Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669

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Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/rser

Improving the performance of refrigeration systems by using nanofluids: A T

comprehensive review
⁎
Atul Bhattad, Jahar Sarkar , Pradyumna Ghosh
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (B.H.U.), Varanasi, UP 221005, India

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: In view of energy security and environmental concern, the performance of refrigeration system needs to be
Nanofluids improved, which can be done by modifying either the systems or the properties of primary and secondary
Nanorefrigerants working fluids. Recently, the nanofluids or hybrid nanofluids have gained interest in many engineering fields
Nanolubricants due to its excellent thermophysical properties, which can be easily used in refrigeration and air conditioning
Secondary fluid
systems by many roles for performance improvement. This review summarizes the researches on preparation and
Refrigeration
Performance enhancement
characterization of nanofluids, various thermophysical and electrical properties (density, heat capacity, visc-
osity, thermal conductivity, surface tension, electrical conductivity, freezing characteristics, etc.) of nanofluids.
Applications of nanofluids in the refrigeration systems as refrigerant, lubricant and secondary fluid are well-
grouped and discussed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for future research are identified, which will be
useful for the newcomers and manufacturers in this field.

1. Introduction gained special attention due to several outstanding advantages of gra-

One of the biggest challenges in today's world is for energy security.
There is huge need of energy in refrigeration, heat pump and air-con-
ditioning applications. Although due to the limitation of energy re-
sources the researches are done in the area of improving the efficiency
and performance of thermal systems. It can be achieved by firstly im-
proving the design of system components mainly heat exchangers and
secondly doing changes in the type of working fluids. Looking for the
former idea, in the present scenario, many compact types of heat ex-
changers are in use such as shell and tube type heat exchanger, plate
type heat exchanger, microchannel heat exchangers, etc. In the later
case i.e. for a new type of working fluid, after many types of researches,
it was found that a new kind of fluid known as nanofluid shows better
results by increasing the performance of systems.
Nanofluids are the colloidal solution of suspended particles of nano
size i.e. the minimum dimension of 10–100 nm in a base fluid [1]. The
base fluid can be water, ethanol, glycol, water based brine, refrigerant,
oil, lubricant, etc. Various metals, metal oxides, different forms of
carbon (nanotubes, graphene, etc.), ceramics and metal carbides can be
used as nanoparticles. Recently, the graphene based nanofluids have
phene including lower density, exceptional higher conductivity, higher
specific surface area and exceptional anti-friction properties [2]. In
addition to nanofluids, recently hybrid nanofluids have also gained
attention as tremendous improvement of heat transfer characteristics
may be due to the synergistic effect caused by hybridization [3]. Based
on suspended nanoparticle composition, the nanofluids can be broadly
divided into three groups: (i) mono-nanofluids (contains same nano-
particles), (ii) hybrid nanofluids containing mixture of dissimilar na-
noparticles (solid or/and phase change materials), and (iii) hybrid na-
nofluids containing composite nanoparticles (either solid materials or
solid and phase change materials). Augmented heat transfer char-
acteristics using nanofluids are affected by thermal conductivity in-
crease and several mechanisms such as Brownian motion, Brownian
diffusion, sedimentation, dispersion, particle clustering, solid/liquid
interface layering, ballistic phonon transport and thermophoresis [4].
The relative movement between the nanoparticle and base fluid is the
main reason behind this improvement, leading to direct contribution
caused by the circulation of the nanoparticles, carrying the heat along
and indirect contribution resulting from the micro convection formed
by the movement of the fluid around the nanoparticles [4]. Hence, the

Abbreviations: CMCNa, Carboxymethyl cellulose sodium; CNT, Carbon nanotube; COP, Coefficient of performance; CTAB, Cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide; EG, Ethylene Glycol;
HiNPCM, Hybrid nanocomposites embedded phase change material; HiTES, Hybrid nanocomposites based cool thermal energy storage; MNRO, Mineral based nano-refrigeration oil;
MWCNT/MWNT, Multiwalled carbon nanotube; PAG, Poly alkylene glycol; PEC, Performance evaluation criterion; POE, Polyolester; PVP, Polyvinylpyrrolidone; SDBS, Sodium dodecyl
benzene sulfonate; SDS, Sodium dodecyl sulfate; SEM, Scanning electron microscopy; SWCNH, Single wall carbon nanohorn; SWCNT, Singlewalled carbon nanotube; TCP, Tricresyl
phosphate; TEG, Tri Ethylene Glycol; TEM, Transmission electron microscopy; XRD, X-Ray diffraction
⁎
Corresponding author.
E-mail address: jsarkar.mec@itbhu.ac.in (J. Sarkar).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2017.10.097
Received 17 August 2016; Received in revised form 16 July 2017; Accepted 28 October 2017
Available online 14 November 2017
1364-0321/ © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A. Bhattad et al.
Nomenclature
D nanoparticle diameter
T temperature
Φ nanoparticle volume concentration
reasons can be summarized as [4]: (i) Elevated heat transfer surface
between particles and fluid, (ii) The interaction and collision between
the nanoparticles, (iii) The enhancement of the thermal conductivity
caused by the introduction of nanoparticles with higher thermal con-
ductivity and several slip mechanisms, (iv) The intensified dispersion of
the nanoparticles along the base fluid, causing micro turbulences and
(v) Nanoporous and nanofin effects at heat transfer surface [5].
Nanofluids can play three different roles for performance improve-
ment of refrigeration, heat pump and air conditioning systems: (i)
Refrigerant based nanofluids (called nanorefrigerant), (ii) Lubricant
based nanofluids (called nanolubricant) and (iii) secondary fluid (also
called secondary refrigerant for evaporator side and coolant for heat
rejection side in refrigeration system) based nanofluids. Apart from this,
nano phase change materials (nano-PCM) can be used in energy storage
system to reduce energy consumptions. Within last decade, lots of nu-
merical and experimental investigations on nanofluids for refrigeration
applications have been performed. Saidur et al. [6] reviewed the
thermophysical properties, heat transfer and pressure drop character-
istics of nanorefrigerant and nanolubricant oil for refrigerating systems.
Alawi et al. [7] focused on the pool boiling heat transfer characteristics
of nanorefrigerants and found that nanorefrigerants possess higher and
stronger temperature dependent thermal conductivity at a lower con-
centration. Celen et al. [8] performed a review on properties, flow
characteristics and applications (refrigerators and air conditioners) of
nanorefrigerants. Alawi et al. [9] performed a review on applications of
nanorefrigerant and nanolubricants in refrigeration, air conditioning
and heat pump systems. Alawi et al. [10] performed a review to see the
effect of using nanorefrigerant on heat transfer performance and energy
consumption of cooling devices. Patil et al. [11] performed a literature
review associated with the thermophysical properties and performance
characteristics of nanorefrigerants in refrigeration systems. Nair et al.
[12] performed a comprehensive review on past, present and future of
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Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669
nanorefrigerants which include their preparation, thermophysical
properties, pressure drop and heat transfer characteristics and perfor-
mance of refrigeration systems while using nanorefrigerants. Redhwan
et al. [13] also reviewed the performance of various types of re-
frigerants based nanorefrigerants. Azmi et al. [14] performed a review
on energy saving in the refrigeration system using nanorefrigerant and
nanolubricant. It can be seen that the published review works mainly
concentrated on nanorefrigerants and nanolubricants; however, with
best of the authors’ knowledge, no review has been done on nanofluids
as secondary working substances for refrigeration and air-conditioning.
Furthermore, apart from density, heat capacity, viscosity and thermal
conductivity, other properties have not been reviewed.
In this paper, the research works related to applications of nano-
fluids in refrigeration, heat pump and air conditioning systems for
improving performance have been reviewed. Applications of nanofluids
are well grouped into three parts i.e. nanorefrigerant, nanolubricants
and secondary fluids. Preparation and characterization of nanofluids
are summarized. Apart from thermal conductivity, viscosity, density
and specific heat, some other related important properties like surface
tension, electrical property and freezing characteristics are also dis-
cussed. Finally, concluding remarks and future scopes are provided as
well.
2. Preparation and characterization
The basic and most important step during the study of the nano-
fluids is its preparation process as it affects the stability and properties
of nanofluids. Preparation of nanofluids requires some special methods
for uniform and stable solution and less agglomeration and sedi-
mentation problem. Nanofluids which may be used for secondary fluids
in the refrigeration system are produced by dispersing metal, metal
oxides, non-metals of nanosize in the base fluids such as water and
brine. Water and brine based nanofluids preparation has been sum-
marized by many authors such as [3,15–20]. There are mainly two
methods for preparation of nanofluid: single step method and two step
method. These can be done by using the chemical method or mechan-
ical methods. In single step method nanoparticles are made and dis-
persed in liquid simultaneously. In two step method nanoparticles are
made separately and then dispersed afterwards maintaining the stabi-
lity of nanofluid. Fig. 1 provides the flowchart for producing nanofluids.
Fig. 1. Flowchart for producing nanofluids.
A. Bhattad et al. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669

Generally, two step method is preferred over single step method. Pre-

Diameter and aspect ratio of CNT influences thermal

Surfactant was not used to avoid the reduction in

paration of oil based nanofluids which may be potential applicant in

Addition of SDBS lowers the critical heat flux.

refrigerator compressor has been also well summarized by many re-
search papers [15–20]. In addition to this the preparation methods of

Stability checked by spectrophotometer

hybrid nanofluid have also been summarized by some authors [3,20].
The surfactant is used to prepare stable nanofluid, although duration of
stability depends on surfactant and nanofluid combination, and many

Checked aggregation behavior

other factors such as preparation method, ultrasonication timing,

Stable for more than 12 h.

