Synthesis of stable waste palm oil based CuO nanofluid for heat transfer applications

This article aims at preparation of novel copper oxide nanofluid using waste palm oil as a base solvent without using any surfactants/stabilizers for its suitability in heat transfer applications. Copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using co-precipitation technique and were subjected to structural and morphological studies using X-ray diffraction and Transmission Electron Microscope. UV-vis and FTIR studies were conducted to confirm the formation CuO nanoparticles and adsorption of oleic acid groups on the surface of CuO nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were dispersed in waste palm oil at different concentrations (0.1% – 0.9% wt.) using ultrasonication, resulting in stable solution. CuO nanofluids were observed to be stable for at least 6 months without any sign of aggregation. The synthesized CuO nanofluid was found to exhibit enhanced thermal properties as compared to base fluid. The thermal conductivity of nanofluid (0.7% by wt. of nanoparticle) shows maximum enhancement (upto 190%) as compared to pure palm oil. Thus, it can be considered as a suitable candidate for many heat transfer applications.