Review of the Photothermal Energy Conversion Performance of Nanofluids, Their Applications, and Recent Advances

Abstract

Nanoparticles have been thoroughly investigated in the last few decades because they have many beneficial and functional qualities. Their capability to enhance and manipulate light absorption, thermal conductivity, and heat transfer efficiency has attracted significant research attention. This systematic and comprehensive work is a critical review of research on the photothermal energy conversion performance of various nanofluids as well as the recent advances in several engineering applications. Different nanofluids used in the photothermal energy conversion process were compared to identify the suitable applications of each nanofluid in thermal systems. An analysis of the previous investigations based on experimental and numerical studies has established that nanomaterials have the potential to increase the efficiency of solar thermal systems.

An experimental investigation on the solar–thermal energy conversion performance of Fe 2 O 3 nanofluid with the focus on nanoparticles shape and concentration

“…Generally, when the photons of solar light hit a semiconductor, it is possible to increase its temperature due to electron-hole generation and relaxation mechanism. 48,49 The photonic excitation in the semiconductors leads to the different states of electron-hole pairs. A type of electron-hole pair is created when light with energy equal to that of the bandgap is absorbed by the material.…”

Enhancing the solar energy conversion and harvesting characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes‐modified 1‐hexyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium cation ionic liquids

“…45 In the case of NEIL, the energy storage capability of the ionic liquids can be enhanced by the boosted volumetric specific heat using nanoparticles. 46 Typically, the optical properties of the nanofluid are enhanced with increasing concentration of nanofluid such as optical absorption, [47][48][49] which led high solar weighted absorbance and PEC efficiency. However, beyond optimal concentrations, excessive nanoparticles in the system cause negative effects such as increasing the heat loss from solar thermal collector to environment by trapping all the thermal energy at the top of the collector.…”

Review of Technologies and Recent Advances in Low-Temperature Sorption Thermal Storage Systems

“…Recent advances in nanoscale materials have attracted the attention of researchers. Boldoo et al [7] reviewed the performances of different nanofluids and their recent developments in photothermal conversion. It was concluded that their preparation method and enhancement of their optical properties could increase the solar photothermal conversion efficiency.…”