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Efficient heat dissipation is crucial for various industrial and technological applications, ensuring system reliability and performance. Advanced thermal management systems rely on materials with superior thermal conductivity and stability for effective heat transfer. This study investigates the thermal conductivity, viscosity, and stability of hybrid Al 2 O 3 -CuO nanoparticles dispersed in Therminol 55, a medium-temperature heat transfer fluid. The nanofluid formulations were prepared with CuO-Al 2 O 3 mass ratios of 10:90, 20:80, and 30:70 and tested at nanoparticle concentrations ranging from 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt%. Experimental results indicate that the hybrid nanofluids exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity, with a maximum improvement of 32.82% at 1.0 wt% concentration, compared to the base fluid. However, viscosity increases with nanoparticle loading, requiring careful optimization for practical applications. To further analyze and predict thermal conductivity, a Type-2 Fuzzy Neural Network (T2FNN) was employed, demonstrating a correlation coefficient of 96.892%, ensuring high predictive accuracy. The integration of machine learning enables efficient modeling of complex thermal behavior, reducing experimental costs and facilitating optimization. These findings provide insights into the potential application of hybrid nanofluids in solar thermal systems, heat exchangers, and industrial cooling applications.

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology works with specialized 3D printers and production-grade thermoplastics to build robust, durable, and dimensionally stable parts with the best accuracy and repeatability of any other available 3D printing technology. FDM is one of the highly used additive manufacturing technology due to its ability to manufacture very complex geometries. However, the critical problems with this technology have been to balance the ability to produce esthetically appealing products with functionality and properties at the lowest cost possible. In this study, three major process parameters such as layer height, raster angle, and infill density have been considered to study their effects on mechanical properties of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) as this material is widely used industrial thermoplastic in FDM technology. The test results show a clear demonstration of the considered factors over the mechanical variables measured. Response surface methodology is used for the validation of the experimental data and the future prediction of the test results. It was found that the optimum parameters for 3D printing using ABS are 80% infill percentage, 0.5 mm layer thickness, and 65° raster angle. The achieved experimental ultimate tensile strength, elastic modulus, yield strength, fracture strain, and toughness (energy absorption) are 31.57 MPa, 774.50 MPa, 19.95 MPa, 0.094 mm/mm, and 2.28 Jm −3 , respectively. Mathematical equation has been developed using surface response methodology which can be used to predict the ABS tensile properties numerically and also to predict the optimum parameter for ultimate properties.

In this work, it is shown how a reliable nitrate based composite phase change material (PCM) of low melting point and extended operating temperature range can be formulated, to be used in applications for medium-low temperature thermal energy storage. A eutectic ternary nitrate system of (NaNO 3 -KNO 3 -LiNO 3 ) has been used as the phase change matrix, to which nanoparticulate graphene has been used as a functionalized additive material. The thermophysical characterization and morphological tests show that the doping of graphene can effectively manipulate the thermal properties and micro morphology of the ternary nitrate composite. It is shown that the addition of graphene results in a significant increase in the initial decomposition temperature compared to the neat salt system. Of the composite systems made, the one with 1.0 wt% of graphene loading gave the highest initial decomposition temperature, maximum melting temperature (Tm), peak enthalpy (ΔH) of phase transition. Microscopic studies have shown that a graphene loading of 0.5 wt% gives the most uniform grain distribution within the composite. The results presented here give a conceptual basis for the use of composite ternary nitrate/graphene systems in concentrating solar power (CSP) energy systems. Demonstrated are the results obtained which show the potential of these materials for efficient thermal energy storage in renewable power technologies. This study describes the preparation of a low melting point and thermally stable nitrate composite phase change material (PCM) usable for medium-low temperature thermal energy stores. The eutectic ternary nitrate system based on NaNO 3 -KNO 3 -LiNO 3 having the finely adjusted composition of 12:53:35 by weight building upon the well-known Solar Salt and Hitec salt, was employed as the phase change matrix while the functional additive was graphene nanosheets. Thermophysical characterisation showed that the inclusion of graphene enhanced the thermal properties of the matrix substantially: the composite containing 1.0 wt% of graphene showed an increase in phase change enthalpy of 30.2% as compared to the pure ternary nitrate (from 4.00 J/g to 5.21 J/g), There was an increase of the initial decomposition temperature (from 597 °C to 617 °C) and a decrease of the melting temperature (from 97.6 °C to 76.6 °C) of 21.5%. The microstructural analysis showed that the addition of 0.5 wt% graphene favoured the most uniform grain distribution in the matrix. These results provide technical support for the use of ternary nitrate/graphene composites in CSP systems.

