Abstract
In this study, the time–temperature dependency of heat capacity enhancement in molten salt nanofluids was studied experimentally. The result shows the heat capacity enhancement is directly related to the time-dependent synthesis process. Various samples of a binary salt mixture of Li2CO3–K2CO3 doped with 1% Al2O3 were prepared by heating and cooling at different rates (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 °C min−1) along with the pure binary salt mixture. The samples were then tested for heat capacity using a differential scanning calorimeter. It was found that heat capacity enhancement in molten salt nanofluids depends on the heating and cooling rates during the synthesis. Recent studies have shown that the heat capacity enhancement observed could be due to the formation of dendritic structures. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and a pH variation method were employed to confirm the presence of dendritic nanostructures.
Highlights
Concentrated solar power (CSP) is an emerging renewable energy production technology
The particle size distribution analysis has been performed by a photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS; Beckman Coulter N4 Plus) and it was shown in the result that the mean size is 10.8 nanometers with a standard deviation of 4.1 nanometers (Table 1)
Melting point assessment was performed for all samples prepared by heating/cooling them at temperature rates
Summary
Concentrated solar power (CSP) is an emerging renewable energy production technology. Its efficacy and yield are in direct relation to the thermal storage and transport system incorporated within these plants. The materials and methods employed in these thermal systems have an enormous effect on the cost, net yield, management, and production of these plants. Organic oils, stable up to 400 C, are used in these plants for heat transfer.[4] other attractive options such as eutectic molten salts are being effectively employed due to their high-temperature stability. A diligent study of thermo-physical properties and exploration of methods of advancement and elucidating the mechanism underlying heat capacity enhancements in molten salt nano uids can greatly impact the functioning and performance of concentrated solar power
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