Stable for more than 12 h.

Stable for more than 24 h.

temperature, etc. [18].

conductivity of fluid.

system performance.

Stable for one week.

Some preparation methods of refrigerant based nanofluids i.e. na-

No stability testing
norefrigerants have been summarized by Alawi et al. [7] and Nair et al.

Stability testing
[12]. Single step method or two step method can be used for the
synthesis of nanorefrigerants. However, most of the conventional re-

Remarks
frigerants have normal boiling point lower than ambient temperature
and hence the refrigerant is in gaseous phase at normal ambient con-
dition and unsuitable for nanorefrigerant preparation. Till now, two

CuO and R113 were weighed, mixed and then ultrasonicated for

CNT and R113 were weighed, mixed and then ultrasonicated for

Cu particles, surfactant and R113 were weighed, mixed and then

Cu powder dispersed in R141b refrigerant and SDBS was added.

ZnO nanoparticles were mixed in PAG oil, stirred for 10 h using
Diamond-oil mixture and R113 were weighed, mixed and then
refrigerants R113 and R141b (normal boiling points are 47.6 °C and

CTAB surfactant, TiO2 and R141b were mixed, stirred and

32.1 °C, respectively) have mainly used for the preparation of nanore-
frigerants, which are in liquid phase at usual ambient temperature.
Hence, conventional nanofluid preparation methods [13] have been

Two-step method using orbital incubator shaker

used for this case. As for example, Peng et al. [21] prepared R113 re-

magnetic stirrer and then vibrated for 15 h.

frigerant based nanorefrigerant by adding CuO nanoparticles. First of

Two-step method,Varied sonication time

Two-step method, sonication for 20 min
Two-step method, sonication for 30 min
all they weigh the mass of CuO nanoparticles by a digital electronic
balance and then put them into weighed R113 to obtain CuO/ R113
mixture. Afterward they vibrated the mixture for 30 min to obtain a
well dispersed nanofluid mixture. It has been observed that ultra-

ultrasonicated for 90 min

sonication gives a better dispersed solution which can be kept for 12 h

Then sonicated for 8 h.

Method of preparation
without deposition. Trisaksri and Wongwises [22] prepared R141b
based nanorefrigerant by mixing of TiO2 nanoparticles of the required

vibrated for 1 h.

vibrated for 1 h.
amount (low concentration ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 vol%) and base
fluid without dispersants. Ultrasonic vibration was then used for 6 h to
30 min

30 min
stabilize the dispersion of the nanoparticles. Similar methods have been
followed by many investigators [23–34]. For refrigerants with lower
normal boiling point (not in liquid state at normal temperature and
D= 15, 80 nm, L= 1.5, 10 µm, Φ= 0.2–1.0 v%, T= 303 K

D= 10 nm, heat flux= 10–80 kW/m , Φ = 5, 10 & 15 wt%

Φ= 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 wt%, mass flux = 100,150,200 kg/m2s,

pressure), the following two methods can be adopted: (i) One step or
D= 20 nm, heat flux= 10–80 kW/m2, Φ = 0.1, 0.5 &

two step method for liquid refrigerant at operating pressure and tem- 0.5 to 2 vol% concentrations, temperature of 15 °C

perature (it can be achieved by maintaining the temperature lower than

normal boiling point at ambient pressure or the pressure higher than
saturation pressure corresponding to maintained temperature) and (ii)
D= 30 nm, Φ = 0.008, 0.015 & 0.05 v%

Preparation of nanolubricant and then mixing with refrigerant. Mah-

2

Varied concentration and surfactants

heat flux = 3.08, 4.62, 6.16 kW/m2

bubul et al. [35,36] used the first method. They prepared Al2O3/R141b
D= 50 nm, Φ = 0.1, 0.3 & 0.5 v%

D= 20 nm, Φ = 0.1, 0.2 & 0.3 v%

nanorefrigerants by shaking mixture of the nanoparticle of 13 nm size D= 30 nm, Φ = 0.01 & 0.03 v%,
D = 25, 40, 60 and 100 nm

and 99.5% purity and refrigerant continuously for 24 h at 240 rpm in

an orbital incubator shaker at a constant temperature of 15 °C. A similar
Operating conditions

method has been used for Al2O3/R134a nanorefrigerant also [37,38].

Using the second method, Kumar et al. [39] prepared nanolubricant
from ZnO nanoparticle of 40 nm size and PAG oil. The mixture has been
prepared by the magnetic stirrer for 10 h and then vibrated by ultra-
1.0 wt%

sonic homogenizer for 15 h to prevent clustering of particles. The

mixture has been then used with R152a refrigerant to form nanore-
Comprehensive summary on synthesis of nanorefrigerants.

frigerant whose use reduces the energy consumption with 0.5% volume
Cu/ R113/ SDS, CTAB &

MWCNT/R141b Span-80
Diamond/ R113/ VG68

concentration.
TiO2/R141b/ CTAB

Table 1 summarizes the preparation of the nanorefrigerants. In

Cu/ R141b/ SDBS
Nano-refrigerant

MWCNT/R141b

general, nanofluids can be prepared by either one step method or two

Al2O3/R141b
ZnO/ R152a

TiO2/R141b

step method. In most of the researches, two step method has been used
CNT/ R113
CuO/ R113

Span 80

because of comparatively cheaper technology, easy manufacturing,

mass production and less time taking. But there is a demerit of ag-
oil

glomeration of particles and stability of the nanofluids in the two step

method. The advantage of using one step method is that the chances of
Mahbubul et al., 2013 [35]

Tazarv et al., 2016 [34]

Kumar et al., 2014 [39]
Jiang et al., 2009 [24]

Yang et al., 2015 [33]

Peng et al., 2009 [21]

Peng et al., 2010 [25]

Peng et al., 2011 [26]

Peng et al., 2015 [37]

agglomeration of nanoparticles get reduced and thus the nanofluid

Diao et al., 2015 [32]

Lin et al., 2015 [40]

formed has been found more stable.

The characterization of nanofluids consists of (i) the structural
Author, Year

properties of nanoparticles to estimate the chemical nature, size and the

morphology as well as the size of agglomerations, and (ii) dispersion
Table 1

stability analysis of nanofluids. Nanoparticle characterization techni-

ques include transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using wet-TEM

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A. Bhattad et al. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669

technique to assess the dispersion state, x-ray diffraction (XRD), vi-

(1 v%) and strongly dependent on nanoparticle aggregation and

Maximum improvement of 43% has been observed at 325 K and

nanoparticle volume fraction and temperature. It increases by
Increases sharply upto 20% with increase in volume fraction

concentration and temperature and with decrease in particle

Highest enhancement of 7.5% with 0.01 wt% of CNTs in the
Maximum improvement of 28.58% has been observed. COP
bration sample magnetometer (VSM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectro-

means the thicker interfacial layer and the greater thermal

diameter and larger aspect ratio of CNT. Smaller diameter
Thermal conductivity enhancement is higher for smaller

Thermal conductivity increases with increase in particle

Thermal conductivity increases with increase in particle

scopy (EDX), thermal analysis TG-DTA, UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), infrared absorption spectro-

Thermal conductivity increases with the increase in

scopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and inductively coupled

increases by 15% due to thermal conductivity.

