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New library of phase-change materials with their selection by the Rényi entropy method
Vladimir Kulish1, Navid Aslfattahi2, Michal Schmirler2
1Department of Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic. vladimir.kulish@fs.cvut.cz.
Scientific Reports
|June 27, 2023
Summary
A new library of 500 phase-change materials (PCMs) and an objective selection method using Rényi entropy are introduced. This facilitates effective heat storage for solar thermal energy applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Thermodynamics
Background:
- Effective heat storage is crucial for widespread solar thermal energy deployment.
- Latent heat storage using phase-change materials (PCMs) offers high energy density and stable operating temperatures.
- Accessing comprehensive PCM property data, including non-thermodynamic aspects, remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a comprehensive library of phase-change materials (PCMs) with diverse operational temperatures.
- To introduce a novel, objective method for selecting appropriate PCMs based on multiple criteria.
- To support the advancement of solar thermal energy storage solutions.
Main Methods:
- Compilation of a new library containing 500 PCMs and nine key properties (e.g., phase transition temperature, latent heat, thermal conductivity, cycleability).
- Development of a PCM selection methodology based on calculating Rényi entropy.
- Application of fractal analysis principles to guide the selection process.
Main Results:
- A curated database of 500 PCMs with extensive property information is now available.
- The proposed Rényi entropy-based method provides an objective and data-driven approach to PCM selection.
- The new method eliminates subjective judgments in material selection for heat storage.
Conclusions:
- The developed PCM library and selection method enhance the feasibility of utilizing solar thermal energy.
- Objective material selection is critical for optimizing the performance and efficiency of heat storage systems.
- This work provides valuable resources for researchers and engineers in the field of thermal energy storage.
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