POOL BOILING HEAT TRANSFER

CHARACTERISTICS OF NANOFLUIDS

A PROJECT REPORT

Submitted by

SHABARISH M [RA1711002010067]
VIJAY A RA [RA1711002010147]

Under the guidance of

Dr.C. SELVAM, Ph.D.
(Assistant Professor, School of Mechanical Engineering)

in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree

of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
of

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

S.R.M. Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District

MAY 2021

i
 SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
(Under Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956)

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that this project report titled “POOL BOILING HEAT

TRANSFER CHARACTERSTICS OF NANOFLUIDS” is the
bonafide work of “SHABARISH M [RA1711002010067], VIJAY A
RA [RA1711002010147]”, who carried out the project work under my
supervision. Certified further, that to the best of my knowledge the
work reported herein does not form any other project report or
dissertation on the basis of which a degree or award was conferred on
an earlier occasion on this or any other candidate.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE

Dr. C. SELVAM, Ph.D. Dr. M. CHERLATHAN, Ph.D.

GUIDE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT
Assistant Professor Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering Department of Mechanical Engineering

Signature of the Internal Examiner Signature of the External Examiner

ii
 ABSTRACT

In this study, pool boiling heat transfer characterstics of Graphene-water nanofluids are
reported. Graphene-water nanofluid of 0.05% and 0.1% concentration are prepared. The
pool boiling experiments are conducted with Nichrome wire as the heater surface. The
fundamental heat transfer characterstics for designing heat transfer devices such as
Critical Heat Flux, Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient and Wire Temperature are observed
for the both concentrations of nanofluids, and the variation of these characterstics with
different volume concentration are plotted. At the end of the Boiling Experiment, it was
observed that the Critical Heat Flux showed an increasing trend with increase in
nanoparticle concentration with a maximum enhancement of 28.04% compared to DI
water. The Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient also displayed an increasing trend with
increase in nanoparticle concentration with a maximum enhancement of 65.74%
compared to DI water. The Wire Temperature showed a decreasing trend with increase in
nanoparticle concentration with a decrement of 47.2% compared to DI water. The
burnout wire is observed under a Scanning Electron Microscope and the accumulation of
Graphene nanoparticles on the Nichrome wire surface has been validated with the help of
SEM and EDS data.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like Express our sincere gratitude to our project guide Dr. C. Selvam, Ph.D.,
Assistant Professor for his valuable guidance and steady encouragement in helping us
complete the project. We are very thankful for him for providing us with a wonderful
atmosphere and for providing valuable suggestions for completing our research work. In
spite of his hectic schedule and his health issues, he has given his full coordination and
supported us throughout the course of the project.

We are grateful to SRM Institute of Science and Technology for providing us the
accommodation to work in Solar Lab and Nanotechnology Lab for our project work.

We would also like to thank Mr. Rajaram, Solar Lab Incharge for accommodating us in
the Solar Lab for our Experimentation and providing us with resources to conduct our
experiment.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PG.NO

ABSTRACT iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS iv

LIST OF FIGURES vii

ABBREVIATIONS ix

1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. LITERATURE SURVEY 4
3. PREPARATION OF NANOFLUIDS 7
3.1 SELECTION OF BASE FLUID AND NANOPLATELET 7
3.2 GRAPHENE NANOPLATELETS FUNCTIONALIZATION 7
3.3 ULTRASONICATION PROCESS 9
4. EXPERIMENTATION 14
4.1 EXPERIMENTAL SETUP 14
4.1.1 CYLINDRICAL BOROSILICATE GLASS VESSEL 15
4.1.2 COPPER ELECTRODES 16
4.1.3 NICHROME WIRE 17
4.1.4 DIMMERSTAT 18
4.1.5 DUAL DISPLAY DIGITAL AMMETER VOLTMETER 19
4.1.6 MULTI POINT TEMPERATURE INDICATOR 20
4.2 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE 20
4.3 OBSERVATIONS FROM POOL BOILING OF DI WATER 22
4.4 FORMULAS 23
5. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 25
5.1 EFFECT OF CRITICAL HEAT FLUX (CHF) 25
5.2 EFFECT OF WIRE TEMPERATURE 28

v
 5.3 EFFECT OF BOILING HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENT 30

