Magnetic-field tuning of thermal conductivity via bionic nanochain and droplet deformation

Abstract

Thermal conductivity of nanofluids has garnered widespread attention because of its potential applications in heat dissipation and insulation. There is a high need for advanced thermal management solutions on an urgent basis, which may rely on dynamic tuning of the thermal conductivity in liquid/solid system. Designing a controllable liquid/solid system has emerged as an effective strategy for achieving tunable heat transfer methods, which is a crucial problem for energy storage systems and electronic devices in energy conversions. In this study, magnetically dynamic tuning of liquid deformation and particle chains for heat transfer was explained. The particle movement in the droplet could be adjusted by an external magnetic intensity and direction, causing the liquid deformation and then altering the heat transfer. The dynamic tuning of heat transfer within different particle distributions was explained and verified. In particular, thermal conductivity of nanofluids within concentration gradient distribution and magnetic nano-chain was regulated by magnetic field. This work formed a magnetic-controlled nanofluid manipulation methodology and explained the heat transfer mechanism within magnetic nanoparticles movements, which can be utilized for thermal management of electronic devices by controlling the droplet and fluid.