[nanoPost] The development and characterization of nanoparticle suspension heat transfer fluids

University UK

The centre is seeking to develop and characterise a heat transfer fluid that by incorporating nano-engineered particles realises at a minimum a 40% improvement in thermal conductivity for temperatures of operation between 0 and 80 ºC, which are the temperatures most commonly encountered in heat transfer processes.

A major technological drive of the twenty first century will be the ability to control material properties and fabricate devices at the nanoscale level. Fluids containing suspended solid nanoparticles have great potential to be used as improved heat transfer fluids. There is a requirement for the development of suitable nanoparticles, which will lead to an enhanced thermal conductivity when suspended in a carrier fluid. Several approaches have been tested to produce well-dispersed, homogeneous, nanoparticle suspensions with enhanced thermal conductivity for use in heat exchange systems.

The centre is seeking to design and develop a nano heat transfer fluid incorporating carbon nanotubes, pure or doped, dispersed in a suitable carrier fluid (for example water or ethylene glycol).

Emphasis will be placed on producing a fluid with good thermal and rheological characteristics that maintains performance for extended durations over operating temperatures common in built environment applications.