Diversified role of nanoparticle concentration and radiating heat on the natural convection Couette flow through a vertical channel

The study of steady natural convection Couette flow is vital in designing as well as the optimization of microfluidic devices, geothermal energy systems, cooling of electronic devices and systems, etc., due to several recent applications. The present investigation aims to analyze radiative heat transfer and dissipative energy in the free convection of Couette flow within a vertically positioned channel. Incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs), specifically single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), into the base fluid water enhances the flow phenomena. Additionally, the explanation of heat source/sink on the energy phenomenon encounters various properties. Further, suitable similarity variables are employed for the transformation of the governing equations. However, the homotopy perturbation method (HPM), an analytical approach, is used for the solution of the coupled ordinary differential equations. The thermophysical parameters and their impact are depicted through graphs, and the comparative analysis is presented via tables.

Graphical Abstract

• Explore the combined effects of CNT nanoparticle concentrations on the Couette flow through a vertical channel.

• The inclusion of radiating heat on free convection of nanofluid enriches the flow phenomena.

• The adaptation of various thermophysical properties, i.e., in particular, the thermal conductivity, shows its effectiveness on the heat transport phenomenon.

• Clarify different contributing parameters by using the homotopy analysis method.