Mechanism exploration of the enhancement of thermal energy storage in molten salt nanofluid

Recent Advances in Molten Salt-Based Nanofluids as Thermal Energy Storage in Concentrated Solar Power: A Comprehensive Review

This study critically reviews the key aspects of nanoparticles and their impact on molten salts (MSs) for thermal energy storage (TES) in concentrated solar power (CSP). It then conducts a comprehensive analysis of MS nanofluids, focusing on identifying the best combinations of salts and nanoparticles to increase the specific heat capacity (SHC) efficiently. Various methods and approaches for the synthesis of these nanofluids are explained. The article presents different experimental techniques used to characterize nanofluids, including measuring the SHC and thermal conductivity and analyzing particle dispersion. It also discusses the challenges associated with characterizing these nanofluids. The study aims to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed increase in SHC in MS nanofluids. Finally, it summarizes potential areas for future research, highlighting crucial domains for further investigation and advancement.

Modification of insulating oils and oil-based titanium dioxide nanofluids for transformers: a review

In the last decade, oil-based titanium dioxide nanofluids (TiO2 NFs) have gained immense interest due to their unique insulating properties and excellent thermal performance, which endow them with the potential for application in the field of modified insulating oils. A timely comparison, analysis and summary of recent advances in the preparation, characterization, and properties of different oil-based TiO2 NFs for oil-immersed power transformers will contribute to provide a useful reference for the subsequent development of such materials. Preparation methods are reviewed along with their merits and demerits. Characterization techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), optical microscopy (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermally stimulated current (TSC), pulse electroacoustic technique (PEA), finite element analysis (FEA), fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and zeta potential analysis are all applied to determine the crystal structure, particle size, surface function, surface charge and stability. Stabilization mechanisms are also discussed in detail. Some critical properties of oil-based TiO2 NFs under the application of different influencing factors such as base oils, crystal structure, size of nanoparticles, surface modifiers, mixing percentage, and aging environment are highlighted. Finally, the existing challenges and perspectives are presented for future research.