Effectiveness of the phase change material-based thermal energy storage integrated with the conventional cooling systems of the buildings – A review
A significant portion of energy is consumed by the buildings to provide thermal comfort for its occupants. Energy consumed by the conventional cooling machines is expected to increase substantially around the globe. Cooling systems coupled with phase change materials offer a high potential to minimize the cooling energy demand and shifting peak time cooling load to off-peak time period without compromising the indoor comfort conditions. The interest in phase change material utilization for cooling applications has been increasing significantly over the last decade because of their energy saving benefits in building sector. Therefore, in this work, effectiveness of the phase change material storage coupled with free cooling, evaporative cooling, and compressor-based cooling techniques in reducing the energy consumption or shifting the peak cooling load have been discussed and analyzed in detail. Different types of phase change materials used for active cooling systems along with their selection criteria for a particular application have been elaborated and discussed. Techniques to estimate the thermophysical properties of phase change material have also been explained. Phase change material capsulation techniques along with their merits and demerits are also described. Challenges and issues that may arise during integrating of phase change material storage with the active cooling system have also been explained. Finally, this review also presents some current problems that needed further research in this area. Current review will be a useful guide for the research community working or intending to work in the field of phase change material-based cooling system.