Review
Energy & Fuels
Ashutosh Sharma, Ranga Pitchumani, Ranchan Chauhan
Summary: This article thoroughly reviews solar air heating systems (SAHS) with thermal storage, particularly latent heat storage (LHS). The integrated collector storage (ICS) and non-integrated collector storage (NICS) type SAHS have been extensively studied and compared. The results show that NICS-SAHS outperforms ICS-SAHS in terms of thermal losses, thermal storage capacity, and flexibility with better heat transfer fluid.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
V. V. Tyagi, K. Chopra, B. Kalidasan, Aditya Chauhan, U. Stritih, Sanjeev Anand, A. K. Pandey, Ahmet Sari, Richa Kothari
Summary: This paper discusses the significant role of thermal energy storage in building energy performance, combining thermal properties of PCM materials and their applications in energy efficient buildings. The article summarizes the advancements, applications, and future solutions in thermal energy storage technologies, with a focus on PCM composites, control strategies, and PCM-based PV/T systems.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Saeed Alqaed
Summary: This paper investigates the effect of using a polymeric phase change material (PCM) in a solar hot air collector on residential heating and cooling. The results show that increasing the collector length can raise the outflow air temperature, and the inlet air temperature has a significant effect on the outlet temperature. The use of PCM can reduce the outlet air temperature in the early hours of the day but enhance it in the last hours of the day. The system can heat a 95-m2 residential unit and provide 41% of the energy required.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ali Malekpour, Rouhollah Ahmadi, Sadegh Sadeghzadeh
Summary: The study investigates the effectiveness of utilizing renewable energy and phase change energy storage technology to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in buildings, as well as the advantages of underfloor heating systems in providing comfortable heating conditions.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2021)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ashutosh Sharma, Ranchan Chauhan
Summary: The use of thermal storage, particularly latent heat storage, can effectively address the fluctuating availability of solar energy. The integrated collector storage and separate collector storage designs are the most practical in combination with solar water heating systems. This article extensively reviews these designs and examines the impact of operating parameters. The study finds that evacuated tube collectors have significantly better thermal efficiency than flat plate collectors in the integrated collector storage design, while different designs of latent heat storage units have similar thermal performance in the separate collector storage design.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Misagh Ebrahimpour, Gohar Gholamibozanjani, Wei Yu, Brent Young, Mohammed Farid
Summary: Coupling solar air collectors with active systems of phase change materials is explored as an efficient approach for improving building heating supply. A model integrating solar collector, PCM storage, and building dynamics is developed for the first time to optimize the system design. The study shows that the system can be cost-effective as an auxiliary heating system to meet a portion of the heating demand.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Dan Zhou, Shaowen Wu, Zhigen Wu, Xingjuan Yu
Summary: A novel multi-slab thermal energy storage unit with NaNO3 as PCM was designed for concentrating solar thermal power plants, with two heat transfer enhancement methods of adding plate fins or 10 wt%EG compared and validated using a numerical model. The results show that adding fins can shorten phase change time by up to 18%, while adding 10 wt%EG is the most effective way to enhance heat transfer, with natural convection playing a critical role in heat transfer efficiency. Sensible heat during charging/discharging process occupies a significant portion of total heat stored/released, providing valuable insights for optimizing system design and operation.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Hamid Moradi, Seyed Ali Agha Mirjalily, Seyed Amir Abbas Oloomi, Hajir Karimi
Summary: This research focuses on optimizing thermal energy management in a solar system through the integration of PTC and PCMs, with a CFD model developed for analysis. The study results indicate that by appropriately selecting PTC dimensions and controlling parameter ranges, the system can generate desired hot air during operation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Reza Daneshazarian, Ayman M. Bayomy, Seth B. Dworkin
Summary: Implementing thermal energy storage (TES) systems in buildings and facilities improves heating/cooling system performance by reducing energy waste. This study introduces a novel two-step selection model for choosing the best thermal storage medium (TSM). Various types of TSMs, including phase change materials and nanoparticles, are investigated based on thermal storage capacity, heat storage rate, and thermal storage efficiency. The development of a modeling methodology for material selection and the ability to select the most efficient TES on a case-by-case basis are significant contributions of this work. This TSM selection technique enhances the understanding of selection tools and modeling capabilities in the field.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ahmad H. Milyani, Mohammed N. Ajour, Hesham A. Alhumade, Nidal H. Abu-Hamdeh, Arash Karimipour
Summary: This study numerically examines the cooling of two lithium-ion batteries located in an air duct using COMSOL software. The findings show that increasing the distance between the batteries can reduce the temperature and quantity of molten PCM, but there is a threshold beyond which the temperature and PCM volume start to increase.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ahmad H. Milyani, Mohammed N. Ajour, Hesham A. Alhumade, Nidal H. Abu-Hamdeh, Arash Karimipour
