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107 articles for “Effective thermal conductivity”
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Thermo-Fluid Characterization of Corrugated U-Tube Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger with Polymer Composite Tube Wall: A Combined CFD and Experimental Investigation
Abstract: Shell-and-tube heat exchangers built with metallic tubes work well thermally, but corrosion problems, extra weight, and the inability to adjust the wall’s thermal properties through material choice remain genuine engineering headaches, particularly for corrosive or weight-critical applications. Over the past few years there has been a fair amount of interest in replacing metal tubes with polymer composite alternatives, since blending thermally conductive fillers — graphite nanoplatelets, boron nitride platelets and …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 Read article
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Effect of Ply Orientation on Thermal Erosion and Conductivity of Silica Phenolic Composites Under Oxy-Acetylene Flame
Abstract: The thermal and erosion performance of fiber-reinforced composites is highly sensitive to fiber architecture, matrix chemistry, and processing techniques, factors that have shaped development of advanced thermal protection systems (TPS) over past two decades. Silica phenolic (SP) composites, in particular, are widely employed in aerospace and defense applications due to their flame resistance, char stability, and ability to withstand severe thermal shock. However, optimizing thermal conductivity while improving erosion resistance …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 273–283 Read article
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Thermo-Hydraulic Enhancement of Annular Finned Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers Using Epoxy-Based Polymer Composites: A Material–Geometry Coupled CFD Investigation
Abstract: Shell-and-tube heat exchangers remain a backbone of industrial thermal systems, yet their performance is often limited by relatively low shell-side heat transfer and the weight and cost associated with conventional metallic components. In this context, the integration of polymer composite materials offers a promising pathway toward lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and performance-tunable heat exchanger designs. The present study investigates the thermo-hydraulic performance of a straight-tube shell-and-tube heat exchanger equipped with annular fins, …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 669–684 Read article
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Influence of Epoxy-Based Thermally Conductive Polymer Composites on the Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of Finned Helical Coil Heat Exchangers Across Flow Regimes
Abstract: The use of polymer composites in heat exchanger applications has gained increasing attention due to their advantages in weight reduction, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility. However, their relatively low thermal conductivity compared to conventional metallic materials remains a key limitation for efficient heat transfer. In this study, the thermo-hydraulic performance of a finned helical coil heat exchanger is investigated with particular focus on epoxy-based polymer composites reinforced with thermally conductive …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 586–602 Read article
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Corrugated Tube Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger Using Epoxy-Based Polymer Composite Coatings for Lightweight and Efficient Thermal Systems
Abstract: Corrugated tube geometries are widely recognized for their ability to enhance heat transfer through boundary layer disruption and secondary flow generation. In this study, a combined experimental and computational investigation is carried out to evaluate the thermo-hydraulic performance of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger incorporating corrugated stainless steel tubes integrated with an epoxy-based polymer composite coating and housed within a mild steel shell. Unlike conventional metallic systems, the present work introduces …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 603–617 Read article
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Experimental and CFD Investigation of an Epoxy-Based Thermally Conductive Polymer Composite U-Tube Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger: A Lightweight Alternative to Conventional Metal Systems
Abstract: Shell-and-tube heat exchangers continue to play a critical role in industrial thermal systems; however, their conventional design based on fully metallic materials often leads to challenges related to weight, corrosion, and cost. In recent years, thermally conductive polymer composites have emerged as promising alternatives, offering improved corrosion resistance and design flexibility. In this study, the thermo-hydraulic performance of a U-tube shell-and-tube heat exchanger is investigated by partially replacing conventional metallic …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 685–700 Read article
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AI-Enabled Optimization of Additively Manufactured Composite Materials for Enhanced Mechanical and Thermal Performance
