Cited by 207Nanotechnology research and applicationsHybrid Renewable Energy SystemsRenewable energy and sustainable power systems

Renewable energy harvesting with the application of nanotechnology: A review

Open access
Ahmadi, Mohammad H., Ghazvini, Mahyar, Alhuyi Nazari, Mohammad, Ahmadi, Mohammad Ali, Pourfayaz, Fathollah, Lorenzini, Giulio, Ming, Tingzhen·2019·International Journal of Energy Research

Abstract

It is believed that fossil fuel sources are exhaustible and also the major cause of greenhouse gas emission. Therefore, it is required to increase the portion of renewable energy sources in supplying the primary energy of the world. In this study, it is focused on application of nanotechnology in exploitation of renewable energy sources and the related technologies such as hydrogen production, solar cell, geothermal, and biofuel. Here, nanotechnologies influence on providing an alternative energy sources, which are environmentally benign, are comprehensively discussed and reviewed. Based on the literature, employing nanotechnology enhances the heat transfer rate in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems and modifies PV structures, which can improve its performance, making fuel cells much cost-effective and improving the performance of biofuel industry through utilization of nanocatalysts, manufacturing materials with high durability and lower weight for wind energy industry.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This review surveys how nanotechnology—nanomaterials, nanofluids, and nanostructures—can improve renewable energy harvesting across solar, hydrogen/fuel cells, biofuels, wind, ocean, and geothermal systems. It reports performance gains from cited studies, including higher solar collector and PV/T efficiencies, improved fuel-cell catalysts, and nanocatalyst-driven biofuel conversion, while noting wind/tidal/geothermal research is comparatively sparse.

Key findings

  • In solar thermal and PV/T systems, nanofluids improved performance: Al₂O₃/water at 0.2 wt% improved flat-plate collector efficiency by 28.3% versus water, surfactant increased efficiency by 15.63%, and Table 1 reports PV/T overall efficiency of 61.9% versus 15.9% for a PV module; nanofluid cooling reduced PV temperature by 39.7% (helical channel) and 53.8% (straight channel), with electrical efficiencies of 20.5% and 37.6%.
  • In fuel cells and hydrogen, nanostructured catalysts and supports improved performance: a graphene-CNT composite electrode gave a maximum power density of 1072 mW/cm², graphene-supported MEA was 3.7 times more durable than conventional catalyst-carbon mixtures, and advanced nanostructural catalysts facilitate hydrocarbon reforming below 100°C.
  • In biofuels, nanocatalysts improved conversion and quality: nano-SnO₂ gave 88.2% and 88.4% cellulose conversion at 400°C and 500°C versus bulk-SnO₂ at 75.0% and 76.0%; nano-ZnO gave 92.0% at 300°C versus bulk-ZnO at 83.0%; nanocatalysts offer high specific surface area and catalyst recovery/reuse.
  • In wind, ocean, and geothermal, nanotechnology is used for durable/lightweight materials, coatings, lubrication, and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs); a 6 cm × 3 cm LSEG produced an average 0.12 mW at a wave speed of 0.5 m/s, TENG energy conversion efficiencies are reported as high as 55%, and CuO-water nanofluid in a geothermal heat exchanger reached a maximum heat transfer coefficient of about 800 W/m²K at 6% volume fraction.

Methods

  • Design: narrative review and comprehensive comparative assessment of nanotechnology applications in renewable energy systems, covering solar collectors, photocatalysis, PV/T, DSSCs, hydrogen/fuel cells, biofuels, wind, ocean, and geothermal energy.
  • Data: published literature and cited studies, including experimental, numerical, and review findings; tables summarize PV/T versus PV performance, DSSC/TEM parameters, SOFC anode conductivity, carbon nanostructure electrochemical performance, nanocatalysts for biodiesel, and cellulose gasification.
  • Analysis: qualitative synthesis and comparison; no systematic search protocol, inclusion criteria, or meta-analysis is reported.

