Thermal Performance Enhancement Using Phase Change Materials.

Harshal Dipak Hedau1

Mechanical Engineering Department, SND Polytechnic Babhulgaon, Yeola

Abstract -The growing demand for energy-efficient thermal management systems has accelerated research into advanced thermal energy storage technologies. Among these, Phase Change Materials (PCMs) have gained significant attention because of their ability to absorb and release large amounts of latent heat during phase transitions while maintaining nearly constant temperatures. This paper presents a comprehensive study of thermal performance enhancement using PCMs, focusing on their working principles, material classification, thermal characteristics, and engineering applications. The study examines organic, inorganic, and eutectic PCMs and discusses their advantages, limitations, and suitability for various thermal storage systems. Different enhancement techniques, including the incorporation of high-conductivity additives, metal foams, fins, and nano-enhanced PCMs, are reviewed to address the inherently low thermal conductivity of conventional PCMs. The paper also highlights the application of PCMs in buildings, solar thermal systems, electronic cooling, refrigeration, battery thermal management, and waste heat recovery. Comparative analysis indicates that properly selected and enhanced PCMs can significantly improve heat transfer rates, increase energy storage capacity, reduce temperature fluctuations, and enhance overall system efficiency. Furthermore, the integration of PCMs contributes to reduced energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainable energy utilization. The findings suggest that continued advancements in material development and thermal enhancement techniques will further improve the reliability and commercial viability of PCM-based thermal energy storage systems, making them a promising solution for future energy-efficient technologies.

Key Words: PCMs, Phase Change Materials