The effect of silica nanoparticle on thermal, chemical, corrosive, and the nature‐friendly properties of refrigerant compressor lubricants—A comparative study

Abstract

AbstractPolyolester (POE) oil and mineral (Min) oil are widely used in household refrigerators as compressors lubricants in India. An experimental calculation on the thermal, chemical, corrosion, and nature‐friendly properties of POE oil and Min oil suspended with silica nanoparticles is conducted for confirming its practicality to adopt in refrigeration compressors as nanolubricant. No surfactants were used for synthesizing the nanolubricants. The mass fractions from 0.01% to 0.2% and temperatures from 25°C to 85°C are considered. The thermal conductivity and fire point increased as SiO2 mass proportions increased. The pour and cloud points decreased, and in the corrosive nature, apparently little effect was observed by adding SiO2 nanoparticles. The total acid number (TAN) and saponification number increased with the increase in SiO2 nanoparticle concentration. All the synthesized nanolubricants were biodegradable and a little toxic. Refrigerant compressors with long life, with smooth and safe working are expected using POE oil and Min oil with up to 0.2% SiO2 (without surfactants) because of augmented thermal properties and less influenced corrosive, chemical, and eco‐friendly properties.