Limitations

  • Stated: limited published articles in wind, tidal, and geothermal energy compared with other renewable types, so more research is required to investigate nanotechnology’s influence in those areas.
  • Evident: as a narrative review, it does not report a systematic search strategy, inclusion/exclusion criteria, or quantitative pooling; findings are drawn from heterogeneous cited studies under different conditions, limiting direct comparability.
  • Evident: many performance claims are attributed to individual cited studies rather than independently validated in this paper; no new experimental data are presented.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1002/er.4282

Cites

197 of 197 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

2 of 122 cited sources checked · 1 supported · 0 flagged · accuracy not yet measured

  • Premisecitation

    Photocatalytic materials are currently utilized to convert solar energy into chemical energy by oxidization or reduction of materials to get useful components such as hydrogen.

    “Photocatalytic materials are currently being utilized in order to convert solar energy into chemical energy by oxidization or reduction of materials to get useful components such as hydrogen.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [50] source

      The Introduction discusses photocatalytic activity, and §3.2 (Antibacterial tests) describes light-promoted reactions that produce oxidizing species harmful to bacteria. Neither passage addresses converting solar energy into chemical energy or producing hydrogen; searches for those terms found no supporting passage in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.74)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Premisecitation

    Solar energy can be converted to heat and electricity by using solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T).

    “Solar energy can be converted to heat and electricity by using solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [55] source
    • cites [56] source
  • Findingcitation

    Overall efficiency of PV/T systems is higher than PV.

    “As it is shown in Table 1, the overall efficiency of PV/T systems is higher than PV.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [56] source
  • Interpretationnone given

    Employing nanotechnology enhances the heat transfer rate in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems.

    “Based on the literature, employing nanotechnology enhances the heat transfer rate in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems and modifies PV structures, which can improve its performance, making fuel cells much cost-effective and improving the performance of biofuel industry through utilization of nanocatalysts, manufacturing materials with high durability and lower weight for wind energy industry.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Premisecitation

    At the nanoscale, some materials show different physical properties (including strength, thermal and electrical conductivity, and reflectivity) than they have in bulk.

    “At the nanoscale, some materials show different physical properties (including strength, thermal and electrical conductivity, and reflectivity) than they have in bulk.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2][3][4][5][6][7][8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims. 39
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 51
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 4
  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Employing nanotechnology modifies PV structures, which can improve PV performance.

    “Based on the literature, employing nanotechnology enhances the heat transfer rate in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems and modifies PV structures, which can improve its performance, making fuel cells much cost-effective and improving the performance of biofuel industry through utilization of nanocatalysts, manufacturing materials with high durability and lower weight for wind energy industry.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Nanotechnology makes fuel cells much cost-effective.

    “Based on the literature, employing nanotechnology enhances the heat transfer rate in photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems and modifies PV structures, which can improve its performance, making fuel cells much cost-effective and improving the performance of biofuel industry through utilization of nanocatalysts, manufacturing materials with high durability and lower weight for wind energy industry.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Several nanoscale materials have the ability to self-assemble and be changed into ordered structures spontaneously.

    “Several nanoscale materials have the ability to self-assemble and be changed into ordered structured spontaneously.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2][3][4][5][6][7][8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Carbon black nanofluid obtained higher photothermal performance efficiency and was more cost-effective than Au and Cu nanofluids.

    “Zeiny et al 41 compared the photothermal performance of three different nanofluids including Au, Cu, and carbon black and reported that carbon black nanofluid obtained higher performance efficiency and also was more cost-effective.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Zeiny et al 41

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Exergy efficiency of CuO-based nanofluid was 9.05%.

    “In addition, thermal analysis declared that the exergy efficiency of the CuO-based nanofluid was 9.05%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Allouhi et al 45

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Optimum efficiency was obtained when cooling channel height was 10 mm and concentration of nanofluid was 4% volume and Re=30000 at solar concentration of 200 W/m2.

