Multiscale modelling of nucleate boiling on nanocoatings for electronics cooling—From nanoscale to macroscale

Abstract

This paper presents a review of the latest experimental and theoretical studies on enhancing boiling/evaporative heat transfer using nanofabricated porous coatings, with potential applications in the fields of electronics thermal management. It is proposed that the key to enhanced heat transfer lies in optimal design of nanostructures that can activate a reduced/negative pressure through nanoscale evaporation, allow continuous liquid microflow through the porous nanostructures, and facilitate bubble release from the coating. In this point of view, a multiscale predictive approach that covers a wide size range from nanoscale to the system size is critical. We propose this can be achieved by combing Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM), and Two-Fluid Model (TFM) in a coupled way, with the MD addressing the generation of negative pressure, LBM modelling the liquid microflow, and TFM simulating the two-phase coolant flows. The comprehensive modelling strategy will provide a mechanistic all-in-one simulation of the complex multiscale process, and greatly boost the design of optimal nanostructures.