Nanofluids have been attractive cooling medias in the are of high heat removal requirements. As Internal Combustion engines reject an enormous amount of heat from combustion process, using nanofluids for cooling application may be an option to minimize the engine and radiator size.
What could be the pros and cons of nanofluidic IC engine cooling application?
The nanofluid extracts heat from the cylinder for dissipation to the atmosphere in the radiator. It is expected that the temperature of the radiator tube will be higher compared to water. The removal depends on the ability of radiator fins in the dissipation of heat to the atmosphere. Higher velocities of air flow from the fan might be needed to keep the surface temperature of the radiator tubes lower. Cold starting can enhance fuel consumption compared to that with water. Further, proper concentration and uniform dispersion of nanofluid are to be ensured for reliable heat dissipation. The heat removal depends on the nanoparticle material and size. Many issues of nanofluid stability and fouling are yet to be studied. The nanofluid pH is an important parameter when radiator tubes are made of copper. The issues are hoped to be resolved with more researchers involved with the nanofluid research.
Dr. Sharma,
focused very well the nanofluid problems in case of practical applications. To stabilize the nanofluid the pH plays an important role. However, higher or lower pH values cause the better stabilization of nanofluid.
Thanks Dr. Sharma and Dr. Misale,
In addition to the points raised, what about the possibility of eroding the cooling system line including the pump due the presence of nano-particles? Are there methods used to measure such challenges?
Hello balewgize
Erosion and clogging are major issues if we use mili-meter or micro-meter sized particles but when we come down to nano levels then problem of erosion comes down drastically...!!..water based nanofluids and ethylene glycol based nanofluids can be used for IC engine cooling applications.
Stabilty of the nanofluid will be a major issue ;therefore care must be taken while preparing nanofluid. You can opt for one step or two step methods for its preparation.Two step method is widely used by researchers because of its ease so you can try that.
Good Luck!
I don't know of this personally but I think some folks at the University of South Carolina are working on the general topic.
The truck that runs in conditions similar to Himalayan terrains can have ethylene glycol or propylene glycol based nanofluids mixed 10% in water, in radiators, due to the former's antifreezing properties.
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