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An experimental investigation of solid-state phase-change materials for solar thermal storage

Journal Article · · Journal of Solar Energy Engineering; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2929969· OSTI ID:5767204
 [1];  [2]
  1. Boeing Aerospace Co., Huntsville, AL (US)
  2. Univ. of South Carolina, Columbia, SC (US)
This paper reports that the goal of this study is to determine and produce the thermal properties of solid-state phase-change materials appropriate for solar system space heating storage (transition temperatures in the 40 to 60{degrees}C range). A major effort is directed toward improving the overall heat storage characteristics of solid-state phase-change materials by increasing the materials' thermal conductivities. The solid-state phase change materials focused on in this study are neopentyl glycol and pentaglylcerine. The results from testing various materials are reported as thermophysical property values. The results from a constant heat flux, thermal storage charging experiment are reported for both the solid-state materials and the enhanced conductivity materials. The storage system modeled is a tube bank with hot fluid inside the tubes transferring heat to the solid-solid phase-change material outside the tubes.
OSTI ID:
5767204
Journal Information:
Journal of Solar Energy Engineering; (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Solar Energy Engineering; (United States) Vol. 113:4; ISSN 0199-6231; ISSN JSEED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English