Work

Improving ice plant efficiency with Al2O3 nanoparticles and evaporative cooling techniques

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study focuses on reducing energy consumption in vapor compression refrigeration-based ice plants by incorporating nanoparticle in secondary refrigerants and evaporative cooling technique. Experimental evaluations were performed on a test rig using brine and ethylene glycol as secondary refrigerants. Results showed that brine outperformed glycol, reducing ice formation time by 15% when combined with evaporative cooling. Further enhancement was achieved by incorporating Al2O3 nanoparticles into the brine, which, combined with direct evaporative cooling, reduced ice formation time by 20% compared to glycol. The improved system demonstrated significant performance gains, lowering energy costs and enhancing the Coefficient of Performance (COP).

Source: International Journal of Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration

DOI: 10.1007/s44189-025-00069-z

Authors: Nitin S. Aher, Umesh Gurnani, Laxmikant S. Dhamande, Rakhi Bornare, Anurag Hamilton

Institution: University of Engineering & Management, Jaipur

Language: English

Topic: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,290