Dynamics of heat transfer in complex fluid systems: Comparative analysis of Jeffrey, Williamson and Maxwell fluids with chemical reactions and mixed convection

Abstract

This study addresses the complex dynamics of heat transfer in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) systems involving Jeffrey, Williamson, Maxwell, and Newtonian fluids, focusing on how chemical reactions, activation energy, porosity, and mixed convection impact fluid behavior. The problem is critical due to the significant influence these factors have on industrial processes and applications involving non-Newtonian fluids. The developed a mathematical model represented by partial differential equations (PDEs), which were solved using similarity transformations and the fourth order Runge-Kutta (R-K) method combined with shooting technique, with MATLAB software facilitating the solution process. The results reveal that variations in magnetic field strength, porosity, and buoyancy force significantly affect fluid velocities, while radiation, Brownian motion, and thermophoresis alter temperature profiles. Furthermore, chemical reaction rates, Schmidt number, relaxation constant, and activation energy influence fluid concentrations. Key findings include that increasing porosity and magnetic field strength generally decreases fluid velocity, while higher radiation and Prandtl numbers reduce temperature. Chemical reactions and activation energy decrease fluid concentrations, with non-Newtonian fluids showing more pronounced effects compared to Newtonian fluids. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive analysis of multiple interacting parameters and their combined effects on heat transfer in MHD systems, providing insights that extend beyond previous studies in the literature. This research offers valuable implications for optimizing fluid dynamics in various industrial applications, including food processing, ink formulation, and friction reduction.

Keywords

• Maxwell fluid
• Williamson fluid
• Jeffrey fluid
• Newtonian fluid
• Mixed convection
• Porous medium