Implicit finite difference simulations for unsteady oscillating flow of Walters-B nanofluid with microbes using the Cattaneo–Christov model

Abstract

The thermal importance of nanoparticles in different fields of engineering is still a developing issue that necessitates additional focused consideration. The suspension of non-Newtonian fluids with nonmaterials has various applications in areas such as enhanced thermal systems, energy processes, aerospace engineering, and chemical industries. Following such motivations, this work aims to analyze the heat and mass transfer flow of Walters-B nanofluid in the presence of microorganisms. The fluid motion is presumed to be nonsteady over a surface that undergoes periodic acceleration. The motivations for studying nanofluid’s oscillating flow are its use in effective mixing processes, combustion stability, and process efficiency. The text provides a detailed explanation of the saturation of porous media. A modified theory for heat and mass fluxes, known as the Cattaneo–Christov approach, suggests an extension in heat equations. Moreover, it supports the interaction of radiation phenomena for enhancing heat transfer. It is noteworthy that the entire problem is represented using extremely nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs). The CFD study utilizing the renowned implicit finite difference method (FDM) has been effectively employed to propose a numerical solution for the problem. The numerical results are deemed valid and confirmed within certain limiting cases, based on the available data. The evaluation of velocity, skin friction coefficient, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number as a function of time has been demonstrated for various parameters. It is asserted that the wall shear force exhibited an oscillating pattern with a greater magnitude as a result of the viscoelastic parameter. The Nusselt number and Sherwood number exhibit slight acceleration as a result of changes in the Prandtl number and Schmidt number, respectively. The proposed model is specifically designed for use in heat exchangers, vibrational systems, compact designs, and vibration control.