Fully developed mixed convection flow in a vertical channel with electrokinetic effects

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate electrokinetic and mixed convection (pressure gradient and buoyancy) effects on reverse flow formation at the channel walls. Design/methodology/approach The electrical potential distribution was modelled using the Poisson–Boltzmann equation while the governing momentum and energy equations are modelled from the Navier–Stokes equations and solved exactly. Findings It is found that flow reversal at the walls is enhanced by electrokinetic parameter whereas increasing degree of asymmetric parameter up to symmetric heating eliminates reverse flow formation at the walls no matter the electric charge distribution. Originality/value The results of this paper indicate that degree of asymmetric heating, mixed convection parameter and electrokinetic parameter regulate fluid velocity, rate of heat transfer, skin friction and reverse flow formation at the walls.