Optimizing a latent heat energy storage tank for a solar collector system: moving towards zero carbon.

The growing emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability is driving the need for innovative solutions in renewable energy systems. This paper presents a simulation study of a latent heat energy storage tank integrated into a solar energy system with the aim of improving energy management, heat storage, and overall system performance. The study is particularly relevant in the context of recent commitments to achieve real-time zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with global trends towards decarbonization and the integration of renewable energy sources. The research focuses on the thermal dynamics within the phase change material (PCM) based storage tank, which plays a critical role in the efficient management and storage of solar energy.

PCMs are selected for their ability to absorb and release large amounts of latent heat during phase transitions, thereby increasing the storage capacity and efficiency of thermal energy systems. The simulation explores the behavior of bio-based PCMs (sugar alcohol) during charging (melting) and discharging (solidification) cycles, evaluating the impact of various parameters, including PCM type, tank geometry, and integration with different solar collector designs. A key objective of this study is to optimize the storage tank’s design to maximize energy efficiency while minimizing thermal losses. This involves analyzing the heat transfer processes within the tank and the interaction between the PCM and the solar energy system.

The simulation models the thermal behavior of the bio-based PCM during phase changes, examining the heat transfer mechanisms, including conduction, convection, and radiation, within the storage tank. Various scenarios are tested to determine how different bio-based PCM materials respond to changes in solar input and how tank geometry influences the melting and solidification processes. The simulation also assesses the thermal stratification within the tank and its effect on the overall efficiency of the system.

To ensure accuracy, the simulation uses a finite element method to solve the heat transfer equations and predict temperature distribution within the PCM. The impact of different boundary conditions, such as varying solar irradiation and ambient temperature, is also considered to mimic real-world operating conditions.

The simulation results provide insights into the best practices for enhancing energy storage capacity and efficiency, ultimately contributing to more sustainable energy use. The findings from the simulation study serve as a valuable framework for future innovations in energy storage and solar energy utilization, supporting the current goal of a sustainable and zero-carbon energy landscape by 2050.