Guest Editors
Dr. Paloma Martínez-Merino, Postdoctoral researcher, University of Cadiz, Spain.
Dr. Paloma Martínez-Merino, Postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Cadiz, Puerto Real, Cadiz. Dr. Paloma Martínez-Merino got her PhD at the University of Cádiz in May 2023. Her research interest includes the study of colloidal stability of nanofluids, preparation methods and characterization of thermal and rheological properties. In particular, she has specialized in the study of transition metal dichalcogenide-based nanofluids for use as heat transfer fluids in concentrating solar power plants. She has participated in several research projects funded by the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovacion del Gobierno de España and has published more than 15 papers.
Summary
In the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy, the integration of nanofluids into solar energy systems has emerged as a cutting-edge avenue with profound implications. This special issue explores the recent advancements and breakthroughs in harnessing nanofluids to enhance the efficiency and performance of solar energy technologies. From novel nanomaterial synthesis to innovative applications in concentrated solar power and photovoltaic systems, the collection of papers within this issue will provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in the application of nanofluids to drive sustainable energy solutions. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) Research on methods of synthesis and stability of nanofluids for being used in solar energy systems.
(2) Theoretical and experimental studies on the thermal performance enhancement achieved through nanofluid utilization.
(3) Studies on the influence of the rheological properties of nanofluids on the pressure drop or increase of pumping power in the pipelines of solar power plants.
(4) Research on heat transfer improvements in solar collectors.
(5) Research on the rheological properties of nanofluids and related heat and mass transfer effects to support the development and optimization of solar power plants.
(6) Application of nanofluids in cooling photovoltaic systems for improved efficiency.
(7) Research on the life cycle and environmental impact of nanofluid integration in solar energy systems
(8) Exploration of potential future directions, including nanofluid innovations, regulatory considerations, and commercial viability.
Keywords
nanofluids; heat transfer fluid; solar energy; parabolic trough collectors; photovoltaics; concentrating solar power; thermal conductivity; rheological properties.