Integrating green nanotechnology research into engineering education using palm-oil-based transformer Nanofluids

This paper outlines an educational innovation that involves incorporating sustainable engineering research by developing graphene and hematite (Fe2O3) doped palm oil based transformer nanofluids as a green substitute for traditional mineral oil. The work addresses environmental and learning objectives by allowing real world problem solving in research. In this research nanofluids were synthesized with 6 grams of hematite and 2%, 4%, and 6% concentration of graphene in refined, bleached, and deodorized palm olein (RBDPO). Structural characterization was performed through Xray diffraction (XRD), while electrical performance was tested through AC breakdown voltage testing in accordance with ASTM D1816. The results showed that the 6g hematite nanofluid with 4–6% graphene had the highest improvement in AC breakdown voltage, with a recording of up to 37% enhancement over unmodified RBDPO. These improvements show the potential of nanotechnology to significantly enhance the insulating capacities of biodegradable transformer oils. The project captures the integration of outcome-based education (OBE) and engineering education for sustainable development (EESD) since it captures SUSED2025's vision of facilitating potential educators with innovative and sustainability-oriented research. The technical and pedagogical implications of the project enhance the building of green solutions in electrical insulation while enhancing student competence through experiential learning.