Characterization and simulation of the heat transfer behaviour of water-based ZnO nanofluids

This paper deals with the characterization and modelling of water-based nanofluids containing zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in concentrations ranging between 1 and 10 wt%. Low concentrations were chosen to reduce fouling and excessive pressure drops. First of all, the stability was verified by means of an instrument, based on the dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique, measuring mean nanoparticle diameters and Zeta potential. Moreover, nanofluids pH was measured. Then, thermal conductivities and dynamic viscosities were measured, analysing their dependence on temperature and nanoparticle concentration. Thermal conductivity was measured by means of a hot disk apparatus in the temperature range between 10 and 70 C, while viscosity was measured by a magnetic suspension rheometer in the same range of temperatures. Finally, the heat transfer capability of these fluids was studied measuring their heat transfer coefficients in a dedicated apparatus between 18 and 40 C. Heat transfer coefficient was evaluated at different Reynolds number, in turbulent flow regime. Reynolds and Nusselt numbers were deduced by using previously measured thermal conductivity and viscosity values. Moreover, numerical simulations in two-dimensional turbulent and steady state flow were carried out. No increase in heat transfer coefficient in the temperature range between 18 and 40 C was found. Comparison between experimental and numerical simulation data, in terms of wall temperature profiles, showed a good agreement.