The Thermal Performance of a Novel Phase Change Emulsion

Abstract

Phase change emulsion, mentioned in this article, is a category of novel phase change fluid used as heat storage and transfer media. It is made of microparticles of a phase change wax as a phase change material with the melting temperature ranging from 80 to 90 ı C, which can be used as the working fluid in a heating system. Phase change emulsion of 10, 20, and 25 wt% were prepared. The melting point and the heat of fusion of phase change emulsion were measured by a differential scanning calorimeter. The phase change emulsion of 20 wt% was chosen to analyze the applicable feasibility. Its thermal physical properties were measured, and the pump consumption of a conventional (water) system and a phase change emulsion system were compared. Results show that this phase change emulsion can reduce pump consumption 87% compared to water as the heat transfer media when the working temperature zone is 82-90 ı C. Furthermore, by addition of nanoparticles, the thermal conductivity of the phase change emulsion was increased greatly with a little mass concentration.

The Investigation of Phase Change Emulsion (PCE): Fabrication, Thermal Conductivity and Utilization of Nanoparticles

“…Alquaity et al tested the nanosized PCE in microchannel and found the thermal conductivity of particle is 0.147 W/m•K [17]. D. Zou et al has a mixed wax with higher thermal conductivity(0.45 W/m•K),but it is still lower than water [18].…”

Phase-Change Emulsion Stabilized by Lignin-Modified Cellulose Nanofiber and Its Application as Energy-Exchange Fluid

“…To address these challenges, emulsification methods have been employed in recent years to combine the strengths of both types of materials. 2 This approach allows for effective utilization of phase change materials' ability to absorb and release large amounts of heat at phase change temperatures, while also leveraging the high specific heat properties of other materials. By integration of these materials through emulsification, the overall heat transfer performance is improved, cycling stability is enhanced, and flexible and customized designs become possible.…”

“…However, when used individually, phase change materials and high-specific heat materials suffer from limitations such as low thermal conductivity and nonuniform temperature distribution, resulting in localized hot spots or temperature gradients. To address these challenges, emulsification methods have been employed in recent years to combine the strengths of both types of materials . This approach allows for effective utilization of phase change materials’ ability to absorb and release large amounts of heat at phase change temperatures, while also leveraging the high specific heat properties of other materials.…”