5.4 NUMERICAL ANALYSIS 32

5.5 SEM ANALYSIS 33

5.6 ENERGY DISPERSIVE SPECTROSCOPY (EDS DATA) 37

6. CONCLUSION 38

7. REFERENCES 39

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 LIST OF FIGURES

FIG.NO. TITLE PG.NO

1.1 POOL BOILING CURVE 1
3.1 FUNCTIONALIZED GRAPHENE NANOPLATELETS 8
3.2 DEIONIZED WATER USED AS BASE FLUID FOR THE 8
EXPERIMENT
3.3 PROBE ULTRASONICATOR 9
3.4 CONTROLLER APPARATUS 10
3.5 UNIFORM STABLE NANOFLUID AFTER SONICATION 11
3.6 ELECTRONIC BALANCE WITH HIGH PRECISION 12
3.7 0.05% CONC. NANOFLUID 13
3.8 0.1% CONC. NANOFLUID 13
4.1 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM OF THE TEST FACILITY 14
4.2 FABRICATED EXPERIMENTAL TEST FACILITY 15
4.3 BOROSILICATE GLASS VESSEL 16
4.4 COPPER ELECTRODES 17
4.5 NICHROME WIRE 18
4.6 DIMMERSTAT 19
4.7 DUAL DISPLAY AMMETER VOLTMETER 19
4.8 TEMPERATURE INDICATOR USED IN BATH 20
TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT
4.9 BUBBLE FORMATION ALONG THE HEATER SURFACE 22
4.10 WIRE BURNOUT AT CHF POINT 22
5.1 CHF VS VOLUME CONC. 26
5.2 CHF ENHANCEMENT VS VOLUME CONC. 27
5.3 WIRE TEMPERATURE VS VOLUME CONC. 28
5.4 DECREMENT IN WIRE TEMPERATURE VS VOLUME CONC. 29
5.5 BHTC VS VOLUME CONC. 30
5.6 BHTC ENHANCEMENT VS VOLUME CONC. 31

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5.7 GRAPHENE (0.1%) WIRE SAMPLE AT 85X MAGNIFICATION 33
5.8 GRAPHENE (0.1%) WIRE SAMPLE AT 250X MAGNIFICATION 34
5.9 GRAPHENE (0.1%) WIRE SAMPLE AT 350X MAGNIFICATION 34
5.10 GRAPHENE (0.1%) WIRE SAMPLE AT 500X MAGNIFICATION 35
5.11 GRAPHENE (0.1%) WIRE SAMPLE AT 1000X MAGNIFICATION 35
5.12 ENERGY DISPERSIVE SPECTROSCOPY DATA 37

viii
 ABBREVIATIONS

CHF Critical Heat Flux

BHTC Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient

HTC Heat Transfer Characteristics

GnP Graphene nanoplatelets

ZnO Zinc Oxide

SiO2 Silicon dioxide

CuO Copper Oxide

Conc. Concentration

SEM Scanning Electron Microscope

EDS Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy

DI Deionized

TiO2 Titanium Dioxide

CNT Carbon nanotubes

Specs. Specifications

ix
 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

Boiling heat transfer is a major application in most of the industrial and technological
applications today. It has been identified as a cost effective and successful method in heat
transfer applications. Boiling can be described as a process involving change of liquid
phase to vapour phase. Boiling happens when a liquid interacts with a surface that has a
temperature higher than the boiling point of the liquid. Practical applications of boiling
range from air conditioners, electronic chips to nuclear reactors. It is therefore crucial to
study and investigate the fundamental characterstics of boiling for efficient and safe
designing and manufacturing of these heat exchange devices.

Depending on the nature of bulk fluid flow, boiling can be classified as pool and flow
boiling. Pool boiling is the boiling in the absence of bulk fluid flow. Pool boiling can be
classified into various regimes depending on the heat transfer mechanisms as: free
convection boiling, nucleate boiling, transition boiling and film boiling.

Fig 1.1: Pool Boiling Curve

1
In the natural convection boiling, since the excess temperature is very low, the liquid is
slightly superheated and there is a formation of convection currents which circulate the
liquid and evaporation takes place.

The nucleate boiling regime is the most efficient region for heat transfer. There is bubble
generation, bubble growth and detachment in the heater surface frequently in this regime.
The Critical Heat flux is the point which describes the thermal limit of a process where
the efficiency of heat transfer is suddenly decreased causing localized overheating. It is a
very significant factor to be considered while designing heat transfer devices. The CHF
and BHTC are two important factors on which the boiling curve depends. As these
characteristics are of significant importance for the safety, thermal efficiency and
performance of thermal heat exchange devices, it is important to enhance these factors.

During film boiling, a thin vapour film is formed and this vapour film blocks the heat
transfer taking place which leads to a rise in temperature damaging the equipment.
Therefore, CHF enhancement is a very essential process. It is observed that the rate of
formation of bubbles and the number of active nucleation sites is very important for
maximum enhancement of nucleate boiling heat transfer. As a result, many researchers in
recent years have claimed that fabricating and enhancing the heater surface with
nanostructures and using several coating methods have proved to improve heat transfer.

The application of nanofluids in heat transfer has become very beneficial in recent times.
Nanofluids in general have excellent thermal conductivity and have found to improve the
heat transfer capability to a high extent. Nanofluids are colloidal suspension of
nanoparticles which are smaller than 100 nm. The main benefit of these nanofluids is that
when they are used in pool boiling heat transfer, they form a thin layer deposition of
nanoparticles on the heater surface. This layer deposition decreases the heater
temperature and enhances the CHF. The Enhancement of CHF is being conducted by
various researchers with various methods of nanofluid preparation.

2
It is observed that Carbon based nanoparticles such as CNT and Graphene have high
thermal conductivity and low density and are used for preparing stable nanofluid
solutions for researches on Enhancement of heat transfer characterstics. The primary aim
of this project is to determine the pool boiling heat transfer characterstics of Graphene
nanofluid for various concentrations and examine the efficiency and enhancement of
Graphene nanofluid for various heat transfer applications.

