Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Superior Antimicrobial Activity by Cu/Ni Nanofiber Dispersed Fluids with Prolonged Stability

Abstract

The present study reports the synthesis, characterization and antibacterial properties of Cu/Ni nanofluids. The influence of various synthesis parameters on the stability of nano suspensions were studied and optimized. The samples were characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy and TEM imaging techniques. The TEM images revealed the formation of nanofibers. The optimized composition of the Cu/Ni nanofluid was found to be stable for more than four months with zeta potential value of 40.4mV. The thermal conductivity studies showed 19% enhancement in comparison to the base fluid (water). The antibacterial properties of the nanosuspensions were studied by performing minimum inhibitory concentration tests (MIC) and zone of inhibition analysis.