Can phase change materials improve thermal energy storage?

Although phase change materials (PCM) are a promising solution for thermal energy storage, their low thermal conductivity considerably limits their implementation due to the requirements of long charging and discharging times. Therefore, various techniques are proposed by researchers to overcome this issue and enhance heat transfer through PCMs.

What is phase change materials for heat transfer?

Phase Change Materials for Heat Transfer focuses on how to maximize the heat transfer rate and thermal storage capability of PCMs. Various aspects are covered, including preparatio read full description This chapter is an introduction for heat transfer in phase change materials (PCMs). It includes the background and early history for PCMs.

Do phase change materials obstruct thermal transport?

However, the low thermal conductivity (0.2 W/mK) of the phase change materials (PCMs) obstructs thermal transport within the energy storage system. Therefore, the heat transfer rate within the PCMs has yet to be augmented to make it practical and efficient.

Does a latent heat thermal energy storage system delay the phase change process?

A brief conclusion including suggestions is eventually presented. A latent heat thermal energy storage system using phase change material is in research trend due to high energy storage density at isothermal phase change. However, its low thermal conductivity delays the phase change process.

Which method is best for calculating Phase change?

The most common methods are the enthalpy porosity and specific heat capacity methods. Both are fixed grid methods that include an additional term to account for phase change process. Enthalpy porosity is more recommended as the heat capacity method needs a careful numerical solution procedure to get a robust solution.