Energy storage in phase change materials for solar applications

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Abstract
This paper describes the status of energy storage in phase change materials (PCM). In the introduction the increased interest in the development of latent heat stores is elucidated. In succession various classes of phase change materials and their proper advantages and disadvantages are discussed. Some recent results of technical research are explained, in particular the use of a metal matrix to increase the thermal conductivity and the problems encountered when interpreting Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) measurements. The consequences of PCMs on storage system design are shown and the vital importance of test procedures to compare the large variety of storage systems is indicated. The results of a series of tests are given and the behaviours of a fully mixed water store and a latent heat store are compared. Finally, the economics of energy storage are discussed.