Heat transfer analysis of magnetized fluid flow induced by the tips of motile complex wavy cilia in a curved passage

This study investigates the impact of heat transfer on viscous fluid motion induced by coordinated wavy ciliary activity within a curved microchannel, highlighting the role of an externally applied magnetic field. Cilia-driven flows are vital in physiological processes such as mucociliary clearance, cerebrospinal fluid circulation, and sperm motility. The governing equations of motion and energy are formulated in curvilinear coordinates to account for channel curvature and oscillatory wall motion, under the creeping flow approximation. The dimensionless system is analytically solved using Mathematica’s DSolve function, analyzing velocity, pressure, temperature, stream function, and heat flux. Results reveal that magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effects introduce resistance, requiring stronger ciliary forces for propulsion. Velocity initially increases under moderate magnetic field and curvature but diminishes at higher intensities due to Lorentz damping and geometric constraints. Temperature rises with increasing Brinkman number, magnetic parameter, and Biot number, highlighting enhanced viscous heating, electromagnetic effects, and wall convection. Magnetic strength and curvature significantly influence the pressure gradient and net pressure rise. Additionally, the magnetic field reduces trapped fluid regions, promoting more efficient transport. These insights are valuable for optimizing microfluidic and biomedical systems, such as lab-on-a-chip devices, enhancing fluid mixing, targeted drug delivery, and thermal management.