Recent development of thermal heat storage technology coupling with phase change material

Abstract

Renewable energy plays a crucial role in meeting the growing global energy demand. Among various renewable energy sources, solar energy occupies a central position due to its numerous advantages, including environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. However, one of the significant challenges in the efficient utilization of solar energy is its inherent intermittency, which can lead to imbalances between supply and demand. Thermal energy storage (TES) technology, coupled with phase change materials (PCMs), offers an effective solution by storing energy during solar energy production and releasing it when needed. This approach has a distinct advantage in addressing the periodicity of solar energy. In the context of optimizing solar energy utilization, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the current research and future developments in TES technology. The focus is on key aspects such as the selection of PCMs, fin design arrangements, the architecture of cascade storage systems, the design of thermal storage tanks, and both numerical models and experimental methods. Additionally, the paper explores potential future applications of TES, offering valuable insights into the calculation, design, operation, and energy-saving potential of these technologies in the solar energy sector.