Thermal Energy Storage Simulation Using Phase Change Materials

Professor Introduction

Vincent F | Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Home Institute：University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Project Description

This project focuses on the simulation of thermal energy storage using phase change materials (PCMs) to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and tidal energy. Given that these energy sources are not continuously available, it is crucial to store the excess energy generated during peak times for use during periods of high demand. Thermal energy storage (TES) systems absorb heat through a medium (PCMs in this case), store it at a certain temperature, and release it when needed. This project will use COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software to build and optimize a TES model using PCMs, aiming to achieve high energy and power density.

Project Keywords

Project Outline

Part 1 : Introduction to Thermal Energy Storage and Phase Change Materials
• Overview of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Systems
• Importance of TES in Renewable Energy Utilization
• Introduction to Phase Change Materials (PCMs) and Their Properties

Part 2 : Research Objectives and Hypotheses
• Investigating the Efficiency of PCMs in TES Systems
• Developing and Optimizing a TES Model Using COMSOL Multiphysics

Part 3 :  Review of Current Research and Methods
• Review of Existing TES Systems and PCM Applications
• Identification of Gaps and Limitations in Current Technologies

Part 4:  Development of the TES Model Using COMSOL Multiphysics
• Building a Basic TES Model with PCMs in COMSOL
• Incorporating Heat Transfer and Phase Change Principles
• Setting Up Simulation Parameters and Boundary Conditions

Part 5 :  Simulation and Optimization
• Running Initial Simulations to Test the Basic Model
• Analyzing Simulation Results and Identifying Performance Metrics
• Iteratively Optimizing the Model for Higher Energy and Power Density

Part 6 :  Validation and Comparative Analysis
• Validating the Optimized Model with Experimental or Literature Data
• Comparing the Performance of Different PCM Configurations
• Analysis of the Impact of Various Parameters on TES Efficiency

Part 7 :  Results and Discussion
• Graphical Representation of Simulation Results and Performance Metrics
• Interpretation of Results and Discussion of Implications for TES Systems
• Comparison with Existing TES Technologies and Discussion of Advantages and Limitations

Part 8 :  Conclusion and Future Directions
• Summary of Key Findings and Their Significance
• Identification of Research Limitations and Suggestions for Future Research
• Recommendations for Practical Applications in Renewable Energy Storage

Part 9: Reporting and Presentation
• Writing a Detailed Research Report with Clear Structure, Concise Language, and Accurate Data Presentation
• Preparing and Delivering a Clear and Engaging Oral Presentation of Research Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusions

Suitable for

High School Students:  
• Interest in Renewable Energy and Engineering: Students with a strong interest in renewable energy technologies and engineering principles.
• Basic Knowledge : Students with a basic understanding of heat transfer and phase change processes.

University students :  
• Relevant Major : Students majoring in mechanical engineering, energy science, or related fields.
• Proficiency in Simulation Software: Students with basic skills in simulation software, particularly COMSOL Multiphysics.