3
 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY

Shen et al. studied the Heat Transfer characterstics in Aluminum oxide-water nanofluid
with the condition of ultrasonic wave propagation under different regimes of flow. These
effects have been studied for free convection, subcooled and saturated boiling. It was
observed that Ultrasonic waves enhance the HTC in the nanofluid. It was also observed
that heat transfer efficiency reduces when heat flux is increased and the CHF was low
during the ultrasonic irradiation stage and ultrasound is applied to improve the CHF.

Bolukbasi et.al studied the pool boiling HTC of Silicon dioxide-water nanofluids
quenching a vertical cylinder with four different volume concentrations of Silicon
dioxide – water nanofluid. A cylindrical rod is chosen as the test specimen and boiling is
performed in standard atmospheric conditions. It is observed that the HTC of the given
nanofluid is similar to that of the water and the heat transfer coefficient decreased in the
nucleate boiling regime compared to water due to the quenching tests performed causing
decrease in deposition of SiO2.

Kole et.al studied the pool boiling HTC of Zinc Oxide - ethylene glycol nanofluids. A
very stable, uniform and surfactant free suspension is prepared for the experimental work.
A fabricated stainless steel rectangular setup covered with fiber glass insulation is used as
the test setup. Five volume concentrations of nanofluid are prepared. After
experimentation, a 40% enhancement in thermal conductivity and 22% rise in BHTC is
observed compared to pure ethylene glycol. The CHF is incremented by 117% and this
increase is attributed to the heating wire’s surface roughness.

4
Yagnem et. al. investigated the methods to enhance the critical heat flux and thermal
properties of a hybrid nanofluid by mixing two different nanoparticles. CuO and Alumina
nanoparticles are mixed in DI water in various concentrations. A Zeta potential test is
performed for stability check. It is observed that thermal conductivity is improved by
15% compared to water and CHF was enhanced by 49.84% for 0.1% Conc. It was
observed that CHF was very high for hybrid nanofluids when compared with the
individual nanofluid.

Shoghl et.al studied the boiling performance characteristics for Copper oxide and Zinc
oxide nanofluids with sodium lauryl sulfate as a surfactant. The experiment is performed
with and without using surfactant. A vertical rod heater made of stainless steel is used as
the heating apparatus. Results indicate that addition of surfactant in the solution improves
the boiling performance and is found to reduce the surface tension. It is also found that
highest enhancement in boiling performance characterstics was observed at maximum
surfactant and nanoparticle concentration.

Sarfaraz et.al studied the pool boiling HTC of dil Aluminium oxide-ethylene glycol
nanofluids with 3 volume fractions preapred. The various heat transfer parameters like
CHF, heating surface roughness, conc. of nanofluids and fouling factor are studied. Two
domains of heat transfer were observed with the nucleate boiling regime being the most
effective with high values of CHF. Average roughness was observed to decrease with
increase in nanoparticle conc. The fouling resistance was found to have a higher value for
nucleate boiling comapred to free convection boiling.

Kumerasan et.al investigated about the influence pool boiling CHF and transient heat
transfer characterstics of aqua based Graphene oxide nanofluids on a thin nichrome wire.
Three volume concentrations were prepared with a maximum enhancement of 245%. It is
observed that bubble density and CHF is enhanced with increase in nanoparticle conc.
Investigation of transient characterstics resulted in no change in CHF. The CHF was also
found to be constant for repetitive experiments while investigating the bonding strength
values and deteriorates beyond a limit.
5
Rostami et.al studied pool boiling HTC with nickel oxide nanoparticle using deionized
water in a magnetic field. The temperature and thermophysical properties are measured.
Tests like Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-Ray diffraction are performed to
find particle size. The effects of magnetic field in pool boiling for five different
concentrations (0.005,0.01,0.05,0.1 & 0.2) have been studied. It was concluded that the
HTC is controlled by magnetic field and the field can alter the sedimentation high
concentrated Nickel Oxide. The increase in heat transfer enhancement could be
accounted to the rise in the intensity of magnetic field.

Dadjoo et.al studied the changes in surface roughness that effects orientation of heated
surface. The atomic force microscopic images of the boiled surface were pictured to see
the changes in surface roughness. Copper plate is used as the specimen. After heating, the
results show the deposition of nanoparticles which has enhanced the CHF for different
concentrations. The BHTS decreases when the surface is inclined between 0° to 90°. It is
observed that the CHF is enhanced when more nanoparticle is sticked on the surface as
the angle of inclination is increased. Conclusively, the boiling heat transfer performance
of heated surface is increased when they are nanocoated.

Li et.al studied the behavior of parallel rectangular fins’ geometrical and surface
properties on heat transfer characterstics like BHTC, formation of bubbles and the
fouling factor. Modified CuO-water nanofluids are subjected to different geometrical
specs. It was observed that the BHTC was minimum for compact fins and was maximum
for larger fins. The bubble formation was higher and effective for large fins. It was
investigated that addition of more fins resulted in less formation of fouling.

