Design evaluation and improvements of a latent heat based thermal energy storage system

There is a challenge to bridge the gap between energy supply and demand of renewable thermal energy sources in buildings. Latent heat storage systems (LHSS) based on phase change materials (PCMs) is one solution. While achieving high energy storage densities, the LHSS allows bridging the gap between supply and demand. In this study an industrial building has been retrofitted with a 340 kWhth modular PCM storage tank. The tank is coupled to solar thermal collectors which supplies heating. Our work aims to draw up a methodology to evaluate and improve the original design from material to system scales.