Advancements in pulsating heat pipes: Exploring channel geometry and characteristics for enhanced thermal performance

Being one of the most efficient devices for passive two-phase heat transfer, pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) exchange considerable heat powers through a small cross-sectional area, which can be used in various fields such as thermal control, electronic cooling, waste heat recovery, etc. Numerous studies have been performed in recent years to investigate the effect of channel geometry and characteristics as a critical challenge that directly affects system thermal performance. An overview of recent developments in PHPs for improving thermal performance is provided in the present article, with particular emphasis on the effects of channel geometry and channel characteristics. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of this field, discusses experimental and numerical studies conducted, challenges still facing this field, and discusses the current state of the art. This review is a valuable resource for researchers and scholars studying the numerical modeling and experimental aspects of PHPs. It supplies them with detailed insights and analysis, helping them stay updated with the latest developments in the field. Exploring the effects of channel geometry and characteristics on thermal performance enhancement offers a foundation for future research directions. Therefore, researchers and scholars can utilize this comprehensive overview to inform their investigations, refine their methodologies, and contribute to advancing PHP technology. © 2024 The Author(s)