Numerical modelling of convective layers in solar ponds

This paper involves the prediction of convective layers on the sidewalls of a solar pond. A three-dimensional finitevolume method for incompressible flows with different initial and boundary conditions is applied for the solution of convective layers generated on solar pond walls. A parametric study was conducted to predict the effects of wall tilt angle and salt concentration on the characteristics of the convective layers. Comparison of the present numerical results with experimental data from previous studies shows that it is possible to capture the flow features of the convective layers. Furthermore, the trends predicted for the effects of the tilt angles and the salt concentrations agrees well with that obtained from experimental data. 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved