Design and Optimization of Nano-enhanced Phase Change Material-based Thermal Energy Storage Systems for Solar Thermal Applications

Abstract

The intermittent nature of solar energy necessitates efficient thermal energy storage (TES) systems to ensure reliability and a continuous energy supply. Phase change materials (PCMs), due to their high latent heat storage capacity, have emerged as promising candidates for TES. However, their low thermal conductivity limits heat transfer efficiency. This study investigates the design and optimization of nano-enhanced phase change materials (NEPCMs) for solar thermal applications. By incorporating nanoparticles such as graphene, metal oxides, and carbon nanotubes into base PCMs, significant improvements in thermal conductivity, heat transfer rate, and energy storage performance are achieved. A combined experimental-numerical approach is used to evaluate system performance. Results demonstrate that NEPCMs can enhance thermal conductivity by up to 60–200% and reduce charging/discharging time significantly. Optimization techniques such as response surface methodology (RSM) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are applied to determine optimal nanoparticle concentration and system geometry. The findings highlight NEPCMs as a viable solution for high-efficiency solar thermal energy storage systems.