Metal-organic framework (MOF) dispersion based fluids for solar-thermal energy conversion

Abstract

This paper discusses the potential use of metal–organic framework (MOF) dispersion based fluids for solar-to-thermal energy conversion (STEC). For this, the optical and thermal characteristics of MOF dispersion were investigated, with MOFs dispersed in ethylene glycol (EG). This study is focused on three different MOF dispersions, namely ZIF8/EG, CuBTC/EG, and FeBTC/EG, each with varying concentrations of MOF particles. The results showed that FeBTC/EG at a concentration of 0.3 wt% is the optimal fluid for STEC, exhibiting the highest absorption and STEC efficiency compared to the other two fluids. The study also highlights the trade-off between STEC efficiency and cost, as increasing the concentration of MOF particles decreases the specific absorption rate (SAR). Additionally, the paper evaluates the dispersion stability of FeBTC/EG over time, which is critical for practical STEC applications. The novelty of the paper lies in the use of MOF dispersion based fluids for STEC application, which has not been extensively studied before. This study provides valuable insights into the potential use of MOF/EG for STEC and highlights the importance of optimizing the concentration of MOF particles for efficient and cost-effective performance. This study also introduces the novel application of MOF dispersion based fluids for enhanced STEC performance, showcasing FeBTC/EG as a standout for its high efficiency and stability. It marks a significant stride in utilizing MOF materials for sustainable energy, emphasizing practical considerations of dispersion stability and cost-effectiveness in STEC systems.