Neutron irradiation sensitivity of thermal conductivity for Al₂O₃ nanofluids

In this work, the thermal conductivity of Al₂O₃ nanofluids has been investigated for the sensitivity towards neutron irradiation. The solution combustion method has been used for the synthesis of Al₂O₃ nanoparticles that have been used for the preparation of the nanofluids. Prepared nanofluids have been neutron-irradiated for 7 and 14 days. Dynamic Light Scattering, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy have been used to ascertain the change in properties before and after neutron-irradiation. Thermal conductivity has been measured for un-irradiated and neutron-irradiated nanofluids at 30 °C using a KD2 pro thermal properties analyzer. The decrease in thermal conductivity has been observed after neutron-irradiation that further decreases with increased duration of exposure and concentration of nanoparticles. 5 and 10% decrease in thermal conductivity has been recorded after 7 and 14 days of neutron irradiation for change in concentration from 0 to 2 volume percent. Neutron-irradiation sensitivity analysis revealed that heat transfer characteristics are sensitive at higher concentrations and during initial exposure of neutron-irradiations. (paper)