Nanofluids are base fluids with enhanced properties due to the addition of nanoparticles. The main focus of our research is the application of nanofluids in the energy sector, mainly to improve heat transfer, thermal energy storage or solar absorption processes. The main capabilities of the group are related to nanofluids production, characterisation (morphological, thermophysical, optical, colloidal stability, etc.) and modelling oriented for the energy sector applications.

Some specific applications of the nanofluids being studied in this group are the improvement of heat capacity in molten salts used for concentrated solar power plants, the increase of thermal conductivity and heat transfer efficiency in heat transfer fluids used in different heat exchange industrial applications, and also the advancement in more efficient solar thermal collectors by using the new concept of direct absorption solar collectors.

Regarding the production of nanomaterials, the group has experience on the drying of single droplets of nanofluids to optimize industrial production processes such as spray drying.

The group dedicates part of their research to the field of cooperation for development, both at international and local level, especially for rural contexts. Within this framework, the group carries out development cooperation projects financed both at international, national and university level, and also in various countries (Mozambique, Colombia, Peru, Ethiopia, México, Hungary, Romania, etc), giving special priority to inter-university cooperation. The main lines of the developed work are dedicated to renewable energies, water and rural development.