Experimental Study to Improve the Hydrodynamic and Thermal Efficiencies of a Cross-Flow Car Radiator Using a New Prepared Hybrid Nanofluid Composed of Graphene Oxide and Silicon Oxide Nanoparticles Dispersed in Water–Ethylene Glycol Fluid

The utilization of nanofluids has found numerous applications in various industries, including transportation, electronics, and energy. By substituting conventional fluids with nanofluids, heat transfer rates can increase. This not only enhances engine efficiency, leading to decreased fuel consumption but also enables the design of more powerful engines adaptable to various climates. This study focuses on a hybrid nanofluid composed of graphene oxide and silicon oxide nanoparticles in a water-ethylene glycol base fluid, which can have an application in car radiators. Experiments, validated with distilled water, explored various volume fractions (0.1 % to 1.0 %) and coolant flow rates (3 to 7 l/min). Results showed that increasing flow rates improved heat transfer, displacement heat transfer coefficient (HTC), and Nusselt number. Similarly, higher nanoparticle fractions enhanced heat transfer and HTC with minimal pressure drop. The radiator's thermal performance significantly improved with nanofluid use, but a reduction in HTC relative to pumping power was noted.