Session: 14-01: Measurement Techniques and Thermophysical Properties in Micro/Nanoscale

Paper Number: 132797

132797 - Application of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanoparticles in Thermal Improvement of Oil-Based Nanofluids Stabilized With Non-Ionic Surfactant 

Abstract: 

Abstract:

Nanofluids are known for their exceptional thermo-physical properties, especially in improving the efficiency of the heat transfer process. This work explores the technological complexities of dispersing Hexagonal Boron Nitride (h-BN) nanoparticles in transformer oil, focusing on the application in distributor transformers for heat dissipation and electrical insulation. The work experimentally examines two crucial aspects, i.e., the stability of nano-dispersions and the thermal behavior of oil nanofluids. A non-ionic surfactant, in combination with optimum ultrasonication, is utilized to achieve stable nanofluids. Experiments with different concentrations of h-BN (0-2 wt.%) show that nanofluids with lower particle concentrations have better stability than higher loadings (1-2 wt.%). The experiments are performed to measure the effective thermal conductivity of h-BN/oil nanofluids, which show a direct increase in proportion to the amount of particles added, reaching the highest point at 48 %. Further, the degradation and the lifespan of the nano-oil are experimentally assessed using thermogravimetric analysis that reveals a significant increase of 3 ℃ in the lifespan of insulating nano-oil when exposed to higher loadings of particles. The findings provide information about the technical feasibility and effectiveness of h-BN-based nanofluids to improve the heat transfer properties of transformer oil.

Extended Details:

Nanofluids are engineered as a superior substitute for conventional heat transfer fluids due to enhanced thermo-physical properties. Various nanoparticle-base fluid combinations have been studied. However, the use of nanoparticles with transformer oil is still relatively new. There is abundant research on the thermo-physical properties of nanofluids. Still, the contrary is observed for studies regarding nanofluid stability, which characterizes the fluid’s resistance towards agglomeration and ability to maintain dispersion for an extended period of time. A stable nanofluid is the first step towards cementing its potential in real-world applications. Preparation of stable nanofluids is therefore imperative to pursue this area in greater depth. , the use of h-BN is still relatively new in this field of study, especially with transformer oil (TRO) as base fluid despite a plethora of various nanofluids investigated by different groups of researchers. Thus, this type of nanofluid garners a more comprehensive study.

This research investigates the stability and thermal behavior of the h-BN-transformer oil-based nanofluids. The addition of surfactant and increased sonication time improved the nanofluids’ stability. Span 85 was the most effective surfactant at an 11:1 surfactant-to-nanoparticle weight ratio compared to other surfactants. Particle loading greater than or equal to 1 wt. % was found to be highly unstable. Stable nanofluids were achieved for a duration of up to one week. thermogravimetric analysis revealed that increased particle loading improved the thermal life of transformer oil by a maximum of 3℃. Similarly, thermal conductivity measurements reported increments concerning particle loading with a maximum of 48% thermal conductivity enhancement. 

Presenting Author: Mustafa Alsaady University of Jeddah

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Mustafa Alsaady is an Associate Professor and the Head of the Chemical Engineering Department at the University of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He was awarded PhD Degree from The University of Nottingham. His research interests include nanofluids, ferrofluids, renewable energy, and heat transfer.

Authors:

Mustafa Alsaady University of Jeddah
Tong Chan Ray Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS
Suhaib Umer Ilyas University of Jeddah
Ayman Abdulrahman University of Jeddah
Rashid Shamsuddin Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS