Entropy generation analysis in a uniformly heated microchannel heat sink

Present investigation analyzes the issue of entropy generation in a uniformly heated microchannel heat sink (MCHS). Analytical approach used to solve forced convection problem across MCHS, is a porous medium model based on extended Darcy equation for fluid flow and two-equation model for heat transfer. Simultaneously, closed form velocity solution in a rectangular channel is employed to capture z-directional viscous effect diffusion and its pronounced effect on entropy generation through fluid flow. Subsequently, governing equations are cast into dimensionless form and solved analytically. Second law analysis of problem is then conducted on the basis of obtained velocity and temperature fields and expressions for local and average entropy generation rate are derived in dimensionless form. Average entropy generation rate is then utilized as a criterion for assessing the system performance. Finally, the effect of influential parameters such as, channel aspect ratio (aS), group parameter (Br/O), thermal conductivity ratio (C) and porosity (e) on thermal and total entropy generation is investigated. In order to examine the accuracy of the analysis, the results of thermal evaluation are compared to one of the previous investigations conducted for thermal optimization of MCHS.