A review of modelling approaches to heat and mass transfers in porous wicks

Abstract

This chapter covers the latest development in the modelling of heat and mass transfers in porous wicks in relation with the study of conventional heat pipes and loop heat pipes. The main numerical approaches are analyzed and the advantages and drawbacks of direct methods (Navier- Stokes-VOF, LBM, etc), semi-direct methods (pore network models) and mean field classical methods (Darcy’s scale) are discussed. The new prospects associated with the emergent concept of digital porous media are presented and discussed. Open problems in this area of research are also briefly presented.