This study focuses on developing a morphologically stable nitrate-based composite phase change material (PCM) tailored for medium-low temperature thermal energy storage (TES) applications, addressing the limitations of pure molten salts such as low thermal conductivity and insufficient thermal stability. The eutectic ternary nitrate system with a weight ratio of 53:12:35 was selected as the phase change matrix, and graphene nanoparticles were incorporated as a functional additive to modulate thermophysical properties. Through systematic characterization using thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the effects of graphene loading on the composite’s thermal behavior, microstructure, and chemical compatibility were investigated. Results indicate that graphene doping significantly modulates the ternary nitrate’s properties: the composite with 1.0 wt.% graphene exhibits the highest initial decomposition temperature, maximum phase change enthalpy, and a reduced melting point compared to the pure salt. Microstructural analysis reveals that graphene induces the formation of chain-like/fractal structures, with 0.5 wt.% graphene yielding the most homogeneous grain distribution, while 1.0 wt.% graphene forms a continuous thermal conduction network. FTIR and EDX confirm no chemical reactions between graphene and the salt matrix, ensuring excellent chemical compatibility. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the application of ternary nitrate/graphene composites in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems, highlighting their potential for efficient thermal energy management in renewable energy technologies.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are increasingly gaining prominence in thermal energy storage due to their impressive energy storage capacity per unit volume, especially in applications with low and medium temperatures. Nevertheless, PCMs have significant limitations regarding their ability to conduct and store heat, primarily due to their inadequate thermal conductivity. One potential solution for improving the thermal conductivity of PCMs involves the inclusion of nanoparticles into them. However, a recurring issue arises after several thermal cycles, as most nanoparticles have a tendency to clump together and settle at the container’s base due to their low interfacial strength and poor compatibility. To address this challenge, including surfactants such as sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) has emerged as a prevalent and economically viable approach, demonstrating a substantial impact on the dispersion of carbon nanoparticles within PCMs. The foremost objective is to investigate the improvement of thermal energy storage by utilizing graphene nanoplatelets (GNP), which are dispersed in A70 PCM at various weight percentages (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0), both with and without the use of surfactants. The findings indicate a remarkable enhancement in thermal conductivity when GNP with surfactants is added to the PCM, showing an impressive increase of 122.26% with a loading of 1.0 wt.% compared to conventional PCM. However, when 1.0 wt.% pure GNP was added, the thermal conductivity only increased by 48.83%. Additionally, the optical transmittance of the composite containing ASG-1.0 was significantly reduced by 84.95% compared to conventional PCM. Furthermore, this newly developed nanocomposite exhibits excellent stability, enduring 1000 thermal cycles and demonstrating superior thermal and chemical stability up to 257.51 °C. Due to its high thermal stability, the composite NePCM is an ideal candidate for preheating in industrial and photovoltaic thermal (PVT) applications, where it can effectively store thermal energy.

Tribology is a high demand mechanical system with friction and wear. Mechanical systems lose efficiency as a result. One answer for this issue is to utilize an oil that can limit contact and wear, bringing about improved effectiveness. The advancement of effective lubricating added substances for tribological properties improvement and improved thermal conductivity has gotten huge modern and scholarly consideration. By and large, nano-sized particles scattered in lubricants, referred to as nano-based lubricant, are utilized in mechanical structures to lessen heat and forces of frictions. Moreover, new guidelines will empower the utilization of greener lubrication advancements in oils. To resolve this issue, lubricants should satisfy guidelines while able to give exceptional oil characteristics. As another green material, this research will investigate the dissolving of Graphene nanoparticles in lubricants. The objective of this study is to perceive what Graphene added 10W40 motor oil means for the thermal properties and tribological characteristics. Graphene, which was added to 10W40 lubricant, was used to study the best design. Graphene nanoparticles were distributed in baseline engine oil in a two-step process. In the preparation of Graphene-based motor oil with a low volume mixture in the scope of 0.01% to 0.07% was used. Thermal conductivity and viscosity are estimated for all volume mixtures. Testing uncovered that Graphene added 10W40 motor oil were steady all through the review, with very little deposits in the following 30 days. The thermal conductivity of Graphene in SAE 40 motor oil expanded as the volume mixture is added.

