Numerical exploration of the combined effects of non-linear thermal radiation and variable thermo-physical properties on the flow of Casson nanofluid over a wedge

Abstract

Purpose

The effect of non-linear thermal radiation and variable thermo-physical properties are investigated in the Falkner-Skan flow of a Casson nanofluid in the presence of magnetic field. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Selected bunch of similarity transformations are used to reduce the governing partial differential equations into a set of non-linear ordinary differential equations. The resultant equations are numerically solved using Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg fourth-fifth-order method along with shooting technique.

Findings

The velocity, temperature and concentration profiles are evaluated for several emerging physical parameters and are analyzed through graphs and tables in detail.

Research limitations/implications

This study only begins to reveal the research potential and pitfalls of research and publishing on boundary-layer flow, heat and mass transfer of Casson nanofluid past and the moving and static wedge-shaped bodies.

Originality/value

It is found that the presence of non-linear thermal radiation and variable properties has more influence in heat transfer. Furthermore, temperature profile increases as the radiation parameter increases.

Citation

M., A., B.J., G., B.C., P. and Reddy Gorla, R.S. (2017), "Numerical exploration of the combined effects of non-linear thermal radiation and variable thermo-physical properties on the flow of Casson nanofluid over a wedge", Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, Vol. 13 No. 4, pp. 628-647. https://doi.org/10.1108/MMMS-05-2017-0037