Applications of nanofluids in geothermal: A review

Abstract

Geothermal energy is one of the most suitable sources of energy since it is possible to use it continuously for generating power and providing heat. Firstly, recent trends in geothermal energy are discussed and compared with other types of renewable energies. According to the results of this section, geothermal energy is an attractive choice for future power generation due to its low carbon dioxide emission and levelzied cost of electricity in comparison with other renewable energy sources. Afterwards, applications of nanofluid in geothermal-based energy systems are reviewed and their important results are represented. On the basis of literature review, using nanofluids can result in augment in geothermal systems. The enhancement is dependent on several factors including the type of nanofluid, concentration and system specification. According to the results of a study, the effect of using nanofluid on heat transfer rate became more significant at higher flow rates. In addition, using nanofluids can reduce the size of heat exchangers used in geothermal-based system. The main effects of employing nanofluids is increase in convective heat transfer and pressure loss.