Comparative Study on the Thermal Properties of Engine Oils and Their Nanofluids Incorporating Fullerene-C<sub>60</sub>, TiO<sub>2</sub> and Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> at Different Temperatures

The efficiency, durability, and overall performance of a car engine are influenced by several critical factors. The quality and properties of engine oil play a crucial role, and oil is used in internal combustion engines for lubrication and cooling purposes. This research study aimed to compare the...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Chanaka Galpaya, Ashan Induranga, Vimukthi Vithanage, Prasanga Mantilaka, Kaveenga Rasika Koswattage
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2024-02-01
Series:Energies
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/17/3/732
Description
Summary:The efficiency, durability, and overall performance of a car engine are influenced by several critical factors. The quality and properties of engine oil play a crucial role, and oil is used in internal combustion engines for lubrication and cooling purposes. This research study aimed to compare the impact of fullerene-C<sub>60</sub> (99.5%), Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>, and TiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles on the thermal properties of C.A.L.T.E.X. red engine oil with grades 10W30, 20W40, and 20W50. This study focused on the effect of a nanoparticle concentration of 0.01 wt.% in different engine oil grades at various temperature values of 30–120 °C. The nanofluids were prepared using the two-step direct mixing method, employing a magnetic stirrer and an ultrasonicator, ensuring uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the base fluids. The thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, and volumetric heat capacity of the base fluids and nanofluids were measured using the FLUCON LAMBDA thermal conductivity meter. Additionally, flash points were measured using the flash point tester. It was concluded that the thermal properties of TiO<sub>2</sub> and Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> showed considerable enhancement; in contrast, fullerene only showed a 212 °C flash point.
ISSN:1996-1073