Experimental analysis of natural convection heat transfer using Al₂O₃ nanofluids for higher thermal efficiency
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Data
2026-05-20
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Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia. Centro Multidisciplinar de Bom Jesus da Lapa
Resumo
The increasing demand for more compact and efficient electronic devices has brought significant challenges
in heat dissipation, particularly in natural convection processes. In this context, nanofluids (NFs), composed of base
liquids with added nanoparticles, emerge as a promising alternative for improving heat transfer. This work aims to
develop an experimental setup to evaluate the thermal performance of distilled water-based nanofluids with alumina
nanoparticles (Al₂O₃) at different concentrations (0.01%, 0.03%, 0.10%, and 0.20% by volume). The experimental setup
was designed using additive manufacturing and components such as an electrical resistor, a quartz channel, and
temperature sensors coupled to an Arduino-based data acquisition system. The nanofluid was prepared using the twostep method,
involving nanoparticle synthesis, drying, and ultrasonic dispersion. Results indicated that the 0.03%
concentration exhibited the best thermal performance, with an average increase of 35.55% in the heat transfer coefficient
(h) compared to distilled water. Concentrations of 0.01% and 0.10% also showed relevant gains. However, at 0.20%,
performance degradation was observed due to nanoparticle sedimentation, which compromised colloidal stability and,
consequently, thermal efficiency. The study concludes that there is an optimal nanoparticle concentration range to
maximize heat transfer, balancing thermal conductivity and nanofluid stability. Higher concentrations, though
potentially more conductive, increase viscosity and promote precipitation, limiting thermal gains. For future work, the
use of stabilizing agents and detailed rheological analysis is recommended to mitigate sedimentation effects and expand
the applicability of nanofluids in natural convection systems.
Descrição
Trabalho de Conclusão de Curso intitulado “Experimental analysis of natural convection heat transfer using Al₂O₃ nanofluids for higher thermal efficiency ” como requisito curricular indispensável para a integralização do
Curso de Graduação em Engenharia Mecânica.
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Citação
K. C. da Silva, A. I. Sato and F. L. L. Moura. Experimental analysis of natural convection heat transfer using Al₂O₃ nanofluids for higher thermal efficiency