Guests of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation at TU Darmstadt

My field of research is fascinating. To laymen I would explain it in the following comprehensible manner:

Energy transfer at small length scales (of nano- meter dimensions) occurs due to interaction at the molecular/energy carrier level. However, when studying energy transport at larger scales (of milli-meter dimensions and above) the phenomenon at the molecular level is too rigorous to be kept track of and therefore the cumulative behavior of these energy carriers is assigned to certain macroscopic properties such as temperature, pressure and density. This approach has been fairly accurate when modeling phenomenon at large length and time scales. However with the recent technological advancements in microelectronics, biotechnology and allied fields, the phenomena at small scales are gaining prominence and hence new numerical and experimental methods are to be devised to probe into the behavior of these energy carriers at nanoscale dimensions. My field of research involves exploring techniques that are not only accurate but also pragmatic enough to be applied in understanding energy transport at small scales. The current knowledge on the behavior of fluids at micro/nanodimensions is still rudimentary while the potential in creating new applications based on an enhanced understanding is immense.

My most important success in research to date is…

In successfully applying a novel numerical technique called ‘Lattice Boltzmann Method’ to nanofluid heat transfer prediction. This method can comprehensively model all the slip mechanisms between nanoparticles and the base fluid which is essential in understanding the behavior of nanofluids towards thermal management.

I’ve chosen the TU Darmstadt because of…

It’s excellent reputation in the field of mechanical engineering in general and thermal sciences in particular. The Institute for Technical Thermodynamics (TTD) chaired by Prof. Peter Stephan is well renowned for its contributions in developing novel numerical and experimentation techniques with excellent infrastructure in the areas of two phase flows with heat transfer, microfluidics, films and drops and heat transfer enhancement techniques. Since my field of research syncs closely with that of Prof. Stephan’s group, TU Darmstadt is therefore an appropriate choice.

If I were a student today, I would…

Re-take courses on linear algebra, differential equations, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer at TU Darmstadt which are quintessential in gaining insight into thermal sciences.

The perfect balance to a stressful working day is…

To synergize the modes of thinking, discussion, and work in order to beat monotony and create a fine balance between life and work.

With the help of my host in Darmstadt I would like to…

Explore and gain expertise in the area of two-phase flow and heat transfer in which I am a novice. Keep my stay at TU Darmstadt productive and fruitful for my research. Prepare a platform for a sustainable collaboration with Prof. Stephan in the area of micro scale heat transfer.

Guest of: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Stephan

Department: Mechanical Engineering

You appreciate in your guest / your guest favourably impressed you by…

• The impressing work and publications on heat pipes and the related investigations of the hydrodynamics well as the two-phase heat transport phenomena,
• The very clear vision and plan for the research exchange with our institute at TU Darmstadt including the perfect match of his and our specific expertise in the field,
• His very open minded and friendly personality which will make it very easy, pleasant and fruitful to work together.

You, your team and the TU Darmstadt benefit from your guest’s…

expertise in simulating temperature gradient driven pulsating flow. We will receive also fruitful advice within the group of PhD candidates from a different perspective by Prof. Pattamatta,and we will build the basis for a long-term collaboration in the field of heat pipes and microscale heat transfer.