Latenttilämpösäilytyksen

Latenttilämpösäilytys, often translated as Latent Heat Storage (LHS), is a thermal energy storage method that utilizes the phase change of a material to absorb or release heat. This process occurs at a nearly constant temperature, which is a key advantage over sensible heat storage where the temperature of the storage material changes significantly. The energy stored is the latent heat associated with the phase transition, such as melting or freezing.

The core of a latent heat storage system is the Phase Change Material (PCM). PCMs are substances that can store and release large amounts of thermal energy during the process of melting and solidifying. They are typically organic compounds like paraffins, inorganic salts, or eutectics. The selection of a PCM depends on its melting point, latent heat capacity, thermal conductivity, stability, and cost.

When the ambient temperature rises above the melting point of the PCM, it absorbs heat from the surroundings and melts. This absorbed heat is stored as latent heat. Conversely, when the ambient temperature drops below the freezing point, the PCM solidifies and releases the stored latent heat, warming the surroundings. This cycle of melting and solidifying allows for efficient thermal energy management.

Latenttilämpösäilytys has numerous applications, including passive solar heating and cooling of buildings, temperature control in electronics, thermal management in spacecraft, and in solar thermal power plants. Its ability to store a large amount of energy in a small volume and at a stable temperature makes it a promising technology for renewable energy integration and energy efficiency improvements. Challenges include the relatively low thermal conductivity of many PCMs, which can limit the rate of heat transfer, and potential issues with cycling stability over long periods.