Experimental methodology for packed-bed latent heat thermal energy system

This study presents an experimental investigation into the thermal performance of a packed-bed latent heat thermal energy storage (PB-LHTES) system utilising phase change materials (PCMs) for domestic hot water applications. The experimental setup includes a 100 L storage tank filled with encapsulated PCMs and operates under varying heat transfer fluid (HTF) mass flow rates and temperatures. The study focuses on evaluating the charging and discharging behaviours of the system, with an emphasis on the influence of HTF conditions on energy storage rates, phase change completion, and discharge stability. Additionally, the performances of the system in terms of energy density and thermal losses will be compared to traditional latent storage systems. The result from similar studies suggests that the PB-LHTES system exhibits higher charging and discharging rates, along with improved energy density, in comparison to conventional sensible storage. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing storage system design and will contribute to the validation of numerical models for integrating such systems into residential sector.