Nanofluids for Enhanced Solar Collector Efficiency

This chapter explores the incorporation of nanofluids into solar collector systems to enhance thermal performance, efficiency, and sustainability. It begins by introducing the basics of solar collectors, namely flat plate, evacuated tube, and parabolic trough, and proceeds to the limits of conventional fluid systems with these collectors. Design aspects of the integration of nanofluids are explained with references to the impact of the thermophysical origins on system topography and performance. It gives a detailed discussion of the effects of nanofluids on important performance variables like heat removal factor, collector efficiency factor, and thermal response. Additionally, the chapter discusses experimental investigations, including case studies demonstrating improved efficiency through nanofluid use. The adverse effects, like stability, hysteresis, and modeling limitations, are also handled. The economic and environmental effects as cost-benefit analysis, life cycle assessment, reduction of the carbon footprint, and return on investment are evaluated in order to determine the viability and sustainability of nanofluid-enhanced solar thermal systems.