Heat Transfer Enhancement by Hybrid Nano Additives-Graphene Nanoplatelets/Cellulose Nanocrystal for the Automobile...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Thermodynamics
• Automotive Engineering

Background:

• Automotive cooling systems face challenges maintaining heat transfer efficiency with evolving engine technology.
• Effective heat management is crucial for engine performance and longevity.
• Nanofluids offer potential for enhanced thermal properties in heat transfer applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the thermal performance of a novel hybrid nanofluid for automotive radiators.
• To evaluate the heat transfer enhancement capabilities of graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) in a water-ethylene glycol base fluid.
• To assess the impact of the hybrid nanofluid on radiator efficiency and potential for system optimization.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of a hybrid nanofluid composed of GnP and CNC nanoparticles in a 40:60 distilled water and ethylene glycol mixture.
• Experimental evaluation of the hybrid nanofluid's thermal performance using a counterflow radiator test rig.
• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to assess radiator size reduction and performance optimization.

Main Results:

• The GnP/CNC hybrid nanofluid demonstrated significant improvements in heat transfer coefficients.
• Convective heat transfer coefficient increased by 51.91% and overall heat transfer coefficient by 46.72% compared to the base fluid.
• A 34.06% increase in pressure drop was observed, alongside potential for radiator downsizing and weight reduction.

Conclusions:

• The proposed GnP/CNC hybrid nanofluid effectively enhances heat transfer in automotive radiators.
• This nanofluid enables increased cooling capacity and allows for more compact and lighter radiator designs.
• The findings suggest a promising alternative to conventional coolants for improved automotive thermal management.