    “it was stated that the optimum efficiency was obtained when the cooling channel height was 10 mm and concentration of nanofluid was 4% volume and Re = 30000 (ie, Re: Reynolds number) at a solar concentration of 200 W/m 2 .”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [67] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Nanotechnology makes benefits in slick coatings, which decrease the occurrence of fouling in cooling water intakes.

    “making benefits in slick coatings, which decrease the occurrence of fouling in cooling water intakes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [22][23][24][25]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Safety and cost are two challenging issues in nanofluid solar systems.

    “It was concluded that nanofluids are beneficial in improving the thermal conductivity, the specific heat of nanofluids are not following the same trend in solar systems, and finally, safety and cost are the two challenging issues in this field of study.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Khanafer and Vafai 39

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Nanotechnology has the ability to improve efficiency, energy conversion, conservation, and storage of solar energy in different aspects.

    “Nanotechnology has the ability to improve efficiency, energy conversion, conservation, and storage of solar energy in different aspects such as the following:”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Nanotechnology helps manufacture resistant ceramics for use as insulators in transmission lines.

    “Nanotechnology helps to manufacture resistant ceramics for utilizing as an insulator in transmission lines,”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [18][19][20][21]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Al2O3-water nanofluid with 5% volumetric concentration had better performance in cooling and improved efficiency; electrical efficiency reaches 70% and thermal efficiency up to 59%.

    “Results indicated that nanofluid had better performance in cooling and improved efficiency of the system and electrical efficiency reaches to 70% and thermal efficiency up to 59%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Xu and Kleinstreuer 66

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    TiO2 has a photocatalytic property originating from formation of photogenerated charge carriers upon absorption of UV light corresponding to band gap.

    “TiO 2 has a photocatalytic property, which originated from the formation of the photogenerated charge carriers (electrons and holes), which happen sup on the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) light corresponding to the band gap.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The specific heat of nanofluids does not follow the same trend in solar systems.

    “It was concluded that nanofluids are beneficial in improving the thermal conductivity, the specific heat of nanofluids are not following the same trend in solar systems, and finally, safety and cost are the two challenging issues in this field of study.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Khanafer and Vafai 39

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Many chemical and electrical reactions happen at surfaces and are highly dependent on the shape of the surface and chemical compositions of reactants.

    “This is an appropriate property since many reactions (both chemical and electrical) happen at surfaces and are highly dependent on the shape of the surface and chemical compositions of reactants.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2][3][4][5][6][7][8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    At volumetric concentrations higher than 2%, efficiency remained approximately constant and applying nanoparticles had no considerable influence on system performance.

    “However, at volumetric concentrations higher than 2%, the efficiency remained approximately constant and applying NPs had no considerable influence on the system performance.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Tyagi et al 43

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Increase in temperature of solar cells due to radiation absorption leads to growing reverse saturation current, reduction in open voltage and energy gap.

    “Increase in temperature of solar cells, due to radiation absorption, leads to growing reverse saturation current, reduction in open voltage and energy gap, etc.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [57] source
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The recorded reduction was 39.7% for helical channel and 53.8% for straight channel.

    “The recorded reduction was 39.7% for helical channel and 53.8% for the straight channel.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Karami and Rahimi 65

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Nanotechnology is applied in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and ocean energy, called green energy due to environmental advantages, enabling societies to reduce dependency on petroleum and overcome environmental problems related to fossil fuels.

    “Nanotechnology is also applied in renewable energies' technologies such as solar, wind, and ocean energy, called green energy due to their environmental advantages, which enable societies to reduce their dependency on petroleum supplies and overcome environmental problems related to the use of fossil fuels.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [29] source
    • cites [30] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Nanotechnology can enhance the conductivity of materials and provides superconductors at room temperature instead of having superconductivity at extremely high temperatures.

