A Galerkin finite element-based study of MHD mixed convective of Ostwald-de Waele nanofluids in a lid-driven wavy chamber

Abstract

This paper presents a Galerkin finite element-based study investigating the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) mixed convective behavior of Ostwald-de Waele nanofluids in a lid-driven wavy chamber. The study addresses a critical aspect of heat transfer with applications in diverse fields, including nuclear power plants and solar thermal collectors. Utilizing Galerkin finite element methods, we analyze the complex interplay of factors in the 2D stable motion of nanofluids. Our investigation involves a comparative analysis of thermal Grashof numbers, emphasizing their impact on the thermo-hydrodynamic behavior within the chamber. Additionally, the magnetic field effects, characterized by parameters such as Hartmann number, Reynolds number, Darcy number, power-law index, and undulation number, are systematically explored. The study introduces geometric representations for understanding the isothermal behaviors of Ostwald-de Waele nanofluids. The findings underscore the significance of physical factors, including the transition to turbulent flow, increased porosity, enhanced nanoparticle strength, and smaller particle sizes, in influencing fluid flow within the chamber. Notably, at the highest Reynolds number, elevating Grashof and Darcy numbers enhances the Nusselt number by 3% and 19%, respectively, while a reduction in the Hartmann number leads to a remarkable 23% increase. This Galerkin finite element-based study provides a comprehensive examination of MHD mixed convective behavior in a lid-driven wavy chamber with Ostwald-de Waele nanofluids. The results offer quantitative insights into the intricate dynamics of nanofluid heat transfer and contribute novel perspectives to the existing literature.

Keywords

• Thermal performance
• Power-law nano-liquid
• Lid-driven chamber, Wavy Cavity
• Mixed convection
• Heat transfer flow
• Finite Element Method