Comparison of single-phase and two-phase models on Hydrodynamic and thermal performance prediction of nanofluid

In this paper, single and two-phase CFD models are introduced for predicting the thermo-hydraulic behavior of nanofluids. In single-phase models, behavior of nanofluid is similar to that of observed in conventional fluids and interactions between particles and base fluid are negligible. In two-phase models, interactions between nanoparticles and base fluid is taken into consideration. Both models showed the identical prediction for the heat transfer behavior, however, the temperature distribution of nanofluid was different, since in two-phase model, the parameters affecting the heat transfer are considered in the model. At low concentrations of nanofluid, it is a logical assumption to ignore the influence of dispersed phase (nanoparticle) on the flow field (continuous phase). Thus, the single phase is suitable for low-concentration nanofluids, while two-phase model is appropriate for nanofluids with high concentrations. Overall, one can use single or two-phase models depending on the type of problem, available computational facilities and accuracy.