Numerical study of unsteady nonlinear convective flow of a nanofluid over a vertical plate with variable fluid properties

Abstract

This study examines heat transfer in a two-dimensional flow of nano liquid ($\text{Cu}-{\text{H}}_2\text{O}$) over a linearly elongated sheet under magnetic field with temperature-dependent thermophysical properties. A numerical investigation using the Homotopy perturbation technique is carried out to analyse the heat transfer in the flow by considering the quadratic form of Boussinesq approximation, and thermal radiation. The importance of the parameters affecting the  momentum and thermal characteristics of the flow is analysed through 2D plots, streamlines, and surface plots. Further, a regression model for the Nusselt number and friction factor is constructed to check the statistical significance of the parameters involved in the model. The findings indicate a smooth transition from the initial unsteady state to the final steady state. Moreover, the quadratic or non-linear convection parameter, heat source/sink parameter, improves the rate of heat transfer and magnetic parameter, and the angle of inclination diminishes the friction factor.

KEYWORDS:

• Nanofluid
• Boussinesq approximation
• quadratic thermal radiation
• variable viscosity and thermal conductivity
• regression analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.