Research Projects

Pool boiling heat transfer is a complex phenomenon with numerous applications in thermal and energy systems like heat exchangers and steam generators. The coolant phase change is a sought-after method to meet energy demands, but it can hamper heat transfer rates and damage the heated surface. This study aims to develop a molecular dynamics model framework to study bubble incipience and growth rate during nucleate pool boiling. Conventional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations require initial bubble seeding, making molecular dynamics (MD) based simulations ideal. The MD model framework will be validated against existing benchmark experimental and numerical data, and the methodology aspects will be improved by studying the influence of different boundary conditions on bubble nucleation. The study will also extend to simulating pool boiling characteristics of coolants like liquid sodium and R134a. The study will also analyze microscopic surface modifications to recommend suitable heated surface designs for enhanced heat transfer.