Review of Stratification using Phase Change Materials for the Different Aspect Ratio of Tank for Thermal Energy Storage Application

Abstract

To match fluctuating energy supply with demand energy storage is a crucial issue that must be taken into consideration. Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is a significant method for storing as well as to emit energy in the form of heat based on Latent and Sensible. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are primarily utilized in these storage systems to absorb heat energy during charging and release heat energy during discharging. The mass of the tank has a major impact on the charging and discharging behaviour of PCMs. A significant consideration in the analysis of heat and mass flow is the effect of Stratification. Stratification of fluids happens owing to temperature differences, or it may be due to the presence of different fluids of different densities. When the water is heated its density decreases and flows over cold water. Thermal stratification takes place when two types of steam with different temperatures come into contact. Storage tank’s efficiency is increased by Thermal Stratification due to the presence of heat at intermediate layer known as thermocline can be used to warm colder layers. Different inlet and exit locations, velocities, temperatures, and heat loss are included in the system parameters. The concept of studying the performance of the thermal energy storage tank with various dimensions (L/B or H/D) is known as charge Stratification. The PCM is primarily used to improve energy density and Stratification in storage tanks. As for researcher knowledge review of different aspect ratio of storage tank not focused so far. In this review paper explains about Stratification concept, various aspect ratio of tank used so far along with its results. Also suggested for three different aspect ratio storage tanks with and without PCM for stratification analysis.