1.626 times at 2 v% concentration and 20 °C.
plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) [20]. Stability analysis
is very crucial as the improved stability leads to increase in thermal
conductivity and decrease in viscosity. Peng et al. [37] experimentally
investigated the influence of primary particle parameters and surfactant
forming of nanoparticle clusters.

concentration and temperature.

on aggregation behavior of TiO2 nanoparticles in R141b based nanor-
conductivity enhancement.

efrigerant for particle concentration ranging from of 25–500 mg/l and

base fluid of 40 wt% NH3.

particle sizes of 25, 40, 60 and 100 nm using three surfactants (SDBS,
CTAB and NP-10). They found that with primary particle size and
concentration, the steady state hydrodynamic diameter also increases.
Observations

Also the particle size decreases with the increase of surfactant con-
centration. Lin et al. [40] investigated the dispersion stability of
5 v%.
MWCNTs in R141b refrigerant with an addition of SDBS surfactant. It

size.
has been observed that optimal concentration of SDBS shows good
stability. It has also been found that the decrease of MWCNT length or
outer diameter leads to the increase of relative concentration.
Due to the problem of stability, a stability analysis can be done for
proper distribution of nanoparticles in the fluid. Different stability
analysis methods discussed by various authors are zeta potential ana-
ΦNH3= 30, 40 & 50 w%; ΦCNT= 0.02, 0.04, 0.08 &
T= 283–308 K, Φ= 5 v%; u= 5 m/s, Φ= 1–5 v%,

lysis, sedimentation method, spectral analysis, scanning electron mi-

Φ = 0–1 v%, CNT dia.= 15 & 80 nm, L= 1.5 &

croscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Various

T= 5–30 °C, Φ = 0.1–0.4 v% & 0.5–2.0 v%

0.8 v%. Do= 20–30 nm, Di= 5–10 nm, L=

methods for improving the stability of the nanofluids discussed in dif-

Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K

Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K

Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K

ferent literatures are ultrasonication, surfactant addition, magnetic

stirring and surface modification. The commonly used surfactants are
10–30 µm, T= 303.15–353.15 K

CTAB, SDS, SDBS, NP-10, Span-80, etc. Proper selection of surfactant

has been observed as an important parameter because adding fewer
At room temp. & pressure.

amounts of surfactant leads to an unstable solution and adding more

mass flux= 100 kg/m2
Operating Conditions

amount of surfactant decreases thermal conductivity and hence heat

transfer performance of thermal systems. During sonication process,
respectively,

mechanical energy gets converted into heat energy which rises the
temperature of fluid due to which concentration varies and causes
10 µm

measurement problem. Proper sonication time & vibration frequency

supplies the right amount of energy due to which effective dispersion of
nanoparticles take place. Hence the manufacturing process as well as
stability (ultrasonication time and temperature) both, are of important
concerned while talking about nanofluids. By the proper selection of
surfactant, concentration and volume concentration one can keep the
nanofluid chemically stable for a long time around 3–4 weeks [22].
Cu/R113, Al/R113, Ni/R113,

3. Properties of nanofluids
CuO/R113, Al2O3/R113

3.1. Thermal conductivity

CNT/ NH3-LiNO3
Nanorefrigerants

SWCNT/ R134a
Al2O3/R−134a
Summary of investigations on thermal conductivity of nanorefrigerants.

Al2O3/ R134a
Al2O3/R141b

CuO/ R134a
CNT/ R113

Thermal conductivity is one of the important properties of nano-

fluids (as nanorefrigerant or secondary fluid in refrigeration system) for
enhancing the heat transfer performance. The heat transfer coefficient
and heat transfer rate are strongly dependent on thermal conductivity.
It is well established fact that the thermal conductivity increases by
using nanofluids and it is dependent on many parameters including
volume fraction, temperature, particle size, particle shape, pH value,
additive and preparation method [41–47]. However, thermal con-
Mahbubul et al., 2013, 2015 [38,49]

ductivity improvement is much more significant for graphene-based

nanofluids [2]. For nanorefrigerant, the thermal conductivity mainly
Mahbubul et al., 2013 [29,35]

influences the boiling and condensation. Jiang et al. [48] measured the
thermal conductivity of various nanorefrigerants and showed that the
Cuenca et al., 2014 [50]

Alawi et al., 2014 [51]

Alawi et al., 2014 [52]

Alawi et al., 2015 [53]

Jiang et al., 2009 [48]

Jiang et al., 2009 [24]

improvement is highly influence by nanoparticle aggregation and

forming of nanoparticle clusters. They have also developed a model for
predict nanorefrigerant thermal conductivity. Through another study,
Authors, Year

they [24] have also shown that the thermal conductivities of CNT na-
norefrigerants are much higher than those of CNT–water nanofluids or
Table 2

spherical-nanoparticle-R113 nanorefrigerants. The experimental and

numerical investigations on thermal conductivity of nanorefrigerants

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A. Bhattad et al. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669

are summarized in Table 2. Jiang et al. [24,48], Mahbubul et al.
[29,35,38,49], Cuenca et al. [50] and Alawi et al. [51–53] studied the
effects of various parameters on thermal conductivity of R113, R141b
and R134a based nanorefrigerants dispersed with Cu, Al, Ni, CuO,
Al2O3 and carbon nanotube, which can be summarized as: (i) nanore-
frigerant thermal conductivity increases with increase in particle vo-
lume fraction, (ii) nanorefrigerant thermal conductivity increases with
decrease in particle size (or increase in aspect ratio for carbon nano-
tube), (iii) nanorefrigerant thermal conductivity increases with increase
in temperature. Most of above authors concluded that an optimum
particle volume concentration is needed to be found for enhancing the
performance of refrigeration systems.
3.2. Viscosity
Viscosity is one of the important thermophysical properties which
influence both heat transfer pressure drop of nanofluid. With the in-
crease in dynamic viscosity, the convective heat transfer coefficient
decreases and the frictional pressure drop and hence pumping power
increases. Investigations on water/brine and lubricant based nanofluids
have been reviewed by many authors [47,54–56]. Studies on the visc-
osity of nanorefrigerants are comparatively limited. Hence, this section
mainly focuses on the investigations on the viscosity of nanore-
frigerants. Investigations on the viscosity of nanorefrigerants are sum-
marized in Table 3. Mahbubul et al. [29,35,38,49,57] performed an
investigation to see the effect of volume fraction and temperature on
viscosity of the R134a, R141b and R123 based nanorefrigerants and
observed that viscosity of nanorefrigerants prepared have been in-
creased with nanoparticle concentration and decreases with increase in
temperature. They also found that viscosity of nanorefrigerant has been
increased by 13.68% comparatively for same temperature [49]. Alawi
et al. [51,52] investigated the effect of volume concentration and
temperature on thermophysical properties of CuO/R134a and Al2O3/
R134a nanorefrigerant and observed that the viscosity of nanore-
frigerant increases with increase in volume concentration and a de-
crease in temperature. Alawi et al. [53] performed their investigation
on SWCNT-R134a nanorefrigerant. During their investigation they
concluded that viscosity of nanorefrigerant increases with increase in
particle concentration and decreases with increase in temperature.
Alawi et al. [58] investigated the effect of volume concentration and
temperature on viscosity of R123-TiO2 nanorefrigerant and observed
that viscosity of nanorefrigerant increases with increase in volume
concentration and a decrease in temperature.
3.3. Specific heat and density
Specific heat and density strongly influence the heat transfer char-
acteristics of nanofluid. In general, specific heat decreases and density
increases by the addition of nanoparticles in base fluid [20,59,60].
Mahbubul et al. [29] performed analysis of thermophysical properties
of Al2O3/R141b nanorefrigerant and observed that the density of na-
norefrigerant increases with increase in particle concentration and de-
creases with increase in temperature. Mahbubul et al. [38] measured
thermophysical properties of Al2O3/R-134a nanorefrigerant and found
that the density of Al2O3/R-134a nanorefrigerant increased about 11%
as compared to the base refrigerant for the same temperature. While the
specific heat of nanorefrigerant is slightly lower than that of R-134a.
Alawi et al. [51] investigated the effect of volume concentration and
temperature on thermophysical properties of CuO/ R134a nanore-
frigerant and observed that density of nanorefrigerant increases with
increase in volume concentration and a decrease in temperature. Alawi
et al. [53] investigated the effect of temperature and particle con-
centration on thermophysical properties of SWCNT nanorefrigerant and
found that specific heat increases with increase in temperature and
particle concentration while the density of nanorefrigerant increases
with increase in particle concentration and decreases with increase in
temperature. Investigations on specific heat and density of nanore-
frigerants have been summarized in Table 4. Studies on the effect of
other parameters on nanorefrigerant density and heat capacity are not
available. However, the specific heat of nanofluids is higher for parti-
cles with the large diameter [59].
3.4. Surface tension
Surface tension is an important property of nanofluid while evalu-
ating the flow, bubble formation, dry out and heat transfer character-
istics during boiling. Very less research has been done on the surface
tension of nanofluids. Table 5 summarizes the findings and results re-
lated to the surface tension of nanofluids. Xue et al. [61] investigated
the interface effect of CNT suspension on the thermal performance of a
two-phase closed thermosyphon and found that addition of CNT in
water enhances the surface tension. Chen et al. [62] dispersed Fe2O3,
laponite and Ag nanoparticles in DI water and observed that the ap-
parent surface tension of the laponite and Ag nanofluids during eva-
poration decreases while the apparent heat of vaporization increases. It
has been observed that addition of surfactant decreases the surface
tension [63,64]. Surface tension reduces at lower concentrations be-
cause the gap between particles is larger than their size due to which
surface energy at the interface decreases and repulsive force increases.
Moreover, at higher concentrations surface tension increases because
the Van der Waal attractive forces become greater than electrostatic
repulsive forces. Bhuiyan et al. [65,66] measured surface tension of
Al2O3, TiO2 and SiO2 nanoparticles dispersed DI water nanofluids using
Du-Noüy ring method. Their results indicated that the surface tension of
the nanofluids increases with concentration as well as particle size,
whereas decreases with the increase in temperature. Huminic et al. [67]
investigated the effect of temperature and weight concentration on the
surface tension of FeC/water nanofluids. Their results showed that the

Table 3
Summary of investigations on viscosity of nanorefrigerants.

