ABSTRACT
Nanofluids are the type of fluid suspensions that contains nano-sized particles. Their thermophysical properties have been studied to a great extent. Nanofluids have outstanding thermal as well as optical properties. Carbon-based materials are also being used nowadays as nanofluid additives for solar thermal collectors. The preparation of nanofluids is the most important step which may affect its thermal properties. Properties of both the individual components play role in determining the properties of the nanofluid. Thermal conductivity of a nanofluid is the most important property which certifies its heat transfer performance. Viscosity is one of the most crucial properties of nanofluids. The widespread use of solar energy for heating and cooling buildings is affected by the cost of the flat-plate collector. Flat-plate solar collectors are classified as a special class of heat exchangers. The efficiency of solar cells can be improved by using cooling solar cells. The solution to this problem is by using nanofluids.
