Optimizing Heat Transfer in Heat Pipes Using Hybrid Nanofluids With Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Alumina

Abstract

This study investigates the thermal performance of heat pipes using hybrid nanofluids composed of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles. The aim was to assess the effects of nanoparticle concentration (0.1%–0.5%), filling ratio (60%–90%), heat input (50–80 W), and inclination angle (0°–90°) on thermal resistance and heat transfer coefficient (HTC). Hybrid nanofluids were prepared using ultrasonic homogenization, and their stability was confirmed by zeta potential analysis, showing a reduction from −60 to −48 mV over 30 days. Experimental results revealed that the thermal resistance decreased with increasing filling ratio and inclination angle, reaching a minimum of 0.80 K/W at a 90° angle, 90% filling ratio, and 80 W heat input. Similarly, the overall HTC increased with these parameters, peaking at 2250 W/m2 K under the same conditions. At a 0.5% nanoparticle concentration, the HTC improved by up to 40% compared with conventional fluids. The thermal conductivity of the hybrid nanofluid also rose significantly, from 0.7 W/m K at 30°C to 1.5 W/m K at 90°C, outperforming distilled water. These findings highlight the potential of hybrid nanofluids to enhance heat pipe efficiency, particularly in high‐power applications, by optimizing nanoparticle concentration, filling ratio, and inclination angle.