Sonication Effects on Stability and Thermal Properties of Silica- Paraflu Based Nanofluids

Cooling is one of the most important challenges in industries, especially in the automotive industry. The coolant which is used in engine radiators possesses lower thermal conductivity. To enhance the thermal properties, coolant was dispersed in nano-sized particles and the fluid is called as Nanofluid. In this Study, Silica Nanoparticle was dispersed in Paraflu Engine coolant using Bath Sonicator and Probe Sonicator. The effect of Sonication on thermal conductivity and the effect of concentration on thermal conductivity was studied. Characterization Studies like UV-Vis Spectroscopy, XRD (X-Ray Diffraction) and TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) results confirmed the size of silica particles in the nanometer range. Stability time was also calculated by Sedimentation method for the fluids prepared by Bath sonicator and Probe Sonicator. For the commercial application purpose, an optimization process is required for the creation of nanofluids and the forces affecting it.