Influence of Nano Copper Oxide Addition on the Thermal, Rheological and Tribological Properties of Locally Sourced Avocado Oil Based Nanofluids

Abstract

The goal of this study is to turn waste into value by producing lubricant from abandoned avocado fruits, as the globe looks for more environmentally friendly and sustainable lubricants than those derived from fossil fuels. In response to the growing need for high-performance, environmentally friendly products, we created a lubricant enriched with copper oxide nanoparticles (nCuO) using avocado oil as the foundation. The nano copper oxide was elucidated using XRD. To find out how these nanoparticles impact the oil’s viscosity, thermal stability, and other important characteristics, we introduced trace amounts of nCuO at concentrations of 0.4 wt%, 0.8 wt%, and 1.2 wt% in our studies. The nanofluids underwent 3.5 hours of ultrasonication at 75°C. The formulation with 0.8 weight percent nCuO proved to be the most effective, with a higher flash point of 220°C and viscosities of 7.5 cSt at 40°C and 2.7 cSt at 100°C, all of which satisfied the ASTM D445 standards. Furthermore, as compared to pure avocado oil, the ideal formulation demonstrated a 13.6% decrease in the coefficient of friction (COF) and a 16.9% decrease in wear rate. Good low-temperature performance was indicated by the pour point of -1°C and the cloud point of 15°C, respectively. According to the thermal conductivity measurements, the oil’s capacity for heat transport was improved by the addition of nCuO. These results imply that avocado oil-based nanofluids, especially those containing 0.8 weight percent nCuO, have great potential as high-performing, environmentally friendly substitutes for lubricating light-duty engines and other industrial uses.