Solar Energy Harvesting with Enhanced Phase-Change Materials
Author Information
Author(s): Ji Jie, Liu Yizhe, Li Xiaoxiang, Xu Yangzhe, Hu Ting, Li Zhengzheng, Tao Peng, Deng Tao
Primary Institution: Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Hypothesis
Can hybrid expanded graphite and carbon nanotubes improve the performance of organic phase-change materials for solar thermal harvesting?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that hybrid fillers can optimize the thermophysical properties of organic phase-change materials, enhancing their efficiency in solar thermal energy harvesting.
Supporting Evidence
- The hybrid expanded graphite and carbon nanotubes significantly improved the thermal conductivity of the composites.
- The composites achieved a high solar absorptance of 92.9%, enhancing their efficiency in solar thermal energy conversion.
- The study demonstrated that the composites could generate electricity using a thermoelectric generator.
Takeaway
This research shows that mixing special materials can help store and use solar energy better, making it easier to heat things up.
Methodology
The study involved mixing high-temperature paraffin with expanded graphite and carbon nanotubes, followed by mechanical compression to create phase-change composites.
Limitations
The study does not address the long-term stability of the composites under various environmental conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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