Exploring the Application of the Multiphase Eulerian Model for Nanofluids in Microchannel at Elevated Volume Fractions

This study focuses on modeling of Al₂O₃-water nanofluids energy transport in a microchannel using multiphase Eulerian model. The study of the Knudsen number showed that continuum can be assumed above volume fraction 2.5%. Therefore, conservation equations can be used to solve both phases separately. In addition to conservation equation, an effort has been made to model fluid-solid interaction, solid-solid interaction, and interphase heat transfer. Various phenomenon such as shear viscosity, bulk viscosity, granular temperature, wall lubrication forces, virtual mass forces, lift, and drag forces are modelled. Moreover, interphase heat transfer is modelled. Finally, this comprehensive model is used to study heat transfer enhancement of Al₂O₃-water nanofluids with volume fraction of 3%, 4%, 5%, and 6%. It is found that the heat transfer increases with increase in volume fraction of the solid phase in the range considered in this study. The comparison of the average heat transfer coefficient of water with Al₂O₃-water nanofluids showed that heat transfer coefficient enhancement of 9.35%, 14.48%, 19.1%, and 23.5% at volume fraction of 3%, 4%, 5%, and 6%, respectively.