Thermal Performance of the Thermal Storage Energy with Phase Change Material

Abstract

Values of energy supply and demand vary within the same timeframe and are not equal. Consequently, to minimise the amount of energy wasted, there is a need to use various types of energy storing systems. Recently, one can observe a trend in which phase change materials (PCM) have gained popularity as materials that can store an excess of heat energy. In this research, the authors analysed paraffin wax (cheese wax)’s capability as a PCM energy storing material for a low temperature energy-storage device. Due to the relatively low thermal conductivity of wax, the authors also analysed open-cell ceramic Al2O3/SiC composite foams’ (in which the PCM was dispersed) influence on heat exchange process. Thermal analysis on paraffin wax was performed, determining its specific heat in liquid and solid state, latent heat (LH) of melting, melting temperature and thermal conductivity. Thermal tests were also performed on thermal energy container (with built-in PCM and ceramic foams) for transient heat transfer. Heat transfer coefficient and value of accumulated energy amount were determined.