Heat transfer and fluid flow in compact energy systems and microelectronics cooling devices

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This proposal is concerned with modeling of the thermal-fluid performance characteristics of complex internal flow systems and development of new technologies for next generation applications. Simple and complex flow architecture is found in compact heat transfer devices for refrigeration, electronics cooling, automotive cooling, solar heating, and in countless other process flows. Complex flows are also found in new compact energy devices such as fuel cells, micro fluidic "lab on chip" devices, micro-systems, MEMS, and other next generation technologies. There is a need for fundamental study, both theoretical and experimental, to better ascertain the performance characteristics and to develop predictive models for use in specialized or generic simulation codes. This proposal aims to study several fundamental problems now facing designers of systems utilizing compact and micro-flow architecture. Three key focus areas have been chosen for this grant cycle. These include: single and two phase flow in micro- and mini-channels, optimal design of compact and enhanced heat transfer devices, and experimental and theoretical modelling of multiphase and non-Newtonian flows. As part of this work, we also expect that new cooling concepts will be developed with working prototypes being constructed to demonstrate feasibility.These improved concepts will be smaller and more efficient than their predecessors.