Abstract:
This study explores the integration of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into roofing systems as a method for enhancing thermal energy storage and improving indoor thermal comfort. By employing CATIA software to develop detailed geometric models of roofs both with and without PCM, and using ANSYS Fluent for simulation, the research aims to optimize temperature control within buildings. The simulations, designed to reflect real-time ambient temperature variations, were rigorously tested for accuracy through mesh convergence studies, ensuring reliable results. Validation against experimental data from previous studies confirmed the dependability of the numerical approach, making the model suitable for further analysis and design refinement. The comparative analysis between roofs with and without PCM demonstrated the significant benefits of integrating PCM, particularly in terms of reducing temperature fluctuations within indoor spaces, leading to more comfortable living environments.
Further investigations focused on determining the optimal thickness of PCM within the roof to achieve a balance between structural integrity and enhanced thermal performance. Several types of PCM materials, including OM-35, N-eicosane, and paraffin, were evaluated for their effectiveness in minimizing temperature variations. The study highlighted the critical role of selecting appropriate PCMs to maximize thermal efficiency while adhering to practical design constraints. This work provides valuable insights into how cutting-edge PCM technology can be utilized to improve building energy efficiency, promoting sustainable construction practices. The findings serve as a foundation for future research aimed at developing more effective, energy-efficient building materials, offering a pathway toward creating environmentally friendly and thermally comfortable living spaces.
Aim:
The project aims to deepen the understanding of thermal storage systems by integrating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) and utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze their performance. By simulating the heat transfer and phase change processes within PCM-based thermal storage systems, the project seeks to optimize the design of these systems for maximum energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Through detailed CFD modeling, the behavior of heat absorption, storage, and release during phase transitions will be thoroughly examined, enabling the identification of ideal material configurations and system designs. This approach will enhance the effectiveness of PCMs in various applications, particularly in improving indoor temperature regulation and reducing energy consumption in buildings.
Objectives:
The primary objective of this research is to significantly enhance the understanding of thermal performance in Phase Change Material (PCM) thermal storage systems by coupling experimental studies with computational simulations. By combining these approaches, the research aims to improve the predictability of the system’s thermal behavior, ensuring more accurate modeling and design optimization. The experimental data will provide real-world validation, which will then be integrated with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the performance of PCMs in varying operational conditions. This combination of experimental and computational methods will allow for a deeper understanding of heat transfer and storage processes, which is crucial for the development of energy-efficient thermal storage solutions.
In addition to improving understanding, the project will focus on developing advanced CFD techniques to monitor and analyze the fluid dynamics and heat transfer characteristics within PCM thermal storage systems. Different operational conditions, such as varying flow rates and temperature profiles, will be simulated to test the system’s efficiency across various scenarios. Furthermore, physical models for the PCM thermal storage will be developed to simulate real-world conditions. Once validated against experimental data, these numerical models will undergo sensitivity analysis to examine the effects of different design parameters and operational factors on the system’s performance. This iterative process will enable the identification of optimal system configurations and operational strategies, further enhancing the potential for PCM thermal storage in energy-efficient building systems.
