Thermo-hydraulic performance analysis of multi-layer porous fin microchannels

This study investigates the thermal performance improvements of multi-layer porous fins compared to solid and single-layer porous fins. A simulation method is utilized to determine the effects of different porous properties and height ratios on thermo-hydraulic performance. The investigation indicates that multi-layer porous fins enhance thermal performance at lower permeability and porosity. This enhancement is attributed to improved convection within the porous fin and a more uniform temperature distribution across the fin. For instance, there is a 19.7 % reduction in thermal resistance when the porosity is 0.75 and the permeability of the lower layer is Kl=5×10−10m2. Furthermore, multi-layer fins maintain superior thermal efficiency at high permeability and porosity, making them versatile for various engineering applications. At high porosity and permeability, two-layer porous fins have the best thermo-hydraulic performance among multi-layer designs. The porous properties determine the number of layers required to enhance thermo-hydraulic performance. It is recommended to use a single-layer porous fin at low porosity and high permeability. However, at low porosity and permeability, employing a three-layer porous fin enhances the thermo-hydraulic performance of the microchannel.