Heat transfer and fluid flow are fundamental to the efficiency, sustainability, and reliability of modern energy systems. Rapid global increases in energy consumption, combined with growing environmental concerns, underscore the importance of optimizing these processes. Critical questions remain regarding the ability of existing technologies to meet these twin challenges of energy efficiency improvement and emission reduction, prompting a shift in research efforts towards innovative and more effective solutions. Recent studies have revealed promising methods utilizing advanced materials, micro- and nano-scale fluids, phase-change phenomena, and multiphase fluid flows to create significant improvements in heat management and fluid dynamics within energy-related components and equipment. Despite notable advancements, there still exists a substantial gap between research innovation in this area and real-world implementation.

This Research Topic aims to bridge the existing disconnect between theoretical developments and practical applications by presenting cutting-edge research, innovative methodologies, and new technologies that significantly enhance heat transfer processes and fluid flow management in various energy systems. This topic seeks to answer critical research questions concerning the optimization of thermal management systems, the development and characterization of advanced heat exchange materials and fluids, the role and efficacy of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), and the performance improvement achievable through advanced multiphase flow and phase-change phenomena. The overarching objective is to promote the establishment of more sustainable, reliable, and energy-efficient thermal systems capable of supporting global energy demands while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.

To gather further insights within the context of optimizing heat transfer and fluid flow across various scales and methods of energy systems, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Advanced heat and mass transfer modeling and experimentation
o Innovative micro and nano-fluids in heat transfer enhancement
o Novel methods for enhancing heat exchange processes and devices
o Fundamental mechanisms and applications of phase-change phenomena (e.g., boiling, evaporation, condensation, frosting, icing)
o Multiphase flow management strategies and performance analysis
o Development of high-performance heat exchangers
o Integration of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) for improved heat transfer and fluid dynamics
o Emerging advanced heat transfer materials and engineered technologies
o Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based approaches for fluid flow optimization

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Advanced approaches for enhancing heat transfer and fluid flow efficiency in sustainable energy systems

Topic Coordinator