Efficiency of heat storage in solar energy systems

Abstract The purpose of this research was to develop an original method of measurement of the efficiency of heat storage in solar energy systems. The method was tested experimentally by using an electric heater instead of the heat from solar collectors. A rectangular-shaped box was made to hold the material that is capable of holding heat. In this research, pentaerythritol was chosen as being potentially the most effective material for this experiment from all aspects. This report presents a theoretical justification of the methods and the results of the error analysis. Different means and ways of improving the efficiency of a heat storage box, as well as the whole system, are suggested. The report concludes by analyzing the data that the material used is capable of storing heat at 360°F for up to 16 h.