Development and performance analysis of cold storage systems utilising aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials integrated with photovoltaic solar energy

Abstract

The research objective was to create and evaluate enhanced phase change material (PCM) containers for cold storage systems that employ PCMs fortified with aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) plastic was used to create a PCM container utilising 3D printing technology, which solved leakage problems and increased durability. Aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles (75 nm) were added to Micronal® DS 5008 X, an organic paraffin wax-based PCM, at different mass percentages (1 %, 2 %, and 3 %), to improve thermal conductivity. This PCM was chosen for its exceptional thermal energy storage capabilities. In order to ensure uniform nanoparticle distribution, ultrasonic dispersion was used to create the nanoparticle-enhanced PCM (n-PCM) mixes. K-type thermocouples and silicone rubber heaters were used in the experimental setup to imitate high sun irradiation conditions, and temperature readings were taken with a data logger. Thermal characteristics of PCMs and n-PCMs were evaluated using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis. As a consequence of the considerable reduction in operating temperatures and improvement in thermal conductivity, the results showed that adding 2 % Al₂O₃ nanoparticles produced the best thermal control. Though they were still within practical limits for thermal energy storage, the latent heat of fusion and heat capacity were somewhat decreased with the inclusion of nanoparticles. At 1 % and 2 % Al₂O₃ concentrations, the heat transfer coefficients were improved; at higher concentrations, however, thermal performance was reduced due to nanoparticle aggregation and increased viscosity. Electrical performance investigation demonstrated a 12 % reduction in energy consumption and a peak photovoltaic (PV) system efficiency of 16.0 % with 2 % Al2O3. Elevated levels of nanoparticles (3 %) resulted in increased energy use and compromised thermal regulation.