Dalian 2005

alian Summer Research Program 2005

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Nicholas Kvaltine

University of Florida

Physics and Math

Gainesville, Florida

E-mail: kvaltine@ufl.edu

Topic: Thermal Design of Multifunctional Materials

Mentor: Liu Shutian

Abstract

Cellular metals are a multifunctional material that has received much interest, and are the focus of this paper. Although structural properties of these materials are of interest, the focus here is only on the thermal properties. This study uses finite element software ANSYS to study models of a metal which has holes with circular cross section running through it, and has fluid flowing through these holes. The effect of varying the number of holes and changing the fluid on the amount of heat absorbed is investigated. Air is found to absorb less heat, and the maximum heat absorption occurs at relatively low numbers of holes. Water provides much better heat absorption, and peaks at a larger number of holes. Water exhibits a much more interesting pattern for the magnitude of heat absorption that sheds light on the important factors in this process. This data would be useful for balancing thermal needs against structural requirements when designing a similar material for multifunctional use.