Entropy generation and heat transfer performance analysis of a non-Newtonian NEPCM in an inclined chamber with complicated heater inside

Abstract

The present research deals with thermic energy storage structures based on nano-encapsulated phase change material with a complicated charger inside the storage system. Flow structures, heat transfer, and entropy generation performance are studied using the partial differential governing equations based on non-Newtonian nature of the working medium. Analysis has been performed numerically using the finite element method. Effects of the cavity inclination angle, inner charger structure, power-law index for non-Newtonian nature of the working liquid, Rayleigh number, and nanoparticles volume fraction on flow structures, entropy generation fields and temperature fields have been studied. It has been found that the considered dilatant working fluid is not effective for the heat transfer applications, because Nusselt number decreases with a growth of the power-law index. At the same time, the cavity inclination angle and inner heater structure can be effective parameters to manage the heat transfer and entropy generation.