Impact of shape factors on the flow of Ree–Eyring hybrid nanofluid with Thompson–Troian boundary conditions: an irreversibility analysis

Purpose This study aims to investigate the heat and mass transfer characteristics of the Ree–Eyring hybrid nanofluid flowing over a stretchable sheet under Thompson–Troian boundary conditions. The analysis explores the influence of key parameters, including thermal radiation, chemical reactions, nanoparticle shapes (platelet and cylindrical) and magnetic field effects. Design/methodology/approach The governing equations of the study are transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using appropriate similarity transformations. The resulting system is solved numerically using the bvp4c method. Additionally, an irreversibility analysis is conducted to examine the behaviour of the Bejan number and entropy generation in relation to relevant parameters. To ensure the reliability of the results, a comparative analysis is performed against previously published data under similar conditions. Findings Fluid velocity is augmented by the Weissenberg number but diminished by the nanoparticle volume fraction and magnetic field. Temperature is enhanced by thermal radiation, nanoparticle volume fraction, Dufour number and Eckert number. Mass transfer is influenced by Soret and chemical reaction parameters, with an inverse relationship observed between the Sherwood number and Soret number. Research limitations/implications The current study has several limitations that warrant attention for future research. The analysis relies solely on numerical simulations using the bvp4c method, which, while effective, lacks experimental validation. The study assumes constant thermophysical properties and neglects the induced magnetic field, which may not hold in practical applications where properties can vary with temperature and concentration. The hybrid nanofluid is also treated as a single-phase fluid, ignoring critical phenomena such as nanoparticle agglomeration, sedimentation and interfacial effects. These simplifications may limit the model’s ability to fully capture the complex behaviour of nanofluids in industrial or engineering systems. Originality/value While previous studies on hybrid nanofluid flows have predominantly focused on Newtonian fluids, this research addresses a critical gap by examining the non-Newtonian behaviour of Ree–Eyring hybrid nanofluids, which are known for their superior thermal properties. The inclusion of Thompson–Troian boundary conditions, cross-diffusion effects and the impact of nanoparticle shape further enhances the novelty and complexity of the study. By exploring these aspects, the research provides valuable insights into the unique behaviour of Ree–Eyring hybrid nanofluids and their potential applications in thermal systems.