Three dimensional mesoscopic simulation of magnetic field effect on natural convection of nanofluid

In this paper magnetohydrodynamics nanofluid hydrothermal treatment in a cubic cavity heated from below is presented. The mathematical model consists of continuity and the momentum equations, while a new model is proposed to see the effects Brownian motion on the effective viscosity and thermal conductivity of nanofluid. The Lattice Boltzmann method is utilized to simulate three dimensional problems. The Koo-Kleinstreuer-Li correlation is also taken into account. Numerical calculation is made for different values of Hartmann number, nanoparticle volume fraction and Rayleigh number. The results are presented graphically in terms of streamlines, isotherms and isokinetic energy as well as Nusselt number. It is observed that the applying magnetic field results in a force opposite to the flow direction that leads to drag the flow and then reduces the convection currents by reducing the velocities. Also it can be concluded that Nusselt number is an increasing function of Rayleigh number and nanofluid volume fraction while it is a decreasing function of Hartmann number. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.