Nanofluid flow and heat transfer due to natural convection in a semi-circle/ellipse annulus using modified lattice Boltzmann method

Purpose This paper aims to numerically investigate the nanofluid flow, heat transfer and entropy generation during natural convection in an annulus. Design/methodology/approach The lattice Boltzmann method is used to simulate the velocity and temperature fields. Furthermore, some special modifications are applied to make the lattice Boltzmann method capable for simulation in the curved boundary conditions. The annulus is filled with CuO-water nanofluid. The dynamic viscosity of nanofluid is estimated using KLL (Koo-Kleinstreuer-Li) model, and the nanoparticle shape effect is taken account in calculating the thermal conductivity. On the other hand, the local/volumetric entropy generation is used to show the irreversibility under influence of different parameters. Findings The effect of considered governing parameters including Rayleigh number (103< 106); nanoparticle concentration (0<<0.04) and configuration of annulus on the flow structure; temperature field; and local and total entropy generation and heat transfer rate are presented. Originality/value The originality of this work is using of lattice Boltzmann method is simulation of natural convection in a curved configuration and using of Koo-Kleinstreuer-Li correlation for simulation of nanofluid.