Thermal conductivity of MWCNT-TiO2/Water-EG hybrid nanofluids: Calculating the price performance factor (PPF) using statistical and experimental methods (RSM)

Abstract

Scientists in chemical and mechanical engineering fields have long been interested in the thermophysical characteristics of nanofluids (NFs), and the thermal conductivity (TC) of many NFs has recently been studied. Purpose of research is to evaluate and compare two new and unique NFs using experimental methods and statistical methods (response surface methodology or RSM) to introduce one of them to the industry. In this research, hybrid nanofluid (HNF) “A” with MWCNT and TiO2(25:75) with Water-EG (80:20) formula and HNF “B” with MWCNT-TiO2(15:85)/Water-EG(50:50) formula were synthesized. Their relative thermal conductivity (RTC) was compared. Based on the findings, HNF “A” in solid volume fraction SVF = 1.12% and T = 50°C has a thermal conductivity enhancement of TCE = 36.30%, which is superior to HNF “B” with TCE = 17.90%. The price performance factor (PPF) of the analyzed HNFs has been studied and compared for the first time in this research under the same settings. In addition, the examination of economic and performance indicators shows that HNF “A” has a significantly higher PPF. As a result, it can be said that using this HNF is economical.