Priya Kumar
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
This experimental study investigates the thermal performance enhancement of solar water heaters through integration of phase change materials (PCMs) available up to 2016. A single-glazed flat-plate solar collector was retrofitted with a PCM encapsulation module using erythritol as the storage medium. Key performance metrics—collector efficiency, temperature uniformity, and thermal stratification—were evaluated under controlled irradiance (800–1000 W/m²) and ambient conditions (20–35 °C). Results demonstrate a peak efficiency improvement of 12% and a reduction in outlet temperature decline rate by 35% during transient phases. The study identifies optimal PCM thickness (10 mm) and encapsulation configuration (tubular modules) for maximizing energy storage capacity without compromising hydraulic performance. Findings support PCM integration as a cost-effective strategy for extending useful thermal output into evening hours. Keywords: solar water heater, phase change material, thermal energy storage, erythritol, flat-plate collector
Keywords
solar water heater, phase change material, thermal energy storage, erythritol, flat-plate collector
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