Particle shape effects on Marangoni convection boundary layer flow of a nanofluid

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the particle shape effects on Marangoni convection boundary layer flow of a nanofluid. The paper aims to discuss diverse issues befell for the said model. Design/methodology/approach The work undertaken is a blend of numerical and analytical studies. Analytical and numerical solutions of nonlinear coupled equations are developed by means of Mathematica package BVPh 2.0 based on the homotopy analysis method. Findings The velocity of nanofluid decreases by increasing particle volume friction and similarity parameters. With the increase in particle volume friction and similarity parameter, temperature profile is correspondingly enhanced and decline. The lowest velocity and highest temperature of nanofluid is cause by needle- and disc-shaped particle. Consequence for interface velocity and the surface temperature gradient are perceived by numeric set of results. It is found that the interface velocity is declined by increasing particle volume friction and volume concentration of ethylene glycol in the water. The minimum interface velocity is seen by needle-shaped particle and 30 percent concentrations of ethylene glycol. With increase in volume friction and size of particle, the behaviors of surface temperature gradient are found decreasing and increasing function, respectively. The maximum heat transfer rate at the surface is achieved when we chose sphere nanoparticles and 90 percent concentrations of ethylene glycol as compared to other shapes and concentrations. Originality/value This model is investigated for the first time, as the authors know.