Paraffin is a common PCM used for storing and harnessing solar energy, however its poor photothermal characteristics, such as low thermal conductivity and moderate spectrum absorption, limit its utility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the photothermal properties of a paraffin wax-based PCM nanofluid comprising Copper (Cu) and Copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles. Both optical and thermal behavious of the nanofluids were studied, and a two-step production strategy (Cu-CuO/paraffin) was suggested. Researchers looked into how the concentration of nanoparticles and the strength of solar radiation affected the photothermal behaviour of nanofluid. The results demonstrate that the thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of pure paraffin are improved by the addition of Cu and CuO nanoparticles. However, when the optical length and nanoparticle concentration increase, the transmission of nanofluid decreases. The photothermal characteristics of a Cu-CuO/paraffin hybrid nanofluid are enhanced at greater irradiance and lower concentrations, with a maximum efficiency of 42.97 %.

Topics
Solar energy, Thermal conductivity, Thermodynamic properties, Atmospheric radiation, Thermo optic effects, Nanofluidics, Nanoparticle
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