Modified Prediction Model for Thermal Conductivity of Spherical Nanoparticle Suspensions (Nanofluids) By Introducing Static and Dynamic Mechanisms

Abstract

Nanofluids possess significantly increased thermal conductivity that conventional heat conduction theories and models for nanoparticles–liquid suspensions cannot explain, which provides new scientific challenges. The aim of this study is to establish a modified prediction model for thermal conductivity of nanofluids that takes into account more comprehensive mechanisms. Based on effective medium theory, the role of dynamics and static mechanisms including the absorption liquid layer at the liquid/nanoparticle interface, the effect of aggregate structure of nanoparticles, and the impact of random motions of nanoparticles have been considered to establish the model. The parameters in the model have definite physical meaning and are more precise. For instance, the thermal conductivity of nanoparticles, kp, is replaced with thermal conductivity of nanoparticles aggregate, and the volume fraction of nanoparticles along with the absorption layer in nanofluids ϕ is used instead of the volume fraction of aggregat...