Enhanced thermal conductivity of plasma generated ZnO-MgO based hybrid nanofluids: An experimental study

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Thermal Engineering

Background:

• Hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) are engineered fluids containing multiple types of nanoparticles.
• Metallic oxide nanoparticles offer unique thermal and optical properties.
• Efficient synthesis methods are crucial for producing stable and effective HNFs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare stable hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) using ZnO-MgO nanoparticles in various base fluids.
• To investigate the thermal conductivity and band gap properties of these HNFs.
• To evaluate their potential applications in heat transfer and optoelectronics.

Main Methods:

• HNFs were synthesized using a cost-effective thermal plasma technique.
• Nanoparticles (ZnO-MgO) were dispersed in base fluids: coolant, engine oil, distilled water (DW), and coconut oil.
• Thermal conductivity was measured using the transient hot wire method; band gap was determined via UV-visible spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• Stable HNFs were successfully prepared with controlled nanoparticle dispersion.
• Thermal conductivity increased with temperature, with coolant-based HNFs showing a 19% enhancement at 60°C.
• Band gap analysis revealed slight reductions in coolant and engine oil-based HNFs, while DW and coconut oil-based HNFs showed varied results.

Conclusions:

• Plasma-synthesized HNFs demonstrate significant potential as advanced heat transfer fluids.
• Control over nanoparticle size is key to influencing band gap properties.
• DW-based HNFs are suitable for optoelectronic devices, and coolant-based HNFs excel in thermal management.