Optimizing the transient response of an annular thermoelectric cooler: PCM and nanofluid synergy

Abstract

This research focuses on analyzing the coefficient of performance (COP) and the lowest minimum temperature achievable by an annular thermoelectric cooler (ATEC) when combined with a nanofluid and a phase change material (PCM). This study aimed to find the right concentration of alumina nanoparticles ($A{l}_3{O}_2$) to achieve the best convective coefficient. It also compared the performance of an ATEC operating with a combination of PCM and nanofluid to determine the ideal operating current and lowest cold side temperature. The results showed that using OM32PCM with $A{l}_3{O}_2$ nanofluid led to lower temperatures than using only the nanofluid or the PEG1500 PCM. The system reached its lowest temperature of $T_c=259.6$ K at an electric current of $I=5.8A$ and convective coefficient of $h=1973W/m^2$K. When the ATEC operates solely with nanofluid, a more significant temperature difference is observed compared to when it operates with PCM OM32and $A{l}_3{O}_2$ nanofluid. The more considerable temperature difference is $\mathrm{\Delta T}=1.6$ K with$I=2.8A$ and $h=808.9W/m^2$ K. Additionally, it takes longer to melt the PCM OM32 combined with the nanofluid. This synergistic interplay is the hallmark of our research, distinguishing it from prior investigations and offering a promising pathway toward enhanced thermoelectric cooling technology.