Thermal Energy Storage Characterization of Environmental-Friendly Bio-Based PCMs as an Alternative to Petroleum-Based Paraffin Waxes

Abstract

Thermal-Energy Storage (TES) properties of organic phase change materials have been experimentally investigated and reported in this paper. Three paraffin-based PCMs and one bio-based one are considered with melting temperatures of 24 °C, 25 °C and 26 °C. Sensible heat storage capacities, melting characteristics and latent heat enthalpies are investigated through DSC measurements. Two alternative methods, namely the classical dynamic and the step-wise approach, are performed and compared with the aim to eliminate and/or overcome possible measurement DSC errors. The latters are due to the size of the samples and their representativity, heating/cooling rate effects and the low conductivity of the PCMs, which may affect the results and possibly cause a loss of objectivity of the measurements. Based on results achieved from this study, clear informations can be figured out on how to conduct and characterize paraffin and bio-based PCMs, and possible how to apply them in TES calculations for building applications and/or simulations.

Salt hydrates as phase change materials for photovoltaics thermal management

“…The majority studies in PV‐PCM systems in the past decade have focused on organic PCMs, especially RT‐series paraffin waxes by Rubitherm®, because of their performance stability within a great scope of melting points 25,26 . Notwithstanding, the greatest disadvantage of paraffins is low thermal conductivity (around 0.2 W/mK), drawing limitations to heat extraction and dissipation from PV when necessary, at different time of a day.…”

“…24 The majority studies in PV-PCM systems in the past decade have focused on organic PCMs, especially RT-series paraffin waxes by Rubitherm®, because of their performance stability within a great scope of melting points. 25,26 Notwithstanding, the greatest disadvantage of paraffins is low thermal conductivity (around 0.2 W/mK), drawing limitations to heat extraction and dissipation from PV when necessary, at different time of a day. Since some of the organic PCMs are highly flammable, which increases danger level to the environment and society, incorporation of PCMs in building construction requires careful material selection and architecture design housing, which leads to overall cost addition.…”