Authors : K. V. Atram
Page Nos : 89-95
Description :
This study presents an experimental evaluation of the thermic behavior of Al₂O₃/ H2O, Cu/ H2O, and Al₂O₃–Cu/ H2O hybrid nanofluids. The hybrid nanofluid samples were prepared using a single-step method to ensure proper dispersion and stability. Three different nanoparticle volume fractions—0.05percent, 0.1percent, and 0.2percent—were used, where Al₂O₃ and CuO nanoparticles were uniformly mixed into H2O.The thermal conductivity and other thermal and physical properties were measured across a temperature range of 20°C to 60°C. Results showed that thermal conductivity rises with rising temperature and higher nanoparticle concentration. Specifically, the highest observed boost in thermal conductivity was 9.8percent at 0.2percent volume concentration.Experimental data were compared with theoretical models to evaluate prediction accuracy. Further, nanofluids containing copper (Cu) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles mixed in H2O –ethylene glycol base fluid demonstrated notable improvements in thermal performance, highlighting their potential for use in heat transfer systems. Key properties such as thermal conductivity, specific heat, and density were examined, as they directly impact heat transfer efficiency. While the nanoparticles significantly increased thermal conductivity, changes in specific heat capacity and density were relatively small. Additionally, the study considered rheological properties like shear rate sensitivity and thixotropic behavior, which are crucial for understanding flow performance. These findings, emphasize the importance of analyzing both thermal and rheological characteristics for the effective application of hybrid nanofluids in cooling technologies, heat exchangers, and other thermal management solutions.
