Latent heat storage for low-grade heat applications: experimental analysis of a lab-scale prototype

Experimental activity on latent heat storage systems for low-temperature heat applications is still limited and further experience is needed for an improvement of existing materials and systems. In the present work the characterization of a prototype using a plate heat exchanger and a commercial paraffinic PCM is reported. Tests on both charge and discharge under controlled boundary conditions, corresponding to solar cooling applications or domestic hot water production were realised. Results of experiments indicated that the system can provide up to 190 kJ/kg energy, with efficiency between 60% and 78%.