Optimization of a phase change material enhanced low-concentration photovoltaic/thermal module

Abstract

This paper presents a simulation and optimization study of a nanoparticle-enhanced phase change material (PCM) assisted low-concentration photovoltaic/thermal (LCPV/T) module. An optical, electrical, and thermal model coupling finite element simulation is developed, with the thickness of the PCM, the mass fraction of nanoparticles in the heat transfer fluid and PCM, and the velocity of the heat transfer fluid as optimization parameters. To improve the efficiency of the optimization process, a response surface methodology is used to investigate the polynomial relationship between the parameters and module performance. The significance level and average error of each polynomial are found to be lower than 0.05 and 2.5%, respectively, indicating their statistical significance and accurate prediction of module performance. The fitting polynomials are used to optimize and analyze the module, and the results show maximum values of output thermal energy, output thermal exergy, output electrical energy/exergy, total output energy, and total output exergy of 573.11 W, 13.05 W, 110.40 W, 869.93 W, and 121.08 W, respectively. Comparison with the previously designed module revealed that the newly designed module demonstrated better electrical output performance, providing valuable guidance for the energy supply of zero-carbon buildings.