A generalized effective medium theory (EMT) is proposed to account for the fractal structure of the dispersed phase in a dispersing medium under the dilute limit. The thermal conductivity of nanofluids with fractal aggregates is studied using the proposed model. Fractal aggregates are considered as functionally graded spherical inclusions and its effective thermal conductivity is derived as a function of its fractal dimension. The results are studied for self-consistency and accuracy within the limitations of the analytical approximations used.

Issue Section:
Technical Brief
Keywords:
fractal dimension, effective medium theory, thermal conductivity, nanoparticles, functionally graded material
Topics:
Fractals, Thermal conductivity, Dimensions, Nanofluids, Particulate matter

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