6
 CHAPTER 3
PREPARATION OF NANOFLUIDS
3.1 Selection of Base Fluid and Nanoplatelet:
We have chosen Graphene as nanoplatelet and Deionized water as the base fluid.
Graphene generally has enhanced thermal and electrical conductivity. Graphene which is
basically an allotrope of Carbon, is found to have large heat absorbing capacity and was
found to have a very high thermal conductivity and exceptional heat transfer
characterstics. Deionized Water is the cheapest and prominent heat transfer fluid which
can be used for Nanofluid preparation. Two different concentrations of Graphene-water
nanofluids are prepared for our experiment. After performing the experiment, the various
heat transfer characterstics such as CHF, BHTC and Wire Temperature are studied for
both the concentrations.

3.2 Graphene Nanoplatelets Functionalization:

For preparation of nanofluids, we should ensure that the nanofluid prepared is uniform,
durable and stable without any sedimentation. For that the surface tension of the mixture
must be reduced so there is proper dispersion of nanoplatelets with the base fluid. For that
to occur, we can add surfactants. But for our experiment, we have used Functionalized
Graphene nanoplatelets. The Graphene nanoparticles are treated with concentrated Nitric
acid HNO3 (69-72%) and is subjected to reflux condensation. This mixture is then stirred
using a magnetic stirrer and the Functionalized Graphene is obtained by filtering it and
drying it in an electric furnace. The functional group containing oxygen has been made to
react with the surface of Graphene. Due to this process, water attracting surfaces known
as hydrophilic surfaces are formed. These hydrophilic surfaces ensure that a homogenous
and stable Graphene nanofluid is formed.

7
 Fig 3.1: Functionalized Graphene Nanoplatelets

Fig 3.2: Deionized Water used as base Fluid for the Experiment

8
3.3 Ultrasonication Process:
The Functionalized Graphene nanoplatelets are dispersed uniformly in the base fluid,
Deionized Water. The mixture is then mixed using a magnetic stirrer. After this process,
the stirred nanofluid solution is subjected to ultrasonication process with the help of an
Ultrasonic Probe Sonicator. Ultrasonication is an effective process for nanofluid
preparation as it involves sound waves, as a result of which the particles in the solution
are agitated. Ultrasonication changes the binding properties of nanofluids which prevents
sedimentation or coagulation of nanofluids and achieve a uniform and stable suspension.

Fig 3.3: Probe Ultrasonicator

9
For the experimental work, two volume concentrations of Graphene nanofluids, 0.05%
and 0.1% by volume have been prepared. The stirred solution is then kept inside the
probe ultrasonicator and then is subjected to Ultrasonication process for 1 hour. Both the
volume concentrations of Graphene nanofluids are prepared using this technique.

Fig 3.4: Controller Apparatus

10
 Fig 3.5: Uniform stable nanofluid after Sonication

1000 ml of Graphene nanofluid for each of the volume concentration have been prepared.
The amount of Graphene nanoplatelet to be added for each volume concentration can be
calculated using the following relation:
℘
ρparticleparticle
Volume Fraction % = ℘
+Volume of basefluid
ρparticleparticle
Where Wp = Weight of the particle to be added in gms

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)particle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)

In accordance to this relation, we have added 1.13 g and 2.26 g of Gnp for
0.05% and 0.1% volume concentrations of Graphene nanofluid.
11
 Fig 3.6: Electronic Balance with High Precision

A high precision Electronic balance with an accuracy of 0.0001 g is used to weigh the
amount of Graphene nanoplatelets to be added for nanofluid preparation. It is initially set
to zero after which the specific mass of nanoplatelet to be added is measured.

12
The two different Volume Concentrations of nanofluids are shown below.

Fig 3.7: 0.05% Conc. Nanofluid Fig 3.8: 0.1% Conc. Nanofluid

13
 CHAPTER 4
EXPERIMENTATION
4.1 Experimental Setup:

The Illustration of the test facility used for boiling experiment is given below.

Fig 4.1: Schematic diagram of the test facility

The test facility consists of a borosilicate cylindrical vessel for holding the nanofluid, a
nichrome for heating the fluid, copper electrodes for heating the wire surface, dimmerstat
for regulation of voltage, ammeter and voltmeter for current and voltage output
monitoring and a temperature sensor for measuring the bath temperature.

14
 Fig 4.2: Fabricated Experimental test facility

4.1.1 CYLINDRICAL BOROSILICATE GLASS VESSEL

A cylindrical borosilicate glass vessel is used for holding the nanofluid for the
experimental work. The main advantage with borosilicate glass is that it has a very
limited thermal expansion coefficient. Due to this, it has the ability to withstand thermal
stress and thermal shocks. These glasses are resistant to very high temperature
differentials as the bath temperatures can reach very high temperatures during boiling.
The dimensions of the glass are 190x100 mm and has a capacity to hold 2000 ml.