Authors, Year Nanorefrigerants Operating Conditions Observations

Mahbubul et al., 2012 [57]
Mahbubul et al., 2013 [29,35]
Mahbubul et al., 2013, 2015 [38,49] Al2O3/R-134a
Alawi et al., 2014 [51]
Alawi et al., 2014 [52]
Alawi et al., 2015 [53]
Alawi et al., 2015 [58]
TiO2/ R123 T= 5–20 °C, Φ = 0.5–2.0 v%
Al2O3 / R141b T= 5–30 °C, Φ = 0.1–0.4 v% & 0.5–2.0 v%
respectively,
T= 283–308 K, Φ= 5 v%; u= 5 m/s, Φ=
1–5 v%, mass flux= 100 kg/m2
CuO/ R134a Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K
Al2O3/ R134a Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K
SWCNT/ R134a Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K
TiO2/ R123 Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= 300–325 K
Viscosity increased with the increase in particle volume concentration and decrease
with increase in temperature.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fraction and decrease
in temperature. Viscosity increases by 179 times at 5 °C and 2 v%.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fraction and decrease
in temperature; increased by 13.68% for same temperature.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fractions and decrease
in temperature due to weakening of intermolecular adhesive force.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fraction.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fraction and decrease
in temperature.
Viscosity increases with the increase in particle volume fraction and decrease
in temperature.

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Table 4
Summary of investigations on specific heat and density of nanorefrigerants.

Authors, Year Nanorefrigerants Operating Conditions Observations

Mahbubul et al., 2013 [ 29]
Alawi et al., 2014 [51]
Mahbubul et al., 2015 [38]
Alawi et al., 2015 [53]
Al2O3 / R141b T= 5–30 °C, Φ = 0.0–0.4 v% Density increases with the increase in particle volume fraction and decrease in temperature.
CuO/ R134a Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= Density increased with the increase in particle volume fractions and decrease in temperature.
300–325 K
Al2O3 / R134a T= 283–308 K, Φ= 5 v% Density increases and heat capacity slightly decreases by using nanorefrigerant; heat capacity
increases with temperature. COP increases by 2.6% & 3.2% due to effect of specific heat and density
respectively.
SWCNT/ R134a Φ= 1–5 v%, D= 20 nm, T= Specific heat increases with increase in temperature and particle concentration while density
300–325 K increases with the increase in particle volume fractions and decrease in temperature.

Table 5
Summary of investigations on surface tension of nanofluids.

Authors, Year Nanofluids Operating Conditions Observations

Xue et al., 2006 [61]
Chen et al., 2011 [62]
Khaleduzzaman et al., 2013 [63]
Ranjbar et al., 2015 [64]
Bhuiyan et al., 2015 [65,66]
Huminic et al., 2015 [67]
Saptoro et al., 2016 [68]
Ahammed et al., 2016 [69]
Behabadi et al. [70]
CNT/ Water T= 30–70 °C, D= 15 nm, L= 10 µm Addition of CNT in water increases its surface tension by 13.5% and is
inversely proportional to temperature.
Laponite, silver and Φ= 0.5, 0.04 & 0.05 wt%, Stablizer: pvp 1% The apparent surface tension of the laponite and Ag nanofluids during
Fe2O3/ DI Water evaporation decreases while the apparent heat of vaporization
increases.
Different nanofluids T= 30–80 °C, Φ = 0–10 v%, Surfactant: Sorbitan Surface tension decreases with increase in temperature and surfactant
Oleate concentration due to formation of layer between particle and fluid
molecules which offers a repulsive force between them.
γ- Al2O3, MgO/ TEG Φ = 0–10 wt%, D= 20 nm, Surfactant: Sorbitan Nanofluid surface tension would decrease by increasing surfactant
Oleate concentration and decreasing particle size.
Al2O3, TiO2, SiO2/ DI Φ = 0.05–0.25 v%, T= 30–50 °C & 25 °C Surface tension increases with increase in particle size and
Water respectively concentration, and decrease in temperature. It enhances upto 7.8%.
FeC/ Water Φ = 0.1, 0.5 & 1.0 wt%, T= 10–70 °C, Surface tension of nanofluid has been found lower than water at 0.1
Surfactant: CMCNa (3 g/L) and 0.5 wt%; while for 1 wt% with temp. range of 10–40 °C surface
tension of both were found close.
TiO2, Fe2O3/ DI Water D= 7 & 15 nm, Φ= 0, 0.1, 0.5 & 1.0 wt% Experimental results show that after microwave treatment, lower
surface tensions were observed.
Graphene/Water Surfactant: SDBS, D= 1–5 nm Surface tension decreases upto 18.7% with an increase in both volume
concentration and temperature.
R600a/POE/ CuO Mass flux: 154.8–265.4 kg/s m2, x= 0.1–0.8, q= Addition of nanoparticles increases the surface tension which in turn
17–20 kW/m2, p= 5.1–6.2 bar, Φ = 0.5, 1.0 & increases wettability leading to heat transfer enhancement.
1.5 wt%

surface tension of FeC/water nanofluids increases with the increase of
the weight concentrations of the nanoparticles and with a decrease in
the temperature. Saptoro et al. [68] prepared different nanofluids by
dispersing TiO2 and Fe2O3 nanoparticles in DI Water as a base fluid and
performed experimental investigation which shows that lower surface
tensions were observed after microwave treatment. Ahammed et al.
[69] measured the surface tension of grapheme/water nanofluid and
observed decreasing trend with temperature. The reason behind this is
adsorption of nanoparticles at the liquid-gas interface because graphene
shows hydrophobic nature. However, dissimilar to other results
[63–67], surface tension reduces at higher volume concentrations due
to the adsorption of nanoparticles at the liquid–gas interface because of
hydrophobic nature of grapheme. Behabadi et al. [70] experimentally
investigated the heat transfer characteristics of R600a/POE/CuO na-
norefrigerant flow during condensation inside the smooth horizontal
tube with different particle concentrations. It has been found that

Table 6
Summary on investigations of electrical properties of nanofluids.

Authors, Year Nanofluids Operating Conditions Observations

Baby and Ramaprabhu, 2010, 2011
[71,72], Kole and Dey, 2013 [73]
Shen et al., 2012 [74]
Lee et al., 2012 [75]
Li et al., 2012 [76]
Sarojini et al., 2013 [77]
Jin, 2015 [78]
Shoghl et al., 2016 [79],
Al-Sharafi et al., 2016 [80]
Nazari et al., 2016 [81]
Water and EG based TEG, HEG
and CuO/HEG nanofluids
ZnO/Insulated oil
Transformer oil based
nanofluids
Fe3O4/ RDB oil
Metallic and ceramic
nanofluids
Fullerene, SiO2/ Mineral oil
CuO, MgO, ZnO, TiO2, Al2O3
and CNT/ Water
Fe3O4/ NYTRO LIBRA oil
T= 25–50 °C, Φ = 0.005–0.07 v
%; T= 10–70 °C, Φ = 0–0.4 v%
T= 20–70 °C, Φ = 0–0.8 v%
Φ = 0.08–0.39 v%
Breakdown voltage: 1–5 kV, Φ =
0.004 wt%
Φ = 0–1.5 v%, T= 25–60 °C
D= 20–30 nm
Surfactant: SDS, Φ = 0.01–2.0 wt
%, T= 300–350 K
Φ = 0.1–0.6 v%, Voltage=
40–56 kV
Electrical conductivity increases with increase in both
concentration and temperature. It increases upto 1400% for
0.03 v% and 25 °C in case of TEG.
Electrical conductivity increases tremendously upto 973 times
by adding 0.75% volume fraction of nanoparticle.
Dielectric breakdown voltage was 30% higher than base fluid.
Power frequency breakdown voltage is 20% greater than those
of the oil itself.
Electrical conductivity increases with increasing particle
concentration and reducing particle size, and nearly constant
with temperature.
Breakdown strength is enhanced due to addition of
nanoparticles.
Electrical conductivity increases with increasing particle
concentration and temperature.
Dielectric strength is increased mainly due to dielectric and
magnetic properties of Fe3O4 nanoparticles.