    “Moreover, nanotechnology can enhance the conductivity of materials and provides superconductor at room temperature instead of having superconductivity property at extremely high temperatures.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [26][27][28]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Nanostructured materials have a higher surface to unit weight volume ratio, making them more appropriate for interacting with other materials.

    “In addition, nanostructured materials have a higher surface to unit weight volume ratio, which makes them more appropriate for interacting with other materials.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2][3][4][5][6][7][8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    TiO2 nanoparticles are used because of their ability in oxidizing and decomposing organic pollutant.

    “TiO 2 NPs are used because of their ability in oxidizing and decomposing organic pollutant.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    TiO2 nanosheets can be used in self-cleaning glass because of specifications such as flat surface, low turbidity, high aspect ratio, and excellent adhesion to substrates.

    “TiO 2 nanosheets can be used in self-cleaning glass because of their specifications such as having a flat surface, low turbidity, high aspect ratio, and excellent adhesion to substrates.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [51] source
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Among tested concentrations, 0.4% showed best most effective performance, resulting in 20.5% and 37.6% electrical efficiency for straight and helical inserted microchannels.

    “Among tested concentrations, 0.4% showed the best most effective performance, which resulted in 20.5% and 37.6% electrical efficiency for the straight and helical inserted microchannels, respectively.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Karami and Rahimi 65

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    Applied electrolyte in SOFCs contains alloy of limited earth materials including yttrium-stabilized zircon dioxide, a ceramic material.

    “Generally, the applied electrolyte in these fuel cells contains an alloy of limited earth materials including yttrium-stabilized zircon dioxide, a ceramic material.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Applied electrolyte in alkaline fuel cells contains 35%-50% KOH with more affordable catalyst.

    “The applied electrolyte in these types of fuel cells contains 35%-50% KOH with the more affordable catalyst.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    Fuel cells produce electricity based on electrochemical reaction of fuel, hydrogen or hydrogen-rich fuels, and an oxidizer such as oxygen.

    “Fuel cells produce electricity based on the electrochemical reaction of fuel, hydrogen or hydrogen-rich fuels, and an oxidizer such as oxygen and its pertinent apparatuses to flow the fuel through the system and eliminate the water produced in the reaction, a compressor or blower for cooling the stack and transferring oxygen to the system.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Advanced nanostructural catalysts facilitate hydrocarbon reforming at low temperatures (below 100°C).

    “Advanced nanostructural catalysts facilitate hydrocarbon reforming at low temperatures (below 100°C).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Conversion efficiency of DSSC and thermoelectric modules were 4.83% and 1.48%, respectively.

    “Based on the obtained results, the conversion efficiency of the DSSC and thermoelectric modules (TEM) were 4.83% and 1.48%, respectively.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Chang et al 80

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Main disadvantage of alkaline fuel cells is that surrounding CO2 can deteriorate their performance.

    “The main disadvantage of alkaline fuel cells is that surrounding CO 2 can deteriorate their performance.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [88][89][90]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Coating process augments temperature about 2°C and increases voltage by 15%.

    “In addition, this coating process augments the temperature about 2°C and also increase the voltage by 15%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Chang et al 80

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Single-crystal-like TiO2 nanowires fabricated with surfactant at low temperature had four times greater performance compared with commercial product P-25, and overall cell efficiency was 9.3%.

    “Their experiment revealed that utilizing this special morphology was four times greater in comparison with commercial product P-25, and overall cell efficiency was 9.3%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Adachi et al 84

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    High-temperature working conditions cause slow startup and necessity of appropriate thermal shielding to preserve heat and keep safe personnel with severe durability requirements on materials.

    “High-temperature working conditions cause slow startup and necessity of appropriate thermal shielding to preserve heat and keep safe personnel with severe durability requirements on materials.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Energy analysis for PV/T system at flow rate 0.17 kg/s and solar flux 1000 W/m2 resulted in thermal efficiency 81.7% and electrical efficiency 13.5% with best total energy coefficient (COE) of 0.9.

