The effects of magnetic field and thermal radiation on the mixed convection of Al2O3-Cu/water hybrid nanofluid over a permeable vertical flat plate

Abstract

This study comprehensively investigates the effect of magnetic fields and thermal radiation on mixed convection in a hybrid alumina–copper/water nanofluid flowing over a permeable vertical flat plate. The study aims to model conventional nanofluid behavior accurately by considering the hybridization of two types of nanoparticles. Conventional similarity transformations and Akbari–Ganji’s method are employed to simplify the governing equations, resulting in ordinary differential equations. Among the dual solutions obtained, only one stable solution is identified. The key findings reveal that boundary layer separation can be avoided by reducing the copper concentration volume and increasing the magnetic and radiation parameters. The mixed convection parameters induce counter-flow, enhancing heat transfer when the magnetic and radiation parameters increase and the copper concentration volume decreases. Conversely, increasing the concentration volume of copper leads to accelerated boundary layer separation and reduced measured physical quantities. Overall, the mixed convection parameter enhances skin friction and heat transfer rates, particularly in the achievable solution. The accuracy of the proposed method is validated through a comparison with the finite element method (FEM). The graphical presentation of the results facilitates a clearer interpretation of the study’s findings.