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Performance analysis of diffusion–absorption refrigerator operating with MgAl2O4 nanoparticles and R1234yf–DMAC.

Author(s) : GUREVICH B.

Type of article: IJR article

Summary

Diffusion–absorption refrigerators (DARs) can operate on low-grade heat, but slow start-up and limited heat transfer on the generator side restrict their practical use. This study examines whether trace magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl₂O₄) nanoparticles can enhance generator-side heat transfer for a low-pressure, low-GWP organic working pair. An Electrolux-type laboratory DAR charged with R1234yf–DMAC and helium was tested at a constant electrical input of 300 W. MgAl₂O₄ nanoparticles (50–100 nm) were dispersed in the rich solution at total masses of 0–0.20 g, while maintaining the overall charge and operating pressure. Transient temperatures were recorded at key locations to quantify start-up behaviour, and steady-state temperatures were used as boundary conditions for a one-dimensional steady DAR model. The model estimated the generator's useful heat duty and an effective overall heat-transfer coefficient using an LMTD formulation. Nanoparticles reduced the time to steady operation, with the fastest start-up at 0.0021–0.0042 wt %. The predicted generator duty increased from ~200 W for the base fluid to ~230–235 W at 0.0042–0.0053 wt %, while Ugen rose from ~265 to ~300–305 W m⁻² K⁻¹. Higher loadings degraded performance, consistent with increased viscosity and possible particle agglomeration. An exergy analysis was also conducted and reported as COPex to assess the impact of nanoparticle loading on second-law performance.

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Pages: 8 p.

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Details

  • Original title: Performance analysis of diffusion–absorption refrigerator operating with MgAl2O4 nanoparticles and R1234yf–DMAC.
  • Record ID : 30034782
  • Languages: English
  • Source: International Journal of Refrigeration - Revue Internationale du Froid - vol. 185
  • Publication date: 2026/05
  • DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrefrig.2026.02.009

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