    “Energy analysis for the PV/T system at a flow rate of 0.17 kg/s and solar flux of 1000 W/m 2 resulted in the thermal efficiency of 81.7% and electrical efficiency of 13.5% with the best total energy coefficient (COE) of 0.9.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Al-Shamani et al 79

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    Expected efficiency of MCFCs is 60% to 65%.

    “The expected efficiency is in the range of 60% to 65%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    In regular combustion process, all produced energy release as heat; part of released energy of electrochemical reaction is electricity, rest heat; process is more efficient for electrical devices and automobiles.

    “In the regular combustion process, all the produced energy release as heat.However, part of the released energy of this electrochemical reaction is electricity; the rest of energy is heat-apparently, this process is more efficient for electrical devices and automobiles.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Platinum catalyst is significantly sensitive to CO poisoning, making it crucial to apply additional reactor to decrease CO in fuel gas if hydrogen is extracted from alcohol or hydrocarbon fuel or provide catalysts more resistant to CO.

    “Additionally, the platinum catalyst is also significantly sensitive to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, making it crucial to apply an additional reactor to decrease CO in the fuel gas if the hydrogen is extracted from alcohol or hydrocarbon fuel or provide the catalysts more resistant to CO.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [91] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    PEMFCs deliver higher power in more compact sizes compared with other fuel cells that work in temperature range 50°C and 80°C with efficiencies from 50% to 60%.

    “The advantages of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), also known as polymer electrolyte fuel cell or ion exchange membrane, include delivering higher power in more compact sizes compared with other fuel cells that work in the temperature range of 50°C and 80°C with efficiencies from 50% to 60%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    Cu/water nanofluid had better performance in cooling and resulted in higher efficiency than pure water in glazed and unglazed PV/T systems.

    “The nanofluid had better performance in cooling and resulted in higher efficiency.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Michael and Iniyan 78

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisereasoning

    Gases made from coal can be utilized in SOFCs directly since they are inert to CO.

    “The gases that are made from coal can be utilized in these fuel cells directly since they are inert to CO.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    PAFCs utilize liquid phosphoric acid as electrolyte with efficiency of 55% and working temperature 160°C to 220°C.

    “It is known that phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs) utilize liquid phosphoric acid as an electrolyte with the efficiency of 55% and working temperature in the range of 160°C to 220°C.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    MCFCs operate at temperatures 620°C to 660°C and electrolyte is composition of molten carbonate salt mixture suspended in ceramic LiAlO2, porous and inert.

    “Molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) operate at temperatures in the range of 620°C to 660°C and its electrolyte is the composition of a molten carbonate salt mixture suspended in a ceramic lithium aluminum oxide (LiAlO 2 ), which is porous and inert.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisenone given

    The reaction is aided by the catalyst.

    “The reaction is aided by the catalyst.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Using costly platinum as catalyst is main reason PAFCs are expensive.

    “Also, using the costly platinum as a catalyst is the main reason that PAFCs are expensive.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [92] source
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Increase in concentration led to higher efficiency while higher velocity decreased efficiencies.

    “In addition, it was found that an increase in concentration led to a higher efficiency while higher velocity decreased efficiencies.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Khanjari et al 75

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Major technical problems hydrogen economy challenging are storing and purifying hydrogen, designing appropriate membranes for fuel cells, and increasing portion of water-based hydrogen production compared with fossil-based hydrogen generation.

    “The major technical problems that hydrogen economy are challenging with are storing and purifying hydrogen, designing appropriate membranes for using in fuel cells, and increasing the portion of water-based hydrogen production in comparison to fossil-based hydrogen generation in order to reinforce the independence of the hydrogen economy.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Adding nanoparticles improves cooling and concentration of nanofluid plays an important role in cooling performance.

