Nanofluid-PCM-based Integrated Solar Thermal Energy Conversion and Storage System
Nanofluid-PCM-based Integrated Solar Thermal Energy Conversion and Storage System
This research presents a novel integration of a nanoflid-based direct absorption solar collector (DASC) with phase change material (PCM)-based thermal energy storage to address the challenge of solar energy intermittency. The study combines computational modeling and experimental validation to investigate thermal performance during complete charging–discharging cycles. An optimized amorphous carbon nanofluid was employed to directly absorb the solar energy, while PCM simultaneously stored thermal energy in sensible and latent forms. Results demonstrated efficient solar thermal energy conversion, achieving nanofluid temperatures above 65°C within 10 minutes of charging. The integrated DASC–PCM system significantly enhanced thermal retention, maintaining useful temperature of hot nanofluid for up to 175 minutes during discharging. Compared to the baseline configuration, the proposed system improved thermal retention by 3.12 times. Computational predictions showed strong agreement with experimental observations, confirming the feasibility of the design. The study establishes a proof-of-concept for compact solar thermal systems capable of continuous heat utilization and effective energy storage for low- and medium-temperature applications.
This research presents a novel integration of a nanoflid-based direct absorption solar collector (DASC) with phase change material (PCM)-based thermal energy storage to address the challenge of solar energy intermittency. The study combines computational modeling and experimental validation to investigate thermal performance during complete charging–discharging cycles. An optimized amorphous carbon nanofluid was employed to directly absorb the solar energy, while PCM simultaneously stored thermal energy in sensible and latent forms. Results demonstrated efficient solar thermal energy conversion, achieving nanofluid temperatures above 65°C within 10 minutes of charging. The integrated DASC–PCM system significantly enhanced thermal retention, maintaining useful temperature of hot nanofluid for up to 175 minutes during discharging. Compared to the baseline configuration, the proposed system improved thermal retention by 3.12 times. Computational predictions showed strong agreement with experimental observations, confirming the feasibility of the design. The study establishes a proof-of-concept for compact solar thermal systems capable of continuous heat utilization and effective energy storage for low- and medium-temperature applications.
