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Nanoparticle dynamics and aggregation behavior in nanofluids: A particle-scale simulation study
Shun-Jie Wu1, Rong-Rong Cai1, Li-Zhi Zhang1
1South China University of Technology, Key Laboratory of Enhanced Heat Transfer and Energy Conservation of Education Ministry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangzhou, 510640, PR China.
Physical Review. E
|August 19, 2025
Summary
Nanofluid particle aggregation is influenced by Brownian motion (Br) and adhesion (Ad). Both factors have non-monotonic effects, with an optimal balance needed for effective aggregation and performance.
Area of Science:
- Nanofluidics
- Materials Science
- Computational Physics
Background:
- Particle aggregation significantly impacts nanofluid performance.
- Understanding nanoparticle dynamics at the particle scale is essential for accurate characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence mechanisms of Brownian number (Br) and adhesion number (Ad) on nanoparticle aggregation.
- To condense complex aggregation factors into two key dimensionless numbers.
Main Methods:
- Discrete Element Method coupled with Lattice Boltzmann Model and Immersed Moving Boundary (DEM-LBM-IMB) simulations.
- Analysis of particle dynamics: collision, adhesion, rebound, and separation.
- Comprehensive force analysis.
Main Results:
- Both Br and Ad exhibit non-monotonic effects on aggregation.
- Brownian motion initially promotes aggregation but inhibits it at excessive levels.
- Enhanced adhesion improves particle capture but excessive adhesion suppresses aggregation.
Conclusions:
- An aggregation phase diagram based on Br and Ad is proposed.
- The diagram provides insights into predicting nanofluid aggregation behavior.
- Experimental validation confirms the simulation findings.