    “Obtained results showed that adding NPs improves cooling and the concentration of nanofluid plays an important role in cooling performance as shown in Figure 3A.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Radwan et al 68, Lelea et al 69

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Water-based nanofluids had better cooling performance and Cu/water nanofluid showed best cooling ability.

    “Results indicated that water-based nanofluids had better cooling performance and Cu/water nanofluid showed the best cooling ability.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Rejeb et al 74

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    Thermoelectric conversion efficiency of TEG and total output power increased up to 10% and 2.4%, respectively.

    “Therefore, the thermoelectric conversion efficiency of the TEG and the total output power increased up to 10% and 2.4%, respectively.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Chang et al 80

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    Since just hydrogen and oxygen react in a fuel cell, this process prevents production of nitrogen oxide.

    “Since just hydrogen and oxygen react with each other in a fuel cell, this process will prevent the production of nitrogen oxide, which is a fundamental component of air pollution.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisereasoning

    Hydrogen is stored more densely in comparison with other conventional gases.

    “For instance, one amazing fact about hydrogen storage is that hydrogen is stored more densely in comparison with other conventional gases.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Nitrogen is most abundant element in atmosphere, approximately 80% of air is nitrogen, while it does not play a role in cold combustion.

    “Nitrogen is the most abundant element in the atmosphere, approximately 80% of the air is nitrogen, while it does not play a role in cold combustion.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Disadvantages of PAFCs are larger size, more massive, and less powerful than other fuel cells given same weight and volume.

    “The disadvantages of PAFCs are larger size, more massive, and less powerful than other fuel cells given the same weight and volume.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    SOFCs work at high temperatures 800°C to 1000°C and efficiency is 55% to 65%.

    “Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) work at high temperatures that are in the range of 800°C to 1000°C and these fuel cells' efficiency is 55% to 65%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Fuel cells perform nearly silently and generate electricity with low voltage (0.6 to 0.7 V).

    “Fuel cells perform nearly silently and generate electricity with low voltage (0.6 to 0.7 V).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisereasoning

    PEMFCs need an expensive catalyst (typically platinum) to separate hydrogen's electrons and protons.

    “In order to separate the hydrogen's electrons and protons, it can be noticed that PEMFCs need an expensive catalyst (typically platinum).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Operation temperature of alkaline fuel cells is 60°C-90°C, and efficiency of chemical fuel to electricity conversion is 50%-60%.

    “The operation temperature of alkaline fuel cells is 60°C-90°C, and the efficiency of chemical fuel to electricity conversion is 50%-60%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Al2O3/synthetic oil was unfavorable compared with Al2O3/water both in thermal and hydraulic aspects.

    “It was concluded that Al 2 O 3 /synthetic oil was unfavorable in comparison with Al 2 O 3 / water both in thermal and hydraulic aspects.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Sharaf and Orhan 71

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    In fuel cells, hydrogen and oxygen react to generate electricity and product is nonpolluting water; therefore, fuel cells are very efficient, profitable, and compact and play an important role in future energy.

    “In other words, in fuel cells, hydrogen and oxygen react to generate electricity and the product of the reaction is nonpolluting water; therefore, fuel cells are very efficient, profitable, and compact and play an important role in the future energy.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    By producing biofuel with algae by applying nanocatalyzed reaction, it is possible to prevent greenhouse gas emission.

    “by producing biofuel with algae by applying nanocatalyzed reaction, it is possible to prevent greenhouse gas emission.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    By applying nanotechnology, the efficiency of PV/T systems will improve due to higher heat transfer ability of nanofluids applied for heat transfer.

    “By applying nanotechnology, the efficiency of PV/T systems will improve due to higher heat transfer ability of nanofluids applied for heat transfer.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Corrosion of wind turbine blades can be prevented or decreased by using a protective coating that decreases maintenance cost and prolongs the life of wind turbines.

