Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Heat Transfer in Nanofluid-Based Cooling of High-Power LED Systems

Abstract

The rapid development of high-power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) requires advanced cooling solutions to maintain performance and reliability. This study investigates the thermal performance of nanofluid-based cooling systems for LED modules under Saudi Arabian climatic conditions. Al₂O₃/water nanofluids with volume fractions of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% were prepared and tested in a closed-loop cooling setup. Thermal resistance measurements revealed that nanofluids achieved up to 22% lower junction temperatures compared to water. CFD simulations validated experimental results, demonstrating enhanced heat dissipation around the LED module due to nanoparticle-driven thermal conductivity improvements. Long-term stability studies confirmed minimal sedimentation for 1.0% nanofluid after 60 hours of continuous operation. Economic assessment indicated that nanofluid cooling is cost-competitive with traditional phase-change systems. The findings suggest that nanofluid integration provides a practical, efficient, and scalable thermal management solution for LEDs deployed in hot climate regions.