Evaluation and optimization of a heat storage with phase change materials for better energy management in buildings - field studies, modeling and laboratory experiments
Research Project, 2015 – 2018

The application relates to the evaluation of an innovative thermal storage for heating of hot water, with phase change materials (PCM) as the heat carrier. This PCM storage is constructed of plastic rods filled with aqueous salt solutions, embedded in a well-insulated tank. The rods (Swedish invention) are tightly sealed, easily manageable and stackable, so that the heat storage capacity can be easily changed. Preliminary tests have shown that PCM storage is more efficient at storing heat at uneven production (solar, waste heat) than traditional water-based heat storage, and can reduce heating requirements in buildings. A tank with 1000 rods (350 kWh) is to be evaluated in use. Field studies will be complemented by numerical modeling and lab experiments. The overall project objective is to develop design tools, which are currently lacking, for similar PCM storage. The experimental facility can become an objective demonstration and pilot project.

Participants

Angela Sasic Kalagasidis (contact)

Chalmers, Architecture and Civil Engineering, Building Technology

Pär Johansson

Chalmers, Architecture and Civil Engineering, Building Technology

Pepe Tan

Chalmers, Architecture and Civil Engineering, Building Technology

Funding

Swedish Energy Agency

Project ID: 39695-1
Funding Chalmers participation during 2015–2017

Related Areas of Advance and Infrastructure

Sustainable development

Driving Forces

Building Futures (2010-2018)

Areas of Advance

Energy

Areas of Advance

Publications

More information

Latest update

10/27/2015