    “corrosion of the blade, which can be prevented, or decrease, by using a protective coating that decreases maintenance cost and prolongs the life of wind turbines.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [144] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Oxygen reduction reaction distinct action of Pt developed swiftly with enhanced particle size from 1.3 nm, and mass activity was maximized at 2.2 nm.

    “Shao et al 112 clarified that the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) distinct action of Pt developed swiftly with the enhanced particle size from 1.3 nm, and the mass activity was maximized at 2.2 nm.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Shao et al 112

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    One facing challenge in design procedure of a hydride is that selected hydride should be able to release hydrogen at proper speed and with acceptable efficiency.

    “One of the facing challenges in the design procedure of a hydride is that the selected hydride should be able to release hydrogen at the proper speed and with acceptable efficiency.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisereasoning

    Since hydrogen is chemically constrained in a solid hydride, its atoms are able to be packed densely even at room temperature.

    “Since hydrogen is chemically constrained in a solid hydride, its atoms are able to be packed densely even at room temperature.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    0D hollow nanospheres retain 98% capacity after 200 cycles.

    “| | | 98% capacity |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [100] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Renewable energy resources including solar, geothermal, wind, and ocean power exploited by applying nanotechnologies will be a reliable and appropriate choice to decrease energy systems dependency on depleting fossil fuels and overcome related issues.

    “Renewable energy resources including solar, geothermal, wind, and ocean power exploited by applying nanotechnologies will be a reliable and appropriate choice to decrease energy systems dependency on depleting fossil fuels and overcome their related issues.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Graphene could perform as an effective anode support material for PEMFCs.

    “According to Seger and Kamat, 106 graphene could perform as an effective anode support material for PEMFCs.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Seger and Kamat 106

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Using nanocatalysts improves conversion efficiency, enhances gas products' quality, and reduces tar content.

    “Using nanocatalysts improve the conversion efficiency and enhance the gas products' quality as well as reducing the tar content.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
    • cites [135] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    In wind energy, materials with higher durability and lower weight are achievable by applying nanotechnology.

    “In wind energy, materials with higher durability and lower weight are achievable by applying nanotechnology.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Carbon support material corrosion can degrade catalyst, causing catalyst NPs to detach from the support and sinter on the membrane, leading to poor fuel cell performance.

    “the carbon support materials corrosive specification can degrade catalyst, as a resulting catalyst NPs detach from the support and sinter on the membrane, leading to poor fuel cell performance.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [118] source
    • cites [119] source
  • The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    Magnetic solid base catalyst CaO/Fe3O4 (size 49 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from Jatropha oil.

    “| Magnetic solid base catalysts | 49 | Jatropha oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    MgO nanocatalyst (size 100 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from sunflower oil.

    “| MgO | 100 | Sunflower oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    ZrO2 loaded with C4H4O6 HK nanocatalyst (size 30 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from soybean oil.

    “| ZrO 2 loaded with C 4 H 4 O 6 HK | 30 | Soybean oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
  • The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    3D VA-CNT graphene with Ni(OH)2 coating retains 96% capacity after 20,000 cycles.

    “| | graphene with | 96% capacity retention |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [100] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    MgO nanocatalyst (size 60 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from soybean oil.

    “| Mgo | 60 | Soybean oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    KF/Al2O3 nanocatalyst (size 50 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from canola oil.

    “| KF/Al 2 O 3 | 50 | Canola oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    TiO2-ZnO nanocatalyst (size 34.2 nm) is utilized for biodiesel synthesis from palm oil.

    “| TiO 2 -ZnO | 34.2 | Palm oil |”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [131] source
77 of 77
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Fossil fuel sources are exhaustible and are a major cause of greenhouse gas emissions.

    “It is believed that fossil fuel sources are exhaustible and also the major cause of greenhouse gas emission.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    It is necessary to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels because fossil fuels play a crucial role in the world energy system.