Summary: In this study, the cooling of two lithium-ion batteries in an air duct surrounded by phase change material was numerically examined using COMSOL software. Results showed that an increase in the distance between batteries from 2 to 3 cm led to a reduction in temperature and molten PCM quantity, while a further increase to 4 cm caused temperatures to rise and more PCM to melt.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Mostafa M. Alsaadawi, Mohamed Amin, Ahmed M. Tahwia
Summary: Over the past two decades, there has been a significant increase in buildings' energy consumption, leading to higher operating costs. Incorporating phase change materials (PCM) into concrete has been found to lower the thermal conductivity and increase heat capacity, improving the thermal performance of concrete. However, microcapsule damage during the mixing process can reduce the strength of the concrete.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
T. Sathish, Pelluru Suresh, Kamal Sharma, C. Ahamed Saleel, Saboor Shaik, Sher Afghan Khan, Hitesh Panchal
Summary: This research aims to develop a zero-emission/energy-building heating system with a PCM. Experimental results show that the KNO3-NaNO3 PCM outperformed by exhibiting a higher heat transfer rate. The system achieved a maximum output water temperature of 94 degrees C, a heat transfer of 6273 W, an energy efficiency of 50.6%, and an exergy of 5.99%.
CASE STUDIES IN THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Sultan M. Alghamdi, Nidal H. Abu-Hamdeh, Meshari A. Al-Ebrahim, Hussein A. Z. AL-bonsrulah, Amira M. Hussin
Summary: This research investigates the melting phenomenon in a container with two different fin lengths (L*). The combination of RT35 and Cu nanoparticles is proposed as a nano-enhanced phase change material (NEPCM). The effects of adding Cu, L*, and Stefan number (Ste) are studied, using a computational approach based on a structural mesh for simulation. The results show that higher Ste and lower L* lead to more effective melting. The addition of 4% Cu nanoparticles to the pure PCM increases the liquid fraction (LF) by 15.80% after 900 seconds in a tube with L* = 5 and Ste = 0.17.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2023)
Review
Thermodynamics
Allan Takudzwa Muzhanje, M. A. Hassan, Hamdy Hassan
Summary: Phase change material thermal energy storage is an effective solution for energy savings in air conditioning applications. This article reviews previous research works and analyzes energy saving approaches, providing best practices and recommendations for achieving cost cutting but accurate results. The potential benefits of integrating PCMs in air conditioning units include enhanced performance coefficient, energy savings, and reduced CO2 emissions.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Gabriel Perez, Julia Coma, Marta Chafer, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: This study characterized the annual LAI evolution of a Boston ivy double-skin green facade under Mediterranean continental climate and investigated the influence of LAI on external building wall temperatures and energy consumption.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Joan Tarragona, Anna Laura Pisello, Cesar Fernandez, Luisa F. Cabeza, Jorge Paya, Javier Marchante-Avellaneda, Alvaro de Gracia
Summary: This study analyzes the performance of a heating system controlled by model predictive control strategy, focusing on different combinations of thermal energy storage tank volumes and PV power capacities. Results show that investing in thermal energy storage tanks provides shorter payback periods compared to scenarios with PV panels, while the use of PV panels can significantly reduce electricity grid consumption. Additionally, increasing the thermal energy storage volume can improve the coefficient of performance of the heat pump.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Alicia Crespo, Cesar Fernandez, Alvaro de Gracia, Andrea Frazzica
Summary: This study investigated the technical performance of a solar-driven seasonal sorption storage system under three European climates. The results showed that optimal control can maximize system competitiveness and determine the optimal sorption storage size for each location, avoiding oversizing.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Lizhong Yang, Antoni Gil, Pammy S. H. Leong, Jun Onn Khor, Bakytzhan Akhmetov, Wooi Leong Tan, Srithar Rajoo, Luisa F. Cabeza, Alessandro Romagnoli
Summary: With the increasing demand for cooling and refrigeration, there is an urgent need to design efficient and low-cost thermal energy storage systems. This study develops and validates a novel method for fast and accurate measurement of the effective thermal conductivities over a wide temperature range. The results show that neglecting the effective thermal conductivity for the solid phase can lead to significant errors in simulations, and a designed macrofiller can increase the effective thermal conductivities and suppress the subcooling effect.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2022)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Emiliano Borri, Alessio Tafone, Gabriele Comodi, Alessandro Romagnoli, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: Electrical energy storage systems play a fundamental role in the energy transition process, and compressed air energy storage (CAES) is a promising technology for large-scale energy storage using compressed air. Recent research trends focus on off-design aspects, the development of thermal energy storage for adiabatic CAES, and the integration of CAES with combined heating and cooling systems.
