cavity Using an Integrated Manikin Model

Particle inhalation from the ambient environment and particle deposition in the respiratory tracts are numerically investigated using an integrated breathing human manikin which includes detailed facial features as well as nasal cavity, laryngopharynx and trachea. Visualized and quantitative results including the airflow field, particle tracks and particle inhalation and deposition patterns are obtained. Compared with the previous studies which dealt with particle inhalation and deposition separately, this integrated method provides a comprehensive method for assessment of health risk associated with particle inhalation since it make it possible to trace particles from their source in the environment into their deposition locations in the respiratory tracts. More importantly, this method eliminates the information loss of velocity profile at the nostrils, which leads to a more accurate prediction.