Development of Latent Thermal Energy Storage Heat Exchangers to Utilize Renewable Energies with Thermal Form

Abstract

The latent thermal energy storage (LTES) technology has advantages of high thermal energy storage density, system volume saving, and easy installation, which is of great significance for improving the flexibility of thermal energy supply in the background of renewable energy utilization. The process of storing/releasing thermal energy of LTES systems mainly relies on heat exchangers, one special device for exchanging heat between heat transfer fluids (HTFs) and phase change materials (PCMs). The inherent liquid-solid phase change process of PCMs in the device makes this kind of heat exchanger urgently needed for more efficient design and optimization. In this chapter, working materials, device types, design forms, heat transfer enhancement methods, and some actual applications for heat exchangers are introduced. The present problems of the heat exchanger development are also discussed. The purpose of this chapter is to attempt to help the readers obtain key knowledge and design points for potential better applications of the LTES heat exchangers.