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addition of nanoparticles increases the surface tension of nanore- used for cooling purpose throughout many years but it has some lim-
frigerant which enhances the heat transfer. itations like supercooling degree, freezing and melting point tempera-
ture, poor thermal conductivity, etc. Therefore, better working fluid is
needed with improved properties. Abraded glass surfaces can increase
3.5. Electrical properties
water freezing. Surface roughness and cooling conditions also have a
significant effect on supercooling temperature and hence on freezing
Electrical properties like dielectric strength, dielectric constant,
temperature. Mixing of any solutes in the base liquid increases its
electrical conductivity, breakdown characteristics, etc. are also key
boiling point and decreases its freezing point. By increasing con-
parameters during analysis of nanofluids for electrical applications.
centration of nanoparticles in liquid its nucleation time and super-
While circulating nanofluid or any working media in the loop via. pump
cooling degree decreases and hence rate of absorbing and releasing of
or compressor, there are chances of leakage of it in the lubrication side
latent heat increases which in turn reduces energy consumption.
and it can deteriorate the properties of lubricant as well as equipment
Table 7 summarizes the findings of some researchers on freezing
and hence thereby affect the performance of equipment. Because elec-
characteristics of nanofluids. Fan et al. [82] conducted an experimental
trical properties have a significant effect on some of the transport
investigation on cyclohexane based nano-enhanced phase change ma-
properties of fluid hence it is important to look-after some of the
terials using CuO nanoparticles at different concentration. It has been
electrical properties of nanofluids. Table 6 summarizes some important
found that with increasing concentration thermal conductivity in-
experimental findings on electrical properties nanofluids. Experimental
creases for liquid phase and show non-monotonic behavior for the solid
studies [71–73] showed that electrical conductivity increases with in-
phase when the concentration is greater than 2%. Jia et al. [83] and Mo
creasing particle concentration and temperature for water or ethylene
et al. [84] found that supercooling degree decreases with increase in
glycol based graphene nanofluids. For insulated oil based nanofluids, a
nanoparticle concentration and large adsorption densities resulted in
tremendous increase of electrical conductivity was observed [74]. Lee
low supercooling degrees. Harikrishnan et al. [85] investigated the
et al. [75] focused on the preparation of a vegetable oil based nanofluid
thermal energy storage behavior of phase change material which
and investigation of its breakdown and dielectric properties. It was
comprises of base fluid (a mixture of lauric acid and stearic acid in
found that the power frequency breakdown voltages of the oil based
70:30 ratio by weight) and TiO2, ZnO and CuO nanoparticles. Results
nanofluids are 20% greater than those of the oil itself. Li et al. [76]
indicated that CuO nanoparticles reduce the melting and solidification
prepared vegetable (RDB) oil based nanofluid by dispersing Fe3O4 na-
time compared to other nanofluids. Liu et al. [86] and Jia et al. [87]
noparticles in it and then analyzed breakdown and dielectric properties
used Graphene/ Water and Graphene Oxide/ Water nanofluids re-
of nanofluid. They observed that the power frequency breakdown vol-
spectively. They found that higher nucleation rate could be obtained for
tage of the oil based nanofluids had been enhanced by 20%. For water
the CMC-modified graphene/water nanofluid and nanofluids can be
or EG based nanofluids with spherical particles, the electrical con-
used in cold storage application due to the low supercooling degree and
ductivity increases with increasing particle concentration and reducing
faster nucleation behavior. By using nanoparticle, phase change tem-
particle size, and nearly constant with temperature [77]. The main
perature reduces [88] and solidification time also reduces by 21%,
advantage of using oil based nanofluid in the thermo-electrical appli-
which offers smart cooling and energy saving potential for refrigeration
cation (e.g. compressor in refrigeration system) is its enhanced break-
system [89].
down strength [78]. For CNT nanofluids, the electrical conductivity
An enhancement in different thermophysical, rheological and elec-
increases with increasing particle concentration and temperature
trical properties have been found by introducing nanoparticles in con-
[79,80] It has been found that transformer oil containing magnetic
ventional base fluids. In most of the investigations, it has been found
nanoparticles can be a good alternative to transformer mineral oil in
that thermal conductivity of the fluids increases with increase in tem-
appropriate volume concentrations [81] because dielectric strength of
perature and nanoparticle concentration. But it decreases with the in-
the nano oil is increased mainly due to dielectric and magnetic prop-
crease in particle size. Due to enhancement in thermal conductivity, the
erties of Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
heat transfer coefficient also enhances which intern increases the heat
transfer rate which is advantageous. Viscosity and density of basefluid
3.6. Freezing characteristics increase with a decrease in temperature and increase in volume con-
centration. But enhancement in viscosity is a kind of demerit because
Phase change technology is very effective technology for heat due to this pressure drop increases which increases pump work and
management and hence energy management in this energy crisis phase irreversibility. An enhancement in other properties like surface tension,
suffered by the whole world. It has huge application for cooling of large dielectric strength and freezing temperature has been observed using
buildings, food, electronic devices, cold storage, etc. Water is generally

Table 7
Summary on freezing characteristics of nanofluids.

Authors, Year Nanofluids Operating Conditions Observations

Fan et al., 2012 [82] CuO/ Cyclohexane Φ = 0–4 wt%, T= −10 − 30 °C By increasing concentration, thermal conductivity increases for liquid phase
and show non-monotonic behavior for solid phase. Freezing increases by
5.2% for 2 wt% concentration.
Jia et al., 2014 [83]; Mo et al., 2015 [84] TiO2/ DI Water Surfactant: SDS, Φ = 0–1 wt% Supercooling degree decreases by 11.5% with increase in nanoparticle
concentration. Large adsorption densities resulted in low supercooling
degrees.
Harikrishnan et al., 2014 [85] TiO2, ZnO and CuO/ Φ = 0–1 wt% Composite PCM with CuO (1 wt%) nanoparticles saves time by 21.24% &
LA-SA 19.84% during melting and solidification process respectively.
Liu et al. [86] Graphene Oxide/ Size < 60 nm, Zeta potential= −100 − Supercooling degree reduced by 69.1% and nucleation time by 90.7%.
Water 100 mv, Conc.= 10–50 mg/ 100 mL
Jia et al. [87] Graphene/ Water Φ = 0.05 wt%, Current= 0.07–0.12 A Higher nucleation rate was observed. Absorbance of CMC-modified
grapheme nanofluid decreases.
Mo et al. [88], TiO2/ EG Φ = 0.1–0.4 wt%, D = 10–40 nm Phase change temperature, latent heat and subcooling degree reduces.
Sathishkumar et al., 2016 [89] Graphene nanoplate/ Size < 100 nm, Φ = 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 & 1.2 wt Solidification time reduces by 25%, which offer significant energy
water %, T= −20 − 40 °C saving potential.

