Stability enhancement of oxidized carbon black nanofluids: effects of concentration, sonication time, and SDS surfactant
摘要
This study investigates the stability of water-based nanofluids containing oxidized carbon black prepared using a two-step method involving controlled surface modification, ultrasonic dispersion, and surfactant-assisted stabilization. The effects of particle concentration, sonication duration, and the addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate were systematically examined to identify optimal conditions for achieving long-term colloidal stability. Stability was assessed using zeta potential measurements supported by sedimentation observations and electron microscopy. The results show that the formulation containing 0.01 wt% oxidized carbon black, 30 min of sonication, and a 1:1 surfactant-to-particle mass ratio exhibited the highest stability, with a zeta potential of approximately − 40 mV and no visible sedimentation after 24 h. Increasing nanoparticle concentration decreased stability because of electrical double-layer compression, while excessive sonication promoted partial re-agglomeration. The presence of surfactant significantly improved dispersion quality by enhancing electrostatic repulsion and reducing aggregate formation, as confirmed by microscopic analysis. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the combined effects of oxidation, optimized sonication, and surfactant adsorption provide a reproducible and effective strategy for preparing stable carbon-based nanofluids. These results support the potential use of such nanofluids in solar thermal and heat-transfer applications where long-term dispersion stability is essential.