A Two-Phase Core-Plasma Model for Microvascular Blood Flow: Comparative Analysis of Hemodynamic Models

Microcirculatory blood flow exhibits complex non-Newtonian behavior, including shear-thinning properties and the formation of a cell-free layer (CFL)—a plasma-rich region near vessel walls. While traditional rheological models such as Newtonian, Power Law, and Carreau describe certain flow characteristics, and empirical models like the double-parameter power fit have been used to capture velocity profiles, these approaches fall short in fully characterizing the dynamic interplay between red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma. This study introduces the Core-Plasma Model, a two-phase framework that integrates Newtonian and non-Newtonian elements to represent the RBC-rich core and surrounding CFL. In vitro experiments in 25 µ m and 50 µ m round channels across varying flow rates, hematocrit levels (5–20%), and suspending media (PBS and native plasma) demonstrate the model’s superior ability to capture velocity and shear rate profiles. The Core-Plasma Model offers a robust platform for advancing microscale hemodynamic predictions and deepening the understanding of microvascular flow dynamics.