Continuous flow-based laser-assisted plasmonic heating: A new approach for photothermal energy conversion and utilization

The aim of this study is to enhance our understanding on photothermal performance of plasmonic Au/TiO2 nanoparticles by conducting a well-controlled experiment under continuous flow conditions. Herein, plasmonic heating experiments of Au nanoparticles decorated on TiO2 nanoparticles were performed using 532 nm laser irradiation. Different parameters, such as Au loading, concentration of nanoparticles, flow rate and laser intensity that could affect the optical and photothermal properties of the nanofluids were studied. The results revealed that the photothermal performance of the nanofluids was remarkably increased in the presence of Au. Particularly, Au nanofluid exhibits a significant higher temperature achieving up to 32 degrees C compared to that of TiO2 nanofluid (22.5 degrees C) and water-based fluid (20.5 degrees C) which is attributed to the localized surface plasmon resonance effect on the surface of Au nanoparticles. The concept of continuous-flow based plasmonic heating of Au/TiO2 nanofluid, with considerable optical and thermal properties, is a promising approach in efficient photothermal applications such as thermal energy supply in industrial chemical processes.