Functionalized Single Walled and Double Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Thermal Enhancement Available to Purchase

Our investigation in this study focuses on the chemical and thermal characteristics of Single Walled Nanotubes (SWNTs) in comparison with Double Walled Nanotubes (DWNTs) for their potential to extend the heat flux in the boiling regime. SWNTs and DWNTs were successfully dispersed in an aqueous medium by reducing the surface tension, i.e. adsorption of anionic surfactant (NaDDBS). Two mechanisms of stabilization have been adopted: electrosteric and steric stabilization, and the suspensions were seen to be stable for longer periods. DWNTs have better heat transfer performance in the pool boiling experiment due to their unique structure. Functionalization and surfactant coating of SWNTs may reduce the heat flow because of modification of the structure. The burnout heat flux of the immersed Nichrome wire in water under pool boiling conditions was increased by up to 170% over that for the pure base liquid for DWNT nanofluid. In contrast, SWNT nanofluid enhanced burnout heat flux by 30%. The nature of the deposition on the heating element affects the surface wetting and therefore the pool boiling curve. DWNT coating on the wire is much thinner than SWNT coating; however, it is more porous and enhances CHF.