Solar energy is widely available, free and inexhaustible. Furthermore this source of energy is the most friendly to the environment. For direct conversion of solar energy into useful forms like of electricity and thermal energy, respectively photovoltaic cells and solar collectors are being used. Forecast indicate that the first one solution will soon have a significant part in meeting the global energy demand. Therefore it is...

The aim of this work is a theoretical and experimental analysis of the macromolecular hydrocarbon mixtures composition and the impact on thermophysical parameters of the phase change materials (PCM) made from these mixtures. The analysis of the current state of knowledge extended by the author’s own studies have been presented. Thermophysical characteristics of the hydrocarbons and their mixtures have been specified, in such a...

The aim of this work is a theoretical and experimental analysis of the macromolecular hydrocarbons mixtures composition and the impact on thermophysical parameters of the phase change materials (PCM) made from these mixtures. The analysis of the current state of knowledge extended by the author's own studies have been presented. Thermophysical characteristics of the hydrocarbons and their mixtures have been specified, in such a...

This paper deals with thermal energy storage with use of nanoparticle enhanced phase change material in shell-and-multitube unit. The experiments are conducted under atmospheric pressure. Paraffin wax and two different fatty acids are used as base phase change material. Graphite and multi-walled carbon nanotubes serve as nanoparticles. Graphite nanoparticles are tested at the concentrations of 0.1%, 1% and 5% by weight, while multi-walled...