Assessment of PCM-container interfacial heat transfer using a hot/cold probe technique

Abstract

A novel technique for assessing heat transfer characteristics of salt-based phase change materials (PCM) was proposed here. The method is based on solution to inverse heat conduction problem. Nanoparticles (Graphite, Graphene, and multi wall carbon nanotube [MWCNT]) were dispersed in the PCM (KNO3) to assess their respective influence on heat transfer in the PCM. Graphite added PCM offered highest heat flow values and heating rates, while the pure salt-PCM offered the least. The probe material had a significant influence on the heat transfer rates at the PCM-probe interface.