Exploring the impact of stratification on the dynamics of bioconvective thixotropic fluid conveying tiny particles and Cattaneo-Christov model: Thermal storage system application

Abstract

Stratified thermal storage promotes energy sustainability by storing excess energy during times of low demand for later use making it possible to integrate renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This communication discusses the significance of triple stratification using the Cattaneo-Christov model in the bioconvective flow of thixotropic fluid coexisting with nanoparticles and gyrotactic microorganisms. The Cattaneo-Christov heat and mass flux is incorporated into the fluid model allowing more accurate prediction of heat and mass phenomena in the fluid system. The governing partial differential equations that describe fluid flow are parametrized to yield an ordinary differential equation system by adopting suitable transformations. The series solutions are obtained by applying the homotopy analysis method (HAM). The effects of relevant parameters on the various profiles are revealed and accurately reported. It is observed that amplified thermal stratification lowers the temperature of the fluid. Also, Brownian motion is used to illustrate the random movement of small particles suspended in liquids, and it is envisioned that the concentration distribution is significantly influenced by the Brownian motion of nanoparticles.

Keywords

• Cattaneo-Christov model
• Stratification
• Bioconvection
• Nanofluid
• Homotopy analysis method
• Renewable energy systems