Article
Thermodynamics
Alicia Crespo, Cesar Fernandez, David Verez, Joan Tarragona, Emiliano Borri, Andrea Frazzica, Luisa F. Cabeza, Alvaro de Gracia
Summary: This paper analyzed the thermal performance and control optimization of a solar system with seasonal sorption storage for domestic applications. The control of the system was optimized based on operational costs and maximization of sorption system use. The study concluded that control optimization is crucial for making the technology competitive and maximizing energy density in further designs.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Josep Anton Farre, Carles Mateu, Merce Teixido, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: This study evaluates the scientific literature on automated vacuum waste collection systems through a bibliometric analysis. It finds a scarcity of scientific literature but several patents on the topic. The literature mainly focuses on energy use, gas emissions, and cost-benefit analysis. The study also presents the market status and environmental studies summary, identifies active companies, and provides a complete list of automated vacuum waste collection systems. Most of the environmental-related literature uses life cycle assessment methodology to evaluate different case studies.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Roger Vila, Marc Medrano, Albert Castell
Summary: Radiative cooling can cool down surfaces in a renewable way. By combining it with solar collection functionality, heat and cold can be produced in a single device called Radiative Collector and Emitter (RCE). This paper proposes combining RCE with compression heat pumps to improve performance, and two combined systems are studied: peak load shifting configuration and decoupled configuration with an intermediate tank. Results show that peak load shifting configuration performs the best in most cities.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Omais Abdur Rehman, Valeria Palomba, Andrea Frazzica, Antonios Charalampidis, Sotirios Karellas, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: To reduce dependence on fossil fuels in residential areas, low-carbon-footprint technologies like heat pumps should be used. This study utilizes a low-global-warming-potential refrigerant in a reversible heat pump system, which is supported by a thermal storage tank, photovoltaic installation, and battery storage system with a dedicated control strategy. The performance of the reversible heat pump in three European climates is analyzed through simulations, demonstrating its ability to meet summer cooling demand and heating demand with backup sources. Economic analysis shows that the inclusion of a battery storage system increases overall flexibility and self-sufficiency, although it results in longer payback times compared to reference energy systems.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Josep M. Morera, Emiliano Borri, Gabriel Zsembinszki, David Verez, Gemma Gasa, Esther Bartoli, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: This study examines the sustainability of a tannery in Catalonia, Spain. Various measures to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption were proposed and analyzed. A cost analysis was conducted, showing that the tannery could achieve significant energy savings with investments ranging from EUR 1 to 2.5 M, with payback periods ranging from 2 to 7 years.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Alicia Crespo, Andrea Frazzica, Cesar Fernandez, Alvaro de Gracia
Summary: Sorption thermal energy storage systems have potential for seasonal heat storage application due to their high energy density and low thermal losses. However, further study is needed for residential implementation.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Rabeb Ayed, Salwa Bouadila, Safa Skouri, Laura Boquera, Luisa F. Cabeza, Mariem Lazaar
Summary: By enhancing the thermal properties of cement-based building materials with textile fibers, energy consumption and CO2 emissions related to space conditioning in buildings can be reduced. This study produced lightweight coating mortars by partially replacing sand with textile waste and characterized the mechanical and thermal properties of the reinforced cementitious composites. The results showed that the thermal conductivity decreased with increasing proportion of reinforcing material. The application of these thermally improved mortars as coating mortars appears to be a relevant solution to enhance the thermal performance of buildings.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Cristina Prieto, Anton Lopez-Roman, Guillermo Garcia-Rivero, Esther Bartoli, Luisa F. Cabeza
