The start point will be to develop nanofluids and we will consider the most efficient ones, as was demonstrated by now in the open literature (i.e. alumina, CNT, Cu and Ag nanoparticles suspended in thermal oil, polyethylene glycol). To achieve top objectives, we will conceive and validate new correlations for thermal conductivity, viscosity, specific heat, Nu etc, correlations that can be applied to a larger range of nanofluids.

The objectives are:

• Developing new nanofluids;
• Experimental to determine sonication time, physical and thermophysical properties;
• Numerical implementation and validation of the developed nanofluid;
• Developing correlations for thermophysical properties, friction factor;
• Testing new fluids in lab;
• Implementing the best case in a heat exchanger.

These are actually the logical steps in defining a new heat transfer fluid since we start with developing different nanofluids, experimentally determine their properties, implement data in 3D numerical analysis, where we have the “liberty” in testing different heat exchangers types and concentrations. After a conservative analysis of numerical results we can move to real-application. After performing all steps, we can conclude if and what nanofluids are more efficient.

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IMPACT

Cognitive Impact of the Project

Expansion of Scientific Knowledge

• Advanced understanding of nanoscale phenomena in heat transfer.
• Innovative thermophysical modeling of fluids containing nanoparticles.
• Interdisciplinarity: physics, chemistry, fluid mechanics, materials engineering, building services engineering, and simulation techniques.
• Creation of new scientific and technological paradigms.

Development of Technical Skills

• New experimental techniques for measuring thermophysical properties.
• Simulation and optimization algorithms for the design of new functional fluids.
• Interdisciplinary knowledge transfer within academia and research, with impact on industry.

Educational training

• Training sessions and workshops dedicated to PhD and Master’s students, as well as early-career researchers.
• Creation of new research projects in nanotechnology and thermal systems.
• Stimulation of creativity in the design of new fluids.

Socio-Economic Impact of the Project

Energy Efficiency and Competitiveness

• Improved performance of heat exchangers, leading to reduced energy losses.
• More efficient thermal systems, resulting in lower long-term costs.

Cost Savings and Investments

• Reduction of operational costs through enhanced thermal efficiency.
• Attraction of investments in green technologies and nanomaterials startups.

Environment and Sustainability

• Reduction of CO₂ emissions through efficient use of thermal energy.
• Support for climate neutrality goals and the energy transition.
• More efficient materials, potentially leading to reduced resource consumption over the life cycle.

Employment and regional development

• Collaboration between universities, laboratories, and industry.
• Development of local skills in high-tech sectors.