The use of pulsatile flow for energy efficient particle removal from surfaces is evaluated through modeling calculations. The governing equation for pulsatile flow in a channel between parallel plates with an oscillatory pressure input is solved and wall shear stress, identified as a measure for particle removal, calculated for fixed power input. It is observed that as the frequency of oscillation is increased the average wall shear stress with an oscillatory pressure input is higher than the corresponding steady state value only above a critical frequency. Similar results are obtained for pulsatile flow in a pipe. Explanation for this observation is presented based on how velocity profile changes as a function of frequency and consequently its effect on wall shear stress versus power dissipated. Based on these observations we propose that there is a critical frequency above which an oscillatory pressure input will be energy efficient for particle removal. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.