Rheology of Blood — Lesson 1

This lesson covers the concept of rheology, specifically focusing on the rheology of blood. It begins with the definition of rheology, which is the study of flow or current, and then delves into the work of renowned rheologists Prof. Eugene C. Bingham and Prof. Markus Reiner. The lesson further explains the difference between Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, with blood being an example of a non-Newtonian fluid. It also discusses the different behaviors of fluids, such as shear thinning, shear thickening, and viscoelastic behavior. The lesson concludes with an overview of the rheological models for non-Newtonian fluids and the specific rheological properties of suspensions.

Video Highlights

00:40 - Definition of rheology of and its origin
11:48 - Explanation of non-Newtonian fluids
15:09 - Discussion on the time independent behaviors of fluids
24:24 - Understanding different rheological models for non-Newtonian fluids
35:34 - Explanation of the rheological properties of suspensions

Key Takeaways

- Rheology is the study of flow or current, and it is a crucial concept in understanding the behavior of fluids.
- Blood is a non-Newtonian fluid, meaning it does not follow Newton's law of viscosity. It exhibits complex behaviors such as shear thinning, shear thickening, and viscoelastic behavior.
- Rheological models help in understanding and predicting the behavior of non-Newtonian fluids. These models include the Bingham plastic model, power law model, Herschel-Bulkley model, and Casson model.
- The rheological properties of blood are influenced by various factors, including the concentration, shape, and mechanical properties of the particles suspended in it.