Exergetic analysis of plate evaporator using hybrid nanofluids as secondary refrigerant for low-temperature applications

The brine-based hybrid nanofluids are proposed as a secondary refrigerant in counter-flow corrugated plate evaporator for low-temperature applications. Different types of alumina hybrid nanofluids containing different nanoparticles (copper, silver and multi-walled carbon nanotube) in equal volume with the total volume concentration of 0.8% dispersed in different brines have been assessed for certain cooling load. Various exergetic performance parameters-based comparison has been performed with brines and related hybrid nanofluids for milk chilling, ice making and fish freezing applications. Some energy-exergy relationships have been established as well. Exergetic performance decreases with a decrease in application temperature. The maximum reduction in irreversibility and non-dimensional exergy destruction, and maximum increase in irreversibility distribution ratio (IDR) and exergetic efficiency have been obtained for propylene glycol brine-based alumina multi-walled carbon nanotube hybrid nanofluid. The study reveals that the brine-based hybrid nanofluids may be the suitable substitute as a secondary refrigerant.