Double-diffusive convective flow of hybrid nanofluid in an inverted T-shaped porous enclosure: A numerical study

Abstract

In this numerical study, a two-dimensional double-diffusive convective flow of a hybrid nanofluid in an inverted T-shaped porous media has been thoroughly investigated. The governing equations comprise the generalized Darcy-Forchheimer-Brinkman-based model along with the heat and mass transport equations. Furthermore, a penalty finite element approach has been employed for numerical simulation of the evolved mathematical model at the broad range of pertinent influencing parameters, including buoyancy ratio (N), Lewis number (Le), Darcy number (Da), and porosity value (ϵ) as a function of Rayleigh number (Ra). The results and discussion have been demonstrated through the results variations of streamlines, isotherms, isoconcentration, mean Nusselt (Nu_m), and Sherwood number (Sh_m) at the considered range of flow parameters. The results show that the smaller $\mathit{\text{Ra}}\le {10}^5$ values remain insignificant for convective heat and mass transport efficiency, whereas augmentation of $\mathit{\text{Ra}}\ge {10}^5$ reinforces these flows. Moreover, higher Ra values help in studying the real influence of other pertinent parameters. The increasing value of ϵ and Da strengthen the convection fluid, heat, and solute transfer intensity. In the case of Lewis number, a notable effect on improving the solute transport rate is more dominant than the heat transport rate. Similarly, the flow regime of fluid and solute, as well as heat and mass transfer rate, are significantly influenced by ranging values of buoyancy ratio ($-4\le N\le 4$). The buoyancy-added flow (N > 1) improves the convective strength of heat and mass flow rate more effectively than the buoyancy-opposed flow (N < 1). Furthermore, the variation of Nu_m and Sh_m justify the results interpreted in each flow parameter.

Keywords:

• Double-diffusion
• hybrid-nanofluid
• natural convection
• porous media
• T-shaped

Acknowledgments

The first author sincerely expresses heartfelt gratitude and deep appreciation for the unwavering financial support and invaluable opportunities provided by the parent institution, DIAT Pune, throughout his Ph.D. program.

Authors’ contributions

First author (Sumant Kumar): The first author primarily contributed to the conceptualization, design, and development of the mathematical model, including formulating equations, conducting data analysis, performing simulations, result verification, and taking the lead in writing the original draft.

Second (B.V.Rathish Kumar) and third author (S.V.S.S.N.V.G.Krishna Murthy): The second and third author provided guidance, supervision, and contributed to the refinement of the model and manuscript.

Fourth author (Deepika Parmar): The fourth author contributed to the finalization of the manuscript through reviewing and editing.

Availability of data and materials

Any relevant data may be available by the corresponding author on a reasonable request.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.