The numerical modeling of cell freezing in binary solution under subcooling conditions

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to describe and investigate the mathematical models and numerical modeling of how a cell membrane is affected by a transient ice freezing front combined with the influence of thermal fluctuations and anisotropy. Design/methodology/approach The study consists of mathematical modeling, validation with an analytical solution, and shows the influence of thermal noises on phase front dynamics and how it influences the freezing process of a single red blood cell. The numerical calculation has been modeled in the framework of the phase field method with a Cahn–Hilliard formulation of a free energy functional. Findings The results show an influence scale on directional phase front propagation dynamics and how significant are stochastic thermal noises in micro-scale freezing. Originality/value The numerical calculation has modeled in the framework of the phase field method with a Cahn–Hilliard formulation of a free energy functional.