15
 Fig 4.3: Borosilicate Glass Vessel

4.1.2 COPPER ELECTRODES

Copper Electrodes are used in the experiment for heating the wire surface. In this setup
both electrodes are coupled with adjustable screws which are used to increase or decrease
the height of the electrodes as per our requirement. Insulation is provided for the
electrodes to lower the risk of electric shocks. AC source of 240V and 50A are provided.
The distance between the two electrodes is 150 mm. The length of the electrodes is
240mm and the diameter is 10 mm. They are made of brass. (copper alloy).

16
 Fig 4.4: Copper Electrodes

4.1.3 NICHROME WIRE

Nichrome wire is used as the heating element for the experimental work. Nichrome is an
alloy of Nickel, Chromium and Iron. Nichrome alloy has a very high thermal and
electrical conductivity. They have the ability to resist a large amount of heat and are
generally resistant to corrosion and hence they are used as heating element.

Specification of Ni-Cr wire for our experiment:

The diameter of the wire used in the experiment is 0.192 mm. The standard wire gauge is
SWG 36. The wire density is around 8100 kg/m3. The wire has an ability to withstand
temperatures from 700 to 1400 Celsius. The resistance of the wire is about 48 ohm per m.

17
 Fig 4.5: Nichrome wire

4.1.4 DIMMERSTAT

A dimmerstat or Voltage regulator is used in the experiment to regulate the voltage

according to the requirements. The flow of current can be increased or decreased by
regulating the voltage for heating the heater surface. The dimmerstat used for the
experimental work is connected to a digital multimeter in series.

Specifications of Dimmerstat:

Maximum Voltage = 240 V

Maximum Current = 12 A

Output Frequency = 50 Hertz

18
 Fig 4.6: Dimmerstat

4.1.5 DUAL DISPLAY DIGITAL AMMETER VOLTMETER

A dual display digital ammeter voltmeter is used to observe the input voltage and current
with a single multi display device. In this device, current can be varied from 0-10 A and
voltage can be varied from 0-240 V.

Fig 4.7: Dual Display Ammeter Voltmeter

19
4.1.6 MULTI POINT TEMPERATURE INDICATOR

Fig 4.8: Temperature Indicator used in bath temperature measurement

4.2 Experimental Procedure:

1. The experimental test facility is fabricated and all the connections are checked
properly.
2. Nichrome wire is inserted between the electrodes and locked with the lead screws.
3. Deionized water and two different concentrations of Graphene nanofluid (0.05%
and 0.1%) are used as the Working Fluids.
4. Before starting the experiment, it is ensured that the boiling test is conducted at
standard temperature and pressure.
5. Initially the dimmerstat is set at 0V at the start of the experiment.
6. With the help of dimmerstat, the voltage is increased uniformly and as a result the
current slowly increases. The voltage is increased in small steps and the boiling
process is observed carefully.

20
7. The voltage and current values are noted consecutively for each bath temperature
reading.
8. The voltage is increased in large steps initially after which it is increased in small
steps till the CHF point is reached.
9. After supplying voltage for a longer period of time, a very drastic increase in wire
resistance with rapid bubble formation along with a hissing sound is observed.
10. If the voltage is increased beyond this point, CHF point is reached and the wire
gets burnout.
11. The Voltage, Current and Temperature values at the CHF point are noted. The
experiment is repeated 2-3 times to validate repeatability.
12. The CHF is calculated using the formula that has been listed in the Formulas
section below.
13. The BHTC and wire temperature is also calculated using the formulas given
below.
14. These values are calculated for DI water and both the Volume Concentrations of
Graphene nanofluid.
15. After calculation the values are compared graphically to analyze the variation and
enhancement of heat transfer characterstics with respect to various conc.
16. The sample of burnout wire is collected and observed under a Scanning Electron
Microscope to validate the coating of Graphene nanoparticle on the wire.
17. The measured CHF value of Distilled water is compared with the experimental
value using the equation, known as the Zuber’s correlation. This is done in order
to predict the error percentage between experimental and theoretical CHF values.
18. The results are analyzed and the most effective nanofluid concentration is
determined.

21
4.3 Observations from Pool Boiling of DI Water

Fig 4.9: Bubble Formation along the Heater Surface

22
Fig 4.10: Wire Burnout at CHF point

23
4.4 Formulas:

 The amount of Graphene nanoplatelet to be added for each volume

concentration can be calculated using the following relation:

℘
ρparticleparticle
Volume Fraction % = ℘
+Volume of basefluid
ρparticleparticle

Where Wp = Weight of the particle to be added in gms

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)particle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)

 The Critical Heat Flux can be calculated using the formula:

V ∗I
CHF = KW/m2
π∗D∗L

where,

V = Voltage (Volts)

I = Current (Ampere)

D = Wire diameter in meters

L = Wire length in meters

 The Wire Temperature can be calculated using the formula:

Wire Temperature = [(Rw/Rs)-1] *[1/∝] + [Ts + 273] K

24
 where, Rw = Resistance of the wire (ohm) (Measured using multimeter)

Rs = Wire Resistance at surrounding temperature (V/I) (ohm)

∝ = Coefficient of Resistance (0.00017)

Ts = Wire Surface Temperature (Celsius)

 The BHTC is calculated using the formula:

