Nanofluids are defined as heat transfer fluids with enhanced heat transfer properties by the addition of nanoparticles. Nanofluid’s stability, nanoparticles’ type and their chemical compatibility with the base fluid are essential not only to increase the nanofluid’s thermophysical properties but also to ensure a long-lasting and thermal efficient use of the equipment in which it is used. Some of these aspects are discussed in this chapter. Likewise, the improvement in terms of the heat transfer capacity (thermal resistance) that the use of nanofluids has on the heat pipes-thermosyphons is shown. On the other hand, the improvement in energy efficiency that nanofluid causes in a vapor compression system is also presented.
Part of the book: Heat Transfer