Application of phase change materials in improving the performance of refrigeration systems

• Published in: Sustainable energy technologies and assessments 2023-03, Vol.56, p.103097, Article 103097
• Main Authors: Nguyen, Van Nhanh, Lanh Le, Thanh, Quang Duong, Xuan, Vang Le, Van, Tuyen Nguyen, Dinh, Quy Phong Nguyen, Phuoc, Rajamohan, Sakthivel, Vu Vo, Anh, Son Le, Huu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy efficiency; Energy saving; Environmental impact; Phase change materials; Refrigerator
• ISSN: 2213-1388
• DOI: 10.1016/j.seta.2023.103097

•Positive effects of PCM on energy saving of refrigeration systems are demonstrated.•Various approaches to incorporating PCMs into refrigeration systems are discussed.•Working mechanism of PCM in refrigeration systems is scrutinized.•Properties and potential applications of PCM in refrigeration systems are presented.•The constraints of combining PCM in a refrigeration system are addressed. Refrigerators are considered the most popular and effective means of preserving food; nevertheless, they contribute significantly to household energy usage. As a result, it is critical to enhancing their energy efficiency. So, employing phase change materials (PCMs) in refrigeration systems is considered among the most promising options for obtaining more energy efficiency the refrigeration systems while minimizing environmental effects. In this research, using PCMs was examined to boost the performance of refrigeration systems. Besides, various approaches to incorporating PCMs into refrigeration systems were also discussed. Furthermore, this review discussed the effects of properties of PCM geometry, heat transfer, and flow on the refrigeration system performance, as well as the prospective utilization of PCMs in terms of enhancing energy savings. Some techniques to enhance the refrigeration system performance like selection aspects of PCM have been discussed. On the whole, PCMs could be promising for energy savings, contributing to lowering operating costs and decreasing CO2 emissions. Also, organic PCMs can be considered the best in the design of the condenser. In the future perspective, some novel technologies like ultra-low temperature and composite PCMs may be developed to improve the system performance.