Nanofluids are suspensions of nanoparticles in ordinary coolants, but their tribological effects on heat-exchanger materials are unknown. Previous research has explored wear from distilled-water-base nanofluids only, while most engine-coolants are alcohol solutions in water. This article presents testing of aluminum and copper by jet impingement of 50%-ethylene-glycol in water solution and of its 2%-alumina nanofluid. The effects are investigated of nanoparticle addition on the anticorrosion protection provided by ethylene glycol. The observed modifications showed that ethylene-glycol in water nanofluid led to wear patterns that were different than those obtained with the base-fluid; nanoalumina addition enhanced erosion and corrosion on aluminum and copper. Comparing the effects of ethylene glycol and its nanofluid solutions to those from same tests performed with distilled-water and its nanofluid suggests that nanopowders can substantially enhance wear by decreasing the anticorrosion action of ethylene glycol by a synergetic mechanism of erosion-corrosion
