A review of the application of solid-liquid phase change materials in water heaters

Abstract

This paper reviews the stability, heat transfer efficiency and photothermal conversion efficiency optimization studies of solid-liquid phase change materials applied to water heaters. Suggestions and prospects were proposed. The study shows that the solid-liquid PCMs are mostly filled in the water tank, thermal storage devices or solar thermal collector heater system with paraffin wax, and the addition of solid-liquid PCMs can significantly improve the water heater performance. Further in-depth research is needed on PCM material dosage and system economics of their application in heat pump water heaters, and the application of photothermal conversion phase change materials in solar water heater systems.