Phase change energy storage material energy storage machine theory

Are phase change materials suitable for thermal energy storage?

Phase change materials (PCMs) having a large latent heat during solid-liquid phase transition are promising for thermal energy storage applications. However, the relatively low thermal conductivity of the majority of promising PCMs (<10 W/ (m ⋅ K)) limits the power density and overall storage efficiency.

What are phase change materials (PCMs)?

Abstract With the increasing demand for thermal management, phase change materials (PCMs) have garnered widespread attention due to their unique advantages in energy storage and temperature regulat...

Is phase change storage a good energy storage solution?

Therefore, compared to sensible heat storage, phase change storage offers advantages such as higher energy density, greater flexibility, and temperature stability, making it a widely promising energy storage solution.

What is thermal energy storage?

Among them, thermal energy accounts for more than 70% of global energy consumption and is the primary form of energy for industrial applications and daily life. Thermal energy storage can be broadly classified into sensible heat storage and latent heat storage (i.e., phase change energy storage).

What are the design principles for improved thermal storage?

Although device designs are application dependent, general design principles for improved thermal storage do exist. First, the charging or discharging rate for thermal energy storage or release should be maximized to enhance efficiency and avoid superheat.

How does a PCM control the temperature of phase transition?

By controlling the temperature of phase transition, thermal energy can be stored in or released from the PCM efficiently. Figure 1 B is a schematic of a PCM storing heat from a heat source and transferring heat to a heat sink.