Thermal and Energy Efficiency Improvements in Air Conditioning Systems using TiO2 Nanoparticle-Enhanced Lubricants

The increasing reliance on air conditioning systems has raised concerns regarding energy consumption and environmental impact, particularly in tropical regions like Indonesia. Traditional refrigerants contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. This study aims to address these challenges by investigating the incorporation of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles into compressor lubricants to enhance energy efficiency and reduce power consumption in air conditioning systems. An experimental approach was employed, where TiO₂ nanoparticles were blended with a standard lubricant at varying concentrations (2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 grams) and subjected to ultrasonic mixing for 45 minutes. The performance of the air conditioning system was evaluated by measuring the Coefficient of Performance (CoP) and electrical power consumption. The results demonstrated that the addition of TiO₂ nanoparticles significantly improved the lubricant's density and viscosity, leading to a 12% reduction in power consumption and a notable increase in CoP at the optimal concentration of 12.5 grams. This research concludes that TiO₂-based nanofluids are effective in enhancing the operational efficiency of air conditioning systems, offering a promising solution for energy savings and environmental sustainability.