Solar energy storage with phase change

Abstract

A mathematical model developed to predict rates of melting and solidification of phase-change materials (PCM) has been used to study the performance of a solar energy storage unit for domestic purposes. The model assumed one-dimensional heat flow and included the effects of natural convection in the melted layer. Computations were carried out for two different paraffin waxes; n-octadecane and P-116, having different melting points of 27.7°C and 46.7°C respectively.