Numerical simulation of heat transfer and nanoparticle transport in a nanofluid within a tumour surrounding a blood vessel

Abstract

A Newtonian nanofluid containing suspended nanoparticles can substantially improve heat transfer due to enhanced energy transport mechanisms. This theoretical study investigates heat and mass transfer in biological tissues using such a nanofluid under a magnetic field. These properties have promising medical and engineering applications. The nonlinear governing equations were transformed into ordinary differential equations using similarity variables and numerically solved with MATLAB boundary value problem solver bvp4c, subject to appropriate boundary conditions. Results demonstrated increasing the heat source parameter dramatically raised tumor interstitial temperature. This heating, along with improved nanoparticle accumulation within the tumor due to the thermal effects, are together essential for effective hyperthermia treatment. The model provides new insights into tuning heat and mass transport mechanisms in biological tissues via nanofluids for therapeutic applications. Therefore, the findings of this study may improve the efficacy of thermal therapy in treating cancer.