Abstract: This paper discusses the optimization of multi-objective optimization of enhanced coupling of heat and mechanical properties of 3D printed polymer composite materials by artificial intelligence (AI), as a component of a multi-objective optimization framework. It aims at development of nonlinear printing parameters and material properties relationships to achieve maximum tensile strength and thermal conductivity in polymer composites produced through fused deposition modeling (FDM). Short carbon fiber reinforcement was used to …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 867–891 Read article
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Experimental Investigation on Thermal Conductivity and Viscosity of Phase Change Material (NaNOᴣ and KNOᴣ) with Different Concentrations of ZnO Polymer Nanofluids for Solar Energy Absorption
Abstract: When evaluating the effectiveness of solar heat absorption methods or solar thermal energy storage systems (TESS), heat transfer fluid is a crucial element. Thermal conductivity and usable heat obtained for any industrial or immediate power plant efficiency are improved by the distinctive refining of Heat Transfer Fluid (HFT). The phase change material used in this study, known as solar salt is a blend of 60% NaNO3 and 40% KNO3. It …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 12, Issue 5, 2024 · pp. 25–35 Read article
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Performance Testing of Arduino-Based Hybrid Solar Dryer for Drying Apple Slices
Abstract: A novel and high-efficiency hybrid solar dryer was designed and developed in this study to dry apple slices. The thermal analysis of the dryer is conducted by calculating collector efficiency, drying rate, and drying efficiency. Integrating an Arduino-based temperature and humidity monitoring system in a hybrid solar dryer enhances the ability to optimize performance and efficiency. Both the collector and drying chamber are made of aluminum sheet as it has …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 1872–1886 Read article
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Development of a Polymer-Encapsulated IoT-Based Sensor for Thermal and Electrical Protection of EV Batteries
Abstract: Electric Vehicles (EVs) mark a critical shift toward sustainable transportation, with Battery Management Systems (BMS) playing a vital role in ensuring battery safety, reliability, and efficiency. The proposed BMS in this project incorporates real-time charge monitoring, temperature sensing, and fire detection capabilities to address safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries. Key features include current and voltage tracking, State of Charge (SoC) estimation, fault detection, and a user-friendly LCD interface. By …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 582–591 Read article
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A systematic Review on Laterite based geopolymer
Abstract: Laterite based geopolymer has been widely studied as a sustainable alternative to Portland cement in construction industry. However, its thermal performance is still a challenge due to the low thermal conductivity and low temperature resistance. In this paper, recent studies on the improvement of thermal performance of laterite based geopolymer using additives are reviewed. The additives studied include organic materials, metal oxides and natural fillers. The effect of these additives …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 11, Issue 8, 2023 · pp. 172–183 Read article
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Thermo-Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Enhanced Polyimide Composites for Aerospace Thermal Protection Systems
Abstract: Advanced aerospace thermal protection systems (TPS) require multifunctional materials that simultaneously provide high thermal stability, mechanical strength, and reliable electrical performance. Polyimide (PI) is widely used in aerospace structures due to its lightweight design and exceptional thermal durability, yet its low thermal conductivity and insulating behavior limit its effectiveness in heat dissipation and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. This study addresses these limitations by developing multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-reinforced polyimide …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2025 · pp. 966–982 Read article
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Advanced Functional Nanocomposites: Graphene Oxide Integration into Polyvinyl Alcohol Matrix
Abstract: This research explores how incorporating graphene oxide (GO) into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) can improve its mechanical and thermal characteristics, with the goal of creating multifunctional nanocomposites suitable for advanced technological applications. GO was introduced into the PVA matrix at 0.5, 1, and 2 wt% via a scalable solution casting method. The resulting nanocomposites were characterized mechanically, thermally, and spectroscopically. Tensile testing revealed a significant improvement in mechanical performance, with tensile …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 13, Issue 3, 2025 · pp. 50–59 Read article
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Importance of Phase Change Materials in Heat Transfer Fluids for Solar Heat Absorption
