Phase change energy storage aerospace application

Are phase change materials suitable for thermal energy storage?

Phase change materials (PCMs) having a large latent heat during solid-liquid phase transition are promising for thermal energy storage applications. However, the relatively low thermal conductivity of the majority of promising PCMs (<10 W/ (m ⋅ K)) limits the power density and overall storage efficiency.

Are phase change materials a problem in spacecraft thermal management?

The deployment of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in spacecraft thermal management presents intricate challenges such as thermal ratcheting and electrical short-circuiting. Thermal ratcheting is a result of cyclic thermal loading in space that could lead to structural fatigue, undermining the containment integrity of PCMs.

Are phase change materials prone to leakage?

Phase change materials possess the merits of high latent heat and a small range of phase change temperature variation. Therefore, there are great prospects for applying in heat energy storage and thermal management. However, the commonly used solid-liquid phase change materials are prone to leakage as the phase change process occurs.

Does a phase change material based packing strategy improve thermal management?

Wang et al. (2016) investigated the thermal management effects of a Phase Change Material (PCM)-based packing strategy in the context of onboard PMSMs in airplanes, where efficient thermal management is essential due to the confined space and the need for optimized performance.

Can nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials improve thermal energy storage?

Nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials (NePCM) with great potential for improved thermal energy storage. Int Commun Heat Mass Transfer. 2007;34 (5):534–43. Sheikholeslami M. Finite element method for PCM solidification in existence of CuO nanoparticles. J Mol Liquids. 2018;265:347–55. Hosseinizadeh SF, Darzi AR, Tan FL.

What are phase change materials (PCMs)?

Phase Change Materials (PCMs) have played a significant role in the effective passive thermal management of spacecraft electronic components. With increasing space activities anticipated in future, efficient and reliable thermal management strategies are being developed, where PCMs are poised to play a vital role.