MWCNT/SiO2 Hybrid Nano‐PCM for Ultrafast Solar Cookers: An Experimental Study

ABSTRACT The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions is crucial in meeting global sustainable development goals (SDGs). This experimental study explores enhancing a box‐type solar cooker's thermal performance through the integration of a hybrid nano‐enhanced phase change material (PCM). Specifi...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: T. Sathish, Jayant Giri, R. Saravanan, Zafar Said, Moaz Al‐lehaibi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2025-01-01
Series:Engineering Reports
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/eng2.13102
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Summary:ABSTRACT The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions is crucial in meeting global sustainable development goals (SDGs). This experimental study explores enhancing a box‐type solar cooker's thermal performance through the integration of a hybrid nano‐enhanced phase change material (PCM). Specifically, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and silicon oxide (SiO2) nanoparticles were incorporated into the PCM at a 2% concentration, with 1% each of MWCNT and SiO2. The hybrid nano‐PCM was meticulously prepared using ultrasonication to ensure optimal dispersion and homogeneity. This innovative approach significantly improved the cooker's efficiency, achieving a peak PCM temperature of 128.9°C, a cooking power of 47.6 W, an average efficiency of 28.5%, and an energy efficiency of 6.2%. Notably, the cooking time was halved, from 36.3 min to just 18 min, demonstrating the ultrafast capabilities of the solar cooker. These findings underscore the potential of the MWCNT/SiO2 hybrid nano‐PCM in revolutionizing solar cooking technology, offering a cost‐effective, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient solution for sustainable energy harvesting.
ISSN:2577-8196