Invite Speakers

Dr. Farkhanda Afzal, National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST), Pakistan

Speech Title: Enhancing Thermal Performance in Hybrid Nanofluids: Magnetic Control and Rheological Effects
Abstract: Advanced thermal management is critical in energy systems, high-performance cooling technologies, and industrial heat exchangers. Hybrid nanofluids, particularly graphene oxide–Fe2O4/engine oil mixtures, offer enhanced heat transport due to improved conductivity and tunable rheology. This lecture explores how magnetic fields, thermophoresis, and shear-dependent viscosity can be strategically used to optimize heat and mass transfer in wedge-type boundary-layer flows described by Falkner–Skan flow. A comparative assessment of Casson fluid model and Carreau fluid model frameworks reveals how rheological behavior directly influences thermal performance indicators such as surface heat flux and transport rates. Numerical simulations show that the Carreau hybrid nanofluid provides superior heat transfer efficiency under magnetic and thermophoretic effects. The findings demonstrate how externally controlled rheology and nanoparticle transport mechanisms can be leveraged to design next-generation cooling systems, solar thermal devices, and energy storage technologies with improved thermal performance and controllability.

Dr. Farkhanda Afzal is a distinguished applied mathematician, educator, and the founder of STEMWomenPK, a national initiative advancing gender equity in STEM. She holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from Beihang University, Beijing, where she also served as a faculty member. Her academic career spans several renowned institutions, including National University of Sciences and Technology, Beihang University, Bahria University, KRL College, and the University of Education. Dr. Afzal’s research expertise lies in pure and applied mathematics, with strong interdisciplinary applications to fluid dynamics, thermal transport, and mathematical modeling of complex systems. Beyond research, she has played a transformative role in STEM capacity building in Pakistan. She led the establishment of an educational robotics laboratory at NUST under the British Council’s Gender Equality Partnerships, in collaboration with the Eureka Robotics Centre, Cardiff Metropolitan University (UK). In recognition of her international impact, Dr. Afzal is the recipient of the first-ever British Council “Going Global Partnership” Award for her project PIE (Partnership in Equality): UK–Pakistan Women in Robotics & AI, involving ten national and international higher education institutions. Her work exemplifies the integration of advanced mathematics, innovation, and global collaboration.