A comprehensive review on micro/nanoscale surface modification techniques for heat transfer enhancement in heat exchanger

Improving heat exchanger thermal-hydraulic efficiency is of utmost importance for energy conversion and can be carried out through various techniques which are divided into active and passive methods. Advancing nanotechnology in surface modification produces fantastic advances and high potential for heat transfer enhancement in heat exchangers. Research has shown that a micro/nano surface improves heat transfer by inducing turbulence and fluid mixing in single phase heat exchangers. Modified surface in a phase change heat exchanger promotes prompt vaporized bubble release and enhances communication between nucleation sites for easier liquid transport in boiling, while a condenser engineered surface improves heat transfer by switching thin film to dropwise condensation (DWC) or jumping droplet condensation. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive view of the latest status of the application of micro/nanoscale surface modification techniques in heat exchanger for heat transfer intensification. In addition, the heat transfer enhancing mechanism and recommended future research directions are addressed for both single and phase change heat exchanger. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the methods of improving heat exchanger thermal-hydraulic efficiency through micro/nanoscale surface modification techniques. The results show that modified surfaces have great potential in enhancing heat transfer efficiency in heat exchangers by inducing turbulence and fluid mixing.