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nanofluids. With an increase in particle concentration, nucleation area
increases due to which crystallization time reduces, supercooling de-
gree decreases and freezing temperature increases. It has also been
observed that in some cases the different properties either show nearly
constant behavior or negligible change in slope even after adding par-
ticles in more concentration and in some cases the trend of the curve
changes. Thus optimum volume concentrations of particles have been
needed to be determined because of unusual behavior as well as cost
parameter.
Inconsistency has been found in the literature survey related to
behavior of different properties due to combined effect of different
nanoparticles and nanocomposites with different base fluids. Stability
and thermophysical properties strongly depend on the sonication time,
temperature and energy supplied that can be treated as controlling
methods for various thermophysical properties. Thermal diffusivity and
hence the conductivity of nanofluid increases more while using the
ultrasonicate probe in comparison to ultrasonicate bath because probe
breaks the particle cluster easily and efficiently. Sonication time is
higher for higher volume concentration because mixture contains the
more solid mass fraction. Specific mechanical energy has been observed
as one of the parameters for deciding ultrasonication time. Particle size
and cluster size decreases with increasing sonication time which en-
hances the thermal conductivity of fluid. The viscosity of nanofluid
increases upto certain time and then decreases. Viscosity also decreases
with ultrasonication temperature because with temperature Brownian
motion also increases due to the weakening of intermolecular adhesion
force.
4. Performance enhancement using nanorefrigerants
To fulfill day-to-day increasing demand of cooling specially in re-
frigerators, to avoid food products from spoiling, researchers are fo-
cusing on how to improve the design and properties of working fluid.
Use of nanofluids as refrigerants (nanorefrigerants) will improve the
boiling as well as condensation heat transfer coefficients
[31,34,70,90,91], which leads to more compact and light refrigeration
systems and also consumes less compressor power and hence are more
energy efficient. The nanoparticle as additives can also increase the
solubility between the refrigerant and the lubricant, which can increase
the compressor life. Study of nanorefrigerants involves the study of
condensing and boiling heat transfer phenomenon due to phase chan-
ging process in the refrigeration system which intern depends on many
thermophysical properties. Some important facts that came into the
picture during condensation and boiling phenomenon of nanore-
frigerant are as follows:
Table 8
Investigations on refrigeration system performance using nanorefrigerants.
Authors, Year Nanorefrigerants
Bi et al., 2008 [96] TiO2, Al2O3 /R134a
Wang et al., 2010 [97] NiFe2O4-R410a
Bi et al., 2011 [98] TiO2-R600a
Subramani and Prakash, 2011 [99] Al2O3-R134a
Kumar et al., 2012 [100] Al2O3/R134a/ PAG
Padmanabhan and Palanisamy, 2012 [101] TiO2-R134a, TiO2-R436A, TiO2-
R436B
Kumar et al., 2014 [39] ZnO/ R152a
Mahbubul et al., 2015 [38] Al2O3-R134a
Li et al., 2015 [102] TiO2-R22
Soliman et al., 2015 [103] Al2O3-R143a
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669
• Disturbance in nanoparticles in agglomerated condition decreases
boundary layer thickness which reduces thermal resistance and in-
creases heat transfer rate.
• Nanoparticles absorb liquid particles and hence increases heat
transfer rate.
• Due to condensation, nanoparticles get deposited on the heating or
cooling surface which
increases the heat transfer coefficient as well as heat transfer rate.
• The surface tension of mixture is increased by the addition of na-
noparticles which in turn increases the wettability leading to en-
hancement of the heat transfer.
• An optimum concentration level is required for the maximum en-
hancement of the boiling characteristics of nanorefrigerants.
• Mixing of nanoparticles in the base refrigerants increases its boiling
point as well as decreases its freezing point.
• Nanoparticles increase heat transfer rate by introducing conductive
heat transfer along with convective heat transfer during melting and
freezing process.
• Evaporation rate can be increased or decreased depending on the
concentration and type of nanoparticles.
Many researchers are continuously and rigorously working in the
field of improving the thermal performance of nanorefrigerant as
shown in Table 8. A comprehensive review on past, present and future
of nanorefrigerants i.e. fundamentals, preparation methods, thermo-
physical properties, challenges and applications of nanofluids has been
done by some authors [5–12]. Computational analysis has been done by
Ajayi et al. [92] for replacing the conventional refrigerant with na-
norefrigerant due to their merits like enhanced heat transfer coefficient
and reduced pressure drop. During continuous alternation processes of
evaporation and condensation in vapor compressor refrigeration system
for long period, the degradation of the nanolubricant-refrigerant mix-
ture occurs due to nanoparticle suspension which can be reduced at the
higher lubricant mass fraction, lower nanoparticle concentration, lower
heating or cooling temperature [93]. During circulation of nanore-
frigerant oil mixture in the refrigeration system, only a small part of
particles get circulated. This problem can be tackled by measuring
mixture to oil migration ratio which can be increased by decreasing
nanoparticle concentration, increasing oil fraction and reducing heat
flux [94]. Yang et al. [95] used nanorefrigerants for comparing heat
transfer characteristics of the smooth tube and internal thread tube. For
0.2 wt% concentration heat transfer characteristics have been found
more for internal thread tube in comparison to smooth tube. Bi et al.
[96] showed that the refrigerator's performance could improve by
26.1% with 0.1% mass fraction of TiO2 nanoparticles dispersed in
R134a. Wang et al. [97] performed an experiment in RAC using
Operating Conditions Observations
D = 50 nm, Φ = 0.06 & Energy consumption reduced by 26.1% with 0.1 wt% of TiO2.
1.0 wt%
D = 35 nm Energy efficiency ratio of residential air conditioners increased about 6%.
Conc. = 0, 0.1 & 0.5 g/L, D= Refrigerator performance was better than the pure R600a system, with
50 nm 5.94% less energy used and 9.60% freezing rate enhancement.
Size < 50 nm, Φ = 0.06 wt% Freezing capacity increases, power consumption decreases by 25%
and COP increases by 33%.
D = 40–50 nm, Φ = 0.2 v% Cost effective as COP increases upto 3.5, length of capillary tube reduces
and energy consumption reduces by 10.32% with 0.2 v% concentration.
Conc.= 0.1–0.5 g/L Irreversibility decreases for all components (significantly for
compressor).
D = 40 nm, Φ = 0.1–0.5 v% Discharge pressure decreases and COP of system increases upto 3.56
at 0.5 v% of particles. Power reduces by 21%.
T = 283–308 K, Φ = 5 v% COP increases upto 15%.
Φ = 5 wt% COP of heat pump increases significantly.
Φ = 0.1 wt%, Size < 50 nm Performance increases by 10.5% with 13.5% less energy consumption.
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nanoparticles with R410a refrigerant. Their results showed that the
energy efficiency ratio of RAC had been increased by 6% while using
R410a/MNRO mixture. Bi et al. [98] reported energy reduction of 9.6%
with 0.5 g/L TiO2-R600a nanorefrigerant. Subramani and Prakash [99]
reported the enhancement of freezing capacity, reduction of compressor
power by 25% and enhancement of COP by 33% using nanorefrigerant.
Kumar et al. [100] experimentally investigated the effect of Al2O3/
R134a nanorefrigerant with PAG oil on energy consumption of re-
frigeration system and observed 10.3% reduction of energy consump-
tion by using 0.2% concentration of nanoparticle. Padmanabhan and
Palanisamy [101] investigated to increase COP and the energy effi-
ciency of a vapor compression refrigeration system by using the mixture
of TiO2 nanorefrigerant and lubricant (mineral oil (MO) and Polyolester
(POE) oil). The higher COP of vapor compression refrigeration systems
was observed by using nanorefrigerant. Kumar et al. [39] investigated
the performance of vapor compression refrigeration system by using
ZnO/R152a nanorefrigerant. They observed that suction temperature,
suction and discharge pressure decreases with increase in particle
concentration and maximum COP has been obtained with 0.5 v% of
particles. Mahbubul et al. [38] observed 15% improvement of COP by
using Al2O3-R134a nanorefrigerant. They observed the effect of dif-
ferent properties on the COP while using nanorefrigerant. COP can
enhance by 15%, 3.2% and 2.6% due to thermal conductivity, density
and specific heat respectively. Whereas, Li et al. [102] observed slight
reduction of COP in cooling mode by adding TiO2 nanoparticles with
R22, however, a significant increase in COP in heating mode. Soliman
et al. [103] reported 13.5% less energy consumption and 10.5% more
performance by using Al2O3-R143a. An experimental study [104]
showed enhancement of absorption heat and mass transfer performance
in NH3/H2O binary system by using nanoparticles, leads to improve-
ment of the performance of ammonia absorption system by using NH3/
H2O binary nanofluids.
Due to disadvantage of conventional refrigerant like toxicity and
global warming potential, nanorefrigerant got a boost in various areas
like refrigeration system, air conditioner and coolants. Nanorefrigerant
increases the thermal and transport characteristics of the system. In
refrigeration system, nanorefrigerant acts as a heat absorber. It has
been found from the literature survey that using of nanorefrigerants
instead of conventional refrigerants reduces the energy consumption by
reducing pump and compressor work. Nanorefrigerant increases per-
formance of the system by increasing heat transfer coefficient, coeffi-
cient of performance and freezing capacity; and decreasing discharge
pressure, energy consumption and irreversibility. Due to better critical
heat flux during flow and pool boiling, nanorefrigerant can enhance the
evaporator performance.
5. Performance enhancement using nanolubricants
Lubricants are necessary for every refrigeration system basically in
the compressor to reduce the losses due to friction and hence the
pressure drop and power consumption. Therefore, some improvement is
needed in lubricants/ lubricating oils. Nanolubricant is a new class of
lubricant in which some type of nanoparticle or nanofluid is mixed with
host lubricant/ lubricating oil to enhance the heat transfer performance
of base lubricant/ lubricating oil. However, a certain portion of the oil
always circulates with the refrigerant through the cycle. This circula-
tion is the origin of a deviation from the theoretical behavior (i.e. based
on pure refrigerant) of the components [105]. Experimental results on
pool boiling of nanolubricant and refrigerant mixtures [106–110]
showed that the addition of nanoparticles improves the solubility of
lubricant with the refrigerant as well as the heat transfer performance.
Improvement of solubility reduces the oil deposition in the condenser
and other components, which can prevent component performance
degradation and improve their life. Table 9 summarizes the researches
on the effects of nanolubricants on refrigeration system and component
performances. Bi et al. [96] observed that the addition of nanoparticles
in lubricant improves the solubility with refrigerant and hence in-
creases the oil return ratio. It also decreases the friction coefficient and
hence reduces the wear rate [111]. The decrease in friction coefficient
also leads to the reduction in the compressor work. Sabareesh et al.
[112] observed 11% reduction in compressor work by using TiO2/
Mineral oil. Apart from compressor power reduction, Xing et al. [113]
observed downtrend on the surface temperature of compressor shell by
using Fullerene C60 nano-oil. Jia et al. [114] also observed the re-
duction in compressor work leading to COP improvement. Hussen et al.
[115] also observed the reduction in discharge temperature by using
nanolubricants. However, Fedele et al. [116] performed the test with
rotary compressor by using TiO2-Carbon nanohorns/Mineral oil and did
not observed any advantages by using nanolubricant. As the other in-
vestigations are with reciprocating compressor, they concluded that the
nanolubricant could be beneficial only for reciprocating compressors
used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Sharif et al. [117]
enhanced the performance of an automotive air conditioning system in
terms of COP by using SiO2/ PAG nanolubricant inside the compressor.
They observed an enhancement in COP of 24% at 0.05 v% concentra-
tion.
Adding of nanoparticles in lubricants enhances tribological perfor-
mances. Due to enhancement in tribological properties, the perfor-
mance of compressors used in the vapor compressor refrigeration
system and engines in automobiles has been improved with the appli-
cation of nanolubricants. Nanolubricant reduces friction coefficient and
wear rate which has been the reason behind the reduction in com-
pressor work and less power consumption. A demerit has been found
while using nanolubricant that it is not preferable in rotatory com-
pressor because the coefficient of performance decreases in comparison
to base oil [116]. Inconsistencies in different studies have been found
on the effect of using nanolubricant on boiling and two-phase flow
phenomenon [118].

