An entropy approach to a cross-trihybrid nanofluid flow with nanolayer thickness

Purpose This study aims at analyzing the flow, temperature and concentration profiles of the trihybrid nanofluid for variation in various parameters. Additionally, entropy generation profiles are analyzed to maximize the efficiency of mechanical systems. Design/methodology/approach The current problem investigates a non-Newtonian cross trihybrid nanofluid consisting of MoS2, Ag and TiO2 nanoparticles suspended in a CMC–water base fluid numerically. Several characteristics of the nanofluid flow are analyzed by taking into account the impacts of the interfacial nanolayer of the nanoparticles. The spectral local linearization technique augmented with an overlapping-grid scheme is then used for the numerical processing. Findings The results reveal that the velocity profile increases with rise in Weissenberg number. The positive impact of magnetic parameter, curvature parameter, Biot number, temperature ratio, radiation parameter and Brinkman number on temperature profile is revealed in the study. Comparison of the Nusselt number for trihybrid, hybrid and mono nanofluid is analyzed highlighting the enhancement in Nusselt number with increase in number of type of nanoparticles. Research limitations/implications A 2D flow of a steady, incompressible and convective non-Newtonian cross trihybrid nanofluid is considered. Originality/value The influence of interfacial nanolayer on the flow of a trihybrid nanofluid remains under-researched. This investigation aims to bridge that gap. The impact of the interfacial nanolayer thickness on Nusselt number is studied. The findings are depicted and described in the form of various tables and graphs. Physical quantities of engineering significance, namely coefficient of skin friction, Nusselt number and Sherwood number are studied.