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Origin of Surface-Driven Passive Liquid Flows.
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University , Syracuse, New York 13244, United States.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|August 3, 2016
Summary
This study explores passive liquid flow driven by solid-liquid surface tension, achieving high-heat flux removal near theoretical limits. Molecular simulations reveal strong, steady flows for advanced thermal management applications.
Area of Science:
- Fluid dynamics
- Surface science
- Thermal management
Background:
- Passive liquid flow is observed in nature and is crucial for thermal management devices.
- Current methods often rely on liquid-vapor surface tension (capillary, Marangoni flows).
- Solid-liquid surface tension offers an alternative driving force for passive liquid flow.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a fundamental molecular study on passive liquid flow driven by solid-liquid surface tension.
- To investigate the potential for high-heat flux removal using this mechanism.
- To develop empirical relations for flow characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Molecular simulations were used to estimate surface tension values at various temperatures.
- Differential heating of a liquid film over a surface was simulated.
- Flow velocity and evaporation rates were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Very strong passive liquid flows were achieved.
- Steady-state, continuous flow enabled high-heat flux removal.
- Performance approached the maximum theoretical limit predicted by kinetic theory.
- Nondimensional empirical relations were developed for surface tension gradient, flow velocity, and evaporation rate.
Conclusions:
- Solid-liquid surface tension is a viable and effective driver for passive liquid flow.
- This mechanism offers a promising solution for efficient thermal management.
- The developed empirical relations can aid in designing future systems.
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