Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
10
Nanofluids including ceramic and other
nanoparticles: applications and rheological
properties
G . PAUL , Indian Institute of Technology, India and
I . MANNA , CSIR-Central Glass and Ceramic Research
Institute, India
Abstract: Fluids with suspended nanoparticles (metallic or ceramic in
spherical or non-spherical shapes), forming a stable colloid and
maintaining a quasi-single-phase state that can offer an extraordinary
level of heat transport property at very low levels of dispersion
(
<
1 vol%), are called nanofluids. This chapter provides an extensive
discussion of the potential application areas where different types of
nanofluids can be utilized. Different aspects of nanofluids are now being
widely researched across the globe, using both experimental and
simulation tools. This chapter highlights the parameters that affect the
rheological properties of nanofluids. The results published in the
literature suggest that the viscosity of nanofluids is directly related to the
amount of nanoparticle dispersion (in comparison to that of the base
fluid), except at very low concentrations. Sometimes the increase can be
many-fold. Theoretical models that explain the increase in the viscosity
of nanofluids are compiled and presented.
Key words: nanofluids, potential applications, viscosity, concentration,
temperature, modeling.
10.1
Introduction
Energy is key to all human endeavor and development. Harnessing energy at
an affordable price without endangering nature or safety is one of the
biggest challenges faced by mankind. Since thermal power continues to
provide the largest share of non-renewable forms of energy, efficient heat
