Heat transfer characteristics of nanofluids: a review

Research in convective heat transfer using suspensions of nanometer-sized solid particles in base liquids started only over the past decade. Recent investigations on nanofluids, as such suspensions are often called, indicate that the suspended nanoparticles markedly change the transport properties and heat transfer characteristics of the suspension. This review summarizes recent research on fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of nanofluids in forced and free convection flows and identifies opportunities for future research. (C) 2006 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.