BHTC = [CHF/((πDL) *∆ T )] W/m2K)

Where, CHF = Critical Heat Flux (KW/m2)

D = Wire diameter (meters)

L = Wire Length (meters)

∆ T = Difference between the wire and bath temperature (K)

 Zuber Relation for Critical Heat Flux:

0.25
σ . g ( ρparticlel −ρparticlev )
CHF = 0.18 h fg . ρparticlev .
[ ρparticlev 2
] KW/m2

Where, hfg = enthalpy of evaporation (kJ/kg)

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)v = vapour density (kg/m3)

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)l = liquid density (kg/m3)

σ = tension of the surface for liquid vapour (N/m)

g = gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s2)

25
 CHAPTER 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The pool boiling experiment for the three different solutions performed
includes:

 Deionized Water

 Graphene nanofluid (0.05% vol)

 Graphene nanofluid (0.1% vol)

Heat transfer characterstics such as Critical Heat Flux, Wire Temperature and
Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient for these solutions are studied. Effects of each
parameter on these solutions is described below.

5.1 Effect of Critical Heat Flux (CHF)

The CHF is calculated for different Conc. of nanofluid using the following
relation:
V ∗I
CHF = KW/m2
π∗D∗L

The CHF Values for each concentration is given below:

 Deionized Water = 1624.70 KW/m2

 Graphene (0.05% Vol) = 2116.08 KW/m2

 Graphene (0.1% Vol) = 2271.68 KW/m2

Based on the calculated values, graphs between CHF and Volume Conc. are
plotted using MS Excel. We can understand and analyze the various trends in
CHF Enhancement with respect to each concentration of nanofluid.

26
 Fig 5.1: CHF vs Volume Conc.

The variation of Critical Heat Flux with % Volume Fraction is plotted. From the graph it
is observed that there is an increase in CHF with increase in Volume Conc. Of nanofluid.
We can observe that the CHF is highest corresponding to 0.1% Volume Conc. Also, there
is a 22.75% enhancement in CHF for 0.05% volume Conc. compared to deionized water
and there is a 28.04% enhancement in CHF for 0.1% volume Conc. compared to
deionized water. Therefore, from the two graphs we can clearly observe that an increase
in nanoparticle concentration leads to increase in CHF.

27
 Fig 5.2: CHF Enhancement vs volume Conc.

The reason for the enhancement in CHF is because of the raise in the Conc. of
nanoparticles in deionized water, capability of the solution to conduct heat increases. Due
to addition of nanoparticles, a thin layer deposition of nanoparticle on the wire surface is
formed, preventing the overheating of the surface and eventually delays the burnout of
the wire. As a result of this delay, more heat transfer takes place and this is the cause for
the enhancement in CHF.

28
5.2 Effect of Wire Temperature:
The Wire Temperature for different Conc. of nanofluids are calculated using the relation:

Wire Temperature = [(Rw/Rs)-1] *[1/∝] + [Ts + 273] K

The Wire Temperature for each concentration is given below:

Deionized water = 1625.317 K

Graphene (0.05% Vol) = 994.28 K

Graphene (0.1% Vol) = 857 K

Based on the above values, Wire Temperature vs Vol Conc. graphs are plotted
to analyze the various trends in Wire Temperature with respect to each
concentration of nanofluid.

29
 Fig 5.3: Wire Temperature vs volume Conc.

The variation of Wire Temperature with volume concentration is plotted above. It is

observed that wire temperature decreases with increase in Vol Conc. There is a Wire
Temperature decrement of 0.05% and 0.1% Vol Conc. by 38.82% and 47.2% compared
to DI water. Therefore, we can observe from the two graphs that wire temperature
decreases as the nanoparticle concentration increases. This decrease can be attributed to
the formation of a thin layer deposition of graphene on the wire surface which reduces
the heater temperature. As a result, there is a better cooling capability and effective
performance for heat transfer devices.

30
 Fig 5.4: Decrement in wire temperature vs V Conc.

5.3 Effect of Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient

The Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient for different Conc. of nanofluids are calculated
using the following relation:

BHTC = [CHF/((πDL) *∆ T )] W/m2K)

The BHTC for each Concentration is given below:

31
Deionized water = 10731.90 W/m2K

Graphene (0.05% Vol) = 26007.65 W/m2K

Graphene (0.15 Vol) = 35742.02 W/m2K

Based on the above values, BHTC vs Volume Conc. graphs are plotted to analyze the
various trends in BHTC with respect to each concentration of the nanofluid.

Fig 5.5: BHTC vs Volume Conc.

The variation of BHTC vs Volume Conc. is plotted. From the graphs, we can observe that
there is an increase in BHTC with increase in nanoparticle concentration. From the
graphs we can observe that BHTC is highest for 0.1% Volume Conc. The Enhancement
in BHTC was found to be 35% for 0.05% Volume Conc. and 65.74% for 0.1% Volume
Conc. compared to the BHTC of Deionized water. From the above graphs, we can
conclude that increase in nanoparticle concentration results in BHTC Enhancement.

