Challenges for radiative transfer 1: Towards the effective solution of conjugate heat transfer problems

Abstract This paper lists crucial challenges in radiative transfer with the objective of gathering information on improving and choosing methods for solving conjugate heat transfer problems. Developments in computational and experimental techniques allow much deeper analysis of the complex problems that industry faces. Accurate and efficient solution of such multi-dimensional problems is important to reduce energy consumption in industry, with long-term positive impacts on climate change. In this paper, four challenging conjugate heat transfer problems are defined. These problems are presented with the hope of attracting researchers to solve them and provide information on the methods used and difficulties encountered. This ‘challenge’ is to be an on-going effort as the new solutions to these problems and the detailed comparisons are to be posted as they become available. In addition, new challenge problems will be added as needed.