Thermal and Optical Characteristics of TiO2@SiO2, Fe3O4@SiO2, and ZnO@SiO2 Core–Shell Nanoparticles and Their Water-Based Nanofluids


Koçak Soylu S., Özdemir O. S., Asiltürk M., ATMACA İ.

International Journal of Thermophysics, vol.46, no.6, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 46 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s10765-025-03558-w
  • Journal Name: International Journal of Thermophysics
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Keywords: Core–shell, Nanofluids, Optical properties, Thermophysical properties
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study investigates the thermophysical and optical properties of core–shell nanoparticles composed of SiO2-coated TiO2, Fe3O4, and ZnO, along with their water-based nanofluids at a 2 % mass concentration. The nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized, and analyzed using various techniques. The results indicate total mass losses of 11.0 %, 9.5 %, and 26.5 % for TiO2@SiO2, Fe3O4@SiO2, and ZnO@SiO2, respectively. Among these, the nanofluid containing ZnO@SiO2 nanoparticles displayed superior stability and demonstrated the most significant increase in thermal conductivity at 2.51 %. Furthermore, it was observed that all nanofluids exhibited lower specific heat capacity compared to the base fluid. Notably, the TiO2@SiO2-based nanofluid experienced the most substantial decrease at 3.5 %. Additionally, the viscosity values of the nanofluids exceeded those of the nanofluids with single particles. The core–shell nanoparticles exhibited extensive light absorption across a broad spectrum, with calculated optical band gap energies of 2.88 eV, 3.65 eV, and 3.25 eV for Fe3O4@SiO2, TiO2@SiO2, and ZnO@SiO2, respectively. These findings highlight the effectiveness of utilizing nanofluids containing core–shell-structured nanoparticles for efficient heat transfer.