32
 Fig 5.6: BHTC Enhancement vs Volume Conc.

The reason for the enhancement in BHTC is because with the increase in the
concentration of nanoparticles in DI water, the capability of the solution to conduct heat
increases. Due to addition of nanoparticles, a thin layer deposition of nanoparticle on the
wire surface is formed and this prevents the overheating of the surface and eventually
delays the burnout of the wire. As a result of this delay, more heat transfer takes place
and this can be the cause for the enhancement in BHTC.

33
5.4 Numerical Analysis:

The Critical Heat Flux value found during the experiment can be validated with the
theoretical result which is calculated using a relation known as Zuber’s Relation for CHF.

Zuber Relation for CHF:

0.25
σ . g ( ρparticlel −ρparticlev )
CHF = 0.18 h fg . ρparticlev .
[ ρparticlev 2
] KW/m2

Where, hfg = enthalpy of evaporation (kJ/kg)

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)v = Density of vapour (kg/m3)

ρparticle = Density of Graphene (g/cc)l = Density of liquid (kg/m3)

σ = Surface tension of the liquid vapour (N/m)

g = gravitational constant (9.81 m/s2)

The CHF for DI water was found to be: 1524.155 KW/m2 theoretically.

The CHF for DI water was found to be: 1634.65 KW/m2 experimentally.

Theoretical Value Experimental Value

1524.155 KW/m2 1634.65 KW/m2

34
5.5 SEM Analysis:

After performing the boiling experiment, the burnout wire is examined under a Scanning
Electron Microscope. If we observe closely at the test surface before and after boiling
with nanofluid, we can see that the test surface is coated with a porous layer of particle
which is possibly the nanoparticle. This small coating is present due to the evaporation of
bubbles which consist of nanoparticles, which leaves behind the nanoparticles which is
seen attached to the wire material. The Prescence of this porous layer distinguishes the
heater surface before and after experimentation. The burnt wire sample is examined
under SEM and various micrographs of the sample are obtained and observed.

Fig 5.7: Graphene (0.1%) Wire Sample at 85X Magnification

35
Fig 5.8: Graphene (0.1%) Wire Sample at 250X Magnification

Fig 5.9: Graphene (0.1%) Wire Sample at 350X Magnification

36
Fig 5.10: Graphene (0.1%) Wire Sample at 500X Magnification

Fig 5.11: Graphene (0.1%) Wire Sample at 1000X Magnification

37
The figures 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11 provide various micrographs of Ni-Cr wire used
during the pool boiling Experiment. From the above figures, we can see the Scanning
Electron micrograms of Ni-Cr wire at various magnifications for the 0.1% Volume Conc.
of Graphene nanofluid. There are small irregular patches seen on the wire surface. This
small irregular surface formed acts as a nucleation site during boiling which will result in
the Enhancement of CHF. Therefore, we can deduce that the Enhancement in CHF and
BHTC for 0.1% Volume Conc. is due to the irregular patches formed on the wire surface.

38
5.6 Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS Data):

To validate the presence of Graphene nanoparticles on the wire surface and to show the
composition of particles present in the wire, the EDS test is done. EDAX is the software
which is used for the analysis of EDS data. The data is analysed on 0.1% Volume Conc.
Graphene nanofluid.

Fig 5.12: Energy Dispersive spectroscopy data

The above data shows the presence of Carbon on the wire sample. The normalized mass
39
percentage shows 18.74% of Carbon. This clearly validates the presence of Graphene
nanoparticle on the wire surface.

40
 CHAPTER 6

CONCLUSION

The pool boiling experiment was conducted using Ni-Cr wire for DI Water, 0.05% and
0.1% Volume Concentrations of Graphene nanofluid. The various trends in heat transfer
characterstics which include Critical Heat Flux, Boiling Heat Transfer Coefficient and
Wire Temperature with respect to Volume Concentration have been studied. The burnout
wire sample is also analysed for the deposition of nanoparticle using SEM and EDS data.
The main findings are:

1) The CHF calculated using Nichrome wire showed an increment in Graphene-

water nanofluid with a maximum value of 2271.68 KW/m2 for 0.1% Volume
Conc. and showed a maximum increment of 28.04% in CHF corresponding to
Graphene nanofluid when compared to DI water.

2) The BHTC calculated using Nichrome wire showed a significant increment in

Graphene-water nanofluid with a maximum value of 49652.08 W/m 2K for 0.1%
Volume Conc. and showed a high increment of 65.74% in BHTC corresponding
to Graphene nanofluid when compared to DI water.

3) The wire Temperature measured showed a decreasing trend with increasing

concentration of Graphene and it reaches a minimum value of 857 K for 0.1%
Volume Conc. and showed the highest decrement of 47.2% in wire temperature
compared to DI water.

4) The presence of Graphene nanoparticles on the wire surface has been validated
using SEM and EDS data.

