Preparation and Evaluation of PCMs by Macro Encapsulation for Solar Energy Storage

Title:Preparation and Evaluation of PCMs by Macro Encapsulation for Solar Energy Storage

Volume: 14 Issue: 4

Author(s): Sunita Routray*, Vishal Agarwal, Ranjita Swain and Rudra Narayan Mohapatro

Affiliation:

• Department of Mechanical Engineering, C.V Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar,India

Keywords: Phase change materials, thermal energy storage, macro encapsulation, thermal conductivity, solar energy, thermal fluids.

Abstract:

Background: Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are used in a latent heat storage system for storing thermal energy. The thermal conductivity of PCMs is enhanced by macro encapsulation for large-scale use.

Objective: This technique not only provides a self-supporting structure of PCM but also separates the PCM from thermal fluids and enhances the heat transfer rate.

Methods: The current work involves the study of encapsulation of low-cost inorganic PCMs, such as sodium nitrate (NaNO3), in a temperature range of 300 - 500°C. Silicate coating is also applied to PCM capsules. A solar water heater is then designed using the macro encapsulated PCM.

Results and conclusion: The water heater consists of cylindrical copper pipes filled with phase change material. The efficiency of the solar water heater is found to be 22.5%.

Cite this article as:

Routray Sunita *, Agarwal Vishal , Swain Ranjita and Mohapatro Narayan Rudra , Preparation and Evaluation of PCMs by Macro Encapsulation for Solar Energy Storage, Recent Innovations in Chemical Engineering 2021; 14 (4) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/2405520414666210203221818