    “However, it is necessary to find ways in order to decrease GHG emissions from fossil fuels due to the crucial role of fossil fuels in the world energy system.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    High surface energy of zero-dimensional NPs makes them vulnerable to breakdown, especially in cathodic PEMFC conditions.

    “The high surface energy of zero-dimensional structural arrangement were vulnerable to breakdown due to their small particles, which is more noticeable in the crucial cathodic situation in practical PEMFCs.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Biofuels are economically delivered from starch, sugar, and oil-seed, and if this trend continues, biofuel creation opposes food requirement.

    “biofuels are economically delivered from several sources such as starch, sugar, and oil-seed these days.If this trend continues, biofuel creation opposes food requirement.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Metal NPs used as catalysts in biofuel production are not environmentally benign.

    “Metal NPs have been applied in biofuel production as a catalyst; however, metal NPs is not environmentally benign.”
5 of 5

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • PEM fuel cells are described as both high- and low-temperature

    Minor

    The paper includes PEMFCs among fuel cells it says have a high operating temperature, but later explicitly classifies PEMFCs as low-temperature fuel cells.

  • Yousefi study's nanofluid differs from its cited title

    Minor

    The discussion identifies the nanofluid in reference 48 as Al2O3/water, while the cited study's title identifies it as MWCNT-H2O.

  • Michael and Iniyan coolant differs from its cited title

    Minor

    The discussion says the coolant in reference 78 was Cu/water, whereas the cited title specifies copper oxide-water nanofluid.

3 of 3

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 3

  1. M. D, 2004, Les micropiles a’ combustible, une nouvelle ge'ne'ration de microge'ne'rateurs e'lectrochimiques, Clefs CEA, 50
  2. J. L. L. Sums'kyĭ derzħāvnyĭ universytet, 2013, Proceedings of the International Conference Nanomaterials: Applications and Properties
  3. 10.1021/ie202091b · DOI

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Authors
Ahmadi, M. H., Ghazvini, M., Alhuyi Nazari, M., Ahmadi, M. A., Pourfayaz, F., Lorenzini, G., & Ming, T.
Affiliations
  • Petroleum University of Technology (IR)
  • University of Tehran (IR)
  • Department of Renewable Energies and Environmental, Faculty of New Sciences and TechnologiesUniversity of Tehran Tehran Iran
  • Department of Petroleum Engineering, Ahwaz Faculty of Petroleum EngineeringPetroleum University of Technology (PUT) Ahwaz Iran
  • Wuhan University of Technology (CN)
  • University of Parma (IT)
Corresponding author
  • Ahmadi, Mohammad H.
  • Pourfayaz, Fathollah
  • Ming, Tingzhen
Venue
International Journal of Energy Research
Publisher
Wiley
Published
2018-11-14
Volume
43
Issue
4
Pages
1387-1410
ISSN
  • 0363-907X (ISSN-L)
  • 1099-114X
OpenAlex
W2901636259
Cited by
207
References
197
Citations by year
2026: 19 · 2025: 26 · 2024: 31 · 2023: 32 · 2022: 33 · 2021: 23 · 2020: 32 · 2019: 11
FWCI
6.23
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • International Journal of Energy Research (publishedVersion)
  • INFM-OAR (INFN Catania) (submittedVersion, other-oa)
Funders
National Natural Science Foundation of China (51778511)
Topics
  • Physical Sciences › Engineering › Biomedical Engineering › Nanotechnology research and applications
  • Physical Sciences › Energy › Energy Engineering and Power Technology › Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems
  • Physical Sciences › Energy › Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment › Renewable energy and sustainable power systems
Keywords
nanotechnology, renewable energy, hydrogen production, solar cells, photovoltaic-thermal systems, geothermal energy, biofuels, nanocatalysts, wind energy, heat transfer enhancement, fuel cells, alternative fuels

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-12.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-12.

Cited sources are checked by gpt-6-sol.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review