Photonically enhanced flow boiling in a channel coated with carbon nanotubes

Abstract

High heat dissipation rates are enabled by multi-phase cooling schemes owing to latent heat uptake. We demonstrate enhanced flow boiling from a carbon nanotube (CNT)-coated copper surface exposed to low-intensity ultraviolet (UV)-visible excitation. Compared to non-illuminated results, the average boiling incipience temperature decreased by 4.6 °C and heat transfer coefficients improved by 41.5% with light exposure. These improved results are attributed to augmented hydrophilicity upon exposure to UV light and possible nanoscale opto-thermal effects, and suggest opportunities for active temperature control of temperature-sensitive devices.