Entropy generation analysis for nanofluid flow in a stationary cone-disk system

Purpose Cone-disk systems have applications in industrial, pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. This study aims to develop a mathematical model to study the heat and mass transfer characteristics of TiO2-H2O nanofluid flow in a stationary cone-disk system (SCDS), considering the modified Buongiorno nanofluid model (MBNM). The research provides new insights into the effects of swirling flow, nanoparticle interactions, heat/mass transfer features and entropy production in an SCDS. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the MBNM with experimental correlations for the nanofluid’s viscosity and thermal conductivity. The mathematical model comprises of Navier–Stokes momentum equation, convection-diffusion equation for the energy and nanoparticle volume fraction and the incompressibility constraint equation. The governing equations, along with the relevant boundary conditions, are transformed from partial differential form to ordinary differential form using the self-similar transformations derived through Lie-group theory. The resulting two-point boundary value problem is solved numerically. A second-law thermodynamic analysis is conducted to investigate the entropy generation within the system. In addition, desirability function and response surface methodology are used to simultaneously optimize the rate of heat and nanoparticle mass transfer on the disk surface. Findings The results reveal that non-swirling flow conditions lead to higher rates of heat and nanoparticle mass transfer compared to swirling flows. Parametric analysis demonstrates the influence of key nanofluid parameters on entropy generation and transport phenomena. Optimal values of three influential parameters were identified to maximize heat and mass transport at the disk surface. Originality/value This research offers a novel application of the modified Buongiorno model in the context of an SCDS. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no prior studies have examined entropy generation in the SCDS configuration while simultaneously performing a sensitivity analysis aimed at optimizing heat and mass transfer. The findings contribute to improved thermal system designs in nanofluid-based applications.