Role of impregnated lubricant in enhancing thermosyphon performance

We report on the optimal configuration for enhanced heat transfer performance of a two-phase closed thermosyphon (TPCT), incorporating a superhydrophilic (SHi) evaporator with a slippery lubricant infused porous surface (SLIPS) condenser (TPCT-SHiSL). For the conditions examined, the overall heat transfer performance of the TPCT-SHiSL was enhanced by as much as 28.9% compared to the other configurations proposed. This enhancement is attributed to the use of SLIPS as the condenser, which promotes the condensation heat transfer and the overall heat transfer performance. Moreover, we illustrate the importance of pairing the SLIPS condenser with a SHi evaporator, in order to minimize lubricant absorption at the evaporator. Additionally, the heat transfer performance of the TPCT-SHiSL was evaluated over time and consistent results were observed even after 16 experimental runs (192 h in 90 days), demonstrating good durability of the TPCT-SHiSL. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.