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This paper presents a comprehensive performance analysis of a Parabolic Trough Solar Collector (PTSC) employing Al₂O₃–water nanofluids as the working medium to enhance thermal and exergy performance. The investigation focuses on the influence of nanoparticle concentration on heat transfer characteristics, system efficiency, and overall energy conversion effectiveness. Nanofluid concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.30 vol % were experimentally examined under varying Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) levels between 550 and 900 W/m². The experimental setup was designed to ensure steady-state operation, and the results were validated through comparative analytical modelling based on conventional thermodynamic correlations. The findings revealed a significant improvement in both thermal and exergy efficiencies due to the superior thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, and convective heat transfer coefficient of the nanofluids. A maximum instantaneous thermal efficiency of 73.4% was achieved at a 0.2% Al₂O₃ concentration, beyond which minor deterioration was observed due to increased viscosity and flow resistance. The study concludes that Al₂O₃–water nanofluids can substantially enhance the heat collection efficiency and sustainability of PTSC systems, making them promising candidates for next-generation solar thermal energy applications and green power technologies.
Keywords:
Parabolic Trough, Nanofluids, Solar Collector, Exergy, Heat Transfer, Thermal Efficiency.
Cite Article:
"Performance Analysis of Parabolic Trough Solar Collector Using Nanofluids", International Journal for Research Trends and Innovation (www.ijrti.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.9, Issue 9, page no.194-200, September-2024, Available :http://www.ijrti.org/papers/IJRTI2409028.pdf
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ISSN:
2456-3315 | IMPACT FACTOR: 8.14 Calculated By Google Scholar| ESTD YEAR: 2016
An International Scholarly Open Access Journal, Peer-Reviewed, Refereed Journal Impact Factor 8.14 Calculate by Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar | AI-Powered Research Tool, Multidisciplinary, Monthly, Multilanguage Journal Indexing in All Major Database & Metadata, Citation Generator