Table 9
Investigation on refrigeration system performance using nanolubricants.

Authors, Year Nanolubricants Operating Conditions Observations

Bi et al., 2008 [96]
Lee et al., 2009 [111]
Sabareesh et al., 2012 [112]
Xing et al. [113]
Jia et al., 2014 [114]
Hussen et al., 2014 [115]
Fedele et al., 2014 [116]
TiO2/Mineral oil D = 50 nm, Φ = 0.06 & 1.0 wt%
Fullerene/ Mineral oil T = 20–80 °C, Φ = 0, 0.01 & 0.1 v%
TiO2/ Mineral oil D = 30–40 nm, T = 40–90 °C, Φ = 0,
0.005, 0.01 & 0.015 v%
Fullerene C60 nano-oil Conc. = 1–3 g/L
MoFe2O4-NiFe2O4/ Dispersant: Span 80, Conc. = 0.25 g/
Fullerene L
TiO2/ Mineral oil D = 20 nm
TiO2-SWCNH/ Mineral oil D = 21 & 100 nm, Φ = 0.05, 0.1 &
0.5 wt%
26.1% less energy consumption; Enhanced solubility of the R134a and the
mineral oil, leads to the higher oil return ratio.
Reduction in friction coefficient by 90% and wear rate.
Decrease in friction coefficient leads to reduction in compressor work by 11%.
Significant reduction in friction coefficient by 19.6%; Downtrend on surface
temperature of compressor shell; Input power reduction, COP improved by 5.6%.
COP of refrigerator increases by 5.33% due to reduction of friction.
Compressor work reduced by 13.3% with increase in COP of 11.99%.
Nanolubricant didn’t perform well for rotary compressor.

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6. Performance improvement using nanofluids as secondary fluid
Heat transfer can be increased by increasing heat transfer coeffi-
cient. It has been found that heat transfer and pressure drop both in-
crease, but the rise in pressure drop is negligible as compared to heat
transfer enhancement. Many investigations have been done by different
researchers in the field of heat exchanger due to limitation of space and
size, saving of energy, saving of material, easily handling the unit and
parameters, better heat transfer performance. Tube-in-tube, shell-tube
and plate heat exchangers are commonly used as condenser and eva-
porator for liquid secondary fluids. However, the plate heat exchanger
can be more preferable for varying cooling loads [5,119]. Nanofluids
can be used as secondary fluids in both evaporator and condenser sides
(as well as absorber or generator in vapor absorption system) i.e. used
in the secondary loop for cooling the main working fluid/coolant [120].
Many water based brines are used as secondary refrigerants for low
temperature applications [121]. In the vapor compression refrigeration
system, the thermal resistance of single phase secondary fluid is con-
siderably more than that of refrigerant (as the boiling and condensation
heat transfer coefficient is significantly higher than single phase heat
transfer coefficient) in both evaporator and condenser. Hence, the
performance of condenser or evaporator is more sensitive to the sec-
ondary fluid heat transfer characteristic, which gives an excellent op-
portunity to use nanofluid as a secondary refrigerant or coolant in the
refrigeration system.
6.1. Nanofluids used in condenser side
Nanofluid can be effectively used as a coolant in condenser or gas
cooler to the cooling tower. Loaiza et al. [122] numerically studied the
application of nanofluid as a secondary coolant in vapor compression
refrigeration system. It has been found that using nanofluids as the
secondary coolant, for given refrigerating capacity, evaporator area and
refrigerant pressure drop are reduced with decrease in nanoparticle size
and increase in its concentration. Also nanofluid side pressure drops
and pumping power increase with nanoparticle volume fraction and
decrease with nanoparticle size. The performance analyses of the na-
nofluid cooled shell and tube gas cooler in transcritical CO2 refrigera-
tion cycle have been done by Sarkar [123] and improvements in the gas
cooler effectiveness, cooling capacity and COP without penalty of
pumping power have been observed. A simulation for the application of
Cu-H2O nanofluid as condenser coolant in vapor compression heat
pump has been done by Parise and Tiecher. [124] and a 5.4% increase
in COP was predicted for a nanoparticle volume fraction of 2%. Jaiswal
et al. [125] analyzed vapor compression refrigeration system using
R134a refrigerant in primary loop and nanofluid in secondary loop and
Table 10
Investigations on application of nanofluid as coolant (condenser side).
Authors, Year Nanofluids Operating Conditions
Loaiza et al., 2010 [122] Al2O3, TiO2, CuO and D = 10–50 nm, Φ = 1–5 v%
Cu/ Water
Sarkar, 2011 [123] Al2O3, TiO2, CuO and Φ = 0–2 v%, Cooler length= 1–3 m
Cu/ Water
Parise and Tiecher, 2012 [124] Cu/Water Φ = 0–0.02 vol. fraction
Jaiswal et al., 2014 [125] Al2O3, TiO2, CuO and Mass flow rate = 0.004–0.008 kg/s, T=
Cu/ Water 18–30 °C, Compressor speed =
2400–3000 rpm
Sarkar, 2013 and 2015 [126,127] Al2O3, TiO2, CuO, SiO2 and Discharge press = 90–110 bar, Φ = 0.1–2.0 v Improvement of shell and tube gas cooler effectiveness, cooling capacity
Cu/ Water %, Flow rate = 0.015–0.05 kg/s
Kolhapure and Patil, 2016 [128] Al2O3/ Water Φ = 0.1–0.3 wt%, Siz e < 100 nm
Askari et al., 2016 [129] MWNT and Nanoporous Φ = 0–0.5 wt%, Air flow rate= 4.125 kg/min, Efficiency, cooling range and tower characteristic are enhanced as well
graphene/ Water Water inlet temp.= 33, 40 & 45 °C
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Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669
observed 17% to 20% performance enhancement for same geometrical
parameters, system. The theoretical performance analyses of the na-
nofluid cooled double tube gas cooler in transcritical CO2 refrigeration
cycle have been done by Sarkar [126,127] and an improvement in the
gas cooler effectiveness, cooling capacity and COP without penalty of
pumping power have been observed. Maximum COP enhancement of
26% has been obtained by using Al2O3/H2O nanofluid as a coolant.
Kolhapure and Patil [128] experimentally observed that condenser heat
rejection decreases (maximum 37.4%), compressor work decreases and
COP increases by using nanofluid as a coolant. An experimental in-
vestigation on the thermal performance of wet cooling tower with
counter flow arrangement by using multi-walled carbon nanotubes
(MWNTs) and nanoporous graphene nanofluids have been carried out
by Askari et al. [129]. They observed the increase in cooling tower
efficiency and cooling range as well coolant consumption. Hence, both
the sizes of the condenser and cooling tower can be reduced by using
nanofluids. Purohit et al. [130] investigated performance of double
pipe gas cooler for trans-critical refrigeration cycle using nanofluid and
water as a coolant. Effect of different performance parameters like
Reynolds number, gas cooler pressure, pumping power and volume
concentration on COP and effectiveness of refrigeration system has
been studied for turbulent flow. For constant Reynolds number alumina
nanofluid gives superior performance as a coolant but for same
pumping power water acts as a better coolant.
Table 10 summarizes the investigations on the application of na-
nofluid in condenser side as a coolant. Nanofluid as coolant increases
the performance of vapor compression refrigeration system by reducing
condenser heat rejection and compressor work and thus increases the
coefficient of performance. Using nanofluid in cooling tower increases
efficiency, cooling range and tower characteristics which results in the
reduction of water consumption; however, more pumping power is
needed.
6.2. Nanofluids used in evaporator side
The investigations on the use of nanofluids as secondary refrigerants
in evaporator are summarized in Table 11. Liu et al. [131] reported the
increase in cooling capacity, decrease in compressor work and hence
increase in COP by using nanofluids. Cooling capacity increases mainly
due to increase in heat transfer coefficient [132]. Ndoye et al. [133]
reported the increase in cold chain efficiency by using nanofluids as
secondary refrigerants. Soliman et al. [134] investigated analytically
the energy performance in secondary loops of refrigeration systems
using different nanofluids. It has been observed that pressure drop and
pumping power increases with particle concentration and hence PEC
(ratio of heat transfer rate to pumping power) value decreases.
Observations
For given cooling capacity, evaporator area and pressure drop reduce
with decrease in particle size and increase in its concentration.
Improvement of shell and tube gas cooler effectiveness, cooling capacity
and COP without increasing pumping power.
5.4% increase in heating COP predicted for a nanoparticle volume
fraction of 2%.
Vapor compression refrigeration system performance enhances from
17–20%.
and COP with negligible effect of pumping power.
Condenser heat rejection decreases (maximum 37.4%), compressor
work decreases and COP increases. Power consumption decreases by
1.2%.
as water consumption has been reduced by 10% & 19% for MWNT and
graphene respectively.
A. Bhattad et al. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82 (2018) 3656–3669

Table 11
Investigations on application of nanofluid as secondary refrigerant.

