Faasimuutoslämmönsäilytys

Faasimuutoslämmönsäilytys, often abbreviated as PCM (Phase Change Material) thermal energy storage, is a technology that utilizes the latent heat absorbed or released during the phase transition of a material to store and release thermal energy. This process occurs at a nearly constant temperature, which is a key characteristic differentiating it from sensible heat storage.

Common phase change materials include paraffin waxes, hydrated salts, and fatty acids. The selection of a PCM depends on the desired operating temperature range. For example, paraffin waxes are suitable for low-temperature applications like building heating and cooling, while hydrated salts are used in higher temperature ranges for solar thermal energy storage.

The principle of PCM thermal energy storage involves a material that melts when heated, absorbing a significant amount of energy without a substantial temperature increase. When the ambient temperature drops, the material solidifies, releasing the stored latent heat. This cycle of melting and solidifying allows for efficient storage and retrieval of thermal energy.

Applications of PCM thermal energy storage are diverse. In buildings, it can be integrated into walls, ceilings, or floors to regulate indoor temperature, reducing heating and cooling loads and improving energy efficiency. It is also used in solar thermal systems to store solar energy for later use, in the electronics industry for thermal management of components, and in transportation for temperature control of goods. The ability to store large amounts of energy in a compact volume and at a stable temperature makes PCM a promising technology for a more sustainable energy future.