Lattice Boltzmann simulations: flow-through PCR

This paper describes the lattice Boltzmann, numerical simulations used to evaluate a conduction-based PCR device (U. Texas) for uniformity of the micro channel temperature profile and its velocity field distribution. For comparison purposes, numerical simulations were also performed using conventional PCR configurations. The results show that simulations in two-dimensions demonstrate adequate performance of both the conventional and the heat conduction-based PCR systems. However, three-dimensional results indicate that nearly uniform wall temperatures (top, bottom and sides) are required to obtain uniform temperature fields in the PCR micro channels.