Thermal Energy Storage Technology for Application in Transport Refrigeration

Abstract

This paper reviews the use of an alternative refrigeration system in refrigerated vehicles by using thermal energy storage systems. The application of thermal energy storage systems in transport refrigeration focusing particularly on latent heat phase change materials PCMs that have been used in recent years is reviewed. The majority of PCMs are found in building applications for space heating and cooling, greenhouse heating applications, solar cookers, and storage of solar energy for water heating. The focus of this work is on latent heat storage (LHS) materials for road transport refrigeration and their benefits in the refrigeration of perishable foodstuffs for short- and long-distance transportation. The benefits of using LHS materials over a conventional mechanical vapour compression system are explored. This paper also centres on the need to develop new PCMs with high thermal cycles and minimal degradation to ensure effective performance in the transport refrigeration industry. Criteria for selecting suitable PCMs for different applications were summarised, and classification of PCMs based on their melting temperature and latent heat were tabulated. Heat transfer materials for increasing PCM performance were analysed as well as the effect of container material corrosion on PCM stability. The different thermal techniques for determining the properties of PCMs were summarised, and the accuracy of each technique was explored based on similar research work by other researchers. The PCMs that have been used in transport refrigeration as well as the thermo-physical criteria that are needed for different applications were analysed.