Computer-aided Investigation of the Performance of Water-based Metal Oxide Nanofluids

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has emerged as a powerful tool for simulating the behavior of nanofluids in thermal systems, providing a cost-effective alternative to experimental studies. This contribution presents a comprehensive computational modelling approach to study the flow and heat transfer characteristics of nanofluids, based on experimental data from synthesized prototypes of CuO (1 wt %, 5 wt %) and Al2O3 (1 wt %, 5 wt %) nanoparticles in water. The modeling was performed using OpenFOAM, an open-source CFD Software that allows a high degree of customization of simulation parameters. The study involved the development of detailed CFD models to investigate the influence of nanoparticle morphological properties on the thermal performance of nanofluids. Different multiphase schemes were used to accurately simulate the complex interactions between nanoparticles and base fluids. The simulation results were compared with experimental and literature data to validate the models and ensure their reliability. The validated models were then used to extend the experimental campaign, exploring the potential of different nanoparticle compositions and concentrations to optimize thermal efficiency. The results demonstrate that CFD modeling can effectively predict the behavior of nanofluids, providing a robust framework for optimizing their performance in real-world applications. The study underscores the importance of integrating experimental and computational approaches to achieve a comprehensive understanding of nanofluid dynamics. The insights gained from this research contribute to the advancement of nanofluid technology, offering practical solutions for enhancing heat transfer efficiency in industrial processes.