Energy Management and CFD Analysis of Multi-Stage Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage

This study explores the integration of multi-stage phase change materials (PCMs) in latent thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems, emphasizing their role in enhancing the efficiency of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants amid global energy shortages. By utilizing organic PCMs-Octadecanoic, RT58, and Dodecanoic-within a geometric framework consisting of an aluminum outer shell and cascaded PCM containers, effective heat transfer is achieved. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations validate the system's performance, revealing the importance of temperature layering in minimizing thermal shock. Overall, the findings underscore the potential of LHTES to improve energy management and sustainability in solar applications.