Two-dimensional cellular metals as multifunctional structures: Topology optimization

Highly porous two-dimensional (2D) cellular metals have multifunctional attributes, with tailorable structures to achieve multifunctional performance. The focus of this study is to explore the optimal cellular topology of 2D cellular metals for heat dissipation, and to investigate the eligibility of different heat enhancement techniques for more efficient heat dissipation. An analytical approach for the optimal design of metallic 2D cellular materials, cooled by single-phase laminar forced convection in various flow configurations, is proposed and validated by comparison with full numerical simulations. The optimal design is characterized by two subsidiary dimensionless parameters: one reflecting the trade-off between convection and fluid friction, and the other reflecting the optimal balance between conduction and convection. A heat transfer enhancement technique - boundary layer redevelopment - is subsequently introduced and its feasibility examined experimentally. Future research directions in specific areas are discussed.