This study investigates the influence of key 3D printing parameters, specifically layer height and printing speed, on the mechanical properties of PLA/Copper composite materials used for lightweight electric vehicle dashboards. By evaluating the tensile, flexural, compression, and impact properties, this research aims to identify optimal printing conditions that enhance the performance of FFF-printed PLA/Copper parts for automotive applications. Two PLA/Copper composite brands, Gizmodorks and Colorfabb, with varying copper content, were analyzed to understand how these parameters affect mechanical strength, stiffness, and resilience. This study offers valuable insights into optimizing FFF printing settings to achieve desired mechanical properties for sustainable and high-performance automotive components.

The widespread COVID-19 epidemic and political instability worldwide caused a significant transformation in the world’s fuel market [...]

The quest for advanced materials in thermal energy storage (TES) has become paramount in a world grappling with pressing demands for sustainable and reliable energy solutions. Among these materials, molten salts have emerged as up-and-coming contenders, owing to their exceptional thermal properties and wide operational temperature ranges. HITEC, a eutectic blend of sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, and potassium nitrate, distinguishes itself as a superior choice due to its unique amalgamation of favorable thermal characteristics. This comprehensive review delves into the thermal properties of HITEC molten salt and its manifold applications in thermal energy storage, illuminating its potential as a pivotal element in addressing contemporary global challenges. The review examines HITEC's specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and thermal stability, presenting critical insights into its efficacy as a TES medium. Such comprehension fosters the advancement of Sustainable Development Goal 7. The article explores strides made in HITEC-based TES systems, underscoring inventive engineering approaches and burgeoning technologies that bolster progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 9. Furthermore, the article discusses challenges associated with HITEC molten salts, such as corrosion and material compatibility issues, and investigates ongoing research efforts to overcome these limitations. A comparative evaluation of HITEC with other molten salt mixtures elucidates its competitive advantages. This review consolidates knowledge about HITEC molten salt for thermal energy storage applications, providing valuable perspectives for researchers, engineers, and policymakers dedicated to advancing sustainable energy technologies. The review underscores the pivotal role of HITEC molten salt in advancing thermal energy storage technologies, directly influencing the achievement of several SDGs.

Solar energy is the most plentiful renewable energy source that has the capability to keep up with the growing demand. When the sun’s energy is not available, thermal energy storage (TES) using phase change material (PCM) is a promising technique for storage and utilization. However, PCM’s low thermal conductivity may limit its use. The use of nanomaterials to enhance the thermal conductivity is one of the prominent solutions to overcome this issue. This research work reports that graphene nanoparticles (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7% and 1% mass) enhanced paraffin wax (PW) to improve the thermophysical properties and transmittance capability. Thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultra-violet visible spectroscope (UV–VIS) were used for the characterization of the base PCM and nano-enhanced phase change materials (NePCM) composites. A significant improvement of 110% in thermal conductivity was obtained at 0.7% mass ratio compared to base PW without compromising the prepared composites’ latent heat storage (LHS) capacity. TGA and FTIR outcomes demonstrated excellent thermal and chemical stability, respectively. To check the thermal reliability of composite, the PW and nanocomposite were subjected to repeated thermal cycling. The outcome evidence that the NePCM composite had consistent thermal energy storage properties even after repeated thermal cycles. The composite’s light transmission was drastically lowered by 56.34% (PW/Gr-0.5) compared to base PW, resulting in PW/Gr composite has better thermal reliability in relation to thermal conductivity and LHS than base PCM, which can be used specifically in photovoltaic thermal systems and TES. Graphical Abstract