41
 REFERENCES

1. Guoqing Shen, Likang Ma, Shuxiao Zhang, Shiping Zhang, Liansuo An (2019).
“Effect of ultrasonic waves on heat transfer in Al2O3 nanofluid under natural
convection and pool boiling”, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer,
Vol.138, pp. 516-523.
2. Abdurrahim Bolukbasi, Dogan Ciloglu (2011) “Pool boiling heat transfer
characteristics of vertical cylinder quenched by SiO2–water nanofluids”,
International Journal of Thermal Sciences, Vol.50, pp.1013-1021.
3. Madhusree Kole, T.K. Dey (2012) “Investigations on the pool boiling heat
transfer and critical heat flux of ZnO-ethylene glycol nanofluids”, Applied
Thermal Engineering, Vol.37, pp.112-119.
4. Yagnem Anil Reddy, S. Venkatachalapathy (2018) “Heat Transfer Enhancement
Studies in Pool Boiling using Hybrid Nanofluids”, Thermochimica Acta, Vol.672,
pp.93-100.
5. Sina N. Shoghl, M. bahrami (2013) “Experimental investigation on pool boiling
heat transfer of ZnO, and CuO water-based nanofluids and effect of surfactant on
heat transfer coefficient”, International Communications in Heat and Mass
Transfer, Vol.45, pp.122-129.
6. M.M. Sarafraz, F. Hormozi (2014) “Nucleate pool boiling heat transfer
characteristics of dilute Al2O3–ethyleneglycol nanofluids”, International
Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol.58, pp.96-104.
7. R. Kamatchi, G. Kumaresan (2017) “Investigations on pool boiling critical heat
flux, transient characteristics and bonding strength of heater wire with aqua
based reduced graphene oxide nanofluids”, Chinese Journal of Chemical
Engineering, Vol.26, pp.445-454.

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8. Sara Rostami, Ehsan Raki, Ali Abdollahi, Aysan Shahsavar Goldanlou (2020)
“Effects of different magnetic fields on the boiling heat transfer coefficient of the
NiO/deionized water nanofluid, an experimental investigation”, Powder
Technology, Vol.376, pp. 398-409.
9. Mina Dadjoo, Nasrin Etesami, Mohsen Nasr Esfahany (2017) “Influence of
orientation and roughness of heater surface on critical heat flux and pool boiling
heat transfer coefficient of nanofluid”, Applied Thermal Engineering, Vol.124,
pp. 353-361.
10. ZhixiongLi Li, M.M. Sarafraz, Arash Mazinani, Tasawar Hayat, Hamed
Alsulamif, Marjan Goodarzi (2020) “Pool boiling heat transfer to CuO-H2O
nanofluid on finned surfaces”, Vol.156, 119780.

43
T5
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2%
INTERNET SOURCES
1%
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1%
STUDENT PAPERS

PRIMARY SOURCES

1 archive.org
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1%
2 Submitted to Victoria University
Student Paper
<1 %
3
C.G. Jothi Prakash, R. Prasanth. "Enhanced <1 %
boiling heat transfer by nano structured
surfaces and nanofluids", Renewable and
Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2018
Publication

4
Dogan Ciloglu, Abdurrahim Bolukbasi. "The <1 %
quenching behavior of aqueous nanofluids
around rods with high temperature", Nuclear
Engineering and Design, 2011
Publication

5 edoc.site <1 %
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6 Submitted to Durban University of <1 %

Technology
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7 portal.dl.saga-u.ac.jp
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Technology
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<1 %

Exclude quotes On Exclude matches < 10 words

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45
 Format I
SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(Deemed to be University u/s 3 of UGC Act, 1956)

Office of Controller of Examinations

REPORT FOR PLAGIARISM CHECK ON THE PROJECT REPORT FOR
UG/PG PROGRAMMES
(To be attached in the Project Report)
SHABARISH M
1 Name of the Candidate(s)
VIJAY A RA
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
SRM Institute of Science and Technology,
2 Address of the Candidate SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur 603203.
Mobile Number of Candidate 1: 9003131104
Mobile Number of Candidate 2: 9698822562
Registration Number of RA1711002010067
3
the Candidate(s) RA1711002010147
Date of Birth of the 21 / SEP / 1999
4
Candidate(s) 19 / JUL/ 1999
5 Department Mechanical Engineering

6 Faculty Engineering and Technology

POOL BOILING HEAT TRANSFER

7 Title of the Project
CHARACTERISTICS OF NANOFLUIDS

Dr.C. SELVAM, Ph.D., ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Name and address of the SRM Institute of Science and Technology,
8
Supervisor SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur 603203.
E-mail: [email protected]
Mobile: +91 9003595904
Name and address of the
9 Not Applicable
Co-Supervisor (if any)

10 Software Used TURNITIN

11 Date of Verification 21 MAY 2021

46
 12 Plagiarism Details: (to attach the final report from Turnitin)
Percentage Percentage % of
of of plagiarism
similarity similarity after
Chapte
Title of the Chapter index index excluding
r (including (Excluding Quotes,
self self Bibliography,
citation) citation) etc.,

1 INTRODUCTION 1 - 1

2 LITERATURE SURVEY 1 - 1
PREPARATION OF
3 0 - 0
NANOFLUID
4 EXPERIMENTATION 0 - 0

5 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 1 - 1

6 CONCLUSION 0 - 0

Appendices

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47