Application of PCM-based Thermal Energy Storage System in Buildings: A State of the Art Review on the Mathematical Modeling Approaches and Experimental Investigations

This review paper critically analyzes the most recent literature (64% published after 2015) on the experimentation and mathematical modeling of latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems in buildings. Commercial software and in-built codes used for mathematical modeling of LHTES systems are consolidated and reviewed to provide details on the selection of appropriate tools. Insights on software’s computing speed, model simplicity, accuracy (by considering the convective term in the melting process), and application of artificial neural networks are reviewed in detail. Moreover, the overall research status of the experiments conducted on the phase change material-based LHTES systems with different experiment configurations is reviewed. The analysis shows that ANSYS Fluent is the most widely used software for specific heat transfer phenomenon in storage tanks, while self-developed models with simplified terms are evaluated as more flexible and easier to apply. For hybrid systems, self-developed MATLAB, mature parts in ESP-r, TRNSYS, and EnergyPlus are compatible. Further, most of the experimental investigations are conducted on the laboratory scale, providing data for model validation. To provide a clear guidance for the future market application, the scope for future works is presented. With this review, it would be easier to develop a unified, simplified, visual, and accurate simulation platform for the PCM-based thermal energy storage in buildings.