A Review on Thermal Energy Storage Using Composite Phase Change Materials

Background: This paper intends to provide the elementary understanding about the development of thermal energy storage systems. Reviews of storage system performance are carried out from various characterization studies, experimental work, numerical investigations and patents. Several techniques employed to enhance the thermal performance have been reviewed and discussed. Composite phase change materials are the best alternative to achieve the cost feasibility in thermal energy storage systems without compromising the storage capacity. Objective: The purpose of this study is to give an outline and history of the thermal energy storage systems and enlighten the techniques used for storage density enhancement without significant modifications in the design. Methods: In this study, three methods such as, characterization studies, experimental work, numerical investigations and patents. It also addresses many research articles and recent patents on the thermal storage systems, various techniques adopted and applications of such systems. Results: Composite phase change materials are the best alternative to achieve the cost feasibility in thermal energy storage systems without compromising the storage capacity. Carbon based nanoparticles show excellent properties in the composite phase change materials. Conclusion: Composite phase change materials have greater potential for thermal energy storage applications and especially carbon-based nanoparticles like graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, fullerene, graphite, graphite oxide, extracted graphite etc., are greatly enhancing the thermo-physical properties of composite phase change materials. Combination of paraffin-based phase change materials and carbon-based nanoparticles can be used for the future thermal energy storage applications.