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Meeting ID: 624 4827 9244
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Thesis title

Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage in Buildings: design, characterization and modelling.

Summary of the thesis

Thermal energy storage (TES) has a significant role in saving thermal energy and improving indoor climate. The main objective of the current Ph.D. study was to develop and thermally characterize microencapsulated PCM for LHTES in building applications. Seven different PCM, including organic paraffins, organic non-paraffins, and inorganic salts, were examined. The study covered the development and experimental characterization of PCM emulsions, PCM polymers, and PCM electrospun fiber matrices. The integration of PCM materials and PCM composites in HVAC systems was studied on both macro and micro-scale, focusing on a phase change temperature range (15-20°C) to ensure occupant thermal comfort. Moreover, numerical analysis of LHTES systems of different geometries using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 finite-element software was performed. This included simulations of a double tube with bulk PCM in the annular space and a single tube using PCM electrospun fiber matrix in direct contact with water.

Overall, the study underscores the potential of microencapsulated PCM in HVAC building applications for effective thermal energy storage. The obtained experimental and numerical results lay the foundation for future development of large-scale LHTES systems based on PCM.

Copy of thesis

For a copy of the thesis, please email inst.build.phd@build.aau.dk.