Mixed bioconvection stagnation point flow towards a vertical plate in alumina-copper/water

Abstract

Purpose

According to the previous research, bioconvection has been recognized as an important mechanism in current engineering and environmental systems. For example, researchers exploit this mechanism in modern green bioengineering to develop environmentally friendly fuels, fuel cells and photosynthetic microorganisms. This study aims to analyse how this type of convection affects the flow behaviour and heat transfer performance of mixed convection stagnation point flow in alumina-copper/water hybrid nanofluid. Also, the impact of a modified magnetic field on the boundary layer flow is considered.

Design/methodology/approach

By applying appropriate transformations, the multivariable differential equations are transformed into a specific sort of ordinary differential equations. Using the bvp4c procedure, the adjusted mathematical model is revealed. Once sufficient assumptions are provided, multiple solutions are able to be produced.

Findings

The skin friction coefficient is declined when the nanoparticle concentration is increased in the opposing flow. In contrast, the inclusion of aligned angles displays an upward trend in heat transfer performance. The presence of several solutions is established, which simply leads to a stability analysis, hence verifies the viability of the initial solution.

Originality/value

The current findings are unique and novel for the investigation of mixed bioconvection flow towards a vertical flat plate in a base fluid with the presence of hybrid nanoparticles.

Citation

Zainal, N.A., Nazar, R., Naganthran, K. and Pop, I. (2022), "Mixed bioconvection stagnation point flow towards a vertical plate in alumina-copper/water", International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, Vol. 32 No. 11, pp. 3413-3438. https://doi.org/10.1108/HFF-10-2021-0693