Nanofluid and nanocomposite applications in solar energy conversion systems for performance enhancement: a review

Solar energy conversion systems are facing the problem of having low optical and thermal performance. The low thermal conductivity of the heat transfer fluid and non-effective optical coating of the solar collector are the main reasons for this. Hence, there is a need to improve the thermal and optical performance of the energy conversion systems. This review paper focuses on the application of nanofluids and nanocomposites for solar collectors operating in low, medium and high temperature ranges, for performance enhancement. A review on applications of nanofluids and nanocomposites shows the desired improvement in thermal and optical properties of solar energy conversion systems from the efficiency and reliability points of view. Solar energy conversion systems play a very important role in the solar energy field, which includes concentrated and non-concentrated systems that convert solar energy into electricity or thermal power. The conversion efficiencies of these systems can possibly be enhanced by using a nano-fluid as the heat transfer medium and a nanocomposite as the selective coating.