Abstract: Solar heat absorption involves capturing and storing solar energy for later use. Phase change materials play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of heat transfer fluids in solar thermal systems and are integral to the optimization of heat transfer fluids in solar thermal systems. Their ability to store and release thermal energy efficiently, regulate temperatures, and enhance overall system performance makes them a valuable component in the transition towards …
Published in International Journal of Energy and Thermal Applications · Vol. 1, Issue 2, 2023 · pp. 9–13 Read article
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Investigation to Enhance Performance of Finned U-Tube Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers Using Epoxy Based Polymer Composite Material
Abstract: Shell-and-tube heat exchangers remain indispensable in thermal engineering systems; however, conventional metallic configurations often face challenges related to corrosion, weight, and limited thermal optimization. In this study, a novel approach is proposed by integrating epoxy-based polymer composite materials with finned U-tube geometries to enhance thermo-hydraulic performance while addressing material limitations of traditional systems. The work focuses on the development and evaluation of a hybrid heat exchanger comprising a mild steel …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 618–633 Read article
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Design of Evaporator and Condenser for Solar Adsorption Refrigeration System
Abstract: Solar adsorption refrigeration systems provide a promising alternative for sustainable cooling in regions with limited grid access and high solar availability because they can convert low-grade thermal energy into refrigeration without mechanical compression. The performance of such systems depends strongly on the thermal behavior of the evaporator and condenser, since these components govern the refrigerant evaporation rate, condensation effectiveness, and overall cycle stability. This paper presents focus on the design …
Published in Journal of Refrigeration, Air conditioning, Heating and ventilation · Vol. 13, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 1–10 Read article
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Coupled Magneto–Thermal–Diffusion Transport in an Unsteady Maxwell Polymer Fluid with Activation Energy over a Porous Stretching Surface
Abstract: The present study investigates the combined effects of activation energy and diffusion-thermo (Dufour) processes on unsteady magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow, heat, and mass transfer of a Maxwell viscoelastic fluid past a porous exponentially stretching vertical sheet. The electrically conducting and incompressible polymeric fluid flows through a saturated porous medium under a transverse magnetic field. The governing momentum, energy, and concentration equations are transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations using similarity transformations …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 1, 2026 · pp. 581–590 Read article
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Enhance Thermal and Conductive Properties through Graph Neural Network-Based Machine Learning-Driven Advanced Polymer Material Design
Abstract: Advanced polymer materials are widely used in modern engineering and manufacturing because of their lightweight nature, flexibility, durability, and adaptability to different applications. However, designing polymer materials with enhanced thermal and electrical properties remains a challenging task. The performance of polymers is influenced by a complex combination of molecular structures, filler materials, processing parameters, and nanoscale interactions. Conventional optimization methods often require extensive experimental trials and computational resources, making it …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 3, 2026 Read article
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Explainable Machine Learning for Process Parameter Optimization in Gradient 3D-Printed Polymer Composites
Abstract: The explainable machine learning-based structure may be employed to achieve a favorable process parameter of the graduate 3D-printed polymer composite structures to improve the mechanical and thermal properties without compromising the transparency of the decisions made during the fabrication process. Gradient composite specimens were made by systematically varied process parameters like nozzle temperature, raster orientation, deposition speed, gradient transition rate and fused filament fabrication. A predictive model of tensile strength …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 847–866 Read article
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Stretchable Elastomer–PCM Composites with Bluetooth-Enabled Temperature Monitoring for Wearable Healthcare IoT Devices
Abstract: The rapid advancement of wearable healthcare technologies has created a growing demand for multifunctional polymer composites capable of simultaneously providing mechanical flexibility, thermal energy management, electrical conductivity, sensing capability, and wireless communication. In this study, a stretchable elastomer-based polymer composite integrated with a phase-change material and a Bluetooth Low Energy temperature monitoring system was developed for wearable healthcare Internet-of-Things applications. The polymer composite was fabricated using an Ecoflex silicone elastomer …
Published in Journal of Polymer & Composites · Vol. 14, Issue 4, 2026 · pp. 241–257 Read article