Treatment of Produced Water with Fouling-Resistant Nanofiltration Membranes

65104 Improvements in the heat transfer coefficient of fluids in thermally-based energy systems can lead to increased conversion efficiencies, lower pollution, and decreased operating costs, as well as facilitate the miniaturization of energy systems. Nanofluids, liquids that contain dispersed nanoparticles, are an emerging class of fluids that have greatly improved thermal conductivities and can generate these desired improvements. Achieving dispersion of the nanoparticles in the fluid and preventing agglomeration are the two fundamental obstacles to the development and commercialization of nanofluids. This project will address these dispersion and agglomeration problems by functionalizing the surface of the nanoparticles. Organic molecules chemically bound to the particle surfaces will facilitate dispersion and prevent agglomeration by steric interference. The long-term stability of the dispersion should be vastly improved, making commercialization feasible. Phase I will synthesize surface functionalized nanoparticles and measure the improved thermal conductivity in several heat transfer fluids. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: Commercial applications of nanofluids include transportation, energy supply and production, chemical production, electronics, textiles, paper production, heating ventilation and air-conditioning, and refrigeration