The research significance of phase change solar container materials

Can phase change materials be used in thermal energy storage systems?

Use of phase change materials in thermal energy storage systems with applications and heat enhancement. Modern societies heavily rely on energy. Future primary energy consumption may rise by 48% by 2040 (European Commission, 2016).

Are phase change micro-nanocapsules suitable for solar thermal systems?

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the types of PCMs, methods for preparing phase change micro–nanocapsules, and their applications in solar thermal systems. This paper introduces the material selection for phase change micro–nanocapsules, their preparation methods, and the photothermal conversion performance.

Can solar-thermal phase change composites harness solar energy?

To clarify future research directions, this study first analyzes the heat transfer process of solar-thermal conversion and then reviews solar-thermal phase change composites for high-efficiency harnessing solar energy. The focus is on enhancing heat absorption and conduction while aiming to suppress reflection, radiation, and convection.

What are phase change materials (PCMs)?

Phase change materials (PCMs) are an efficient alternative to store and release heat at a specific range of temperature. Here PCMs and heat enhancement methodologies for PCM storage are reviewed. A short overview of PCMs and their applications is presented in addition to the progress during the last 10 years.

What is phase change micro-nanoencapsulation?

To address these issues, the preparation of phase change micro–nanocapsules has been explored. Phase change micro–nanoencapsulation technology mitigates the problem of unmatched heat supply and demand. It has been extensively researched in solar thermal utilization systems.

Do PCM containers affect thermal exchange level of storage capacity?

Consequently, viable performance of PCMs depends upon the configuration of PCM containers. Geometrical configuration and dimensional parameters of storage container have significant effect on thermal exchange level of storage capacity of PCM (Ismail & Henríquez, 2002).