Synthesis and Characterization of Ceramic Nanofluids

Abstract

With the advent of the century of “nano”, it is evident that we are heading towards miniaturization of technological equipment and electronic circuits. This has ultimately resulted in problem in heat dispersion from the system. This situation demands for better cooling facilities and using of nano-fluids as coolant is undoubtedly the optimum solution. This project dealt with the usage of Silica nano-fluids as coolant and its various parameters. In pursuit of studying various aspects of using the silica nano-fluid as a coolant, in the present study a comprehensive experimental data set was obtained for thermal conductivity of nanofluids with variation in Silica nano-particle volume fraction and base liquid (Water and Ethyl Glycol). SEM and Zeta-sizer study was done to confirm the uniformity in nano-particle size distribution. SEM study was also done to determine the grain size. The effect of pH change on the thermal conductivity of the nano-fluids was also taken into consideration. Amidst all these addition, the most important factor is the stabilization of the nano-fluids as they are prone to agglomeration due to its high surface energy. Thus, stabilization of the nano-fluids was manipulated by the addition of surfactant (Oleic Acid). Their related thermal conductivity was also studied. This project also considered the stabilization process by visual observation over a period of 24 hours.