Authors, Year Nanofluids Operating Conditions Observations

Liu et al., 2009 [131]
Kumaresan et al., 2012 [132]
Ndoye et al., 2015 [133]
Soliman, 2016 [134]
Vasconcelos et al., 2016 [135] SWCNT/Water
MWCNT/Water
MWCNT /(EG+Water) (70:30 vol.)
Co, CuO, Fe, SiO2, Al2O3, TiO2/water
Al2O3, Ag, Au, TiO, TiO2, Fe, Co, Cu,
CuO, diamond and graphite/Water
Water flow rate= 60–140 L/min
D= 30–50 nm, L= 10–20 µm, Φ = 0.15,
0.3 & 0.45 v%, Surfactant= 0.1 v% SDBS
Φ = 0–0.4 vol. fraction, Re = 100–8000
Size < 50 nm, Φ = 0.1 wt%
Φ = 0–0.21 v%, Flow rate = 40–80 g/s,
Inlet temp. = 30–40 °C
4.2% increase in cooling capacity and a slight decrease of about
0.8% in power consumption; 5.15% increase in COP.
Enhancing heat transfer performance with a negligible increase in
the pumping power. At higher temp. and velo., 0.15 v% MWCNT
is preferable.
Improvement of cold chain efficiency by reducing energy
consumption and emission.
Exergy loss and energy consumption reduces by 28% and 13.5%
respectively, performance increases by 10.5% for 0.1% mass
fraction.
Superior refrigeration capacity and COP.

Vasconcelos et al. [135] reported superior cooling capacity and COP by
using SWCNT/Water nanofluids. It can be noted that the use of nano-
fluids in both condenser and evaporator sides improves the perfor-
mance of refrigeration system, although the best performance can be
obtained by using optimum nanoparticle volume concentration [5].
CuO-water nanofluid has been used inside collector system in dual
evaporator vapor compression cascade refrigeration system by Bo-
vaghchi et al. [136]. Exergy and cost analyses have been done by them.
For given cooling capacity, a reduction in evaporator area and
pressure drop has been found with an increase in concentration and
decrease in particle size while using nanofluid as a coolant. Due to the
reduction in the area less amount of refrigerant charge is needed and
hence less emission of CO2 takes place which is beneficial from an
environmental aspect. Use of nanofluid as a secondary refrigerant in-
creases the cooling capacity, coefficient of performance and heat
transfer performance with a negligible increase in the pumping power.
It also reduces the consumption and cost of primary refrigerant.
The use of nanotechnology in the food and milk industry has great
potential, particularly in the area of milk pasteurization, food packa-
ging and food processing [137]. Zhang et al. [138] performed analysis
of the nucleation of nanofluids in the ice formation process. It was
found that by using nanofluids the nucleation mechanism on the me-
tallic surface can be improved. Longo et al. [139] developed an in-
novative raw milk dispenser based on nanofluid technology. Tabari
et al. [140] performed the experimental study on the application of
TiO2/water nanofluid in plate heat exchanger of milk pasteurization
industries. Based on the experimental data, nanofluid at all con-
centrations showed higher heat transfer rate (advantage) and pressure
drop (disadvantage) than that of the distilled water. Another important
application of nanofluid in evaporator side is phase change cold storage
in air conditioning system [141]. Nanofluid can enhance the cold sto-
rage performance by two manners: fast formation of crystals in solidi-
fication process and enhancement of rate of heat transfer [142]. The
energy efficient silver-titania HiTES (hybrid nanocomposites based cool
thermal energy storage) system combined with building air con-
ditioning system was experimentally investigated by Parameshwaran
et al. [143]. Freezing and melting time has been reduced by using
HiNPCM due to improved latent heat capacity. Further chiller cooling
capacity and compressor power in HiTES system have also been re-
duced as well as COP of the system has been increased.
When nanoparticles are used in ice formation process, it increases
the supercooling degree which prevents the adhesion of ice on cooling
walls and also increases the nucleation rate. This increases the perfor-
mance of ice making units. Using nanofluid with modified tank design
instead of traditional milk dispenser improves the food safety and saves
the energy consumption. Due to advantages in terms of performance
enhancement of refrigeration system, the nanofluid founds its applica-
tion in vapor compression cycle and refrigeration plants of cold chain,
cooling tower, food processing units, ice making units, supermarkets,
milk dairies, tubular heat exchangers, shell and tube gas coolers, etc. as
a secondary refrigerant (coolant) in evaporator and condenser side.
7. Conclusions and future scope
Application of nanofluids in the refrigeration, heat pump and air-
conditioning systems in different roles (refrigerant, lubricant and sec-
ondary fluid) is reviewed in this study. Preparation, characterization,
thermophysical properties and effects on performances of the re-
frigeration system and its components are well classified and discussed.
The conclusions which can be made are as follows:
• Freezing rate increases for optimum nanoparticle concentration due
to increase in thermal conductivity and heat transfer coefficient.
• The thermal conductivity of nanofluid increases with temperature
and volume concentration. However, it increases with decreasing
particle size.
• The viscosity of nanofluid increases with the increase of the particle
volume concentration. However, it decreases with the increase of
temperature. Hence, pressure drop and friction loss also decrease
with increase in temperature.
• Specific heat of nanofluid also increases with temperature and vo-
lume concentration.
• Density increases with the volume concentration of nanoparticle
and decreases with increase in temperature.
• Surface tension increases with the increase of the particle con-
centration and decreases with the increase of temperature.
• Electrical conductivity increases with increase in particle con-
centration and temperature.
• Breakdown voltages, dielectric constant and resistivity under power
frequency conditions improve for specific compositions.
• With an increase in particle concentration and surface roughness,
nucleation area increases due to which crystallization time gets
shorten, supercooling degree decreases and increases the freezing
temperature.
• Nanoparticles increase heat transfer rate by introducing conductive
heat transfer along with convective heat transfer during melting and
freezing process.
• Proper selection of type and fraction of nanoparticle and surfactant
is necessary for enhancing the performance of thermal systems.
• Improved heat transfer reduces the lift and hence COP/EER in-
creases for same cooling capacity
Nanofluid finds its promising application as primary fluid in the
sector of refrigeration, lubrication, etc. and as secondary fluid in eva-
porator and condenser sides due to heat transfer enhancement char-
acteristics.
Due to some contradiction among some researcher's findings, there
is more scope in the field of nanotechnology to clear these doubts. Many

3666
A. Bhattad et al.
correlations, simulations, analysis and investigations are needed for
much better performance of the equipments. Synthesis of low boiling
point refrigerant based nanofluids is a challenging issue and hence
more researches are needed. Physics behind the variation of thermo-
physical properties of nanofluid is needed to be studied yet. A rigorous
research is needed for some of the properties like surface tension and
dielectric properties of nanofluids and also in the field of new emerging
fluid known as hybrid nanofluid which is mixture or composite of two
different nanoparticles in some base fluid. In view of environmental
concern, refrigeration industries are going towards the natural re-
frigerants. However, no study has been performed related to natural
refrigerant (except R600a) based nanorefrigerants. For low temperature
application, various water based brines are used as secondary re-
frigerant, although no study has been done for these brine based na-
nofluids. Studies on the condenser to cooling tower circuit using various
nanofluids are also required. It is needed to concentrate on crystal-
lization phase change characteristics of nanofluids for working at low
temperature. Attention needed for nano phase change materials (nano-
PCM) and nano enhanced phase change materials (NePCM) for more
efficient energy storage system so that energy consumption get reduced.
Recently graphene nanofluid has gained special attention and hence
rigorous researches are needed for graphene nanorefrigerant or nano-
lubricant.
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