Enhancing heat pipe efficiency using silver nanomaterial nanofluids: a hybrid approach with carbon nanotubes, graphene, and quantum Dot-MOS compositions

ABSTRACT Heat pipes, known for their high efficiency and reliability, are widely used in these systems, but their performance is dependent on the thermal properties of the working fluid. Traditional coolants have limitations, prompting the exploration of nanofluids—suspensions of nanoparticles in base fluids—to enhance thermal performance. This study investigates the effect of silver nanomaterial-based nanofluids with distinct morphologies—nanospheres and nanocubes—along with hybrid compositions incorporating carbon nanotubes, graphene, and quantum dot-metal oxide semiconductors (QD-MOS). Using an experimental approach, the study evaluates heat transfer coefficients, thermal efficiency, and TR across varying concentrations and power inputs. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and machine learning techniques were employed for optimization. Results indicate that silver nanosphere-based nanofluids enhance the HTC by 38% compared to DI water, while hybrid nanofluids, particularly Ag-Graphene, achieve a 47% improvement. TR is significantly reduced, with nanocube-based fluids performing better at higher power inputs. These findings highlight the potential for tailored nanofluid formulations to enhance heat pipe performance in industrial applications.