Summary: Solar concentration technology is dispatchable with the use of thermal energy storage systems, such as the indirect storage systems based on molten salts used in commercial parabolic trough power plants. This study examines the compatibility between thermal oil and salts, considering cross-contamination in the equipment. The results show that while the thermal oil undergoes complete thermal-oxidative degradation, it does not significantly affect the composition of the salts.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Ricard Garrido, Luisa F. Cabeza, Victor Falguera
Summary: Due to environmental and political concerns, the industrial focus has shifted towards renewable raw materials. This study assessed the economic feasibility of producing lactic acid from cow manure. The results showed that the manufacturing of lactic acid from lignocellulosic biomass is economically viable. The sensitivity analysis revealed that yield has the greatest impact on net present value.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Samiran Khorat, Debashish Das, Rupali Khatun, Sk Mohammad Aziz, Prashant Anand, Ansar Khan, Mattheos Santamouris, Dev Niyogi
Summary: Cool roofs can effectively mitigate heatwave-induced excess heat and enhance thermal comfort in urban areas. Implementing cool roofs can significantly improve urban meteorology and thermal comfort, reducing energy flux and heat stress.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Qi Li, Jiayu Chen, Xiaowei Luo
Summary: This study focuses on the vertical wind conditions as a main external factor that limits the energy assessment of high-rise buildings in urban areas. Traditional tools for energy assessment of buildings use a universal vertical wind profile estimation, without taking into account the unique wind speed in each direction induced by the various shapes and configurations of buildings in cities. To address this limitation, the study developed an omnidirectional urban vertical wind speed estimation method using direction-dependent building morphologies and machine learning algorithms.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Xiaojun Luo, Lamine Mahdjoubi
Summary: This paper presents an integrated blockchain and machine learning-based energy management framework for multiple forms of energy allocation and transmission among multiple domestic buildings. Machine learning is used to predict energy generation and consumption patterns, and the proposed framework establishes optimal and automated energy allocation through peer-to-peer energy transactions. The approach contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhances environmental sustainability.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ying Yu, Yuanwei Xiao, Jinshuai Chou, Xingyu Wang, Liu Yang
Summary: This study proposes a dual-layer optimization design method to maximize the energy sharing potential, enhance collaborative benefits, and reduce the storage capacity of building clusters. Case studies show that the proposed design significantly improves the performance of building clusters, reduces energy storage capacity, and shortens the payback period.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Felix Langner, Weimin Wang, Moritz Frahm, Veit Hagenmeyer
Summary: This paper compares two main approaches to consider uncertainties in model predictive control (MPC) for buildings: robust and stochastic MPC. The results show that compared to a deterministic MPC, the robust MPC increases the electricity cost while providing complete temperature constraint satisfaction, while the stochastic MPC slightly increases the electricity cost but fulfills the thermal comfort requirements.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Somil Yadav, Caroline Hachem-Vermette
Summary: This study proposes a mathematical model to evaluate the performance of a Double Skin Facade (DSF) system and its impact on indoor conditions. The model considers various design parameters and analyzes their effects on the system's electrical output and room temperature.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ruijun Chen, Holly Samuelson, Yukai Zou, Xianghan Zheng, Yifan Cao
Summary: This research introduces an innovative resilient design framework that optimizes building performance by considering a holistic life cycle perspective and accounting for climate projection uncertainties. The study finds that future climate scenarios significantly impact building life cycle performance, with wall U-value, windows U-value, and wall density being major factors. By using ensemble learning and optimization algorithms, predictions for carbon emissions, cost, and indoor discomfort hours can be made, and the best resilient design scheme can be selected. Applying this framework leads to significant improvements in building life cycle performance.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2024)
