Theoretical models on prediction of thermal property of nanofluids

Abstract

This paper deals with theoretical models on prediction of thermo physical properties of iron nanoparticles in base fluid. A high performance of heat transfer fluid has a great influence on the size, weight and cost of heat transfer systems, therefore a high performance heat transfer fluid is very important in many industries. Over the last decades nanofluids have been developed. According to many researchers and publications on nanofluids it is evident that nanofluids are found to exhibit enhanced thermal properties i.e. thermal conductivity etc. Theoretical models for predicting enhanced thermal conductivity have been established. The underlying mechanisms for the enhancement are still debated and not fully understood. In this paper, theoretical analytical models on prediction of thermal conductivity of iron nano particle in base Jatropha oil are discussed. The work arises from the projects which were realized at UJEP, FPTM, department of Machines and Mechanics with cooperation with Polytechnic of Namibia, department of Mechanical Engineering.