Effect of Janus balance on the thermal conductivity of nanofluid

Abstract

Nanofluids exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity over conventional fluids. Modification of nanoparticle surfaces with distinct chemical properties (Janus particles) can improve thermal conductivity. Using molecular dynamics, we examined how wetting balances of Janus particles impact thermal conductivity. Our results demonstrate that Janus particles can enhance thermal conductivity more than homogeneous nanoparticles. Interestingly, the excess wetting surface area decreases the enhancement. Structural analysis reveals this change in thermal conductivity correlates with the density of solvents in the interfacial layer around the nanoparticle. Moreover, the dynamics of the nanoparticle do not enhance the thermal conductivity under homogeneous temperature fields.