ABSTRACT
The mathematical modeling of the deposition and distribution of inhaled aerosols within human lungs is an invaluable tool in predicting both the health risks associated with inhaled environmental aerosols and the therapeutic dose delivered by inhaled pharmacological drugs. However, mathematical modeling of aerosol deposition requires knowledge of the intricate geometry of the respiratory network and the resulting complex motion of air and particles within the airways. In this chapter, an overview of the basic engineering theory and respiratory morphology required for deposition modeling is covered. Furthermore, current deposition modeling approaches are reviewed, and many factors affecting deposition are discussed. Experimental methods for measuring lung deposition are presented, albeit brieªy, and the comparison between experimental results and modeling predictions is examined for a selection of modeling efforts.
