Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the solidification process of nanoparticle-enhanced phase change material (NEPCM) filled in a rectangular latent heat storage unit (LHSU). The storage unit consists of several slabs filled with n-octadecane as phase change material (PCM) dispersed with high conductivity nanoparticles (copper). The NEPCM slabs are vertically oriented and separated by rectangular channels in which circulates water as heat transfer fluid (HTF). A two-dimensional model has been developed and validated by experimental, theoretical and numerical data available in literature. The enthalpy porosity method was adopted for modeling the phase change process and the finite volume approach was used to discretize the resulting equations. The numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of the volumetric fraction of nanoparticles, aspect ratio of NEPCM slabs and dimensionless HTF inlet temperature on the heat transfer enhancement and storage performance of the LHSU during solidification process. A correlation encompassing all investigated control parameters has been developed to estimate the solidification time of NEPCM slabs.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
