Pool boiling characteristics of low concentration nanofluids

The pool boiling behavior of low concentration nanofluids (<= 1 g/l) was experimentally studied over a flat heater at 1 atm. Boiling of nanofluids produces a thin nanoparticle film, on the heater surface, which in turn is believed to increase the critical heat flux. The present study also indicates that the nanoparticle deposition results in transient characteristics in the nucleate boiling heat transfer. Finally, this study investigates possible causes responsible for the deposition of nanoparticle on the heater surface. Experimental evidence shows that microlayer evaporation, during nanofluid boiling, is responsible for the nanoparticle coating formed on the heater surfaces. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.